₦airaland Forum

Those calling for the suspension of the Tax Act, which goes into effect in a week’s time, should listen to Taiwo Oyedele. As he asked, do they want a sustenance of the status quo when the poor Nigerians and small businesses are overtaxed?

The Ojibara of Bayagan Ile in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Kamilu Salami, who was abducted 25 days ago by bandits, has been released.

PUNCH Online exclusively gathered that the monarch, who was abducted on his farm, was released on Tuesday night.

Residents of the community have been thrown into a frenzy of joy and happiness following the arrival of the monarch.

The palace was reportedly bombarded with jubilant residents, who crowded to catch a glimpse of their monarch and, more importantly, congratulate him and the family on their safe return to the palace.

Spokesperson for the community, Ayinla Lawal, confirmed the development in a message on Wednesday morning.

Ayinla said in an interview that the monarch was released after a huge amount of money, paid in two instalments, was paid to the bandits.

He also told journalists that only the community contributed the amount demanded by the bandits before the release of the monarch.

He stated, “I’m happy to inform you that our monarch has been released. He was released on Tuesday night.

“Our elders and members of the community have pleaded that we should not disclose the amount, so I won’t be able to tell you the amount, but it was huge. The local government and state government didn’t come to our rescue throughout our ordeal.

“Only members of the community contributed the amount, it was really tough for us in the community and that was why it took a longer time before our monarch was released. Above all, we thank Almighty God that he came back alive and we also thank the media and members of the community for their support.”

It would be recalled that Ayinla, in a statement released two weeks ago, said the bandits refused to release the monarch to the community after payment of N10 million earlier demanded by them.

“We took the money to the place where they said we should drop it but they said we should pay them another N15 million which we struggled to raise in the community,” he stated.

Ayinla, who expressed confidence that the bandits won’t strike again in the community, said more vigilantes and hunters have been recruited to keep vigil on the community.

He also believed that with these developments, residents who fled the community would start returning to the community.

He also said that the monarch was taken to Ilorin, the state capital, on Wednesday morning for urgent medical attention.

The monarch’s immediate younger brother, simply identified as Aliyu, who drove the monarch to an undisclosed private hospital in Ilorin also confirmed the development to newsmen on Wednesday morning during an interview.

Aliyu, who the community sent to pay the ransom on the two installments said he was scared at one point to visit the bandits because of the fear of being kidnapped.

“Their location is very far, one can’t believe that the place is still part of Kwara State. You can’t even describe or locate the place because they move around the terrain, they don’t stay in a particular point. They used to speak with me on Kabiesi’s phone to inform me where I should meet them.

“I can’t even identify any of them because they’re always on hood.

“At a point, I was seriously afraid and I told the community that I couldn’t go again, but they told me that I’m the only person who can go, being the monarch’s immediate younger brother, so I was encouraged. Thank Almighty God, I was not detained by the bandits and our monarch is back alive,” he said.

Efforts to speak with the monarch were unsuccessful as he was said to be taking a long rest.

“You can’t talk to Kabiesi until after some days,” said Aliyu, who was staying with the monarch at the hospital in Ilorin.

Lere Olayinka, media aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT Nyesom Wike has revealed why the Oyo State Governor fell out with President Bola Tinubu.

DAILY POST reports that Makinde, at a media chat with selected journalists in Ibadan on Tuesday said he would not be supporting Tinubu’s re-election bid.

Makinde, who accused Wike of plotting to destabilize the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP for Tinubu’s re-election, said he may also be on the ballot against the president.

Reacting, Lere in a Facebook post, alleged that the governor fell out with the president because his ministerial nominee was not accepted by Tinubu.

Lere claimed that Makinde would still be clapping for the president if his nominee was accepted and formed Tinubu’s cabinet.

“If Governor Seyi Makinde’s nominee for Oyo State ministerial position was accepted by President Tinubu, he will still be clapping for the President now”, Lere wrote.

In a subsequent post, Lere stated that Governor Makinde is loyal to no one or political party, citing his past defections.

He added, “In 2007, he left PDP for ANPP because he failed to get Senatorial ticket. In 2015, he left PDP for SDP because he failed to get Governorship ticket. In 2019, if not that he got the PDP ticket for Governorship, he would have decamped to another party.

“In 2023, he joined the PDP G5 Governors to ensure his re-election. He is Governor Seyi Makinde, and surely, after 2027, he will be in another party. In 2022, he worked against Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, so as to ensure that he will be the only PDP Governor in the Southwest.

“Ibadan Gomina General has never been loyal to anyone or any political party, he is only about himself. If you doubt, ask Hon Mulikat Adeola, Hon Muraina, HE Hazeem Gbolarumi, Olopoeeyan, Auxiliary, Senator Hosea Agboola (Alleluyah) and others.”

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the permanent forfeiture of a multi-billion naira expanse of lands approved for the Goodluck Jonathan Legacy Model Housing Estate to the Federal Government.

Judge Mohammed Umar granted the request by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission
(ICPC).

ICPC’s lawyer, Osuobeni Akponimisingha, moved the application, which was not opposed by defence lawyer, Hassan Liman, a Senior Advocate of NIgeria (SAN).

Mr Umar directed the ICPC, on behalf of the federal government, to supervise the construction of the land to completion of the 962 housing units as earlier proposed.

The judge held that the supervision should be done in collaboration with the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), the sole respondent in the case, and ensure the utilisation of the housing units by end users.

Mr Umar said, “An order is hereby made for the final forfeiture of Plot No. 5 in Cadastral Zone D12, Kaba District, Abuja measuring approximately 122015.80m2 and valued at N1,944,375,000.00 (one billion, nine hundred forty-four million, three hundred and seventy-five thousand naira.

“An order is hereby made for the final forfeiture of Plot No. 4 in Cadastral Zone D12, Kaba District, Abuja, measuring approximately 157198.30 metre square and valued at N3,340,500,000.00 (three billion, three Hundred Forty Million, five hundred thousand naira), suspected of being proceeds of unlawful activity.

“An order is hereby made directing the applicant, through the ICPC, to facilitate the hand-over of the forfeited properties to the respondent i.e. Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, being the victim of the alleged unlawful activity.”

Mr Umar, in the ruling delivered on 11 December but which its enrolled order the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) saw on Tuesday, further directed the ICPC and FMBN to set up a committee which membership is to be drawn from both agencies to implement the completion of the project.

Preliminary forfeiture

NAN reports that Mr Umar had, on 9 July granted the anti-corruption commission’s prayer to temporarily take over the lands, after Akponimisingha moved a motion ex- parte to the effect.

