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Tinubu Approves Reconstruction of Key Ekiti Road

2026-07-08T18:21:07.660+01:00

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the reconstruction of the Ado-Ijan-Ilumoba-Ikole Road in Ekiti State, a major route linking the South-West to the Federal Capital Territory.

According to a statement by Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s media adviser, Yinka Oyebode, the project will be funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Project Fund.

The approval letter, dated July 1, 2026, was addressed to the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, and the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Zach Adedeji, with a copy sent to the governor.

Oyebode noted that the development comes just months after Tinubu approved the reconstruction of the Itawure-Aramoko-Ado Ekiti Road.

The Ado-Ijan-Ilumoba-Ikole Road has long been in deplorable condition, despite its importance as an access route to institutions such as the Federal Polytechnic, Afe Babalola University, Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, and the Ekiti Knowledge Zone.

Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the President, describing the approval as evidence of Tinubu’s commitment to Ekiti and his broader agenda of infrastructure renewal.

“Road infrastructure is a critical aspect of our development agenda. This approval is another demonstration of the President’s love and support for Ekiti State,” Oyebode said.

The governor’s aide highlighted that the state has already constructed over 285km of inter-city and intra-city roads, 135km of rural roads, and a 1.2km flyover, while collaborating with the Federal Government and international partners on further upgrades.

Reps Probe ₦2.23tn Ransom Payments Fueling Terrorism

2026-07-08T18:13:11.377+01:00

The House of Representatives has raised alarm over Nigeria’s growing ransom economy, estimated at ₦2.23 trillion between January 2021 and June 2025, and its role in sustaining kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism.

Adopting a motion sponsored by Lagos lawmaker Ademorin Kuye, the House urged urgent executive action to dismantle criminal financial networks, strengthen financial intelligence, and tighten oversight of POS operators, Bureau De Change, and other intermediaries exploited for ransom transactions.

Kuye cited findings from the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit, the National Bureau of Statistics, and independent security researchers, warning that ransom payments are fueling organised crime.

He noted that criminals increasingly use both formal and informal systems, including cryptocurrency, hawala networks, and trade-based laundering, to conceal financial trails.

The House directed the Central Bank of Nigeria and regulators to audit suspicious POS transactions in high-risk areas, strengthen real-time monitoring, and enforce anti-money laundering laws.

It also urged the Attorney-General to prosecute individuals and organisations facilitating ransom payments.Lawmakers debated the motion intensely.

Plateau lawmaker Yusuf Gagdi argued that ransom payments embolden bandits, while Ahmed Jaha of Borno countered that families in insecurity-ravaged regions often have no choice but to pay to save loved ones.

The House resolved to mandate its committees on National Security, Banking Regulations, and Financial Crimes to monitor compliance and report back within four weeks.

Kidnapping for ransom has become one of Nigeria’s most pressing security challenges, with experts stressing that disrupting financial flows is key to weakening criminal groups.

ADC Centralises Legal Control, Bars State Chapters From Handling Court Cases

2026-07-08T18:06:41.972+01:00

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has directed its state chapters nationwide to stop handling legal matters or engaging lawyers without authorisation from the party’s national leadership.

In a notice signed by National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the party instructed that all court processes served on state chapters must be forwarded immediately to the National Legal Adviser at the party’s headquarters in Abuja.

The move comes amid heightened political activity and growing litigation involving parties ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly following the formation of the ADC-led opposition coalition.

“Only the National Legal Adviser of the party is authorised to issue letters of instruction to any legal practitioner to represent, act for, or take steps on behalf of the party in any court, tribunal, arbitration, administrative proceeding or other legal process,” the statement read.

The ADC warned that any officer or chapter that disregards the directive or engages legal practitioners without approval could face disciplinary measures under the party’s constitution.

It further declared that court processes served on state chapters would not be regarded as valid service on the party, except where a court specifically orders substituted service.

Analysts say the directive underscores the party’s effort to centralise control and ensure coordinated legal representation as it prepares for possible court challenges tied to its coalition strategy.

Ex-Port Harcourt refinery MD arraigned over ‘money laundering’, granted N150m bail

2026-07-08T16:41:23.483+01:00

Ahmed Dikko, former managing director of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), has pleaded not guilty to a 12-count money laundering charge filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Dikko was arraigned before Inyang Ekwo, judge of a federal high court in Abuja, on Wednesday alongside a company, Masterpiece Projects & Investment Ltd, the second defendant in the case.

The EFCC alleged, among other counts, that the former PHRC MD used about N218.4 million to acquire a property in Katampe extension in Abuja, without passing the funds through a financial institution, contrary to the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

At the commencement of proceedings, Ekele Iheanacho, counsel to the EFCC, informed the court that the matter was slated for the defendants to take their plea.

Dikko pleaded not guilty to all 12 counts, while Ikechukwu Ajunwa, counsel to the defendants, entered a not guilty plea on behalf of the company.

Following the arraignment, the prosecution asked the court to fix a date for trial.

Ajunwa thereafter moved an application seeking bail for Dikko, arguing that his client had complied with the conditions of the administrative bail earlier granted by the EFCC and would not interfere with the trial or jump bail.

The application was opposed by the prosecution, which urged the court to refuse the request, relying on a counter-affidavit and written address filed before the court.

In his ruling, Ekwo held that bail is a constitutional right and that sufficient grounds must be established before it can be denied.

The judge admitted Dikko to bail in the sum of N150 million with one surety in like sum.

He held that the surety must own landed property within the jurisdiction of the court, submit the title documents for verification by the court registrar, and be a responsible citizen.

The court also ordered Dikko to deposit his international passport and barred him from travelling outside the country without its permission.

