CKN News

Osun Election: Tinubu Summons 76 Top APC Chieftains To Aso Rock

2026-08-09T08:56:50.315+01:00

President Bola Tinubu on Monday summoned no fewer than 76 leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Osun State to the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, over growing disquiet within the party ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

It was gathered that the meeting, which held late at night, followed a report by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

It was learnt that Ribadu’s report indicated that several APC leaders in the state were unhappy and had been sidelined in the party’s affairs, including the ongoing campaign.

Tinubu, according to multiple sources who attended the meeting, directed the leaders to close ranks and ensure that the party candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, emerged victorious at the poll

It was gathered that APC leaders were provided with chartered flights from Ibadan, Oyo State, while a few others, including a former Senior Special Assistant to the President on Legislative Matters, Babajide Omoworare, left from Lagos.

According to a former local government chairman who spoke with one of our correspondents on condition of anonymity, some of the APC leaders at the meeting included a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Olubunmi Ete; former speakers of the state House of Assembly, Mojeed Alabi, Adejare Bello and Wale Afolabi; and Alhaji Shuaib Oyedokun, Poju Odusola and Bode Olanipekun.

The APC chieftain disclosed that the National Secretary of the APC, Ajibola Basiru, was contacted by the Presidency to identify, coordinate and lead the party’s leaders for the meeting.

Another chieftain who attended the meeting from Boluwaduro Local Government Area of the state said Ribadu’s report compelled Tinubu to summon the leaders.

“The meeting was at the instance of an intelligence report from the NSA. I am aware that he told Tinubu that many APC leaders in Osun were not happy and had not been carried along in the party’s affairs, including the ongoing campaign. Ribadu said the development, if not urgently addressed, could jeopardise the chances of the party.

“The President then immediately called SRJ (Basiru) and told him to organise the APC leaders who have not been involved in the scheme of things in Osun. Basiru made the arrangement, including getting flights for us in Ibadan, and the President met us late Monday night at the Aso Rock. We returned to Osun on Tuesday morning,” the chieftain disclosed.

Similarly, one of the former lawmakers at the meeting described the gathering as a no-holds-barred platform where the APC leaders expressed their grievances and provided a way forward to win the forthcoming election.

He said “APC leaders who have been sidelined in the scheme of things in the state” were the ones at the meeting.

“We were around 76 in number at the meeting. It was an opportunity for the President to know the truth about what is happening in Osun State. We told him how the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has given federal appointments to only members of his IleriOluwa camp.

“We told the President the truth, that the majority of us, the APC leaders, don’t know how the party is being run. At the meeting, we reviewed the federal appointees from Osun and Mr President agreed with us that they belong to Oyetola’s camp, while other members of the party are left with nothing.”

Asked what the response of the President was, the insider said, “Mr President told us that we shouldn’t throw away the bathwater with the baby. He said the party would be at the receiving end if the APC loses the next election.”

He added that the President expressed his disappointment in some leaders because of the party’s losses in the 2022 and 2023 elections.

Quoting the President, the ex-lawmaker stated that Tinubu said, “Oyetola had all the resources to win his re-election. But he couldn’t use them. Though he lost the election, I appointed him as a minister. In the real sense, it is the party that lost. So, go and work for the victory of the party.”

This was as another APC chieftain at the meeting, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, described the gathering as productive.

He maintained that all the attendees were happy with how the President addressed their grievances.

According to him, all the attendees expressed doubts about the inclusivity of the APC government if the party eventually wins the governorship election, fearing that the “IleriOluwa camp might not carry other party members along.”

“But the President responded by saying, ‘You don’t need to worry yourself. If the appointments in Osun are exhausted, there are enough rooms to accommodate everybody from Osun at the federal [level]. So, go and unite and deliver Osun.’”

Punch

Popular ABS FM Presenter Ifeomamebe Ojiakor Dies In Awka , Buried Same Day According To Wishes

2026-08-09T08:47:07.150+01:00

MEET MR IFEOMAMEBE OKEY OJIAKO: THE MAN WHO TURNED RADIO INTO A LIFELINE.

THE MAN THAT REFUSED TO BE BURIED IN A COFFIN!

Meet Mr. Ifeomamebe Okey Ojiako, a renowned OAP with ABS Radio and a philanthropist from Adazi-Nnukwu, Anambra State, whose life was dedicated to helping others.

Through his popular ABS Radio programme, “Sharing Issues with Ifeomamebe,” he championed the cause of the helpless, the needy and those who had nowhere else to turn. Over the years, the programme touched and transformed countless lives, making Ifeomamebe a household name among many of his listeners.