Mr Umar held that the interim forfeiture of the multi-billion naira assets approved by the FMBN shall be pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.

The land was suspected of being proceeds of an unlawful activity.

It equally sought an order directing the commission to take over and secure the said immoveable property from being converted to personal use or sold off to unsuspecting members of public.

The ICPC further sought an order directing the commission to publish a notice in any national newspaper for interested person(s) to show cause why the assets should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

What investigation revealed

Giving 14 grounds why the application should be granted, the agency said the alleged assets were allocated by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) freely for the construction of 962 residential housing units through the FMBN.

An affidavit sworn by an ICPC’s officer, Iliya Marcus, stat dthat the commission received an intelligence report that the FMBN engaged a private developer to construct 962 of residential housing units under National Housing Fund Scheme.

According to him, the commission in its usual characteristics of proactiveness launched a discreet preliminary investigation activities into the said intelligence report and discovered the following:

The FMBN requested and got approval to commence construction of “Goodluck Jonathan Legacy Model Housing Estate” on 30 July 2012.

Mr Marcus said following the approval, a framework agreement between FMBN and Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited was entered on 27 January 2012.

He said sequel to the said framework agreement, the bank appointed a consultant for the project vide a letter dated 1 February 2012.

He said the appointment of the consultant was to assist monitor the housing project on behalf of the FMBN to report milestone to enable the bank pay the developer of the proposed estate.

He said investigation revealed that FMBN sought and obtained a loan facility of $65 million from Ecobank Limited for the construction of the 962 residential housing units through Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited, a private company for the benefit of low income earners.

He said the tenure of the project was for 18 months.

Mr Marcus said the FMBN through the then managing director paid to Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited the sum of N3.785 billion as drawdown on 22 November 2012.

He said the alleged sum of money was paid as drawdown without evidence of registration with Real Estate Developers Association by Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited as pre-condition for such payment.

“Investigation also revealed that the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria has paid the full project amount of (65 million dollars to Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited without a single house on the project site,” he said.

He said though the FMBN was established by the federal government to provide affordable housing support for Nigerians, from actionable intelligence available to the commission, the property developer, Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited, was making clandestine moves to sell off the said immovable property to unsuspecting members of the public.
He said if this was done, it would be difficult to recover the plots of land from them.
The officer added that if the application is not granted, “the way the $65 million was dissipated without anything to show for, the land will follow the same way.”

Forfeiture proceedings

Mr Akponimisingha informed the court of the motion ex parte, seeking the interim forfeiture of the two plots of land.

According to the ICPC lawyer, the land in question was part of a massive housing project initiated during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

He said the project was reportedly awarded to the developer, said to have received $65 million, equivalent to over N14 billion at the time, from FMBN.

The estate, he said, was to be named in honour of the former president.

Mr Akponimosin, however, told the court that no single house had been constructed on the land since the funds were disbursed.

He stated that the property, presently, now worth over N200 billion, and the promoters of the company, including some American nationals, had allegedly fled and remained unreachable.

He explained that though Good Earth Power Nigeria Limited is already facing trial before Justice James Omotosho of a sister court, the forfeiture request was a separate matter aimed at securing the land for the benefit of Nigerians and FMBN.

He urged the court to grant the plea.
In his ruling, Mr Umar granted the interim forfeiture and questioned why the entire project sum was paid upfront without corresponding progress on the ground.

Retired Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic certificate from President Bola Tinubu, after Monday’s conferment

Troost-Ekong announced the receipt of the official certificate on X on Tuesday, describing it as a proud moment for him and his family.

“I am honoured and grateful to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (@officialABAT), for conferring on me the MFR national honour.

“I have been sent the official certificate today following the announcement last night. It’s a very proud moment for me and my family to receive this recognition,” he wrote.

The 32-year-old defender, who has been a key figure for Nigeria’s national football team, expressed his gratitude to the country that gave him the platform to achieve his dreams.

“Nigeria gave me my identity, my purpose, and the platform to live my dream through football.
“Wearing the green and white has always been a great responsibility, privilege, and a promise to give everything for the badge and for our people,” he said.

Troost-Ekong also pledged his support to the Super Eagles as they began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign

“As our Super Eagles begin their AFCON journey today, I wish the team every success.
“As promised, I’ll be supporting them all the way. I believe in this group, our nation and what we can achieve,” he added.

In the certificate attached to his post, Tinubu formally conferred the honour, stating,”In exercise of the powers vested in me under section 1(4) of the National Honours Act, I, BOLA AHMED TINUBU, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in recognition of your outstanding virtues and in appreciation of your services to our country, Nigeria, HEREBY award to you to have, and enjoy title, dignity and all the privileges of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).”

Troost-Ekong concluded his statement with a declaration of national pride.

PUNCH Online had reported that the FG has fulfilled its promise of gifting a house to each member of the Super Eagles’ silver-winning 2023 Africa Cup of Nations squad.

This was done through the National Sports Commission in Fez, Morocco, on Monday, almost two years after the tournament and just a day before the team’s opening game at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

Led by Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro, the Super Eagles finished second at the 2023 AFCON, which was played between January to February 2024, losing 2-1 against the hosts in the final.

Upon their arrival in Nigeria, Tinubu honoured each player and official of the team with the Member of The Order of The Niger national award, as well as house and land gifts to each player and members of the backroom staff.

The Federal Government has fulfilled its pledge of housing and land allocations to members of the Super Eagles following their runner-up finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that players have received certificates for the plots of land and housing units promised by President Bola Tinubu.

According to the federation, the documents were presented to the players at the team’s camp in Fez, Morocco, on Monday.

Nigeria finished second at the AFCON tournament, which was played in 2024, after losing 2–1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final.

Following their return from the competition, President Tinubu hosted the players at the Presidential Villa, where he conferred the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) on each squad member.

He also announced the allocation of a plot of land in the Federal Capital Territory and a flat to every player in recognition of their performance at the tournament.

The Federal Government has said Ogoniland in Rivers State might be the turning point for Nigeria going forward.

The government expressed optimism that a new chapter was unfolding in Ogoni, stressing that Nigeria “will no longer be what it used to be,” with the transformation about to begin in Ogoni.

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, stated this when he led a Presidential delegation comprising the Ministers of Works, David Umahi and Environment, Balarabe Lawal and officials of NNPCL on a courtesy visit to the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, in Government House in Port Harcourt on Monday.

Recall that the federal government is currently discussing with leaders and stakeholders of Ogoni for the possible resumption of oil exploration in the area.