Ekwo adjourned the case to October 12, October 13 and October 14 for the commencement of trial.

The arraignment comes about two weeks after the EFCC filed separate charges against Dikko and Jimoh Yisawu, former managing director of the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC), over the alleged diversion of funds released for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s state-owned refineries.

The anti-graft agency accused Dikko of receiving and retaining funds from contractors engaged by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, concealing the source of some of the money through third parties and carrying out transactions that allegedly breached the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

The commission also alleged that he made a cash payment of about N218.4 million for a property in Abuja and converted $77,080 through a third party.

The charges are part of the EFCC’s ongoing investigation into the alleged diversion of funds approved for the rehabilitation and turnaround maintenance of the Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna refineries. The commission has said the probe has so far led to the recovery of more than N9.4 billion, $21.2 million and several landed properties.

2027: Tinubu is tired, I’m not desperate to be President – Peter Obi

2026-07-08T15:42:24.256+01:00

Nigeria Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has insisted that President Bola Tinubu is tired and needs to go home and rest in 2027.

Obi stressed that he is not desperate for power but wants Nigeria to work.

In an interview with media personality, Chude, Obi said Tinubu’s administration has sent more Nigerians into poverty.

According to Obi, some Nigerians doing well in business have resorted to selling kuli-kuli.

He said: “Tinubu is tired and needs to go home and rest. When Tinubu came into power 87 million Nigerians were in poverty but today it’s 140 million.

“Insecurity has gotten worse. Which hope are they going to renew again? You can’t renew failure.

“I am not desperate to be President of Nigeria. There’s a way you will fail in school, they will ask you to leave the school.

“People who had business when you came into power are now people who are selling kuli-kuli.”

Senate rejects motion seeking probe of PFIPC budget allocation

2026-07-08T15:42:15.430+01:00

The Senate has rejected a motion seeking an investigation into the inclusion of the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) in the 2026 Appropriation Act.

Lawmakers, however, resolved to withhold further action until the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) concludes the probe ordered by President Bola Tinubu.

The decision followed a point of order raised by Kawu Sumaila, senator representing Kano south, who urged the upper chamber to investigate how the agency, which the presidency has described as non-existent, secured a budgetary allocation of N1.3 billion.

Speaking at Wednesday’s plenary, Sumaila said the controversy directly affects the integrity of the senate, the credibility of the national assembly and its constitutional oversight and appropriation responsibilities.

As Sumaila began presenting his motion, Barau Jibrin, deputy senate president, who presided over plenary, interrupted him, saying the matter appeared to be like a substantive motion.

“I raised it as a matter of privilege. I am pleading with Mr President to allow me, just to hear me; then the chair can decide,” Sumaila said.

Barau replied: “What I am saying is this: the way you come to ventilate your views”.

“Allow me…” Sumaila responded.

“You are coming as if you are presenting a substantive motion. But, you say it, say your mind about what you feel like it. The senate will look at what should be done. I want to guide you,” Barau said.

“I am properly guided,” Sumaila replied.

Barau subsequently allowed him to proceed after directing another senator, who attempted to raise a separate point of order, to take his seat.

Presenting his case, Sumaila said the inclusion of the PFIPC in the 2026 budget raised serious questions about the integrity of the appropriation process.

He noted that although the executive had publicly disowned the agency, it was allocated N1,302,978,000 under budget code 0111062001 in the appropriation act.

“Senate notes that notwithstanding the executive’s public disapproval of this agency, the entirety was incorporated in the 2026 Appropriation Act under Code 0111062001 with a budgetary allocation of N1,302,978,000,” he said.

“Thereby raising a serious question regarding the integrity of the budget preparation and appropriation process.”

According to the senator, the allocation comprised over N800 million for personnel costs, more than N200 million for overheads and over N300 million for capital expenditure.

He noted that allocating public funds to an entity now officially described as non-existent undermined public confidence in the budget process and exposed weaknesses in legislative scrutiny.

Sumaila asked the senate to mandate its committees on ethics, code of conduct and public petitions, and appropriations to investigate how the allocation was proposed, scrutinised, justified and approved.

He also sought an inquiry into whether any funds had been released or spent under the budget line and whether any bank account had been opened or operated in relation to the allocation.

“This is the angle I am coming from, the angle of budget, which is our constitutional responsibility. I so submit, Mr President,” he said.

Responding, Barau said the matter ought to have been presented as a substantive motion through the senate committee on rules and business.

He, however, said the presidency had already directed the ICPC to investigate the controversy, making it unnecessary for the senate to commence a parallel probe at this stage.

“Like I said, distinguished colleagues, he came under privilege, and I thought this issue he could have brought to the rules and business committee, to be listed as a substantive motion,” Barau said.

“But, as I said earlier, the presidency has taken up this matter by directing that the ICPC should investigate fully how this matter came to be.

“And I think ICPC has started. I believe that what we need to do at this stage is to have the report of the ICPC, and then we can act on that report and deal with it as we feel appropriate.”

Barau thereafter put the position to a voice vote.

The senate adopted the position without dissent, effectively rejecting Sumaila’s request for an immediate investigation into the PFIPC budget allocation pending the outcome of the ICPC probe.

FCT: I’ve funds for projects because Tinubu removed us from TSA – Wike

2026-07-08T15:42:11.574+01:00

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday, said the removal of the FCT Administration from the Treasury Single Account, TSA, has made funds available for the execution of projects.

Wike commended President Bola Tinubu for this feat which he described as beneficial to the FCTA under his leadership.

The minister spoke during the commissioning of the newly constructed road linking Body of Benchers to two private universities

in Abuja to mark Tinubu’s third year anniversary.