Sadly, the philanthropist and broadcaster has passed on after battling an illness for more than a year.

During what turned out to be his final programme on ABS Radio on July 23, 2026, Ifeomamebe titled the broadcast “Tribute to Ifeomamebe.” Rather than take calls from listeners as he normally would, he chose to use the programme to speak about himself—his life, his struggles, what he had experienced, and what he was going through at the time.

During the broadcast, he also expressed his belief that some individuals who were unhappy with the way he used his platform to help people may have had a role in his illness. He begged them to let him live as his children are still little. He begged that he is only but 60 years old and shouldn’t be going through such an illness,He passively mentioned a name “Ada Alaeze” as one the persons that has always sent him threatening messages, in his words “there’s one called “Ada Alaeze” sending me threatening messages and warning me to stop this charity work, please if you and your cohorts have a hand in my sickness,please leave me alone, I have all the evidence, if I wish , I will send your details to the police and ask them to pick you up but I don’t do such”…

These claims were his personal allegations and have not been independently established.

Sadly, that broadcast became his final appearance on ABS Radio.

Interestingly, while he was alive and in good health, Ifeomamebe had repeatedly expressed his wishes concerning how he wanted to be buried. He reportedly insisted that he did not want to be placed in a coffin, saying he wanted to be buried immediately after his death and did not want his body deposited in a mortuary.

His family honoured those wishes after his passing.

The story of Ifeomamebe Okey Ojiako is not just the story of a broadcaster. It is the story of a man who used his voice, his platform and his influence to reach people in need.

He came, he served, he touched lives—and he left a legacy.

May his soul rest in peace.

Source : Admin, Nkwelle

EFCC Arraigns Three, Firms For Alleged N652.18m Theft In Lagos

2026-08-09T08:43:41.004+01:00

The Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, arraigned the trio

Jacob Acheneje Okolo, Yakubu Wisdom Onu Solomon and Issa Aloba Lateef for an alleged N652.18m theft before Justice Olubunmi O. Abike-Fadipe of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos.

The defendants, alongside two companies, Upper-Level Energy Resources and Crescent Integrated and General Merchandise Limited, were to be arraigned on July 8, 2026.

However, the arraignment could not proceed as scheduled due to the absence of the fourth defendant, Lateef, proprietor of Crescent Integrated and General Merchandise Limited, and his legal counsel.

Consequently, Justice Abike-Fadipe had adjourned the matter till Wednesday August 5, 2026 for the arraignment of the defendants.

At Wednesday’s proceedings, the defendants were arraigned on an eight-count charge bordering on conspiracy to steal, stealing and money laundering to the tune of N652,182,601:44 (Six Hundred and Fifty-two Million, One Hundred and Eighty-two Thousand, Six Hundred and One Naira, Forty-four Kobo).

One of the counts reads: “Jacob Acheneje Okolo and Upper-Level Energy Resources, sometime between 2022 and 2025, in Lagos, dishonestly stole and converted to your own use the sum of ₦343,765,101.44, property of Petrocam Trading Nigeria Limited, contrary to Sections 280(1)(b) and punishable under Section 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.”

Another count reads: “That you, Jacob Acheneje Okolo and Upper-Level Energy Resources, sometime between 2022 and 2025, in Lagos, dishonestly stole and converted to your own use the sum of ₦200,932,500.00, property of Petrocam Trading Nigeria Limited, contrary to Sections 280(1)(b) and punishable under Section 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.”

The defendants pleaded "not guilty” to the charges preferred against them.

Following their pleas, counsel to Okolo( first defendant), Upper-Level Energy Resources( second defendant) and Solomon ( third defendant), C.T.Ahmadu, informed the court that he had filed a motion dated July 8, 2026, praying the court to admit his clients to bail on liberal terms.

He also argued that the defendants were presumed innocent until proven guilty and urged the court to uphold their constitutional rights, particularly as the alleged offences were bailable.

He further submitted that the defendants would present witnesses in their defence at the trial.

Counsel to Lateef( fourth defendant) and Crescent Integrated and General Merchandise Limited (fifth defendant), Kola Gbadamosi, thereafter, made an oral application for the bail of his clients.

In support of his application, he cited relevant judicial authorities, including Alabi v. Federal Republic of Nigeria (2017) and V. Abang v. FRN (2024).

He also informed the court that the fourth defendant would call one witness in his defence.

Responding, the prosecution counsel, I.G. Akhanolu, opposed the bail applications for the first and third defendants, arguing that they had failed to honour the Commission's invitations and were therefore liable to jump bail.