Subsequently, Governor Fubara led a delegation of Ogoni stakeholders who met with President Bola Tinubu during the first meeting to chart the way forward for peace talks with the apex government.

President Tinubu had asked the Ogoni leaders to return home to their people, get their buy-in, and return to him.

As a follow-up, the Ogoni dialogue committee, led by former Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Prof. Don Baridam, and co-chaired by respected priest, Ignatius Kattey, which was constituted, had concluded consultations with various groups and people across Ogoni and submitted their reports to the President.

Continuing, Ribadu recalls that the oil in Ogoni has remained untapped for over thirty years due to the crisis that led to the shutdown of exploration activities, but thanked the leaders and stakeholders of Ogoni for opening the door for talks with the government and commended Governor Fubara for creating the right environment.

He stated, “We are here as a delegation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Of course, we have the general officers in charge of the armed forces: senior officers, a couple of federal government officers who are here in Rivers State.

“Collectively, Your Excellency, we are here on a mission. Thank you for the cooperation. Thank you for working together as one to address some of the challenges and difficulties all of us inherited.

“We have worked as one. Particularly, we are here because of the Ogoni part of Nigeria. And we did an incredibly good job together as one. We are here to demonstrate that, to identify with the people and once again to thank them on behalf of Nigeria.

“We are happy today. Rivers State is probably one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. Your Excellency, you’re entitled to claim that you’re responsible, that you’re part of it. And the good people of Ogoni leaders are quality human beings.”

He continued, “We’ve had this amazing opportunity to work with them, and I can tell you they are good people, they’re first class. And we have seen progress, development, and massive promise for Nigeria and our future. Ogoni is looking like the turning point for Nigeria today.

“A new chapter is being opened. Nigeria will not be what it used to be again. Things are changing, and it is starting with Ogoni. I want to deliver the message of the President to you. He said i should thank you Your Excellency.

“He is very happy with you, and we are happy with you. He said I should also thank the people of Ogoniland for the cooperation, for understanding and for giving him a chance to achieve an amazing programme of three decades, which somehow is standing to be a massive opportunity for Nigeria. He said I should thank you, leaders, of Ogoniland.”

The NSA praised Fubara for his responsible leadership, describing Rivers as one of the most peaceful states in the country.

On his part, the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, described the Ogoni peace initiative as strategic to the renewed unity of Nigeria, noting that the President takes a personal interest in the well-being of the Niger Delta people.

Umahi assured that all sections of the East–West Road affecting the Niger Delta would be completed to standard.

He disclosed that on Ogoniland, the 15-kilometre Eleme axis of the East–West Road includes five flyovers, one of which is being constructed by the Rivers State Government to support the effort of the President.

He said the over ₦200 billion project is scheduled for completion in April next year.

The minister also revealed that, with presidential approval, designs are ongoing to dualise the Bonny–Bodo Road from its starting point to the East–West Road, including the construction of two flyovers.

Umahi added that the President has ordered a redesign of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Ogoniland.

Also speaking, the Minister of Environment said the Ogoni clean-up project remains a priority for the ministry.

He explained that projects recommended by the United Nations Environment Programme are progressing well, including mangrove restoration, healthcare delivery, human capital development, and women’s empowerment initiatives.

NNPCL’s Bayo Ojulare said the national oil company is fully committed to the Ogoni dialogue process, even as he stressed that going forward, the focus would be on the people rather than oil.

He disclosed that the employment of 30 Ogoni indigenes by NNPCL has reached the final stage, with appointment letters already issued and resumption scheduled for January 2026 and described the developments in Ogoni as a model for a new Nigeria.

In his response, Governor Fubara thanked President Tinubu for his intervention, saying it reflects the actions of a leader who genuinely loves Rivers State.

The governor noted that resolving a crisis that lingered for over three decades in Ogoniland was not an easy task.

He said with the President’s intervention, residents can now drive with ease along both ends of the East–West Road, connecting Bonny and Bayelsa.

Gov. Fubara emphasized that beyond physical infrastructure, the President’s administration is rebuilding confidence in the region.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the peace process and managing emerging conflicts, noting that development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of crisis.

The governor stated, “I want to say first, thank you to Mr President. You see, thanking Mr President is the first thing that everyone who truly loves the state should do. I heard the details of the National Security Adviser’s speech for over three decades.

” A decade is ten years, so imagine for more than 30 years one particular road has always been a recurrent destination where people will plan to say, let’s look for a way to imagine these people to right the wrongs, but at the end of the day, nothing happens.

“So I want to thank the President for having the boldness, determination and doggedness to say even if the process is not going to be easy, which we all know is not easy, but let us start from somewhere, and we are beginning to see the result. What are their results?

“We had the first meeting with Mr President, some commitments were made. Commitments like the East-West Road which I”m one of the benediciaeies of that road. You can’t go to my place without traversing that road.

“Today, at least a section of that road is motorable. You can close your eyesand drive along one land, ” he added.

The Nigerian Army has inaugurated 60 housing units comprising two- and three-bedroom flats, at Akobo in Ibadan, Oyo State, and allocated five percent of the houses free of charge to soldiers who sustained disabilities in the line of duty.

Seventy percent of the housing units were also reserved for soldiers at highly subsidized rates, as part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to enhance the welfare of its personnel.

According to a statement by the Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, on Friday, the housing units are part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers (AHOOAS) Housing Scheme.

A shopping complex was also inaugurated under the Post Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL).

According to the statement, the projects were inaugurated by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who said that affordable housing remains a critical pillar of the Nigerian Army’s transformation agenda, in line with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The COAS said the project is a practical demonstration of the Nigerian Army’s “Soldier First” philosophy, noting that access to decent and affordable housing is central to troop morale, operational effectiveness, and post-service stability.

“The AHOOAS scheme is designed to ensure that soldiers retire in dignity, with secure home ownership in locations of their choice,” he said.

The Army Chief said the expansion of the scheme to Ibadan, Benin, Jos, Akwa Ibom, and other locations was informed by the successes of the pilot phase in Idu, Abuja, which, he said, delivered over 400 housing units.

He said plans are also underway to fast-track home ownership for Army Warrant Officers.

While commending the Oyo State Government for its sustained support to military formations and traditional institutions for promoting peace and cooperation, General Shaibu urged other state governments to support the scheme by allocating land for future phases.

He praised Post Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL) for its professionalism and acknowledged Family Homes Funds Limited for partnering with the Nigerian Army to build 50 housing units for widows of fallen heroes.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of PHDL, Major General Isiah Alison, said the 60 housing units comprise 30 two-bedroom houses for Non-Commissioned Officers and 30 three-bedroom houses for Senior Non-Commissioned Officers.