According to Wike, the FCTA has so many projects to commission due to the removal from the TSA.

He said: “Today we are here to see that we commission this project, the other day we were also here to commission the annex at the body of benchers.

“Your Excellency we thank you for your support and resources made available by removing us from the TSA and that is why Today we are having so many projects to be commissioned.”

Wike also assured that every district and satellite towns of the FCT would feel his administration’s infrastructural drive.

“Like we have said before that every district would have attention of the present government and we have gone round so many of the districts and satellite towns that make up the city,” he added.

Obidients pull out video of Jonathan allegedly linking Modu Sheriff to Boko-Haram founder

2026-07-08T15:42:06.196+01:00

An old footage that captured a moment that former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan allegedly linked ex-governor of Borno State, Ali Modu Sheriff to the funder of Boko Haram terrorist group, Mohammed Yusuf has resurfaced online.

The video clip was dug up by supporters of the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi following a recent remark by the latter.

Recall that Sheriff had during an interview on Channels TV, claimed that the NDC presidential candidate is “pursuing the division of Nigeria because he believes in Biafra”.

Sheriff declared that the northerners would vote against Peter Obi in the coming election, further claiming that the northern electorates don’t believe in “Biafrans”.

The controversial remark didn’t sit well with some supporters of Obi, NDC and the party’s vice presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso as they alleged that Sheriff was part of those, who allegedly formed the dreaded terrorists group.

In the video clip, shot in April 2013 during a visit Jonathan made to Borno State, he was heard describing Mr Sheriff, who was then a member of the opposition All Progressives Congress, APC, as a “friend” of Mohammed Yusuf, the man who founded and led Boko Haram for years.

Yusuf died while in the custody of the Nigeria Police after he and a number of his followers were arrested following a bloody clash between the sect members and law enforcement.

Also recall that a human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, had also alleged that Sheriff provided financial support to the terrorist group and entered into a political arrangement with its members during the 2003 governorship election.

Watch video

FLASHBACK: "Ali Modu Sheriff is a friend to Boko Haram founder, Mohammed Yusuf"

-President Goodluck Jonathan says pic.twitter.com/QqIhJOihXE
— NDC War Room (@NDCWarRoom) July 7, 2026

Tinubu Seeks Senate Approval for AMCON Chair Nominee

2026-07-08T15:38:25.355+01:00

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has requested the Senate to confirm the appointment of Lamido Yuguda Abubakar as Chairman of the Board of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

The request was conveyed in a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary on Wednesday.

Tinubu explained that the nomination was made in line with Section 10(1)(a) of the AMCON Act, 2019 (as amended), following the exit of the immediate past chairman.

“I am pleased to present for confirmation by the Senate the appointment of Mr Lamido Yuguda Abubakar as chairman of the board of AMCON,” the letter stated.

The President expressed hope that the Senate would act swiftly on the request. Akpabio subsequently referred the nomination to the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, mandating it to screen the nominee and submit its report within two weeks.

Established in 2010, AMCON was created to stabilise Nigeria’s financial system by acquiring non-performing loans from banks and recovering outstanding debts.

Under its enabling law, appointments to the board require Senate confirmation.

Atiku Rejects ICPC Probe, Demands Independent Inquiry Into PFIPC Scandal

2026-07-08T15:21:27.749+01:00

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has dismissed President Bola Tinubu’s directive to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the alleged Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), insisting that only an independent panel can restore public confidence.

Atiku argued that the President’s order contradicted earlier claims that the police had already conducted a “comprehensive investigation.”

He noted that if the police probe was sufficient, another inquiry would be unnecessary; but if a fresh probe is required, then the earlier investigation was inadequate.

“The president cannot simultaneously maintain both positions without contradicting his own government,” Atiku’s aide, Phrank Shaibu, said in a statement.

He questioned how an organisation the presidency insists “never existed” allegedly acquired office space, interacted with government institutions, sought diplomatic recognition, operated bank accounts, and conducted recruitment exercises.

Atiku also faulted the 30-day timeline given to ICPC, arguing that Nigerians deserve answers within days, not weeks.

He stressed that government agencies cannot investigate themselves, calling instead for a Special Independent Commission of Inquiry comprising representatives from political parties, civil society, the Nigerian Bar Association, retired judges, and other eminent Nigerians.

According to him, such a panel should review police findings, summon officials, and publish its report directly to Nigerians within one month.

Atiku concluded that the controversy has moved beyond the alleged suspect to broader questions about the integrity of public institutions, urging Tinubu to submit to the same standards of accountability he demands of others.

Sokoto Assembly Summons Telecom Firms Over Poor Network

2026-07-08T15:19:37.438+01:00

The Sokoto State House of Assembly has expressed concern over persistent poor GSM and internet services across the state, mandating telecommunications operators and regulators to appear before its committee to explain the recurring failures.

The motion, sponsored by Hon. Aminu Gidado (APC, Sokoto South II) and seconded by Hon. Shamsu Aliyu (APC, Wurno), highlighted residents’ frustration with weak coverage, frequent call drops, delayed text messages, and prolonged outages.

Presenting the motion, Gidado stressed that telecommunications are vital to modern life, affecting communication, commerce, education, healthcare, banking, governance, and security.

He lamented that in some parts of Sokoto, services remain unavailable for hours or even an entire day, disconnecting citizens from essential activities.

Lawmakers noted that businesses, students, civil servants, security agencies, and healthcare providers have all suffered economic losses due to poor service, despite subscribers paying substantial charges for voice and data.

Following unanimous adoption of the motion, Speaker Tukur Bala directed the Assembly’s committee to summon GSM service providers and regulators to present a clear roadmap for resolving the challenges.

