The State Returning Officer, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti, Prof Joshua Ogunwole, declared the result of the poll at about 7:24 am on Sunday.

Adeleke polled a total of 511067 votes to emerge victorious in the contest.

Ogunwole subsequently returned the governor to office for another term.

The incumbent Osun governor, who contested the poll on the platform of the Accord, defeated his closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress, who won in 11 LG areas of the state.

While Adeleke won in Ede North, Ede South, Ejigbo, Iwo, Egbedore, Ife North, Ife East, Ife Central, Oriade, Ifelodun, Orolu, Ayedaade, Ayedire, Odo Otin, Boluwaduro, Ilesa West, Ifedayo, Osogbo and Ayedire local government areas.

Oyebamiji, however, won in Irewole, Isokan, Olorunda, Atakumosa East, Atakumosa West, Ilesa East, Boripe, Irepodun and Obokun local government areas.

Declaring the results, Ogunwole said, “Accredited voters, 1010684, total votes received by political parties, A, 511067, AA, 2308, AAC, 1458, ADC, 17180, ADP, 2946, APC, 444815, APGA, 1475, APM, 234, APP, 114, BP, 111, NNPP, 118, PRP, 83, SDP, 155, YPP, 534, ZLP, 2482, total valid votes, 985079, rejected votes, 207, total vote cast, 1,005,800.”

After agents of the political parties have signed the results of the election, the Returning Officer declared Adeleke of the Accord as the winner of the poll.

“That Ademola Nurudeen-Jackson Adeleke having satisfied the requirements of the law is hereby declare the winner of the August 15 Governorship election and returned elected,” Ogunwole said.

The candidate of the African Democratic Congress in the poll, Najeem Salaam, came third in the poll.

The post INEC Declares Adeleke Winner Of Osun Governorship Poll appeared first on Information Nigeria.

ICC’s Chairman, Media & Publicity, Bamidele Salam, said the move was being pushed by APC governors and leaders to frustrate the “imminent victory” of Sen. Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party.

In a statement, Salam said: “Our Party wishes to inform Nigerians of a sinister plan by INEC to declare the ongoing Governorship election inconclusive… to hijack our candidate’s victory and subvert the will of the gallant Osun electorate._”

He urged the lNEC Chairman to honour his pledge for a free, fair and credible poll, and reminded INEC, APC and security agencies of President Tinubu’s directive that the election should not be compromised.

Salam also called on the IGP, DSS DG, and NSCDC Commandant-General* to provide security at all collation centres to stop “hoodlums hired by the APC.”

He cited reports of ballot box snatching in some polling units and demanded arrests.

He further called on local and international observers* to speak out “on the side of the law and people of Osun State.”

The post Adeleke Camp Raises Alarm Over Alleged Plan To Declare Osun Poll Inconclusive appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The collation centre in Ataoja D inside Union Baptist Primary School covers many polling units of Ward 4 in the state capital and was invaded around 9:45pm.

The gunmen were shooting sporadically into the air to scare officials away and possibly disrupt the exercise.

The shooting was intense for about five minutes before the situation was brought under control.

Details later…..

The post Gunmen Invade Ward 4 Collation Centre In Osogbo, Disrupt Exercise appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Oyebamiji spoke after casting his vote at Ward 9, Polling Unit 011, Ikire, in Irewole Local Government Area of the state.

He commended the large turnout of voters in Ikire, saying it demonstrated that the people were not intimidated.

He said: “INEC officials are here, the voters are here, security operatives are here. I want to commend the large turnout of voters in Ikire. It shows that people are not intimidated, and generally, things are going on fine across the state.”

On concerns about possible violence in Ikire, Oyebamiji urged the police and other security agencies to remain proactive in protecting voters and ensuring a peaceful exercise.

“I want to admonish the police and other security operatives to be proactive to ensure security for our people and all the voters, and I believe the election would be credible,” he said.

Commenting on the reported arrest of a politician, the APC candidate said he expected the police to carry out their duties professionally.

“I want to be sure that the police would do their job. I am confident that I’d win this election at the end of the day,” he said.

The post “I’m Confident Of Winning Osun Governorship Election” — Oyebamiji appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The lawmaker, who represents Irewole/Isokan State Constituency in the Osun State House of Assembly, was arrested on Friday night during a police operation. More than 200 Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) were reportedly recovered during the operation.

In a video clip, Ibrahim was seen making a preliminary statement in which he identified himself and allegedly confessed to facilitating the movement of the 146 suspects into Osun State from neighbouring states for the purpose of voting in the election.

The arrest is part of intensified security operations by the police ahead of the election, as the command moves to prevent activities capable of undermining the credibility of the electoral process.

According to the police, preliminary investigations indicated that the suspects were brought into Osun State from Ondo State to participate in unlawful electoral activities.

The suspects reportedly told investigators that they were recruited by a yet-to-be-identified politician, who allegedly facilitated the procurement of voters’ cards for them and instructed them to vote in exchange for financial rewards.

The command spokesperson Abiodun Ojelabi while confirming the incident, said investigations had commenced to identify and apprehend other accomplices still at large and to unravel the full extent of the alleged network involved in the recruitment of electoral mercenaries, voter inducement and other related offences.

The post Police Nab Osun Accord Party Lawmaker With Over 200 PVCs, 143 Mercenaries From Neighbouring States Hiding In Father’s House appeared first on Information Nigeria.

In a post on his verified X account early on Saturday, Davido wrote, “I’ve been reliably informed that soldiers are trying to prevent me from entering Osun tomorrow, this won’t happen, every citizen of Nigeria has the right to movement at any point of time.”

The statement comes hours after the Nigeria Police Force announced a restriction of movement across Osun State from 12:00 midnight on Friday, August 14, until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026.

The measure forms part of security arrangements for the poll, which include the deployment of thousands of police personnel and other security agents.

Davido, a nephew of incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke, has been actively involved in his uncle’s re-election campaign under the Accord Party.

The governor is seeking a second term against candidates, including Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress and others in the off-cycle election.

The post Governorship Election: “Soldiers Trying To Block Me From Entering Osun” — Davido appeared first on Information Nigeria.

According to the singer, many low-income men are self-employed and run small businesses that give them control over their income, time and daily decisions.

Brymo pointed to occupations such as vulcanizing, carpentry and butchery, noting that many men in these trades own their shops and work for themselves.

“When I tell you that poor people have the longest marriage and stuff. It is because, have you noticed that all the poor men are vulcanizers, butcher, carpenter, who has his own shop,” he said.

He explained that some of these men also travel to farms and markets to source goods, process them and sell them, while employing apprentices to assist with their businesses.

“In fact, he has his own apprentice. That’s why the poor men can keep their wives. A woman does not want somebody to be taking care of her husband,” Brymo added.

The singer argued that the amount of money a man makes may not be the biggest factor in determining the stability of his marriage. Instead, he believes that having control over one’s work and decisions can make a significant difference.

“A man’s marriage will last longer if he’s making stipend and he’s the boss. Go and check anywhere,” he said.