He added that five percent of the houses were allocated free of charge to soldiers who sustained disabilities in the line of duty, while 70 percent of the units were reserved for soldiers at highly subsidized rates.

“Houses constructed at costs of up to ₦30 million were sold to soldiers for as low as ₦7.5 million,” Alison explained, describing the initiative as a deliberate welfare intervention rather than a commercial venture.

“Similar housing projects are ongoing in other locations, alongside service shopping complexes designed to support small businesses and stimulate the local economic activities of troops’ families,” he said.

The United States Africa Command has dismissed reports claiming that the US military took over the airspaces of Nigeria and the Benin Republic, describing the claims as false.

AFRICOM made the clarification on Thursday, December 18, while responding to an email inquiry seeking its official reaction to the reports.

In a response signed by its spokesperson, Kelly Cahalan, the command denied that US forces carried out airstrikes or bombarded terrorists in the region.

“Reports that the U.S. military took over airspace and bombarded terrorists are not true. The U.S. military has not conducted any direct action or airstrikes in the region,” she said.

AFRICOM, however, confirmed that it is working with Nigeria and other regional partners to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation, following directives from President Donald Trump and the US Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth.

“While we won’t discuss specific details on planning efforts or specific missions, our goal is to assist the Nigerian government in efforts to improve their operations against violent extremist organizations including ISIS, JNIM, and Boko Haram,” Cahalan said.

She added that all US military activities in the region are carried out in collaboration with partner nations.

“We work closely with all of our partners in the region and conduct all activities with their knowledge and cooperation,” she said.

The clarification followed a report published by an online news platform on December 13, which claimed that the US Air Force had occupied the airspace of Nigeria and Benin Republic and destroyed terrorists’ armouries.

The report, quoting an American security expert, alleged that US aircraft were operating above the Babana crossing, an area said to be used by armed groups to smuggle supplies.

It further claimed that US troops had increased reconnaissance activities and carried out major attacks against militants without using Nigerian airports, alleging that operations were launched from outside the country.

AFRICOM’s response refuted those claims, stressing that no such airspace takeover or bombing campaign had taken place.

"Our administration is resetting the national security architecture and establishing a new national counterterrorism doctrine — a holistic redesign anchored on unified command, intelligence gathering, community stability, and counter-insurgency.

This new doctrine will fundamentally change how we confront terrorism and other violent crimes.

Henceforth, and under this new architecture, any armed group or gun-wielding non-state actors operating outside state authority will be regarded as terrorists.

These include bandits, militias, armed gangs, criminal networks with weapons, armed robbers, violent cult groups, forest-based armed collectives, and foreign-linked mercenaries.

Groups or individuals conducting violence for political, ethnic, financial, or sectarian objectives are also classified as terrorists. Members of any group extorting communities, kidnapping civilians, occupying or seeking to occupy territory within Nigeria will be classified as terrorists.

The denominator is that if you wield lethal weapons and act outside the state's authority, you are a terrorist. Any individual or entity that enables the listed groups as financiers, money handlers, harbourers, informants, ransom facilitators, and negotiators will also be classified as terrorists. Political protectors and intermediaries, transporters, arms suppliers, and safe-house owners will be declared as terrorists.

Politicians, traditional rulers, community leaders, and religious leaders who facilitate and encourage violent actions and terror within Nigeria and against our citizens are also terrorists.

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has thrown his weight behind death penalty for kidnappers.

He has also applauded President Bola Tinubu’s handling of national security, hailing the recent rescue of kidnapped children and pledging the Senate’s support for stronger deterrents against violent crime, including capital punishment for kidnapping.

Speaking on Thursday, at the 14th National Caucus of the All Progressives Congress, APC at the State House Conference Centre, iAbuja, Akpabio commended what he described as the President’s “decisive leadership” in confronting insecurity and restoring regional stability.

He prayed for the safe return of remaining abductees and offered condolences to the military personnel and civilians who lost their lives during recent rescue operations.

“We condole with families who have lost loved ones, including members of the armed forces who died protecting lives and property. We will stand with their families in this moment of grief,” he said.

Akpabio linked domestic safety to events beyond Nigeria’s borders, commending Tinubu’s intervention to stabilise democracy in Benin Republic.

“If our neighbours are not stable, Nigeria cannot be stable,” he said, emphasising the Senate’s backing.

He also highlighted new legislative measures aimed at deterrence, noting that kidnapping has now been placed on the same legal footing as terrorism.

“Kidnappers will face the death sentence once the President assents to the bill,” he said, warning that failure to enforce capital sanctions risks further jailbreaks and killings.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has presented the Certificate of Compliance for the Bakassi Deep Seaport to the Governor of Cross River State , Senator Bassey Otu, during a courtesy visit by the governor to the minister’s office in Abuja.

Presenting the certificate, Oyetola described the Bakassi Deep Seaport as a strategic national asset that aligns squarely with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in repositioning Nigeria as a competitive maritime and logistics hub.

According to a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Special Adviser to the Minister, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Bolaji Akinola, Oyetola assured that the Federal Government would continue to support Cross River State to ensure the successful delivery of the project.

The minister lauded Governor Otu’s commitment and the pace at which the state government has driven the project.

“This project has the capacity to significantly boost livelihoods, create jobs and expand economic opportunities not only for Cross River State but for Nigeria as a whole,” Oyetola said.

He added that the Federal Government remains committed to sustained collaboration with the Cross River State Government and private sector partners to bring the deep seaport project to fruition.

The presentation of the certificate followed the recent approval of the Bakassi Deep Seaport by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

In his remarks after receiving the certificate, Governor Otu commended the Federal Government for its support, describing the moment as historic and a major milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to unlock the full potential of the marine and blue economy.

He stressed that Cross River State is strategically positioned to play a leading role in Nigeria’s maritime development, drawing comparisons with countries such as Brazil and other coastal nations with strong maritime economies.

“Receiving this certificate is a significant boost that brings balance and momentum to our pursuit. I am confident that with the professionalism, diligence and commitment of the ministry and private sector players, we are firmly on track with the deep seaport project,” Otu said.

The governor also applauded President Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and for appointing Oyetola as minister, describing both decisions as timely and critical to the growth of the sector.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Mr. Jobson Ewalefoh, described the Bakassi Deep Seaport as a game-changer for Nigeria’s maritime and logistics ecosystem.

He said the project would serve as a new maritime gateway for the country’s North-Central and North-East regions while positioning Nigeria as a major logistics hub for West and Central Africa.