The Assembly also urged the Sokoto State Government to collaborate with federal agencies and telecom operators to strengthen infrastructure and improve service delivery across the state.

Dangote Refinery Offers Free Petrol Delivery to Abuja, Five States

2026-07-08T15:18:17.986+01:00

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced free delivery of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) to six states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, while maintaining its ex-depot price at ₦1,075 per litre.

In a notice shared on its official X handle Wednesday, the refinery said the free delivery covers Lagos, Ogun, Rivers, Kaduna, Delta, and Abuja, but only applies to customers purchasing a minimum of 250,000 litres.

This move follows recent engagements with downstream petroleum stakeholders, where discussions centered on cost-reflective pricing and further reductions in fuel costs.

The refinery has already cut petrol prices four times, with the latest reduction bringing the gantry price down to ₦1,075 per litre.

Meanwhile, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) confirmed that retail pump prices have dropped by about ₦125 per litre in the past three weeks, now ranging between ₦1,155 and ₦1,299 depending on location and marketer.

Industry observers say the free delivery initiative could ease logistics costs for marketers and potentially drive further reductions in pump prices nationwide.

Uche Ogbodo Confirms End of Marriage to Husband, Bobby Maris

2026-07-08T13:57:29.309+01:00

Nollywood actress Uche Ogbodo has officially confirmed the collapse of her marriage to her younger husband, Bobby Maris, after weeks of speculation.

Rumors of trouble intensified when the couple unfollowed each other on Instagram and began posting cryptic messages.

Breaking her silence, Ogbodo took to her Instagram story on Tuesday evening, writing:“I no do again nah sin? My Tayad is Tayad! I’m tired of the princess wey dey marry me.”

She lamented the stigma women face when they choose to leave a marriage, stressing that happiness in marriage should not be gender-bound.

“For person to tire for marriage now nah taboo because nah woman! Must it always be man must taya?” she added.The actress, who has been married for eight years, expressed frustration over societal expectations, saying she would not allow herself to be pushed “to the wall.”

Her post has sparked widespread reactions online, with fans and colleagues weighing in on her candid remarks about marital struggles and gender roles.

Rowdy Session in House of Reps Over Motion to Summon Tinubu

2026-07-08T13:42:40.459+01:00

The House of Representatives descended into chaos on Wednesday during a heated debate over the alleged non-funding of constituency projects nationwide.

Hon. Alex Mascot, representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency in Abia State, moved a motion demanding that President Bola Tinubu be summoned to explain the persistent lack of funding.

The motion was seconded, with another lawmaker proposing an amendment that the House should shut down for one week until the matter is resolved.

This sparked sharp divisions. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi opposed the motion, arguing that summoning the President was unnecessary since relevant agencies are responsible for project implementation.

He also rejected the idea of suspending House activities for a week, describing it as unwarranted.The counter-amendment triggered rowdy scenes as lawmakers shouted and traded arguments across party lines.

In a bid to restore order, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas directed members to vote, insisting that the House must take a clear stand on the contentious issue.

CBN Warns Against Rejection of Standard ₦100 Notes

2026-07-08T13:36:04.441+01:00

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has cautioned the public, businesses, and financial institutions against rejecting the standard ₦100 banknote, stressing that it remains legal tender alongside the commemorative ₦100 note.

The warning followed reports of confusion over the note’s validity, with some individuals and businesses refusing to accept it.

In a statement issued Wednesday by Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi-Ali, the apex bank clarified that both the standard and commemorative ₦100 notes are valid for transactions nationwide.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the CBN hereby reiterates that both the commemorative ₦100 banknote and the standard ₦100 banknote remain legal tender in Nigeria and must be accepted for all transactions nationwide,” the statement read.

The commemorative ₦100 note was introduced in 2014 to mark Nigeria’s centenary but was never intended to replace the standard version.

The CBN warned that rejecting the standard ₦100 note violates the provisions of the CBN Act and undermines confidence in the naira, adding that enforcement measures would be applied against violators.

The bank reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the naira and urged Nigerians to accept all banknotes legally issued by the CBN.

‘I’m Unsure of Gbajabiamila’s Role’ in PFIPC fiasco— Adeniyi Adeyemi backtracks

2026-07-08T13:23:52.410+01:00

Adeniyi Adeyemi, self-styled director-general of the “phantom” Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), says he had never physically met Femi Gbajabiamila and is unsure of the chief of staff’s role in his controversial appointment.

In June, the presidency distanced itself from the PFIPC and Adeyemi, insisting that the organisation does not exist under the current administration.

In a statement, Gbajabiamila had said his office did not appoint Adeyemi to any position in the organisation.

However, at a press conference on June 26, Adeyemi questioned the June 11 disclaimer from Gbajabiamila.

On July 7, Gbajabiamila threatened a N10 billion defamation suit against Adeyemi over allegations of murder and bribery.

‘I’M UNSURE OF GBAJABIAMILA’S ROLE’

Speaking on Tuesday during an interview with VeryDarKMan (VDM), the social media influencer whose real name is Martins Vincent Otse, Adeyemi noted that he did not meet Gbajabiamila physically “before and after he was appointed to the role”.

He said Dolapo Tanimola, his late friend, facilitated the transaction for his appointment with the chief of staff.

“I would not say he (Gbajabiamila) is lying, and I won’t say he is saying the truth; that is why I requested from my press conference; I pleaded with Mr. President to set up an investigative panel to look into this whole issue and unravel the truth to know who is involved,” Adeyemi said.

“I think three times I have spoken with Gbajabiamila, through my late friend, Dolapo Tanimola.

“No, it was not on video call.”

He stated that he had documented evidence of every claim and allegation made regarding his purported appointment.