Akhanolu further submitted that considering the huge amount of money involved in the matter, the court should impose conditions that would ensure the availability of the first and third defendants throughout the trial.

He, however, did not object to the oral bail application made on behalf of the fourth defendant. He also informed the court that the prosecution would call six witnesses to prove its case.

After listening to the submissions of the defence and prosecution, Justice Abike-Fadipe admitted the first defendant to bail in the sum of N200,000,000:00 (Two Hundred Million Naira), with two sureties resident within the jurisdiction of the court.

The court also admitted the third defendant to bail in the sum of N50,000,000:00 (Fifty Million Naira), with two sureties who must own landed property within the jurisdiction of the court.

The judge further ordered that the fourth defendant should continue to enjoy the administrative bail earlier granted him by the Commission pending the determination of a written bail application.

Justice Olubunmi- Fadipe directed the defence counsel to the fourth defendant to file a formal written application for his bail within seven days.

Justice Abike-Fadipe adjourned the matter till December 8 and 9, 2026 for the commencement of trial.

Former Big Brother Africa Housemate, Bayo Dies

2026-08-09T08:39:30.972+01:00

Reports have it that former Big Brother Africa , Bayo Adetomiwa Okoh is dead

Bayo was a housemate on the very first season of Big Brother Africa in 2003. He spent 91 days in the house and became the sixth person evicted during the inaugural season.

His passing was announced on social media today August 8 by media personal

She, however, did not give details surrounding his demise.

Osun Election: Four Police Officers To Be Deployed To Each Polling Units..IGP Disu

2026-08-09T08:34:13.443+01:00

Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has announced that at least four police officers will be deployed to each of the 3,673 polling units across Osun State for the August 15 governorship election.

Disu said the deployment will be one of the largest security operations in the state, with personnel from other security agencies also expected to support the police.

The IGP said the scale of the operation reflects the number of polling units and the tension surrounding the election.

He also assured stakeholders that the police would remain professional, impartial and neutral throughout the electoral process

Why Ayra Starr Was Denied Visa..South African Ambassador

2026-08-08T12:13:59.774+01:00

The South African Consul-General to Nigeria, Prof Bobby Moroe, has explained why Nigerian singer, Ayra Starr, was initially denied a visa to South Africa.

Recall that South Africans recently asked Black Africans from other African nations to leave their country. Shortly after, South African singer Tyla's team announced that Nigeria is one of the countries where Tyla would perform amid her tour.

Nigerians insisted that Tyla must not be granted entry into Nigeria as they recalled that Ayra Starr was denied visa into South Africa.

Reacting now, South Africa's Consul-General to Nigeria, Prof Moroe, told Punch that Ayra Starr was denied a visa because she submitted an inappropriate yellow fever certificate.

He added that the visa rejection was not a recent development as portrayed, but occurred in February 2024.

The envoy said the controversy resurfaced after reports alleged that Starr and her team were denied entry visas to South Africa, prompting the South African mission to meet with her team and clarify the requirements that needed to be fulfilled.

According to him, the rejection was based on failure to meet visa requirements and was not related to the singer’s personality or status as a Nigerian seeking entry into the country.

He said, “I do not see the relevance of that rejection to the development of today, except for using that rejection to sow division.

“One of the challenges was that they did not submit an appropriate yellow fever certificate. They submitted the yellow fever certificate of another country when they were supposed to submit the yellow fever certificate of their home country.

“Subsequently, the matter was resolved amicably and they were granted a one-year visa to go and perform in South Africa in 2024, and I think that was what they forgot to mention.”

He added: "If you meet the requirement for a visa, whether you are a star or not, tall, short, black or white, if you qualify, you will get it. But if you don’t, regardless of who you are, the immigration section will uphold the immigration law of the country,” he said."

Ahead Of Osun Election: IGP Disu Meets CSOs Over Security

2026-08-08T07:52:52.699+01:00

Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu has met with representatives of civil society organisations to discuss security concerns ahead of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026.

The CSOs, led by Auwal Musa Rafsanjani of CISLAC, raised concerns about voter protection, political violence, misinformation and the participation of vulnerable groups.

Disu assured the delegation that the concerns would be considered and necessary action taken. He also reaffirmed the police commitment to professionalism, impartiality and neutrality during the election.

The IGP said adequate personnel would be deployed to polling units, with special attention to persons with disabilities. He urged stakeholders to support a peaceful and credible election and maintain cooperation with CSOs through the sharing of credible information.

Why FCT Is Excluded From State Police.. Sen Yemi Adaramodu

2026-08-08T07:42:24.976+01:00

The Senate has explained that the Federal Capital Territory was excluded from the proposed state police arrangement because it does not have a governor or a State House of Assembly.