Brymo further stressed that such marriages do not necessarily last because the woman has accepted a life of poverty. In his view, the key factor is the man’s independence and ability to remain in control of his livelihood.

“So that poor man’s marriage does not last longer because the woman is also poor is a no. The man is a boss. No matter how small money he has, he’s the one in control of his life. He controls his own time. That’s all,” he concluded.

https://t.co/rFQSgaic2X

The post “Poor Men Often Have Long-Lasting Marriages” — Singer Brymo appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Fadahunsi made the call while addressing supporters in Ilesha, urging them to ensure that voters cast their ballots for their preferred candidates.

In a video online, he was heard saying, “Monitor the ballot, don’t let someone else tell you, monitor it. Whosoever does not vote rightly is not a true son of this land,” the senator said.

His comment comes days after he sparked controversy over remarks interpreted as a call for violence against members of the Accord Party in Ilesha.

Fadahunsi had warned that there would be trouble if Accord Party members were seen in the area and was quoted as saying his supporters would “kill” them.

He later clarified that the statement was metaphorical, saying he meant that his supporters should defeat Accord at the polls through lawful and democratic means.

In a statement issued by his media office in Osogbo, titled “Kill Osun Accord with Votes, Not Violence, Senator Fadahunsi Tells APC,” the senator said his comment was “purely political and metaphorical.”

He said the statement was a call for supporters to overwhelmingly reject the Accord Party through their votes and not through physical attacks.

The post Osun Senator Who Made Death Threat To Accord Party Members, Orders Supporters In His Polling Unit To Watch Out For Voters Who Don’t Vote APC appeared first on Information Nigeria.

He cautioned security agencies against giving room to troublemakers to cause chaos during the election.

The people of Osun State will go to the polls on Saturday, August 15, 2026, to elect their governor in an election where 15 candidates are contesting.

Among them are the incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of Accord Party, the All Progressives Congress candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, and the African Democratic Congress flagbearer, Najeem Salaam.

Tinubu charged the electorate in Osun State to come out to discharge their civic responsibility and eschew any act that could disrupt the peaceful conduct of the election, while assuring the people of their safety before and after the polls.

In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the President said: “As the people of Osun State head to the polling units to elect who will govern them in the next four years, I call on the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure orderly conduct of the election. The election must be transparent, free and fair. I urge INEC to ensure the integrity of the process.

“INEC must use this last off-cycle election as a test case to demonstrate to Nigerians their full preparedness for the 2027 polls.

“I have charged the Inspector-General of Police and other heads of security outfits taking part in the election to provide maximum security at polling units. No room should be allowed for troublemakers to disrupt the process.

“Electoral officials and voters must be protected so they can perform their civic duties without fear or intimidation.

“Voters should feel confident to go out in their numbers to vote for the candidate of their choice as all measures necessary to ensure a peaceful, free and fair election have been put in place.

“Our elections must be credible, and the outcome of the Osun Governorship election must reflect the will of the people.”

The post “Osun Election Must Be Free, Fair” – Tinubu Charges INEC, Security Agencies appeared first on Information Nigeria.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication to Atiku Abubakar, Phrank Shaibu.

According to the statement, the action, instituted by Atiku and the ADC against Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress APC and the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, invokes, among other provisions, Sections 137(1)(j), 139(1)(a)(i) and 285(14)(c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), as well as provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026.

The statement explained that at the heart of the action is Section 137(1)(j) of the Constitution, which provides that a person shall not be qualified for election to the office of President if he has presented a forged certificate to INEC, noting that the suit specifically asks the court to determine whether Tinubu and the APC should be disqualified from the 2027 presidential election over the plaintiffs’ allegation that Tinubu presented a forged NYSC certificate to INEC in connection with the 2023 and 2027 presidential elections.

Speaking after personally taking the oath, Atiku said his presence at the court registry was deliberate.

“I came here personally because the issues before the court go to the heart of our Constitution and the integrity of the office of President. I cannot ask Nigerians to respect the Constitution while treating a matter of this magnitude casually. I have therefore put my name, my signature and my oath behind the facts we are presenting to the court. Now it is President Tinubu’s turn to answer them,” Shabby quoted him as saying.

In his affidavit, Atiku alleged that Tinubu submitted to INEC an NYSC discharge certificate bearing the name “Tinubu Bola Adekunle”, which, according to the plaintiffs, is different from the President’s name, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The affidavit further alleges that the same NYSC certificate was submitted in connection with the 2027 presidential election and contends that the document is not a certificate obtained by Tinubu.

The statement disclosed that Atiku has also placed INEC on notice to produce Tinubu’s Form CF001 submitted in connection with the 2023 and 2027 presidential elections, stating that he had applied for certified true copies of the relevant form before filing the suit but had received no response at the time the processes were prepared.

“This is precisely why we have gone to court. We are not asking Nigerians to decide this matter on social media, and we are not asking INEC to become a court. We are asking the institution holding the records to produce them and the judiciary to examine the evidence and pronounce on it.

“If the certificate belongs to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, let that be established before the court. If ‘Tinubu Bola Adekunle’ and ‘Bola Ahmed Tinubu’ are one and the same person for the purpose of that certificate, let the evidence establish it. These are questions that deserve answers, not political insults or presidential silence,” he added.

Beyond the certificate matter, the statement noted that Atiku and the ADC are also challenging provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026, which, according to their written address, effectively restrict who may challenge the qualification of a candidate at pre-election stage and the removal of qualification as a ground for questioning an election as envisaged by Section 139(a)(i) of the Constitution, which empowers the National Assembly to make laws allowing the questioning of whether a person elected into the office of President is qualified.

Their argument, the statement said, is that legislation cannot be used to shut the door against enforcement of an express constitutional provision, contending that where an Act of the National Assembly conflicts with the Constitution, the Constitution must prevail.

“This case therefore raises a fundamental question for our democracy. Can an Act of the National Assembly be used as a shield against an express provision of the Constitution? Can we write into ordinary legislation an escape route from a constitutional standard applicable to everyone seeking the Presidency? Our position is that the Constitution remains supreme,” Atiku said.

The statement explained that the originating summons asks the Federal High Court to determine whether the statutory restrictions complained of can prevent the plaintiffs from invoking Section 137(1)(j), and ultimately whether Tinubu and the APC should be disqualified from participating in the 2027 presidential election if the plaintiffs’ case is established, noting that among the substantive reliefs sought is an order disqualifying Tinubu and the APC from participating in the election on the grounds pleaded by the plaintiffs.

Atiku further said, “Nobody should misunderstand what is at stake. Nigerian graduates cannot complete NYSC documentation with one identity and simply ask employers to ignore discrepancies. Young Nigerians seeking ordinary jobs are subjected to rigorous scrutiny of their certificates. The standard cannot suddenly disappear because the applicant is seeking the highest office in the land. The Presidency is not an immunity certificate against constitutional scrutiny.”

He said the judicial action also places a responsibility on INEC to demonstrate its neutrality by making the relevant records available to the court, adding that his affidavit expressly states that INEC, as a neutral public institution, is duty-bound to uphold the Constitution regardless of whose political interest may be affected.