“I am willing and ready to help security agencies or the panel by Mr. President to unravel the truth. In fact, any moment from now, I will go to the DSS or police to submit all the documents I have to help them investigate and look into this matter,” he added.

“I will go, any moment from now. I will go to authenticate and verify my document and unravel the truth.”

On Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to probe the saga and submit its findings within 30 days.

‘If you tackle us, we will Asiwaju you’ – Umahi warns Obidient Movement

2026-07-08T13:23:46.037+01:00

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has cautioned members of the Obidient Movement trying to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s great works.

Umahi vowed to tackle members of the group, stressing that he won’t keep quiet over attempts to undermine Tinubu’s great works.

Speaking in Lagos, Umahi said: “There is a committed effort by some people, building their own content creation to undermine the great work President Tinubu is doing, but we will not allow it.

“We sharpen our mouth, they tackle us, we tackle them, they Obidient us, we Tinubu them, we Asiwaju them, we can’t keep quiet.

“Let them tell us what they have achieved in their place. Somebody was telling me when we had a small debate that Peter Obi left $50 million, but I said to him, Obiano said you left this money in the bank, but look at the contractors you are owing, so by the time he took the money and paid the contractors, everything was in the negative.

“That is not the story, the story is that there is a businessman in the Bible, a rich man that was going on a tour, and he called his servants, this one he gave this amount, that one he gave that amount, go trade with it and make profit.

“You can’t be saving when the people are hungry, when there is no industry.”

ICPC explains arrest of El-Rufai’s doctor after hospital visit

2026-07-08T13:23:40.168+01:00

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed the arrest of Professor Bello Abubakar, the personal physician of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, over allegations that he made false statements following the ex-governor’s court-approved hospital visit.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the commission’s spokesperson, Okor Odey, the ICPC said El-Rufai was taken to the private wing of the National Hospital, Abuja, on July 7 for medical consultation under security arrangements approved by the court.

The anti-graft agency said its medical and security personnel conducted themselves professionally and respected the former governor’s privacy by remaining outside the consultation room while he was being examined by an oncologist.

However, the commission alleged that the hospital visit was used for activities outside the medical purpose approved by the court.

According to the ICPC, a Facebook post by Kaduna State African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate, Isa Ashiru Kudan, showed photographs of himself, Professor Abubakar and three others meeting with El-Rufai during the period he was expected to be receiving medical treatment.

“The images and post by Isa Kudan indicated that the arranged medical visit was utilised for activities outside the scope contemplated by the court and the ICPC. This is a clear violation of the court order,” the commission said.

The ICPC added that the professional courtesies extended to the former governor had been repeatedly abused.

It said Professor Abubakar was arrested for allegedly making false statements and has been taken into custody as investigations continue.

The latest development comes days after the Kaduna High Court rejected El-Rufai’s third application for bail in his ongoing trial on a nine-count charge filed by the ICPC.

Justice Darius Khobo ruled that the medical report presented by the former governor could not support his bail request because the National Hospital, Abuja, had disowned the document.

Despite refusing bail, the court ordered the ICPC to allow El-Rufai unrestricted access to his personal doctors and permit them to take him to any specialised diagnostic or clinical facility of his choice within Nigeria while his trial continues.

Govt Frustrating My Activities, I May Not Survive Till 2027 -Peter Obi

2026-07-08T12:30:51.540+01:00

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has raised alarm over alleged government harassment, saying he may not live to contest the polls.

Obi made the remarks during an interview on With Chude, hosted by media personality Chude Jideonwo, and shared on X Wednesday.

Responding to a question about his 2027 candidacy, Obi said:“Not even a candidate. I might not even be alive. I’m telling you. Every single thing I do for a living, this government is frustrating it. Deliberately so.”

The former Anambra State governor explained that while he was not making direct accusations, he experiences daily obstruction in his personal and professional life.

He alleged that opposition figures are being targeted, citing incidents such as his car being locked at an airport and acquaintances avoiding him in public for fear of reprisal.

“They are attacking everybody who is in opposition personally. I am being attacked personally. Even to provide me with necessary things that I should have been entitled to, not at all,” he said.

Obi also claimed that some supporters have discouraged him from attending family events, fearing his presence could attract unwanted attention.

As of press time, the Federal Government has not responded to his allegations.

Dele Momodu: Nigeria’s Worst-Ever Hardship, Insecurity Under Tinubu

2026-07-08T12:24:37.126+01:00

Veteran journalist and Ovation Magazine publisher, Dele Momodu, has described the current state of Nigeria as the most difficult period in its history, citing unprecedented economic hardship and insecurity under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking in an interview with journalist Rufai Oseni on Nevon Media, Momodu said the government has failed to show remorse or take responsibility for the suffering of citizens.

“These days, even for me to open some messages on my phone, I’m scared, because everyone is begging. The suffering of the people,” he lamented.

At 66, Momodu noted that his age gives him perspective on Nigeria’s past struggles, but insisted that nothing compares to the present crisis.

He criticised the Federal Government’s handling of insecurity, calling it the worst he has witnessed, and faulted Tinubu for poor communication with Nigerians.

“Insecurity has never been this bad. And I’m not seeing any sense of remorse or atonement,” he said.

Momodu argued that effective governance requires constant engagement with citizens, pointing to U.S. President Donald Trump’s regular press briefings as an example.

“If I was the president of Nigeria, number one, information is power. You must inform the citizenry every day,” he added.

Fresh Bauchi Attacks: Gunmen Kill One, Abduct Four in Dass LGA

2026-07-08T12:22:44.460+01:00

Renewed violence has rocked Dass Local Government Area of Bauchi State, where suspected kidnappers killed one resident and abducted four others in separate attacks over the past two weeks.