According to the Senate, the FCT remains directly under the administration of the Federal Government.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, Yemi Adaramodu, gave the explanation on Friday while speaking amid questions over why the FCT was not included in the constitutional framework for the establishment of state police.

Adaramodu said the administrative structure of the FCT was fundamentally different from that of the 36 states, noting that the territory is headed by a minister who operates under the Federal Executive Council.

Unknown Person Paid Unsolicited Huge Sum Of Money Into My Account..Atiku Abubakar

2026-08-07T14:24:53.209+01:00

MYSTERIOUS CREDIT: ATIKU RAISES ALARM OVER SUSPECTED LEAK OF PRIVATE BANK DETAILS

Former Vice President of Nigeria and Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has raised an alarm over a suspicious credit into one of his private bank accounts domiciled with one of Nigeria's leading commercial banks.

The transfer originated from a person totally unknown to His Excellency with the narration "Contribution Electioneering Campaign." Neither His Excellency nor his campaign solicited, authorised or has any knowledge of the individual or entity behind the unauthorized payment.

Understandably, the circumstances surrounding the transfer are deeply troubling to His Excellency. The account is a strictly private one whose details are not in the public domain. This raises a fundamental question: How did unknown persons obtain the confidential banking details of a private citizen?

If the private banking information of a former Vice President and a leading presidential candidate can be accessed and deployed for reasons yet unknown then no Nigerian's financial privacy is safe. Even more disturbing is the suspicion that such confidential information may have been obtained through persons with privileged access. If established, this would amount to a grave abuse of power capable of exposing the account holder to kidnappers, terrorists, bandits, fraudsters and other criminal elements.

We therefore put the Nigerian public - and the security agencies - on notice about this latest incident in a litany of suspicious activities leading up to next year’s general elections.

As political activities gather momentum, Nigerians should not be distracted by these tired tactics that smack of character assassination. Such desperate antics have failed before and will fail again. The Waziri Adamawa remains focused on offering Nigerians credible leadership and practical solutions to the nation's challenges.

Signed:

Phrank Shaibu

Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication to Atiku Abubakar, Vice President of Nigeria (1999–2007) and Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

7th August, 2026

Nigeria, Canada Sign Aviation Agreement For Direct Flights

2026-08-07T07:00:04.799+01:00

Nigeria and the government of Canada have signed an expanded air transport agreement that will, for the first time, allow direct scheduled flights between both countries.

The agreement was signed on Thursday in Abuja by Mohammed Ahmed Tijjani, director of air transport management at the ministry of aviation and aerospace development, and Shendra Melia, Canada’s chief air negotiator for global affairs.

Tijjani represented Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation and aerospace development, at the signing ceremony.

According to a statement by Tunde Moshood, special adviser on media and communications to the minister, the agreement followed a technical review of the existing bilateral air services framework by officials from both countries.

Key highlights of the expanded air transport agreement include allowing Nigeria and Canada to designate multiple airlines to operate scheduled services between the two countries.

“A capacity allowance of 14 weekly passenger flights and 10 weekly all-cargo flights for the designated airlines of each country,” the statement reads

Fake Agency : ICPC Clears Femi Gbajabiamila

2026-08-07T06:55:44.302+01:00

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has cleared Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, of allegations linking him to the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) scandal, concluding that the appointment letter presented by Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi did not originate from the State House.

According to the Presidency, forensic investigations established that the purported appointment letter bearing Gbajabiamila's name and signature was forged and that the PFIPC was never created or recognised by the Federal Government. The probe also found no evidence that the Chief of Staff issued the letter or authorised Adeyemi to operate the fictitious agency.

The investigation followed President Bola Tinubu's directive to the ICPC to probe the fake agency and all related allegations. Authorities have maintained that Adeyemi falsely presented himself as the Director-General of the non-existent agency using forged government documents.

The matter remains before the courts, while the Presidency says it remains committed to ensuring that everyone found culpable faces the full weight of the law.

Arise News Anchor Adefemi Akinsanya Joins CNN

2026-08-07T06:45:15.670+01:00

CNN International has appointed Nigerian journalist Adefemi Akinsanya to host a new multiplatform series, Africa Inc., which will document how African companies are scaling globally.

The network announced the appointment on 5 August 2026. Short segments of the series begin airing the same day. The full half-hour programme will premiere on 29 August 2026 and run through 2027, with additional episodes planned. Bi-monthly segments and digital content will also run across CNN.com and social media.

Akinsanya, who joins from Arise News, will anchor the series from Lagos. The show is sponsored by Dangote Industries Limited.