The Nigerian Air Force C-130 crew, earlier detained in Burkina Faso and released on Thursday, has continued its mission from the country to Portugal with the same aircraft.

The crew, comprising 11 Nigerian personnel, was on a mission to Portugal for scheduled aircraft maintenance when it made an emergency landing in Burkina Faso.

The emergency landing, which occurred in Bobo-Dioulasso on Dec. 8, 2025, was described as a precautionary measure following a technical issue with the aircraft.

The Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Kimiebi Ebienfa, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the crew resumed its journey to Portugal after engagements between Nigerian and Burkina Faso authorities.

Ebienfa said the release of the crew followed diplomatic interventions by a high-powered Nigerian delegation dispatched to Burkina Faso by President Bola Tinubu.

The delegation was led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, and included the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Amb. Mohammed Mohammed; the Chief of Policy and Plans, Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal A. Y. Abdullahi; Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to ECOWAS, Amb. Olawale Awe; and the Chief of Protocol in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Wahab Akande. (NAN)

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has announced that voting on proposed constitutional amendments will be conducted electronically, marking a first for such high-level legislative decisions in Nigeria.

Abbas made the announcement on the floor of the House on Wednesday, saying the electronic voting system will be used when lawmakers vote on the amendments tomorrow.

While electronic voting has been used in the House in the past for motions and routine resolutions, constitutional amendment votes have traditionally been done through voice votes or manual counting. The new method is expected to ensure clearer records and reduce disputes over vote counts.

Constitutional amendments require the support of at least two-thirds of members of the House, a process that has often been controversial in previous assemblies.

Lawmakers and observers say the use of electronic voting will improve transparency and accountability, as each member’s vote will be clearly recorded.

The amendments under consideration cover key national issues, including governance reforms and changes aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s federal system.

The move is seen as part of efforts by the current House leadership to modernise legislative procedures and restore public confidence in the law-making process.

The house of representatives has approved a proposal mandating the real-time transmission of election results.

The resolution was adopted on Wednesday during the clause-by-clause consideration of the report seeking an amendment to the Electoral Act 2022.

The approved clause states that the “presiding officer shall electronically transmit the results from each polling unit to the IREV portal in real time, and such transmission shall be done after the prescribed form EC8A has been signed and stamped by the presiding officer and/or countersigned by the candidates or polling unit agents, where available at the polling unit”.

The existing law does not mandate that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) transmit election results in real time.

Ahead of the last general election, INEC had promised that the results would be transmitted in real time.

The IReV portal was part of the technologies introduced by the commission to improve the integrity of the electoral process.

But the portal remained inactive for an extended period, even after voting was concluded at some polling units, prompting suspicion from many Nigerians

Following the development, several civil society organisations (CSOs) have been calling on the national assembly to make the electronic transmission of election results mandatory.

OTHER AMENDMENTS

Lawmakers also approved an amendment introducing a five-year jail term for presiding officers found guilty of declaring false results.
The green chamber also ratified a clause that would make the bimodal voter accreditation system the primary accreditation tool.

The approved clause reads: “To vote, the presiding officer shall use a bimodal voter accreditation system or any other technological device that may be prescribed by the commission for the accreditation of voters to verify, confirm or authenticate the particulars of the intending voter in the manner prescribed by the commission.”

“Where a bimodal voter accreditation system or any other technological device deployed for accreditation of voters fails to function in any unit and a fresh BVAS or technological device is not deployed, the election in that unit shall be cancelled and another election shall be scheduled within 24 hours if the commission is satisfied that the result of the election in that polling unit will substantially affect the final result of the whole election and declaration of a winner in the constituency concerned.”

After considering over 70 clauses, the house adjourned the sitting to reconvene on Thursday for the continued review of the report.

Muhammadu Buhari’s Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari, of undue and dangerous interference on national security matters. Consequently, Mr Monguno has fired a warning memo to all service chiefs to desist from taking further directives from Mr Kyari, according to documents seen by PREMIUM TIMES.

Mr Monguno said Mr Kyari’s directives to service chiefs were sometimes issued without the knowledge much less approval of the president, a practice he said has added to government’s failure to contain insecurity.

“Chief of staff to the president is not a presiding head of security, neither is he sworn to an oath of defending the country,” Mr Monguno, a retired major- general, said in the December 9, 2019, letter.

“As such, unprofessional practices such as presiding over meetings with service chiefs and heads of security organisations as well as ambassadors and high commissioners to the exclusion of the NSA and/or supervising ministers are a violation of the Constitution and directly undermine the authority of Mr President.

“Such acts and continues meddlesomeness by chief of staff have not only ruptured our security an defence efforts but have slowed down any meaningful gain that Mr President has sought to achieve.” Mr Monguno’s letter comes as insecurity returns to centre stage as a major cause for worry among Nigerians.

Violent attacks linked to bandits, kidnappers, armed robbers and vandals have continued to claim multiple lives and properties across the country. The president has repeatedly promised to curb the crises, many of which he met in office, but has largely failed like his predecessors.

Security experts, opposition and federal lawmakers have responded by advising the president to fire his service chiefs. The service chiefs have been unable to rein in Boko Haram insurgents since 2015 when Mr Buhari named them to take charge of various arms of the nation’s security architecture.

While previously held swathes of land have been taken back from terrorists, deadly attacks on civilians and military targets have worsened since 2018. The Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, said in recent media interviews that the military has degraded insurgents’ capacity to attack Abuja and other cities outside the war-ravaged northeast.

National security sources told PREMIUM TIMES on Monday that the fresh memo showed how Mr Kyari has helped in keeping the service chiefs in office despite overwhelming call for their ouster.

It also underscored the frustration faced by Mr Monguno and others who found Mr Kyari’s influence over the president too domineering for national benefit, sources said.

Mr Kyari and two presidential spokespersons, Femi Adesina and Garba Shehu did not return requests for comments about the memo Monday afternoon.

Former National Security Adviser, NSA, Babagana Monguno, has revealed that the late former President Muhammadu Buhari was undermined by a powerful inner circle allegedly led by his nephew, Mamman Daura.

According to Monguno, the group amassed enormous personal wealth while deliberately depriving the Office of the NSA of much-needed resources.

In the book From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, written by Charles Omole, Monguno explained that several of the obstacles he faced while in office had direct consequences for national security.

He linked the crisis to a security briefing he received from the Commander of the Presidential Air Fleet, who warned that the company supplying the fleet was under investigation.

The commander reportedly cautioned that an indictment would pose serious security risks.
Monguno said he relayed the intelligence to Buhari and advised that the supplier be replaced, adding that the president accepted the assessment and formally approved the recommendation.