Former Bauchi lawmaker and House of Representatives aspirant, Maryam Bagel, raised alarm in a Facebook post, detailing incidents in Kagadama and Bagel villages.

She revealed that a pharmacy owner was kidnapped in Kagadama, with abductors demanding ₦50 million ransom. Days later, another resident, Shahibi previously abducted a year earlier was shot dead in Bagel in front of his wife and children.

Bagel further disclosed that gunmen returned to Kagadama on Tuesday, targeting a shop owner who escaped, but abducting three others, including a 10-year-old boy.

“Four people were kidnapped in Kagadama village, and one person was killed in the presence of his own family in my village of Bagel,” she wrote.

The Bauchi State Police Command confirmed the attacks, with spokesperson SP Nafiu Habib assuring that operatives, hunters, and vigilantes have been deployed to rescue victims and track down suspects.

This latest wave of violence comes just a week after heavily armed bandits invaded Rafin Ciyawa village in Ningi LGA, killing two children, injuring six, and abducting three residents.

Bagel urged authorities to intensify security in Dass to prevent the area from becoming a safe haven for criminal gangs.

Trump says Iran ceasefire over as fighting resumes

2026-07-08T12:12:51.783+01:00

US President Donald Trump said the ceasefire with Iran was “over” on Wednesday, after fighting flared between the countries sparked by Iranian attacks on ships in the vital Strait of Hormuz.

The strategic shipping route remains a flashpoint in the conflict, which began in late February with massive US-Israeli strikes on Iran.

Tehran insists on controlling the waterway, saying it will charge fees for passage and threatening to hit vessels that deviate from its authorised route.

Its military has struck at least three ships in recent days, which prompted extensive US strikes against Iranian targets on Tuesday followed by retaliatory attacks from Iran on Gulf countries.

“As far as I’m concerned, it’s over,” Trump said at a NATO summit in Turkey on Wednesday when asked if the truce was intact, saying “It’s just a waste of time dealing with them”.

“I’ll let our wonderful negotiators keep talking if they want, but I don’t see it. I don’t like these people.”

Oil prices jumped five percent after Trump’s remarks.

Both sides reported hitting dozens of targets, placing fresh strain on an interim deal to end their war and pushing oil prices to their highest level in two weeks.

Iranian state media on Wednesday reported a wave of explosions around the strait, including six on the island of Qeshm, seven in the city of Sirik and more in the major port city of Bandar Abbas.

It later also reported a series of blasts in the port city of Bushehr, which hosts the country’s only civilian nuclear power plant and lies near Kharg island, the main oil terminal through which 90 percent of the nation’s crude exports transit.

State media said a member of the military’s Revolutionary Guards was killed in Iran’s southwest.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) said its forces had struck over 80 targets, including Iranian air defence systems, coastal radar sites and 60 IRGC small boats.

The strikes aimed “to degrade Iran’s ability to continue attacking international commerce flowing through the international trade corridor”, it said.

Tehran’s reply came quickly, with the Guards saying they hit dozens of US military facilities in Kuwait and Bahrain, where an AFP journalist heard blasts.

Early on Wednesday, Bahrain’s interior ministry and the Kuwaiti army both reported their air defence systems were triggered, but did not offer details of any possible damage.

Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused the United States of “major” breaches of their memorandum of understanding, including by reinstating oil sanctions and “violating Iranian adjustments in the strait”.

Washington revoked sanction waivers on Iranian oil sales, raising pressure on Tehran as it negotiates over a final settlement to the conflict.

The US Treasury Department cancelled a licence announced in June that had allowed Iran to produce, sell and deliver crude oil and related products through August 21.

“Iran’s actions in the Strait were wholly unacceptable to the United States and will be met with consequences,” a US official told AFP.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the US-Iran memorandum of understanding was “entirely performance-based”, warning that Tehran would see benefits only if it showed “good behaviour”.

– Hormuz attacks –

British maritime security agency UKMTO said Tuesday an “unknown projectile” hit a tanker near Hormuz, causing a fire, before two more vessels were struck, at least one by a drone.

CENTCOM identified the ships as the Marshall Islands-flagged Al Rekayyat, the Saudi Arabia-flagged Wedyan and the Liberia-flagged Cyprus Prosperity.

All three vessels were struck close to Oman, which had proposed a temporary transit corridor hugging its coastline — an initiative opposed by Iran as it seeks to impose fees on ships using the narrow waterway.

The Al-Rekayyat is Qatari, and Doha denounced the “unacceptable” attack on international maritime navigation and summoned Iran’s deputy ambassador to lodge a complaint.

Iran voiced “dismay” over Qatar’s accusations in a statement carried by state news agency IRNA, calling the claims “unacceptable”.

“We are now in a sensitive period where potential alternatives to an Iranian toll or fee system are being explored,” Andreas Krieg, a security expert at King’s College London, told AFP.

“Iran is sending a clear signal that no alternative will be accepted.”

Maritime traffic had tentatively resumed after Washington and Tehran signed the memorandum last month, but Iran has insisted there will be no return to pre-war arrangements, under which vessels could pass freely through the strait.

Under the 14-point US-Iran memorandum, Iran and Oman, which border Hormuz, must hold talks “to define the future administration and maritime services” in the waterway with other Gulf states.

Uganda Bar Association bans bowing to judges, ‘your lordship’ honorifics in decolonisation drive

2026-07-08T12:12:47.610+01:00

The Uganda Bar Association has directed its members to stop bowing to judges and discontinue the use of colonial-era honorifics in courts.

The directive, which took effect immediately, was contained in an executive order issued on Tuesday and signed by Isaac Ssemakadde, president of the bar.