She described the role as timely. “I’m thrilled to be joining CNN to launch Africa Inc. at such an exciting time for Africa’s international story. Across the continent, we’re seeing innovation, resilience, and ambition transforming industries and creating opportunities with global impact. I’m looking forward to bringing these stories to CNN’s audience,” Akinsanya said.

Akinsanya has previously worked for Al Jazeera, Reuters, Sky News and TRT World. She reported from the frontlines of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, covered Nigeria’s #EndSARS protests and the 2024 U.S. presidential election, and was a 2023 Nieman Fellow at Harvard University.

CNN International Group Senior Vice President and Global Head of Productions Ellana Lee said the network welcomed the addition. “We are delighted to welcome Adefemi to CNN. As Africa continues to play an increasingly influential role in the global economy, Adefemi’s impactful storytelling will ensure that Africa Inc. provides insightful coverage across CNN’s TV, digital, and social platforms,” Lee stated.

The series will focus on technology, manufacturing, hospitality and entertainment. Production teams are already filming across multiple African cities. The first short segment aired on 5 August, with the half-hour debut scheduled for 29 August.

Nigeria’s First Indigenous Female Neurosurgeon Appointed Medical Director In USA

2026-08-07T06:43:11.853+01:00

Nigeria’s first indigenous female neurosurgeon, Dr Salamat Ahuoiza Aliu-Ibrahim, has been appointed Medical Director of a children’s hospital in the United States.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) disclosed this in a statement signed by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, its Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit, on Thursday, saying its Chairman/CEO, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, congratulated Aliu-Ibrahim on the appointment.

Dr. Salamat Ahuoiza Aliu-Ibrahim is Nigeria’s first indigenously trained female neurosurgeon and the first female certified neurosurgeon in West Africa. Born in 1980 in Ilorin, Kwara State, she hails from the Ebira ethnic group in the Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State. She has made headlines globally for her medical achievements and her recent high-profile career transition to the United States.

She received most of her formal and medical education at the University of Ilorin. She later completed a specialized pediatric neurosurgery fellowship at Harvard Medical School.

She served as a Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital and previously worked at the National Hospital in Abuja.

She comes from an extraordinary family of medical trailblazers; all four of her sisters are also medical doctors specializing in plastic surgery, obstetrics, family medicine, and public health.U.S.

To pursue further professional growth, she relocated to the United States, where she navigated the competitive U.S. medical residency process. She pivoted her clinical focus and retrained to become a pediatrician.

On July 21, 2026, she was officially appointed as the Medical Director of the Freeman Children's Clinic, a facility under the Freeman Health System in Joplin, Missouri.

ICPC Uncovers Two More Fake Agencies

2026-08-06T18:59:43.268+01:00

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has uncovered two additional fake government agencies linked to Adeniyi Matthew Adeyemi, the self-proclaimed Director-General of the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, as investigations into the alleged fraud deepen.

ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, disclosed this on Thursday, while briefing State House correspondents after presenting the commission’s interim investigation report to President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Aliyu said investigators established that Adeyemi was never appointed by the Federal Government and that the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council had no legal backing, having neither been created by an Act of the National Assembly nor by an executive order.

According to the interim findings, the appointment letter used by Adeyemi was forged, while the fake PFIPC unlawfully took over the offices and official instruments previously used by the defunct Presidential Economic Advisory Council.

The ICPC chairman said the syndicate operated from the former PEAC office and engaged in impersonation, false representation and other illegal activities by exploiting gaps in verification procedures and coordination among government agencies.

He revealed that investigators also discovered two other fictitious government agencies, the FCT Investment Promotion Agency and the Foreign Investment Promotion Agency.

“These agencies were created using forged legislative instruments and were used to open bank accounts for illegal activities,” he said.

Aliyu further disclosed that Adeyemi later altered the name of the fake organisation from the Foreign Investment Promotion Council to the Foreign Intervention Promotion Council in an attempt to broaden its scope to include revenue generation.

He said, “The investigation found no funds were approved or disbursed for the fake PFIPC/PEAC, and there were no weaknesses in the State House or CBN system.”

The commission recommended the prosecution of Adeyemi, disciplinary action against public officials alleged to have aided the operation of the fake agency, and reforms to strengthen internal controls across government institutions.

According to the report, officials from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, the Budget Office of the Federation and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) were identified as collaborators in the scheme.

Aliyu stressed that investigations were still ongoing.

“The report is interim and the investigation continues to uncover more details to file criminal charges against Adeyemi and his collaborators,” he said.