However, he said the decision triggered tension within the Presidency, with the late former Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari, confronting him and asking, “Why did you do this?”

Monguno further alleged that the Minister of Finance, described as loyal to Mamman Daura, was enlisted to block funding to the NSA’s office despite the president’s approval.

“The Minister of Finance, who owed loyalty to Mamman Daura, was co-opted to withhold funds from the NSA office even after Buhari’s approval.

Buhari and Nigerians were both victims of the cabal that enriched itself beyond measure,” he said.

He explained that the deliberate funding freeze severely weakened Nigeria’s security framework, leaving the country effectively exposed.

The former NSA noted that funds he inherited from his predecessor were quickly depleted, while vital subscriptions for security systems and strategic collaborations with foreign intelligence partners expired.

He added that surveillance systems around the Presidential Villa were sustained through the NSA’s budget, yet requests for approval to update and maintain them were repeatedly delayed.

Monguno also disclosed that even after Buhari approved certain appointments, they were later undermined by counter-directives issued by a powerful gatekeeper.

“You do not need a conspiracy to weaken a system; you only need petty sabotage repeated often enough,” he added.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, announced the passage on Tuesday following the consideration and debate on the report presented by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Sani Musa.

Akpabio described the MTEF as a prerequisite for the presentation of the national budget, underpinning that the document does not represent a final position of the legislature.

“The Medium-Term Expenditure Framework is only a prerequisite before the presentation of the budget. What we are discussing here is not a finality. If circumstances change, it will be brought back to us to rejig, react or act,” the former governor of Akwa Ibom said.

Senator Akpabio explained that the passage of the MTEF would enable the National Assembly to receive the 2026 budget proposal between now and Thursday.

According to him, the framework is not cast in stone, as reviews can still be made when the budget is formally laid before the Senate.

He expressed hope that the projections contained in the framework would be realistic enough to support the effective implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

During a brief debate, Senator Mohammed Monguno noted that the MTEF clearly outlined key fiscal parameters, describing them as realistic.

Monguno cited the projected daily crude oil production benchmark of 1.84 million barrels per day as achievable, and the reduction of the oil price benchmark projection to 60 dollars from 64 dollars per barrel as circumspect, given current realities.

Following the deliberations, the Senate adopted the recommendations contained in the MTEF/FSP report through a voice vote.

On Thursday, the upper chamber received the 2026–2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper from President Tinubu, signalling the launch of the 2026 budget cycle.

In a letter addressed to the lawmakers, Tinubu said the submission complies with statutory requirements and sets out the fiscal parameters that will guide the preparation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill.

President Tinubu explained that the MTEF/FSP outlines the macroeconomic assumptions, revenue projections, and spending priorities that will shape Nigeria’s fiscal direction over the next three years.

The Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North), who read Tinubu’s letter during plenary, urged the lawmakers to expedite consideration of the document.

A new biography of former President Muhammadu Buhari has offered fresh insight into why he did not back the 2023 presidential ambition of his then vice president, Yemi Osinbajo, linking the decision to Bola Tinubu’s presence in the race.

The disclosure appears in From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, written by Dr Charles Omole and unveiled on Monday, December 15, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja

The book traces Buhari’s life from his military career through his years in partisan politics and presidency, while also revisiting key moments ahead of the last general election.

Buhari’s view of Osinbajo’s ambition

According to Omole, Buhari found Osinbajo’s decision to contest troubling given his political ties to Tinubu.

The author wrote that Buhari questioned how Osinbajo could pursue the presidency while standing against the man who brought him into national politics.

Omole quoted Buhari as saying:
“I don’t know Osinbajo from anywhere, I met him only through Tinubu”.

The book explained that Tinubu’s long-standing role as a party financier and political organiser shaped Buhari’s thinking. Tinubu’s emergence, Omole noted, was widely seen as a recognition of his influence in building the All Progressives Congress.

The author added that Buhari was dissatisfied with how Osinbajo handled his ambition.
He wrote:

“Sources also said that Buhari was not impressed that Osinbajo did not ‘consult’ him or seek his advice. Instead, Osinbajo simply ‘informed’ him.”

Party dynamics and the cabal factor

The biography described intense internal struggles within the ruling party ahead of the APC primary. Omole wrote that there was an organised push by influential figures to block Tinubu’s candidacy.


On consensus politics, he stated:

“There was an anti-Tinubu consensus among the cabal. Ironically, Buhari’s strict enforcement of the rules may have indirectly aided Tinubu, as Buhari’s fastidiousness repeatedly thwarted the cabal’s plans to impose another candidate.”

The book said Buhari resisted attempts to impose a preferred aspirant once he became aware of the plan. His insistence on due process, according to Omole, disrupted internal manoeuvres and altered the outcome of the primary.


Aisha Buhari’s role in Tinubu's emergence

Omole also shed light on the role played by Aisha Buhari during the election season. He wrote that her open support for Tinubu unsettled powerful figures within the presidency, though she remained undeterred.

“Aisha Buhari’s enthusiastic support for Tinubu’s candidacy challenged the powerful cabal. However, she remained unconcerned,” Omole wrote.

The author added that Tinubu later visited the former First Lady to seek her help in mobilising women for the campaign. This engagement led to the formation of the APC Women’s Campaign Council, working alongside Senator Remi Tinubu.

The book presents these episodes as central to understanding Buhari’s posture during the transition period and the political calculations that shaped the 2023 contest.

Former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, has revealed why her late husband, ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, rarely sacked underperforming aides, and later pleaded on behalf of some allies facing probes.

Her account appeared in a new 600-page biography titled ‘From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari’, authored by Dr. Charles Omole and unveiled at the State House, Abuja, on Monday.

“When asked to step aside for investigations, Buhari pleaded with the new government on behalf of his kinsmen, seeking to shield them from inquiry because he still depended on them for many personal matters,” read the 22-chapter book chronicling his early life in Daura, Katsina state, until his final hours in a London hospital in mid-July 2025.

Omole wrote that “This analysis by Aisha provides an additional angle on the children’s explanation for why Buhari was always reluctant to sack people. The family all agreed this was a fault in the Buhari government, but it is mitigated by the realism of the cabal’s manipulation of his emotions.”

Since 2023, several senior officials from the Buhari era have faced scrutiny from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

Former Accountant-General Ahmed Idris is being tried over an alleged N109bn fraud scheme to which he pleaded not guilty. Former Power Minister Saleh Mamman was arrested over an alleged diversion of about N22bn tied to Zungeru/Mambilla projects.