The order was issued to coincide with Saba Saba Day, which commemorates resistance against authoritarianism in East Africa.

In the statement, the bar association said Uganda’s judiciary is suffering from executive interference, prolonged delays in dispensing justice, judicial corruption, selective justice, and attacks on lawyers.

It also accused the military of undermining judicial independence through unlawful arrests, court invasions, detention of civilians, obstruction of lawyers and journalists, and the trial of civilians before military tribunals.

The association argued that these problems have been sustained by what it described as an outdated colonial court culture that places judicial officers above citizens through compulsory displays of deference.

Under the directive, lawyers are prohibited from bowing or engaging in any other form of physical subservience before judicial officers.

The association also abolished the use of titles including “My Lord”, “Your Lordship”, “My Lady”, “Your Ladyship”, and “Your Worship”.

Instead, members were directed to address judicial officers as “Mr. Justice” or “Madam Justice” for appellate court judges, “Mr. Judge” or “Madam Judge” for High Court judges, and “Mr. Magistrate” or “Madam Magistrate” for magistrates.

They may also address judicial officers by their surnames where appropriate.

The bar further directed lawyers and litigants to “stand upright and speak as free citizens”, saying members should no longer observe court rituals that subject citizens to humiliation while elevating public officials.

As part of the reforms, the association announced plans to begin a nationwide consultation within 90 days to review judicial dress, language and courtroom practices.

The consultation will examine the continued use of colonial wigs, gowns and foreign-language requirements, with a view to adopting alternatives that better reflect Uganda’s history, climate and culture.

It will also review the judiciary’s client charter to ensure it is written in plain language and guarantees citizens’ rights to respect, timely service, access to information and effective redress.

Arrest of Adeyemi’s father Cannot be Justified Under the Law –Femi Falana

2026-07-08T10:43:17.625+01:00

Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has condemned the Nigeria Police Force for taking the father of Adeniyi Adeyemi, Director General of the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), to a station for questioning.

Speaking on Arise News Tuesday, Falana argued that the action violated constitutional provisions and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.

He stressed that the reported arrest of the elderly man “cannot be justified under the Constitution, under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, and under the Nigeria Police Act."

Falana clarified that police officers later informed him the man was not formally arrested but invited to assist with investigations.

According to him, the father was asked to make a statement not under caution and was released alongside another family member after the process.

“If the police officers had wanted Mr. Adeyemi’s father to assist them, they should have taken his statement in his house and not in a police station. I do hope this will not repeat itself,” Falana said.

Residents reported that several police vehicles stormed the Adeyemi residence in Abuja, taking the father away after failing to locate his son.

A neighbour confirmed that the police copied contacts from the elderly man’s phone before releasing him.

Falana maintained that the police could have obtained the necessary information without subjecting the man to the stress of being taken into custody, warning against similar practices in future investigations.

Zulum Employs 100 Graduates to Combat Thuggery in Borno

2026-07-08T10:34:58.357+01:00

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has approved the recruitment of 100 unemployed graduates from Biu Local Government Area as part of a broader initiative to tackle youth restiveness, political thuggery, and other social vices across the state.

The announcement came during his courtesy visit to the Emir of Biu, Alhaji Mustapha Mustapha II, on Tuesday, and was later confirmed in a statement by his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya.

Zulum, who was in Southern Borno to flag off the 2026 wet farming season and launch subsidised fertiliser sales for smallholder and returnee farmers, emphasized that job creation remains the most sustainable solution to curbing thuggery.

He explained that while each local government area will benefit from the employment of 50 graduates, larger councils such as Maiduguri Metropolitan, Jere, Bama, Askira/Uba, and Gwoza will each absorb 100 beneficiaries.

“We will be doing a great disservice to our youth if we allow them to continue to engage in thuggery without empowering them,” Zulum said, stressing that children of prominent politicians are rarely involved in such acts.

The governor also warned against vandalism of public infrastructure, particularly electricity facilities, and urged traditional rulers and community leaders to support government efforts in tackling drug abuse and gangsterism.

He noted that preference would be given to graduates in health-related fields, English, Mathematics, and Physics, especially those previously linked to political thuggery, to redirect their energy into productive ventures.

Zulum further disclosed that the running mate to the APC governorship candidate, Engr. Mustapha Gubio, would be unveiled next week, with 27 aspirants already expressing interest in the position.

Police Rescue One Student, Hunt Kidnappers After Attack on Nasarawa University

2026-07-08T10:28:32.569+01:00

The Nasarawa State Police Command has launched a manhunt for armed kidnappers who abducted three students of the Federal University of Lafia on Tuesday night.

Police spokesperson, SP Ramhan Nansel, confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday, revealing that the attackers struck at Living Seed Lodge, a student residence located in a bushy area on the outskirts of the university community.

According to Nansel, the command received a distress call from the university’s Chief Security Officer around 9:20 pm. Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, immediately ordered the deployment of tactical teams and patrol operatives to the scene.

The swift response led to the rescue of one of the abducted students, while efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining two victims.

“The Commissioner of Police has directed all operational and intelligence assets to sustain the operation until the victims are rescued unharmed. He assures the public that no effort will be spared in bringing the perpetrators to justice,” the statement read.

The incident has heightened security concerns in the state, with authorities urging residents to remain vigilant as operations intensify in the surrounding forest areas.

Kwankwaso Rebuts Sheriff, Insists Obi Has Strong Northern Backing

2026-07-08T10:20:45.918+01:00

Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has dismissed claims by former Borno State Governor, Ali Modu Sheriff, that Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, lacks political support in Northern Nigeria.