“INEC is holding the documents. The court has the jurisdiction to examine the issues. President Tinubu has the opportunity to defend himself. That is the constitutional process, and nobody should be afraid of it. The 2027 election must begin with clarity about the qualification of those seeking the Presidency. Nigerians should not be asked to vote first and investigate later,” he said.

Atiku stressed that his personal appearance to depose to the affidavit underscored his willingness to submit himself to the same constitutional standards he demands of others.

“I have sworn to my case before the law. I am prepared to be held accountable for what I have placed before the court. President Tinubu should equally be prepared to answer the case against him before the law.

This is not about privilege, personalities or presidential power. It is about one Constitution and one standard for every Nigerian. Nobody is above the Constitution — not Atiku Abubakar, not Bola Tinubu, and certainly not the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Counsel to the plaintiffs, Edwin Inegedu, SAN, and Joseph Onu Silas, Esq., expressed confidence in the case. Speaking for the legal team, Silas Onu said they had carefully reviewed the law and placed their arguments before the court, adding that they were prepared to confront the defendants’ case once served.

The post 2027: Atiku Asks Court To Disqualify Tinubu Over Names, Certificate Controversy appeared first on Information Nigeria.

You land after a long flight, check your phone, and there’s no signal. Then your first stop isn’t the hotel, it’s a SIM kiosk. That small hassle has shaped how millions of people start every trip. Now travelers want to land already connected, and eSIMs make that possible.

Why Are Airport SIM Cards a Hassle for Travelers?

Nobody puts this part of travel in their vacation photos. You land tired, you want signal, and instead you’re negotiating with a kiosk attendant over a SIM that might not even work with your phone. Some countries ask for local proof of address. Others only take cash in their currency, so now you’re hunting for a currency exchange counter at 1am, half-asleep.

A typical airport SIM experience looks like this:

• You wait in long queues at arrival, especially on busy flights
• You deal with ID and registration rules that change by country
• You struggle with payment if you don’t have local currency on hand
• You get uncertain network quality once you leave the airport
• You run out of data faster than expected and need another top-up

Even after all that, the signal stays inconsistent. You paid for “unlimited data,” but by day three, you’re back at another kiosk trying to top up in a language you don’t speak.

For years, travelers accepted this as the cost of traveling. That’s changing now.

Why Are Travelers Switching to eSIM in Nigeria?

Travelers have started skipping SIM kiosks altogether. They land, open their phones, and connect right away.

That’s the eSIM in Nigeria story right now. More Nigerian travelers, especially frequent flyers, remote workers, and business travelers, have started skipping physical SIMs completely. They don’t carry plastic cards. They don’t pop open a SIM slot. They don’t hunt for a kiosk at 1am.

Here’s how the switch actually works:

1. You buy your eSIM plan before you fly, sometimes days in advance
2. You scan a QR code and the eSIM installs itself in minutes
3. Your data goes live the moment you land, with no waiting and no queue
4. You carry multiple eSIM profiles for different countries on one phone
5. You top up or switch plans directly from an app, wherever you are

This isn’t about being “techy.” It’s about not wasting your first hours in a new country on a problem that shouldn’t exist anymore. Nigerian travelers like this shift because it removes the currency and language barrier completely. You pay in Naira, from home, before you even pack your bag.

Does a Travel eSIM Actually Save You Money?

Most travelers ask this question first, and it’s a fair one. Roaming charges from your home network almost always cost the most, and some networks charge per megabyte without telling you until the bill arrives. Airport SIMs sit in the middle. They cost less than roaming, but you still pay extra for the convenience of buying one right there on arrival.

Travel eSIMs cost less overall because they cut out physical distribution, kiosk staff, and middleman markups. You buy the plan directly from the provider through an app, so you get a more transparent, and often lower, price.

The bigger saving isn’t always the Naira amount. You save time you’d otherwise lose in a queue, and you skip the stress that comes with it on day one of your trip.

What Makes TradeCard eSIM Different?

TradeCard eSIM solves the exact problems you just read about.

You pay in Naira directly from the TradeCard app instead of scrambling for foreign currency at a kiosk. You avoid forex stress, exchange rate guesswork, and card decline issues abroad.

For Nigerian travelers, the best travel eSIM in Nigeria needs to check a few boxes:

• Naira payment — you pay with no forex conversion fees and no surprise charges
• 180+ country coverage — one eSIM covers most of your travel itinerary
• Instant QR activation — you activate instantly, with no approval wait or physical delivery
• Data-only plans — you get a plan built for staying connected, not for calls or SMS
• Upfront pricing — you know your cost before you fly, not after a roaming bill arrives

Compare this to the airport SIM experience. One means queues, forms, and guesswork. The other means you scan a QR code from your phone before you even board your flight. If you travel more than once or twice a year, that difference saves you real time, money, and stress.

Is Your Phone Ready for a Travel eSIM?

Before you switch, check whether your device supports eSIM technology. Most phones released in the last few years, including recent iPhones, Samsung Galaxy models, and Google Pixel devices, come with eSIM capability built in. Check your phone’s settings under “Mobile Network” or “Cellular” before you travel, not at the airport.

A few things worth knowing before your first switch:

• Some phones support multiple eSIM profiles at once, so you’re not restricted to one destination
• Your regular Nigerian SIM stays active alongside the eSIM, so you don’t lose your local number

This check takes five minutes, and once you confirm it, the rest of the switch is straightforward.

How Do You Start Using Your TradeCard eSIM?

Getting started takes less time than the average airport SIM queue. You fund your TradeCard wallet through gift card trading, and you use that wallet balance to buy your travel eSIM directly.

1. Download the TradeCard app and create your account
2. Select your travel destination or the eSIM plan that covers your trip
3. Pay in Naira directly from the app
4. Scan the QR code provided to install your eSIM
5. Activate it before you fly, so you land already connected

A few quick tips before your next trip:

• Set up your eSIM a day or two before departure, not at the airport
• Keep your old physical SIM active for calls if you still need a local number
• Check your data plan against your trip length so you don’t top up mid-journey

That’s it. No queue, no paperwork, no midnight currency hunt.

Final Thoughts

Airport SIM kiosks were never a problem travelers wanted to solve mid-trip. They were just the cost of getting connected. With eSIMs, that cost disappears before you even board your flight. TradeCard eSIM lets you skip the queue, pay in Naira, and land already connected in over 180 countries.

Set up your TradeCard eSIM before your next trip, and spend your first hours abroad on the destination, not the signal.

The post Why Are More Travelers Choosing Travel eSIMs Instead of Airport SIM Cards? appeared first on Information Nigeria.

His organization, the Charlotte-based SIM International, confirmed on Friday that Rideout is in good health and will soon be reunited with his family.

“We are grateful to confirm that our good friend and brother in Christ, Kevin Rideout, has been released after over nine months in captivity,” SIM International Director Phil Bauman told CNN in a statement.