He added that President Tinubu had been briefed on the findings and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability in resolving the matter.

The ICPC launched an investigation after questions were raised over the existence and activities of the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, an organisation that allegedly presented itself as a federal agency despite lacking any legal foundation.

Earlier investigations established that the council was never created by law, while its alleged director-general, Adeniyi Matthew Adeyemi, was found to have used forged appointment documents and unlawfully occupied facilities belonging to the former Presidential Economic Advisory Council.

Shettima Begins First Official Vacation In Three Years

2026-08-06T18:51:31.935+01:00

Vice President Kashim Shettima has commenced a two-week vacation following approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking his first official leave since the administration assumed office on May 29, 2023.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Vice President's media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, the leave will be devoted to personal study, reflection, and intellectual renewal aimed at strengthening Shettima's capacity for continued service to the nation.

The statement noted that the period will also provide the Vice President with an opportunity to review the Federal Government's ongoing programmes, deepen his understanding of emerging national and global policy issues, and prepare for the responsibilities ahead as the Tinubu administration intensifies the implementation of its Renewed Hope Agenda.

Shettima's vacation is the first official leave he has taken since he was sworn in as Nigeria's Vice President over three years ago.

Former Minister of Finance Kemi Adeosun Loses Husband

2026-08-06T14:28:03.506+01:00

The former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun has lost her husband Mr Anthony Adeosun.

The Announcement:

‘Announcement of the passing of Mr Anthony Adeniyi (Niyi) Adeosun,’

“It is with profound sorrow, yet in total submission to the will of Almighty God, that the Adeosun family announces the passing of our beloved husband, father, and brother, Mr Anthony Adeniyi (Niyi) Adeosun, who was called home to glory on Wednesday, 5th August 2026, in Lagos.

“He was 62 years old. Niyi was a distinguished businessman and a devoted Christian whose integrity, generosity, and steadfast faith touched the lives of all who knew him.

He lived a life defined by hard work, service to God, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community.

We thank all who have reached out with prayers, condolences, and support. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace in the bosom of the Lord."

- Rev. C. A. Adeosun on behalf of the family.

Osun Freezed Account: I Feel Embarrassed By Your Action..Tinubu Tells EFCC

2026-08-06T14:23:58.163+01:00

STATEHOUSE STATEMENT

*PRESIDENT TINUBU DIRECTS EFCC TO VACATE THE COURT ORDER FREEZING OSUN GOVERNMENT ACCOUNT*

It has come to my notice that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) obtained a court order on August 5, 2026, freezing the accounts of the Osun State Government. I must state that I feel deeply embarrassed not by the EFCC's exercise of its mandate backed by a court order, but by the timing of the agency's action. This is so because every action taken by an institution of State, especially at the Federal level, is always credited to me, as the President, even when I may not have had any prior knowledge of the action.

Since assuming office, I have consistently maintained that anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies must be allowed to discharge their statutory responsibilities independently, professionally, without fear or favour, or political interference. I have therefore deliberately refrained from directing or interfering in the operational activities of the EFCC or any other investigative or prosecutorial agency because I firmly believe that strong democratic institutions, operating within the confines of the law, are indispensable to democratic good governance and the rule of law.

As President, I am committed to allowing institutions of State to function and take any action they consider necessary in the interest of proper governance without the need for any prior approval. Indeed, that is why institutions are set up by law with clearly defined powers. While I am yet to be fully apprised of the facts which informed the action of EFCC in approaching the court to obtain the said order freezing the Osun State Government account, I am not in the slightest doubt that the timing of the action of EFCC is inauspicious, and therefore I feel compelled to intervene.

Osun State is only a few days away from its gubernatorial election. Therefore, nothing ought to be done to give an impression that the EFCC or indeed any other agency of the federal government is being used to interfere with the election.

Based on the foregoing premise, I am duty-bound to issue a directive on this issue in consonance with the overriding public interest in preserving public confidence and the integrity, credibility, and fairness of our democratic process.

Accordingly, I have directed the EFCC to immediately proceed to the court to vacate the order and discontinue whatever action it has instituted against the Osun State Government in this regard.

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

*PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU(GCFR)*

ASO ROCK VILLA,

ABUJA

6th AUGUST, 2026

Nigerian Army Arrests Two Soldiers Over Role At Peller, Jarvis Wedding

2026-08-05T15:34:28.837+01:00

The Nigerian Army has detained two soldiers for allegedly providing unauthorised security at the wedding ceremony of social media personalities Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, and Jarvis, held in Lekki over the weekend.