Ex-Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika has been arraigned on contract-fraud counts linked to Nigeria Air and other deals, with charge sheets citing figures around N2.7bn in one case.

Former Humanitarian Affairs Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouq has been questioned in a probe into N37.1bn in social-intervention spending; the ex-NSIPA DG, Halima Shehu, also faces a separate investigation over N44bn.

More recently, ex-Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, has also drawn scrutiny principally for his role in efforts to process contentious Paris-Club consultant claims totalling about $418m. Malami has denied wrongdoing and says his actions were lawful.

Aisha Buhari says her late husband protected individuals who should have faced scrutiny.

Although she did not name them, she sketched “their closeness, their greed, their immunity,” the book noted.

When questions began to rise in the corridors of power after he left office, she was urged to return to Daura so that prosecutions could proceed. She refused, saying she had no interest in confronting those she describes as “illiterate in her maturity.”

A few weeks later, she learned he had gone silent in the household for three days and was barely eating.

When some allies were asked to step aside for investigation, Buhari “pleaded with the new government on behalf of his kinsmen,” Omole writes, because he still depended on them for many personal matters.

The book read, “When questions about those years started emerging in the corridors of power, someone urged her to return to Daura to stay with him. ‘If you are there, they can prosecute the people,’ the warning went.

She declined, stating she had no interest in confronting those she describes as illiterate in her maturity. However, the story didn’t conclude with her refusal.

A few weeks later, she learned he had not spoken to the household for three days and had been eating hardly anything.

“Later still, she found out that when asked to step aside for investigations, Buhari pleaded with the new government on behalf of his kinsmen, seeking to shield them from inquiry because he still depended on them for many personal matters. Conscience is an ancient hunter.

“In the months before his death, she says he became more reserved, mostly replying with yes or no and avoiding eye contact. ‘All that I told him had come to pass,’ she remarks calmly. Shame, duty, and love, all the unpredictable forces of a shared life, dominated his final days, a man who had always prided himself on integrity.”

The ex-First Lady’s account revives a long-running debate from Buhari’s tenure, especially his hesitance about dismissals even amid public outcry.

This was evident even as his tenure produced the longest-serving set of service chiefs from July 2015 until January 2021.

justmondris:
Nigeria secures largest-ever military aircraft acquisition in West Africa with 24 M-346FA jets

It’s like this current government is preparing us for a proxy war against the Sahel states. So na we one help France fight their war because it’s obvious you don’t need to buy 24 jets to fight terrorists.

Source: https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/lifestyle/nigeria-secures-largest-ever-military-aircraft-acquisition-in-west-africa-with-24-m/j0xeslt

justmondris:
Did you see the date of the news?

The Imo State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Rt. Hon. Goodluck Opiah, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of a new Nigerian Army Training Depot in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, describing the decision as a strategic and historic step toward strengthening national security and deepening inclusive governance.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Owerri, Opiah noted that the Abakaliki facility brings the total number of Army Training Depots in the country to three, with the others located in Osogbo, Osun State, in the Southwest, and Zaria, Kaduna, in the Northern region.

He said the spread of the depots across the country reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to fairness, balance, and national integration in critical security infrastructure.

According to Opiah, the siting of an Army Training Depot in the Southeast will significantly enhance the Nigerian Army’s operational capacity in the zone and improve rapid response to security challenges, not only in the region but across the country.

“This approval underscores Mr. President’s resolve to confront insecurity head-on while ensuring that no region of the country is left out in key national institutions,” Opiah said.

“The Southeast, like every other part of Nigeria, deserves adequate security presence and investment, and this decision sends a strong message of inclusion and national unity.”

He stressed that the new depot would also have economic and social benefits for Ebonyi State and neighbouring states, including job creation, infrastructure development, and increased civil-military cooperation.

Opiah further expressed optimism that the ongoing security reforms under the Tinubu administration would soon be complemented by the establishment of state police, which he described as a critical component of modern and effective internal security architecture.

“While the strengthening of the Nigerian Army is vital, the introduction of state police will bring security closer to the people and enhance intelligence gathering at the grassroots,” he said.

“We are hopeful that this important reform will soon come on board in the overall interest of the nation.”

The Renewed Hope Ambassadors coordinator emphasised that President Tinubu’s actions continue to reinforce the principle that Nigeria belongs to all its citizens, irrespective of ethnic, regional, or religious differences.

“Nigeria does not belong to any one person or any particular ethnic group,” Opiah stated.

“Decisions such as this clearly demonstrate a commitment to building a united, secure, and inclusive nation where every section has a sense of belonging.”

He urged Nigerians, particularly in the Southeast, to support the Federal Government’s security initiatives and cooperate with security agencies to ensure lasting peace and stability across the country.

The Federal Government has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army Training Depot in Abakaliki, Ebonyi, as part of efforts to strengthen the army’s combat strength through increased numbers of well-trained soldiers.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, disclosed this on Saturday at the Passing Out Parade of the 89 Regular Recruit Intake at the Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria.

Shuaibu, who was the reviewing officer at the ceremony, said President Bola Tinubu had approved the establishment of the third military training depot to complement existing depots in Zaria and Oshogbo.

According to him, the Abakaliki depot will soon become operational and will further support the army’s strategic plan to surge troop strength and enhance operational effectiveness.

The COAS explained that the training curricula across the three depots in Zaria, Oshogbo and Abakaliki would be streamlined to ensure uniform standards, partnerships and the acquisition of relevant military skills.

He congratulated the newly passed-out soldiers, describing their achievement as a product of hard work, resilience and determination.

“As you begin this new phase of your lives, you have answered one of the highest clarion calls to national duty any Nigerian can make. “You are joining the Army at a critical time when the nation faces diverse security challenges, and you must see yourselves as part of the solution to these challenges,” Shuaibu urged.

He charged the recruits to conduct their careers with selfless service, discipline and a positive attitude towards their duties as soldiers of the Nigerian Army.

The army chief added that following the conclusion of the training cycle for the 89 Regular Recruit Intake in Zaria, their counterparts at the Depot Nigerian Army, Oshogbo, would also hold their Passing Out Parade next week.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 3,500 young Nigerians commenced training on July 1, out of which 3,439 successfully completed the programme.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

A FAILED OPPOSITION ENGAGING IN SUBTERFUGE AND THE EMPTY SEARCH FOR SCAPEGOATS

Nigeria's so-called opposition politicians, comprising some of those left in a dying political party and a sprinkling of some failed political office aspirants regrouping in a platform struggling to find its bearings, are amusing lots.