“Kevin is in good health in the care of US officials,” the statement said, adding Rideout will soon be reunited with his family.

Rideout was abducted on October 21, 2025, from outside his home in the capital city of Niamey by three unidentified men who fled toward the western Tillaberi region—an area known for active Islamist militant groups.

Following the incident, the U.S. Embassy in Niger heightened its security protocols and warned of elevated kidnapping threats across the country.

According to reports, Rideout is currently in FBI custody, though specific details regarding his release, his exact timeline, and the identity of his captors remain undisclosed.

Niger continues to grapple with intense violence and instability driven by militant groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and Islamic State forces operating along its borders.

The post U.S. Missionary Kidnapped In Niger Released After Nine Months In Captivity appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The election is scheduled to hold on Saturday, August 15, 2026, with 15 candidates contesting the governorship seat.

Among the candidates are the incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, the All Progressives Congress candidate, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, and the African Democratic Congress candidate, Najeem Salaam.

In a statement on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu urged INEC to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and provide a transparent and orderly election.

“As the people of Osun State head to the polling units to elect who will govern them in the next four years, I call on the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure orderly conduct of the election. The election must be transparent, free and fair. I urge INEC to ensure the integrity of the process,” Tinubu said.

He urged INEC to use the election as an opportunity to demonstrate its preparedness for the 2027 general elections.

“INEC must use this last off-cycle election as a test case to demonstrate to Nigerians their full preparedness for the 2027 polls,” he added.

The President also directed the Inspector-General of Police and other heads of security agencies deployed for the election to ensure adequate protection for voters and electoral officials.

“I have charged the Inspector-General of Police and other heads of security outfits taking part in the election to provide maximum security at polling units. No room should be allowed for troublemakers to disrupt the process,” he said.

Tinubu further stressed the need to protect voters and electoral officials from intimidation, urging residents to participate in the election without fear.

“Electoral officials and voters must be protected so they can perform their civic duties without fear or intimidation,” he said.

The President urged voters to come out and exercise their constitutional right while refraining from actions capable of disrupting the election.

“Voters should feel confident to go out in their numbers to vote for the candidate of their choice as all measures necessary to ensure a peaceful, free and fair election have been put in place,” he said.

Tinubu said the credibility of the election would depend on whether its outcome accurately reflected the choice of Osun voters.

“Our elections must be credible, and the outcome of the Osun Governorship election must reflect the will of the people,” the President declared

The post “Osun Governorship Election On Saturday Must Be Free, Fair” – Tinubu Charges INEC appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Melaye stated this during an appearance on the KAA Truths podcast on Thursday, where he discussed the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The former lawmaker described Obi as a “regional champion”, arguing that a politician perceived primarily through a regional political identity would struggle to secure the presidency in Nigeria.

Melaye contrasted Obi with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, whom he described as a nationalist.

“Atiku is a nationalist. Obi is a regional champion. It may sound awkward. It may sound offensive but Obi is a good man and he’s my friend. I have respect for him but he’s a regional champion and no regional champion in this country will ever be president,” he said.

He acknowledged that his assessment could be viewed as controversial but maintained that it reflected his understanding of Nigeria’s political dynamics.

Obi emerged as the presidential candidate of the Labour Party for the 2023 general election after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he had previously served as a presidential running mate.

His 2023 campaign, which was largely driven by the “Obidient” movement, attracted significant support among young Nigerians and voters in several parts of the country.

Obi finished third in the 2023 presidential election, securing 6,101,533 votes, according to results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) won the election with 8,794,726 votes, while Atiku Abubakar of the PDP came second with 6,984,520 votes.
Ahead of the 2027 election, Obi has moved from the Labour Party to the NDC, joining the opposition coalition seeking to challenge the ruling APC.

The development has reshaped the opposition landscape, with several prominent political figures aligning with different platforms as parties prepare for the next presidential election.

The post 2027: “Peter Obi Can’t Be Nigeria’s President” — Dino Melaye appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The SEC, in a circular to all Capital Market Regulated Entities (CMREs) on Friday said the designations were made in line with the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act (TPPA) 2022.

The six individuals are Babangida Muhammed Adamu Hammajam, Abdullahi Umar Usman, Ibrahim Abubakar, Adamu Chiroma, Muktar Muhammad Adamu and Yakubu Ogirima Ibrahim.
The three designated entities are Nine to Nine BDC Ltd, Generation Currency BDC Ltd and Abbal Bako & Sons Bureau de Change.

According to the SEC, Hammajama was listed on June 18, 2026, for involvement in terrorism financing and support for the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), while Usman was designated for providing material support to a designated terrorist organisation through repeated financial transactions.

The commission said Abubakar was listed for involvement in terrorism financing and membership of ISWAP, while Chiroma was designated for allegedly using Bureau De Change (BDC) operations and related corporate entities to facilitate the movement of funds linked to terrorist activities.

Muktar Muhammad Adamu was listed on June 15, 2026, for providing financial support and facilitating transactions linked to the financing network of the ISWAP Okene cell, while Ibrahim was designated for providing material and financial support to the ISWAP Kogi cell.

The SEC said the three entities were listed for their alleged involvement in facilitating and channelling funds connected to the ISWAP Okene financing network.

The commission directed CMREs to immediately identify and freeze, without prior notice, all funds, assets and other economic resources in their possession belonging to the designated persons and entities.

They are also required to report frozen assets and other compliance actions, including attempted transactions, to the Secretariat of the Nigeria Sanctions Committee.

In addition, the SEC directed regulated entities to immediately file suspicious transaction reports with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) for further analysis of the financial activities.

It further instructed operators to report all cases of name matches in financial transactions as suspicious, whether occurring before or after receipt of the sanctions list.

The regulated entities are also required to prohibit dealings with the designated persons and entities and continue monitoring for transactions involving them.

The SEC said any findings should be reported to the Nigeria Sanctions Committee through its designated reporting channel.

The circular takes immediate effect, with the commission warning that failure to comply would constitute a violation of the Investments and Securities Act, 2025, and the SEC Anti-Money Laundering/Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Rules and Regulations.

It said violations could attract regulatory sanctions, including fines, suspension of operations or revocation of registration.

The SEC further reminded capital market operators that all unusual or suspicious transactions must be promptly reported to the NFIU.

The post SEC Blacklists Six Individuals, Three Entities For Financing Terrorism appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The 16-track project features Nigerian Afrobeats stars, Wizkid on “Gimme Dat” and Rema on “Who’s Dat Girl”.

Other confirmed guest appearances include Kwn on “Amazing”, Theodora on “Ms. Paper” and Leon Thomas on “Pressure”.

The album also includes previously released songs such as “Tornado”, “Hot Body” and “Where Do We Go”, alongside “Letter To God” and “Misunderstood”.

This release marks another phase in Ayra Starr’s musical career as she continues to expand her sound and international profile.

The album follows her debut studio album, “19 & Dangerous”, released in 2021, and her sophomore project, “The Year I Turned 21”, which was released in 2024.

The singer has continued to build her profile internationally following the success of songs including “Rush” and “Commas”.