The soldiers, identified as Privates Onasanya Ifeoluwa and Ukpai Onyinyechi, are attached to the Nigerian Army Medical Services and Hospital in Obalende, Lagos. Their arrest was confirmed by the spokesperson for the 81 Division, Lt.-Col. Musa Yahaya, who disclosed that both personnel were taken into custody on Tuesday.

The soldiers were reportedly arrested over an alleged unauthorised deployment after videos from the wedding circulated widely on social media, showing them dressed in military uniform while performing security duties and escorting guests.

One of the viral clips allegedly captured a soldier escorting TikTok personality Ivanna through the crowded venue, triggering widespread reactions online.

The incident sparked public criticism, with many Nigerians questioning whether serving military personnel were authorised to provide security at a private celebrity event

EFCC Freezes Osun State Govt Account Ten Days To Election

2026-08-05T15:08:13.934+01:00

Osun State Governor Adeleke had a few hours ago alleged that the EFCC was planning to freeze the state’s accounts and those of top government officials.

He described the reported move as an attempt to cripple government activities ahead of the August 15 governorship election and maintained that there was no legal basis for freezing the accounts of the state government, arguing that the EFCC lacked the statutory powers to take such action.

Governor Adeleke is now considering holding a press conference to address the state over the issue.

Cancer Battle:Popular Nollywood Actress, Tope Osoba Dies At 40

2026-08-05T12:19:10.704+01:00

Nollywood actress, Temitope Kofoworola Osoba (popularly known as Tope Osoba), has passed away.

Her sudden death has thrown the Nigerian film industry into deep mourning.

The actress had been open about her health journey prior to her passing.

In late 2024, she publicly shared her diagnosis with breast cancer after discovering a lump during self-examination.

She later underwent an initial surgery in November 2024 and successfully raised funds with the help of colleagues like Foluke Daramola for subsequent medical procedures.

In August 2025, she announced a joyful return to acting, thanking fans and declaring she had beaten the illness and was ready to reshape her career.

The actress, who hailed from Abeokuta, Ogun State, will be 41 years in December, 2026.

Following news of her passing, fans and colleagues across social media platforms have been sharing tributes, expressing profound shock at her demise after her initial recovery.

Two Term Senator, Francis Alimikhena To Be Installed As New Okumagbe of Uwanno Kingdom

2026-08-05T07:21:01.250+01:00

Francis Alimikhena has been appointed as the new Okumagbe of Uwanno Kingdom in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State

He was a two term Senator and at a time , the Senate Committee Chairman on Customs & Excise

According to a press statement issued by the Chairman of the Media event planning committee and Chairman of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria High Chief Tony Akiotu, the new traditional ruler will be presented with his staff of office on 22nd August 2026 by Edo State Governor

Billionaire Indimi Seeks To Join Appeal Against $43.5m Judgement Awarded To Daughters

2026-08-05T07:02:39.260+01:00

Nigerian oil billionaire and founder of Oriental Energy Resources, Muhammadu Indimi, has applied to join the appeal against a court judgement ordering the company to pay $43.51 million to his twin daughters over a dispute involving dividend entitlements.

The application follows the latest twist in a legal battle, which has attracted commentary from different quarters as it relates to shareholder rights and succession issues in privately owned family businesses across Africa.

His twin daughters in the suit are Zara and Ameena Indimi.

Indimi’s application follows an earlier appeal filed by Oriental Energy after the Federal High Court, in February, ruled in favour of Ameena and Zara Indimi, who claimed they were denied dividends after their shareholdings in the company were significantly reduced.

Indimi is seeking to participate in the appeal in his personal capacity despite the company’s existing appeal against the judgement.

The case has grown beyond a family dispute, emerging as a significant legal contest over ownership rights within one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous oil companies and attracting wider interest over governance practices in privately owned firms.

Court documents show the disagreement centres on the ownership stakes of Ameena and Zara Indimi in Oriental Energy Resources.

The sisters argued that each originally owned about 5% of the company before their interests were reduced to roughly 0.63%, significantly lowering the dividends they received after Oriental Energy declared a $435.1 million dividend in 2016.

In February, the Federal High Court agreed with the sisters, ruling that they remained entitled to dividends based on their earlier shareholdings and ordering Oriental Energy to pay them $43.51 million.

Oriental Energy has appealed the judgement, maintaining that the reduction in the sisters’ shareholdings was lawful, the transfers were voluntary, and previous financial settlements had already resolved the matter.

The Court of Appeal is expected to first decide whether Indimi should be joined as a party in the case before proceeding to hear the substantive appeal.

Indimi established Oriental Energy Resources in the early 1990s and is widely recognised as one of Nigeria’s pioneer indigenous oil entrepreneurs.