In a statement released on July 7, 2026, Kwankwaso countered Sheriff’s remarks from a Channels Television interview, stressing that Obi secured about 2.8 million votes in the North during the last presidential election, a figure he described as “remarkable and undeniable.”

Kwankwaso argued that growing dissatisfaction with the All Progressives Congress-led government, combined with the inclusion of a Northern figure on the “OK” presidential ticket, has strengthened Obi’s appeal in the region.

He rejected Sheriff’s assertion that Kano voters would not support Obi, insisting that the Kwankwasiyya movement has consistently influenced electoral outcomes in the state.

"The people of Kano are neither bigoted nor xenophobic. They have always trusted the Kwankwasiyya movement and will support any credible ticket it endorses,” Kwankwaso stated.

He further advised Sheriff to focus on addressing Borno’s security and humanitarian challenges rather than making divisive political comments, adding that the “OK” ticket represents an opportunity to reset Nigeria and promote competence, unity, and progress.

Senate won’t intervene in PFIPC saga without petition, says spokesperson

2026-07-08T10:14:30.681+01:00

The Senate says it will not intervene in the controversy surrounding the disowned Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) unless a formal petition is tendered before it.

Yemi Adaramodu, Senate spokesperson, relayed this to journalists after plenary on Tuesday.

The controversy centres on the existence of the PFIPC and claims by Adeniyi Adeyemi, who describes himself as the agency’s director-general, that Femi Gbajabiamila, chief of staff to the president, demanded bribes in connection with his appointment and the agency’s budget.

The presidency has maintained that the PFIPC does not exist, with the matter now before a court.

Adaramodu said the senate has not received a petition from the parties involved or from elsewhere to warrant legislative intervention.

“The allegations and counter-allegations over fake agency and fake director-general are all within the executive, which should be sorted out by it, specifically between the office of the chief of staff and the alleged fake DG,” he said.

He acknowledged that the alleged agency had a budget line in the 2026 Appropriation Act which he said originated from the executive arm of government.

Adaramodu added that the senate would not comment on the controversy because it is already the subject of litigation.

“The budget line being referred to was not created or inserted by the national assembly, and it is not the duty of the senate or the house of representatives to carry out security checks on those supposedly appointed to head the various MDAs,” he said.

The lawmaker added that the situation would have been different if Adeyemi had been a presidential nominee requiring senate confirmation.

“If the alleged fake DG were to be one of the presidential appointees screened and confirmed by the senate, the controversy might have been perceived to be somewhat linked to us,” he said.

Adaramodu, however, said the senate would consider the matter if a formal petition were submitted.

“However, if a petition is sent to the senate by any of the feuding parties or any concerned Nigerian on the existence or non-existence of the agency or DG, it would be legislatively looked into,” he added.

‘Nigeria Has Moved Beyond Your Politics’ — Umeh to Ali Modu Sheriff

2026-07-08T10:11:45.955+01:00

The Senator representing Anambra Central, Victor Umeh, has taken a swipe at the former Borno State Governor, Ali Modu Sheriff, saying that he is still operating with outdated political thinking, adding that Nigeria had moved beyond such divisive politics.

Umeh said this on Tuesday during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

The lawmaker was reacting to comments made by Sheriff during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, where the former governor said Northerners would not vote for the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Peter Obi, because he is “divisive.”

He accused Sheriff of attempting to whip up sentiment, adding that Nigeria had moved beyond such divisive politics.

Umeh maintained that Obi remains one of the finest politicians Nigeria has produced and is continuing to promote a message of peace and national renewal.

“Sheriff is still operating with outdated political thinking, adding that Nigeria had moved beyond such divisive politics.

“Anybody who gets up to say the North will not vote for Peter Obi, they are inciting their people against Peter Obi to use that and weaponise a war that ended 56 years ago, that the North should not vote for Peter Obi. Let them remain in the Stone Age.

“Nobody is in the Stone Age anymore. Nigeria is moving. And if you don’t do reconciliation and healing, you cannot move forward.

“So, what he (Ali Modu Sheriff) is trying to do is to whip up sentiment against Peter Obi ahead of the election. Peter Obi is one of the finest souls Nigeria has had.

“Somebody who is non-violent, somebody who preaches peace, somebody, even if you slap him, he will smile and he continues with his message of change. Let this country be turned around,” he said.

PSC dismisses four senior police officers, demotes 10 for ‘misconduct’

2026-07-08T10:04:58.600+01:00

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has dismissed four senior police officers and imposed disciplinary measures on 31 others.

In a statement on Tuesday, Torty Njoku Kalu, PSC spokesperson, said the four senior officers were dismissed after they were found guilty of “gross misconduct, unprofessional conduct, and acts unbecoming of public officers”.

Kalu said the decision was reached during the commission’s plenary meeting in Abuja.

The PSC spokesperson said 10 police officers received reduction in rank, two were compulsorily retired, three received warning letters, while seven were exonerated.

“In addition to the dismissals, the commission approved a range of disciplinary actions which affected multiple officers,” the PSC spokesperson said.

“Ten senior officers received reductions in rank: three Superintendents of Police were reduced to Deputy Superintendents of Police, two Deputy Superintendents of Police to Assistant Superintendents of Police, and five Assistant Superintendents of Police to Inspectors. Two officers were also compulsorily retired in the public interest.

“Other sanctions included severe reprimands issued to ten officers, reprimands to five officers, warning letters to three officers, and a letter of advice to one officer. In addition, seven officers were exonerated and cleared of wrongdoing.”

Speaking on the development, Hashimu Salihu Argungu, PSC chairman, said the commission will not tolerate indiscipline within the rank and file.

Argungu said the commission will continue to uphold discipline in the force and ensure that any form of misconduct carries the appropriate disciplinary actions.