The post Ayra Starr Releases Third Studio Album, ‘Starr Girl appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Makinde announced this at the elective national convention of the APM held at the Rilwanu Adamu Square, Government House, Bauchi.

Lawal replaces Ibrahim Bala, who was earlier announced as Makinde’s running mate, but was intended to be a placeholder.

The former DSS DG joined the APM a few days ago after resigning from the African Democratic Congress after losing the Katsina ADC governorship ticket.

Speaking on Daura’s choice, Makinde disclosed that he was deliberately chosen to solve the security situation of the country.
At the convention, Yusuf Dantalle was re-elected as the national chairman of the APM.

Speaking at the convention, Makinde declared that the task before the opposition ahead of the 2027 general election was bigger than merely winning power.

He said the central challenge was to give Nigerians a genuine choice about the future of the country and demonstrate, with measurable plans and records, how an alternative government would improve their lives.

“As we approach 2027, therefore, I believe the task before all of us is bigger than winning an election. It is to give Nigerians a real choice about the future of their country,” Makinde said.

Congratulating the new national officers elected at the convention, Makinde said the APM had, within a short period, emerged as an opposition party to reckon with.

He urged the new leadership of the party to work with other opposition political parties towards presenting a credible alternative to Nigerians in 2027, stressing that a viable opposition remained indispensable to the survival of democracy.

“As I said during the Ibadan Declaration in April this year, the presence of credible opposition is what sustains democracy.

“So, our new leaders must be ready to work with other opposition parties to ensure that we give Nigerians a credible alternative in the 2027 general election,” he said.

Makinde said the coming campaign season would inevitably feature political slogans, promises and declarations by candidates but argued that Nigerians should demand more from those seeking to lead them.

According to him, the 2027 election should be about measurable outcomes rather than government announcements, policies and promises that do not translate into improvements in the lives of citizens.

“The 2027 election must be an election about outcomes. For too long, we have measured governance by announcements. We are presented with policy after policy, rather than evidence of whether those policies have made people’s lives better,” he said.

Using the experiences of ordinary Nigerians to illustrate his point, Makinde said economic policies should ultimately be measured by citizens’ purchasing power rather than official statistics.

“When our mothers go to the market, they don’t experience economic policy as a statistic. They experience it in what their money can buy. How much rice, beans and gari they can take home,” he said.

He added that young Nigerians would judge employment policies by their ability to secure productive work and build independent lives, just as farmers would assess agricultural policies by their productivity, access to markets and whether farming had improved their economic condition.

On security, Makinde said the effectiveness of government should not be determined by the number of security meetings held by officials but by whether Nigerians could live and pursue their livelihoods without fear.

“Families do not judge security by the number of meetings government has held. They judge it by whether they can travel, farm, work and sleep with their two eyes closed,” he said.

The APM candidate said the defining question of the 2027 election should therefore shift from what government claimed to have done to what had actually changed in the lives of Nigerians.

“The question before Nigeria in 2027 should not simply be: What has government done? It should be: What has changed for Nigerians?” he said.

He added that opposition candidates must equally subject themselves to scrutiny by explaining what they would do differently and the measurable improvements Nigerians should expect if they were elected.

Makinde said his administration had applied the same principle in Oyo State by focusing not merely on projects announced by government but on their impact on the people.

He identified poverty reduction, job creation, education, healthcare and security as some of the major issues that should dominate the 2027 political conversation.

“We must talk about an economy that moves over 140 million Nigerians currently living in poverty towards prosperity.

“We must talk about creating productive jobs and opportunities for our young people in a country where over 60 per cent of the population is young.

“We must talk about education that prepares our children for the economy they will inherit. Healthcare that people can access. And security that protects Nigerians wherever they live,” he said.

The post 2027: Makinde Picks Ex-DSS DG Daura As Running Mate, Rallies Opposition appeared first on Information Nigeria.

This was disclosed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, while addressing journalists in Osogbo, Osun State, on Friday on the police preparations for the governorship poll.

Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Alliance and the African Democratic Congress candidate Najeem Salaam lead the race for the state’s top job.

Iniedu, who said the police commenced the deployment of its personnel three weeks before the poll, said a Deputy Inspector-General of Police would coordinate security activities during the poll.

According to him, over 15,000 police operatives would be on duty during the poll, noting that a police helicopter and drone unit had arrived in the state to conduct area surveillance.

He further said two units of the Mobile Police Force, each comprising over 60 personnel, had been deployed to the state headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Osogbo, the state capital.

Similarly, he said each Local Government Area in the state would have a unit of the Police Mobile Force.

“We have deployed armed mobile policemen to every local government area in the state. So, we have 30 units across 30 local government areas. A unit is about 60 policemen.

“We also have two units of armed mobile policemen attached to the Independent National Electoral Commission headquarters in Osogbo here. The men who stay at the local government areas are being coordinated by a Commissioner of Police. There is a Commissioner of Police in each Local Government Area.

“We also have a Deputy Commissioner of Police in each Local Government Area, as well as a Mobile Police Commander and a PMF commander with the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police in each Local Government Area.

“As of today (Thursday), our helicopters and drone units have arrived in Osogbo, and they will be conducting area surveillance from now, during and immediately after the elections.”

The Force PRO also said the Army would cordon off all the border roads leading into Osun State from 12am on Saturday.

“We will be locking down the state. We will not be allowing any vehicular movement apart from those on essential duty, security duties and those going to cast their franchise,” he said.

He advised parents to warn their children against electoral offences, including intimidation, stalking, vote-buying and ballot-box snatching.

He said a mobile court would be in place to try anyone arrested for involvement in electoral offences.

Asked about the details of the weapons the police had recovered from hoodlums in the state, Iniedu said, “We don’t have specific details about the guns we have mopped up, but I know that in Osun State, so far, we have mopped up about 34 illegal firearms, and investigations are ongoing.”

Several police operatives deployed for Saturday’s governorship poll were observed at the State Police Headquarters, moving to their various areas of operation.

The post Police Lock Down Osun, Deploy DIG, 30 CPs Ahead Of Governorship Election appeared first on Information Nigeria.

According to Livespot360, Wizkid will take the stage on Dec.18, marking the beginning of the 13-day festival of music, culture, food, fashion and entertainment in Lagos, which will run until Dec. 30.

The organisers said a second performance stage would be introduced this year as part of an expanded programme for the annual music fiesta.

“Wizkid will headline the main Festival Stage, while the newly introduced Pulse Stage will provide a platform for emerging artists, new sounds and breakthrough talents shaping the future of African music”.

The year’s edition follows the official launch of Detty December in 2025 Fest, which attracted more than 40,000 festivalgoers.

It featured a mix of international and African music stars, including Busta Rhymes, Gunna, Shenseea, Tiwa Savage, Diamond Platnumz, Phyno, Wande Coal, Fave, Young John, Qing Madi, Ice Prince, Jux and Wizkid.

According to the organisers, the 2026 edition will feature a wider mix of music, culture and entertainment experiences.

The News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN) reports that Detty December is Nigeria’s premier cultural fiesta and holiday season show.