The company has developed into one of the country’s largest privately owned upstream oil producers, with interests in offshore assets, including the Ebok, Okwok and OML 115 fields.

Over the years, Oriental Energy has played a key role in expanding indigenous participation in Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector following reforms aimed at increasing local ownership of oil assets.

Lawyer Sentenced To Life Imprisonment For Killing South African Girlfriend

2026-08-05T06:53:06.658+01:00

South African lawyer who mourned his girlfriend on social media sentenced to life imprisonment for killing her and burning her body inside car

A South African attorney has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of his girlfriend and burning her in her car in Johannesburg.

The South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg sentenced Thubelihle Sbonakaliso Mpisi on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

Mpisi was convicted of the m8rder of Mahlako Malebo Rabalao, as well as malicious injury to property and defeating the administration of justice.

Mpisi has been in custody since his arrest on July 28, 2023, after abandoning his bail application.

Mahlako Malebo Rabalao’s charred remains were found in her Mercedes-Benz on March 9, 2023, near her home in Midrand.

NPA spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole said that during the trial, Senior State Advocate Michelle Bayat argued that although medical experts were unable to determine the exact cause of d3ath because of the extensive burning of the body, the evidence established beyond reasonable doubt that Rabalao had died before the fire was started.

The court accepted the State’s case, which relied on circumstantial evidence, including cellphone records, forensic evidence, expert testimony and Mpisi’s conduct before and after the incident.

Prosecutors successfully argued that Mpisi murdered Rabalao before setting her body and vehicle alight in an attempt to destroy evidence and conceal the crime.

Evidence before the court also revealed that the pair had been involved in an intimate relationship.

Rabalao had reportedly told relatives and friends that she intended ending the relationship and moving out of the home she shared with Mpisi before she was k!lled.

Rabalao, an IT specialist, was about to turn 27 when she was k!lled.

She was killed while planning to move out of an apartment she shared with Mpisi.

Mpisi, who was 30 at the time, was arrested in KwaZulu-Natal after four months of investigation.

Before his arrest, Mpisi went on social media to express his shock and pain at the d8ath of the mother of his three-year-old son.

Tinubu Approves Up To 80% Salary Increase For 250,000 Military Personnel

2026-08-05T06:49:04.491+01:00

President Bola Tinubu has approved salary increases ranging from 30 to 80 per cent for personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The new pay package, which takes effect from September 1, 2026, is expected to benefit about 250,000 military personnel.

A statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the adjustment was structured according to rank, with junior personnel receiving the highest percentage increase.

Under the new arrangement, officers above the rank of Colonel, including Brigadier-Generals, Major-Generals, Lieutenant-Generals, and Generals, will receive a 30 per cent salary increase.

Personnel from the rank of Colonel down to Warrant Officer will get a 50 per cent increase, while those from Private to Staff Sergeant will receive an 80 per cent increment.

The statement said the new salary structure would raise the annual wage bill of the Armed Forces from N660 billion to N924 billion.

According to Onanuga, the salary adjustment reflects President Tinubu’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by military personnel in confronting banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism across parts of the country.

“The men and women who help to keep us safe in our homes must be supported and appreciated in the course of their duties to our nation,” the President said.

Rotimi Amaechi Responsible For Removing Jonathan From Office Now Wants South South Votes ..Wike

2026-08-05T06:46:30.129+01:00

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described former Minister of Transportation and vice presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chibuike Amaechi, as a political liability with no electoral value in Rivers State or the wider South-South region.

Wike questioned the basis for the emergence of Amaechi as a vice presidential candidate, suggesting it could only be financial rather than a reflection of voting strength.

“I am sure the only factor that has been used to choose Rotimi Amaechi may be financial because the former governor lacks the capacity to deliver votes,” he said.

Citing Amaechi’s electoral record, Wike argued that he had failed to deliver significant votes in Rivers across successive election cycles despite holding high-profile positions.

“He has never won a presidential election after 2011 when I was the Director of Campaign. Never! He was the Director-General of Buhari in 2015 when he was governor; why did he not get 25%?

“He was the DG in 2019 when he was a Super Minister; why did he not get 25%? He supported Atiku in 2023; how come he didn’t get 15%?” he queried.

He further pointed to Amaechi’s opposition to former President Goodluck Jonathan’s 2015 re-election bid as reasons the South-South region would reject his national ambitions.

“A South-South person wanted to go for a second term. You were proud you kicked him out. Now, will South-South be happy for you to be Vice President? You think that people have forgotten?” Wike asked.