They blow hot air, seek scapegoats for their failure and move to confuse the polity in a desperate search for cheap political gains.

On Sunday, a group of opposition figures gathered to sing their familiar tune, hoping their cheerleaders would see their action as a blistering attack from a seemingly virile opposition group.

They alleged a threat to multi-party democracy because many top politicians are joining the governing All Progressives Congress of their own free will. Our constitution guarantees freedom of association and affords our people the right to change their political leanings at any time of their choosing.

None of the people who joined the governing APC was pressured to do so. They all did so of their own free will. They are being motivated by the noticeable gains of President Bola Tinubu's reform programme.

We may ask: when politicians were moving in droves to the now-dying Peoples Democratic Party between 2000 and 2015, was Nigeria's democracy imperilled?

Also, investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have begun exposing those with some explanation to give regarding their stewardship in office and management of public funds entrusted to them. These politicians now accuse President Tinubu of weaponising the EFCC for political purposes.

While the Presidency does not speak for the EFCC and believes the agency can speak for itself, we must reiterate that the EFCC is an independent institution established by law and empowered to carry out its statutory responsibilities without interference or favour.

The agency's mandate is to investigate and prosecute financial crimes, irrespective of the personalities involved, their political affiliations, or their positions in society. We find it curious that the same people who claimed they want to rescue Nigeria are now the ones waging a war of attrition against accountability and probity. Those who have cases to answer before EFCC should be bold and brave enough to defend themselves if they are clean.

President Tinubu does not issue directives to any anti-corruption agency on whom to investigate, arrest, or prosecute.

President Tinubu has significant state issues to address rather than engage in political targeting.

The prosecution is conducted by the court, not by any sleight of hand, and those found not guilty will receive a clean bill of health.

Allegations of "weaponisation" are distractions from these politicians, who are running short of campaign issues to challenge President Tinubu and the APC's success in less than three years in office.

No one is above the law. Everyone must be accountable for their actions, both in and out of the office. Political affiliation should not be a shield against EFCC statutory work, which recently led to Nigeria's removal from the FATF grey list.

We have taken cognisance of the signatories to the statement. It is instructive that some of them were previously investigated and prosecuted by the EFCC even before President Tinubu took office in 2023.

Some of these politicians have also been indicted in international financial probes for money laundering, with some of their accomplices jailed in foreign lands.

Are they now signing statements because their chickens are coming home to roost?

We advise those politicians not to undermine the integrity of our nation's institutions and the collective resolve to fight corruption by weaponising politics to escape accountability and encourage impunity.

The fight against corruption is a collective responsibility and should not be trivialised by baseless allegations, jaundiced or politicised narratives.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
December 14, 2025

A non-partisan group, the North-West Women Development Forum (NWDF), has asked notorious bandit leader Bello Turji to lay down his arms and embrace peace, in line with the Nigerian military’s non-violent approach to ending the conflict.

The group also praised the Armed Forces of Nigeria for killing Turji’s top aide, Kallamu Buzu, during an operation in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The women made the call on Friday in Abuja after holding prayers for peace in the North-West, the entire country, and the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Buzu and several other fighters were killed by troops of the 8 Division and Sector 2 Joint Task Force under Operation Hadarin Daji.

Reports say Turji was deeply shaken by the news and later threatened revenge, allegedly blaming another lieutenant for the mistakes that led to Buzu’s death during a failed attack on local traders.

Speaking for the group, NWDF Public Relations Officer, Salamatu Bello, said people in the region are pleased with the way the military is dealing with bandits and terrorists.

She explained that the women gathered to pray for Allah’s intervention to restore peace and to support the armed forces and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede.

She also said prayers were offered for soldiers who lost their lives while defending the country.

“We cannot continue like this. As mothers, we are happy with the quiet but firm way the military is handling these criminals. We appeal to Bello Turji to surrender before it is too late,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Sokoto State Government has also praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for the successful operation.

The governor’s security aide, Ahmed Usman, commended the soldiers for their speed, professionalism, and bravery, saying their action prevented a possible tragedy.

He said the state appreciates the sacrifices of security personnel and urged them to keep up the pressure on criminals in Sokoto State and across the entire North-West region.

Billionaire businessman Obinna Iyiegbu, better known as Obi Cubana, is currently facing a challenging time, as seen in a video making the rounds.

On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, court sheriffs executed an eviction order at Plot 81, Ademola Adetokunbo Crescent, Wuse II, Abuja, the building that formerly housed the popular Cubana Lounge.

The property was handed over to businessman Collins Onwuzulike after a court judgment.

In the new video circulating, people were seen removing items from the building, including chairs, sofas, tables, and other valuables belonging to Obi Cubana.

These items were stacked outside the building, while some of the decorations were being taken down from inside the lounge.

How Obi Cubana's court case started

The dispute that the businessman, who marked his birthday a few months ago, is battling dates back to July 2025, when the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Gwagwalada, ruled that Onwuzulike, proprietor of SEMC Investment Ltd., was the legitimate owner.

According to court documents, he purchased the property from Reverend Chidiebere Amakaeze for ₦2 billion, supported by a Power of Attorney and Deed of Assignment executed with effect from May 1, 2024.

In its judgment, the court noted that despite completing the purchase and executing the transfer , the buyer had been unable to take possession of the building.

Justice J.A. Aina ordered the defendants to immediately vacate the premises and directed the Inspector General of Police and other security agencies to assist the rightful owner in taking possession.

However, the process was delayed after another group claiming interest in the property secured a temporary restraining order from the FCT High Court, Bwari.

That order has now lapsed - paving the way for Tuesday’s enforcement.

With the successful execution of the eviction, the keys to the building were formally handed over to Onwuzulike’s lawyer, signalling complete possession of the property after months of legal battles.

Obi Cubana Reportedly Loses N800m After Court Action on Lounge, Building May Be Demolished

More details have emerged about the amount Obi Cubana reportedly lost after the court took action on the building that housed his lounge – The businessman’s landlord had been in a land tussle for quite a while, and he was later evicted from the property.

Part of the amount Nigerian billionaire businessman, Obinna Iyiegbu, better known as Obi Cubana, reportedly lost after the court took action on his lounge in Abuja has surfaced online.

The embattled businessman has been facing a challenging time over the property he rented in Abuja for one of his many businesses.

A few days ago, his properties thrown out of the building after the court ruled against him. In an update by a blogger known as Northern Trending, it was reported that Obi Cubana allegedly lost up to N800 million from some of his expensive wines at the lounge. However, details of how the goods were reportedly lost were not clearly stated.