It turns Lagos into the global capital of Afrobeats, nightlife, and massive street celebrations throughout December.

(NAN)

The post Wizkid To Headline Opening Night Of 2026 Detty December Festival appeared first on Information Nigeria.

According to a reports, the Nigerian international made the squad number switch following the departure of Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada, who recently finalized a transfer to River Plate.

Lookman previously wore the No. 22 jersey during his initial six-month stint with the Spanish giants after making his January move from Serie A outfit Atalanta.

The shirt number is familiar territory for the 28-year-old attacker, who notably sported the No. 11 shirt during part of his standout tenure in Italy with Atalanta.

Lookman’s number change comes on the heels of a highly productive maiden half-season in Spain.

The explosive forward quickly established himself in Diego Simeone’s squad, contributing nine goals and four assists in 24 appearances across all competitions for the former LaLiga champions.

With the new season approaching, Atlético Madrid supporters will be eager to see if the jersey upgrade coincides with an even bigger campaign for the Nigerian international as he cements his role in the club’s attack.

The post Lookman Takes Over No. 11 Shirt At Atlético Madrid appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The suit, marked HOS/M.157/26, was filed on August 12, 2026, at the Osogbo Judicial Division, three days before the August 15 election.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwole Jimi-Bada, SAN, filed the application seeking an Order of Mandamus against the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioner of Police, Osun State Command.

Fadahunsi, who represents Osun East Senatorial District, was listed as the person affected or interested party.

The government said its action followed a video circulating on social media in which Fadahunsi was allegedly captured addressing a political gathering in front of the Owa Obokun’s Palace in Ilesha on August 11.

According to the court documents, the senator allegedly made statements interpreted as calls for violence against members of the Accord Party.

The government said a transcript and translation of the speech showed Fadahunsi allegedly directing supporters to attack Accord members wherever they encountered them and making threats against their families.

The court filings also alleged that the senator instructed his supporters to chase Accord members out of hotels where they were found and made derogatory comments about the party’s yellow caps.

The government further alleged that Fadahunsi threatened that the election would not hold if Accord members resisted the actions of APC supporters.

The Attorney-General is asking the court to compel the police to investigate the video and determine whether the alleged statements constitute criminal offences under applicable laws.

The government is also seeking an order directing the police to preserve, authenticate and conduct a forensic examination of the complete video to establish whether it has been altered or edited.

Other reliefs sought include compelling the police to take preventive measures to protect Accord candidates, members and voters from intimidation or harassment before, during and after the election.

The government also wants the police to ensure that registered voters and Accord supporters are not prevented from accessing hotels or other locations during the electoral period.

It further asked the court to order the respondents to submit a report on compliance with the court’s directives within 48 hours of the orders being granted.

In the supporting affidavit, Nurudeen Kareem, Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Legal Matters, said Accord members had expressed “reasonable and legitimate concerns regarding their safety and security before, during, and after the forthcoming election.”

The government argued that the police have a statutory responsibility under the Police Act 2020 and the 1999 Constitution to prevent crime and maintain public order.

It maintained that waiting until violence occurs before investigating an alleged public threat would undermine the preventive role of law enforcement.

“The Applicant believes that waiting until actual violence, deaths, or injuries occur before investigating an alleged public instruction to kill political opponents would amount to a dereliction of duty,” the government said.

The Attorney-General also clarified that the suit was not asking the court to determine Fadahunsi’s criminal guilt, stressing that such a determination would require a proper criminal trial.

Rather, the government said it was seeking to compel the police to carry out their statutory responsibilities and take appropriate preventive action.

With the election scheduled for Saturday, the government said “time is of the absolute essence”, warning that failure to act on the alleged threats could expose residents to “irreparable harm, loss of life, and widespread civil unrest.”

The post Osun Govt Sues Fadahunsi Over ‘Kill Accord’ Members Threat appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Among those who attended the celebration were Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele, singer Waje, Mercy Aigbe, Bukky Wright, Jide Awobona, Foluke Daramola and Eniola Badmus.

Also present was Shade Okoya, wife of businessman Razaq Okoya, who arrived at the venue with her son, Sir Raheem.

The celebration featured music and performances, with Segun Johnson entertaining guests before Fuji musician K1 De Ultimate took over the stage with a performance for the couple and their guests.

Lateef and Mo Bimpe also made multiple fashion appearances during the event. Their first outfit was a traditional ensemble featuring intricate designs of birds perched on a tree, before they changed into a white and brown traditional outfit decorated with beads.

Earlier in the day, Akindele visited the couple ahead of the thanksgiving and offered prayers as they celebrated the arrival of their children.

The ceremony came after months of public interest in the couple’s journey to parenthood, with Lateef previously speaking about the comments and assumptions they faced before welcoming their triplets.

In a post shared ahead of the celebration, the actor recalled the difficult moments, writing, “The mockery. The lies. The stigma. The assumptions. The things said behind our backs and sometimes right to our faces.”

He added, “There was a time when the whispers were louder than our prayers. There were moments we could have fought back. Moments we could have explained ourselves. Moments we could have tried to prove people wrong. But we chose silence. Because we knew something they didn’t… Allah was writing our story.”

The thanksgiving marked a celebration of the couple’s triplets and a moment of gratitude following their journey to parenthood.

The post Funke Akindele, K1, Others Grace Lateef Adedimeji, Mo Bimpe’s Triplets’ Thanksgiving appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Infantino is fighting to save his job after a barrage of criticism for his aborted plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.

The governing bodies of European football (UEFA), North and Central America (CONCACAF) and Asia (AFC) stepped up the pressure on Infantino in a joint letter this week, declaring “trust is broken through deception, when an individual places himself above the collective that entrusted him with authority”.

It is believed they want Infantino to resign before he has the chance to seek re-election in March next year.

But Motsepe, a FIFA vice-president and CAF president, is adamant Infantino’s fate should be decided through the ballot box.

“If anybody has got any problem against anybody, whether it’s Gianni, whether it is anybody else, follow the process, follow the FIFA process, simple as that,” Motsepe told Sky News on Thursday.

“If you want to take him out, go for elections; let the 211 member associations decide. Do that and the vote will express whether they’ve got confidence in him or not.

“You’ve got to be very careful. There are elections taking place next year. Shouldn’t we allow that process to continue?”

Motsepe was in Salzburg at the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday to hold talks with UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, whose organisation are threatening to boycott the World Cup and Club World Cup in protest at Infantino’s scheme.

“I’ve heard so many stories about various issues and am careful to pass judgement on anything,” Motsepe said.

“Everybody has a right to be heard. Let’s have a hearing, and a proper forum.”

CAF had already backed Infantino and Motsepe claimed there was no breach of rules over the World Cup sell-off talks, because the proposals would be submitted to FIFA members for final approval.

“There’s a lot that’s problematic and negative that they have to fix,” Motsepe said.

“But he has apologised and said maybe there’s a different way these things should have been done, but we also take advice.”

However, there has been no end to the tidal wave of criticism engulfing Infantino.

And on Thursday the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) become the latest FIFA member to withdraw its support for Infantino.

The English FA and Welsh FA had already withdrawn their backing for the 56-year-old Swiss.

“Following an FAI Board Meeting, the decision was taken to rescind the letter of support that the Association supplied earlier this year,” the organisation said.

“It has since written to FIFA to explain its reasoning. The Association is grateful for the support that FIFA provides to Irish football, but recent events have raised significant concerns regarding governance, transparency and the lack of meaningful consultation.”

AFP

The post “Infantino’s Future Should Be Decided By Election” – CAF President appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Following shocking quarter-final exits at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), one of the continent’s last two champions will see their 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification hopes officially vanish.

South Africa’s Banyana Banyana fell 2–1 to host nation Morocco in the last eight, while Nigeria’s Super Falcons suffered a narrow 1–0 defeat to Cameroon.

With the winners of those quarter-final ties securing automatic spots for the World Cup in Brazil, the two heavyweight losers are now forced to fight through the play-off route.

The Long Road to Brazil 2027

A victory on Thursday keeps a faint World Cup dream alive, but the path ahead remains steep. The winner will advance to a six-team preliminary round in the Inter-Confederation play-offs. From there, two teams will progress to a final play-off phase alongside four nations that receive direct byes.

Ultimately, three teams from the final six-nation tournament will lock in their tickets to Brazil via single-elimination knockout matches.

In practical terms, Thursday’s clash in Morocco is just the first of three distinct hurdles—including a mini-tournament and two must-win knockout fixtures; standing between either nation and a spot at the global showpiece.

While both camps are devastated to miss out on direct qualification, the door to Brazil is not completely shut just yet.

Match Details

Date: Thursday, August 13

Time: 9:00 p.m. WAT

Venue: Stade Moulay Rachid, Casablanca, Morocco

How to Watch: Live on AfroSport (Nigeria), SABC (South Africa), and SuperSport across the region.

The post Super Falcons Face Bayana Bayana In World Cup Playoff Today; Time, Where To Watch appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Speaking in a broadcast on Nigeria Info FM, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat declared the state administration will take decisive, ongoing action to clear the major transit corridor of unauthorized individuals targeting high-end cars and compromising public safety.

Hamzat condemned the activity, emphasizing that the government would not tolerate extortion or harassment on state roads and confirming that law enforcement agencies have already begun removing offenders from the axis.

“That is criminal, and therefore, we will not allow it. So, we will take a lot of them off the street,” Hamzat stated. “A lot of people have been arrested, really. A lot of cameras are also on that road and people have been seen… some people are in the Magistrate Court today.”

The deputy governor further revealed that security agencies have leveraged the state’s network of surveillance cameras along the Lekki Epe route to track down suspects, noting that multiple arrests were executed over the weekend as legal proceedings get underway.

The post ‘It’s Criminal’ – Lagos Deputy Gov. Vows Remove Car Spotters From Streets appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Inside The Frame Expo 2026, Nigeria’s first immersive creative production and gear expo, will hold from Wednesday, August 19 to Friday, August 21, 2026 at the Ecobank Pan-African Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. Timed to coincide with World Photography Day 2026 and its global theme, HOME, the three-day event will gather photographers, videographers, cinematographers, mobile content creators, designers, and creative entrepreneurs for an experience built around one idea: the creative industry deserves a formal home for the conversations that have always shaped it.

For years, Nigeria’s creatives have traded knowledge about pricing, contracts, clients, and gear in group chats, in DMs, and in parking lots after shoots. Inside The Frame Expo is the first dedicated, physical space built for those conversations, structured across three thematic days: Foundations, Commerce, and Legacy.

The programme spans keynotes, panels, workshops, and fireside conversations, headlined by an Opening Keynote on Day 1 from celebrated photographer Kelechi Amadi-Obi. Confirmed speakers include Yagazie Eguare, Dr. Babatunde Irukera, Aisha Augie-Kuta, Elizabeth Osho, Kola Oshalusi, Emmanuel Oyeleke, Tobi Bakre, TaymiB, Dr Yetunde Ogunnubi, Tobbie B, Seun Runsewe, Tiwalola “TJ Dotts” Olanubi, Yinka Obebe, Oluseyi Magic, James Omokwe, and more, covering everything from cinematic storytelling and copyright to payments infrastructure and Nigeria’s creator economy.

On the exhibition floor, vendor spaces and dedicated experience zones, anchored by the Ecobank Main Stage and the Ulanzi Creator Lab, will let attendees get hands on with the latest tools of the craft. In a special tribute to World Photography Day, the expo will also host a curated photo exhibition, with works by some of Nigeria’s most accomplished photographers on showcase throughout all three days.

“This expo was not created to fill a silence. The conversations have always been happening, just informally. What we are doing is giving them a home, a room where a photographer can meet the brand, the banker, and the mentor in the same afternoon. You come for the gear. You stay for the knowledge. You leave as a business,” said Oluwashola Ajisegbede, popularly known as Sniper, Founder ofSniper Ajix Solutions and Convener of Inside The Frame Expo.

Inside The Frame Expo 2026 is powered by Ecobank Nigeria as title sponsor, with support from Ulanzi, Hollyland, and Consolidated Hallmarks Insurance.

Inside The Frame Expo 2026 opens August 19 to 21 at the Ecobank Pan-African Centre, bringing over 1,000 creatives, over 30 speakers, and a full exhibition floor of creative gear and services under one roof. Admission is free.

Inside The Frame Expo is Nigeria’s first immersive creative production and gear expo. Structured across three thematic days, Foundations, Commerce, and Legacy, the expo connects creatives with the gear, the knowledge, and the corporate fluency to build sustainable creative businesses. The 2026 edition holds August 19 to 21 at the Ecobank Pan-African Centre, Lagos, timed to World Photography Day under the global theme HOME.

AboutSniper Ajix Solutions,This is a Lagos-based creative production studio founded by Oluwashola Ajisegbede (Sniper). The studio produces Inside The Frame Expo under SAPSAC, in co-production with EPAC Studios, the media arm of Ecobank.

The post Sniper Ajix Debuts Immersive Creative Production and Gear Expo in Lagos This August appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Kiddwaya made the claim in a recent social media post, arguing that Nigeria’s independence in 1960 may have come too early.

Nigeria gained independence from Britain in 1960 and became a republic in 1963 after severing its remaining constitutional ties with the British Crown.

He said, “Unpopular opinion. The British should have stayed in Nigeria for 10/15 more years. You go see better development.”

His position generated mixed reactions online. Some Nigerians agreed that a longer transition period might have provided more time to strengthen the country’s institutions and prepare its leaders for self-government.

Others rejected the argument, saying continued colonial rule would likely have prolonged the exploitation of Nigeria’s resources rather than prioritising the country’s development.

Check out post below:

The post “Nigeria Would’ve Further Developed If It Was Colonised Longer” – Kiddwaya appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Peller made the revelation in a TikTok post, where he wrote: “300million plus gone for wedding.”

His disclosure drew comments from followers who questioned whether the massive spending was eventually offset by the financial gains and other benefits associated with the wedding.

One TikTok user, Larry_X, commented: “You spend 300 million and collect 400 million house who gain now.” Another user, Armstrong, wrote: “You gain pass that 300m Guyyy.” Bella also reacted, saying: “300 million gone 1 billion recovered .”

The reactions suggest that some followers believe Peller may have received benefits from the wedding that could have exceeded the amount he spent.

The post Peller Reveals He Spent Just Over N300m On Wedding With Jarvis appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Martins was among the housemates who faced possible eviction in the second week of the “Show Ya Sef” season, after Big Brother introduced a major twist to the nomination process.

His exit marks the end of a brief but eventful stay in Biggie’s house, where he quickly established himself as one of the more confident and expressive personalities among the 24 housemates who entered the competition.

A native of Kogi State, Martins came into the house as a creative director, model and visual storyteller, with ambitions of using the platform to introduce himself and his work to a much wider audience.

At his introduction to viewers, Martins presented himself as someone who had come primarily to have fun and enjoy the experience. He even told viewers that if they felt he was not doing enough in the house, they should vote him out.

“I’m just here to have fun. Viewers at home too, have fun. If I’m not doing well, vote me out,” he said shortly after his unveiling.

Martins’ eviction also comes at a particularly dramatic stage of the competition. The second week introduced “Conspiracy Hour” and a new nomination format in which housemates were asked to save fellow contestants rather than nominate those they wanted out.

Following the Head of House process and subsequent changes, Martins found himself among those whose fate was left in the hands of viewers.

His departure leaves the remaining housemates to continue the battle for survival, alliances, fame and the ultimate prize.

For Martins, however, the BBNaija journey may be ending inside Biggie’s house, but the larger ambition with which he entered the show — to make himself and his creativity known beyond the confines of the reality show — is only beginning. “I’ll surprise the world,” he said, shortly after he had been evicted.

The post Martins Evicted From BBNaija House appeared first on Information Nigeria.

This was contained in a funeral announcement signed by Wale Adeosun on behalf of the family and sighted by PUNCH Online on Sunday.

According to the announcement, a night of tributes will be held on Wednesday, August 12, at 5pm at Harbour Point Event Centre, Wilmot Point Road, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The funeral service will take place at 10am on Thursday at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of David, Trinity Towers, Chief Yesufu Abiodun Oniru Road, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The family described the deceased as their “dearly beloved son, brother, husband and father.”
Anthony, popularly known as Niyi, died on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at the age of 62.

Announcing his death, the family described him as a reputable businessman and devoted Christian who made a positive impact on the lives of those who knew him.

“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,” they said.

The deceased is survived by his wife, Kemi; his children; and his siblings, including the founder of Kuramo Capital, Adewale Adeosun, among others.

The post Late Husband Of Ex-Finance Minister To Be Buried On Thursday appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Mr Adeleke is seeking re-election on the platform of the Accord Party in the 15 August off-cycle governorship election.

The organisation said the arrests were illegal and called for the immediate release of the detained party members.

It made the demand in a statement issued on Saturday by Bamidele Sallam, the chairman of its Media and Publicity Sub-Committee.

Mr Sallam, who represents Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, urged the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to intervene and order the unconditional release of the detained supporters.

“We demand immediate release of over 60 Accord leaders and members under illegal detention, including an Accord candidate for House of Representatives for Ijesa South, identified simply as Hon. Alaba.

“In the best interest of democracy, in pursuance of the IGP’s direct order to police officers and in compliance with the presidential directive for a free and fair election in Osun State, we demand immediate and urgent action by the Inspector-General of Police,” he said.

The post OsunDecides2026: “Over 60 Accord Party Members Still In Police Detention” – Adeleke’s Campaign Organisation appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The incident reportedly occurred during the opening of “90s Lounge” and has generated considerable buzz on social media, with videos purportedly showing the couple during the confrontation circulating widely across various platforms.

While the videos have offered the public a glimpse of what transpired, the circumstances that led to the reported altercation remain unclear.

One of the accounts circulating online alleged that Natasha arrived at the venue with some men and waited until 2baba’s arrival, after which she allegedly approached his vehicle, and demanded to speak with him. Though the videos circulating online did not show her having a confrontation with the singer, it was alleged that the incident led to a commotion outside the venue, and 2Baba eventually took her inside the venue “in order not to cause a scene”.

According to the some of the accounts, 2Baba and Natasha had not been on good terms, and had not seen each other for months. The African Queen singer was also said to have told Natasha that he was no longer interested in continuing their relationship.

Meanwhile, an eyewitness who claimed to be at the scene, also alleged that Natasha got to the venue before 2baba, and approached his vehicle in a bid to talk to him, before the duo eventually went into the club together.

He said, “Allegedly, 2Face and his latest wife, Natasha, haven’t been on good terms for months, and she hasn’t even been able to see him. She reportedly heard that the owner of Trukadero was opening a club called 90’s yesterday, so she went there and waited for 2Face. When he finally arrived, she rushed to his car and started making a scene, saying she wanted to see her husband and talk to him.”

The development comes amid sustained public interest in the couple’s relationship, which has attracted considerable attention since their wedding in July 2025.

The latest incident has once again fuelled speculation about the state of their union, with social media users quick to interpret the confrontation as evidence of another crisis between the couple.

The post 2Baba, Natasha’s Nightclub Drama Deepens Marital Crisis appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Adejoorin was arrested in Ilesa on Saturday after a shooting in the Isokun area of the community left three people injured.

At least three people were injured during a shooting in Ilesa, Osun State, on Saturday, when members of the Ilesa West Local Government Area chapter of the All Progressives Congress held a street rally.

One of those injured was identified as Tobi Ilesanmi, a 14-year-old boy, who was reportedly shot near the scene of the incident around the Isokun area of Ilesa.

The incident, however, has led to a blame game between the APC and the Accord Party, following the arrest of the Osun State Commissioner for Environment, Mayowa Adejoorin, who was said to be passing through Ilesa after the crisis.

Adejoorin was reportedly arrested by the police and brought to the headquarters of the Osun State Command of the Nigeria Police Force in Osogbo, the state capital.

Speaking on the incident in a telephone conversation with our correspondent on Saturday, the Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, stated that three people were injured during the shooting, alleging that the incident was perpetrated by operatives of the Amotekun Corps who were conveyed in a vehicle bearing an official Osun State Government number plate.

The post Police Release Osun Commissioner After 24 Hours In Detention appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Speaking during an interview with Goldmyne TV, Daddy Showkey said, “P-Square destroyed the biggest brand that Africa produced. P-Square isn’t for them alone.”

The music veteran stressed that entertainers owe their success to the public, noting that fans should always be considered in major decisions.

Drawing from his personal experience, he said, “As an entertainer I can decide to lock myself in my room and celebrate my 50 years on stage. I am celebrating because it is the people that made me Daddy Showkey. If the people have made you, you are not considering them but considering how much you guys are making.”

He warned that the consequences of the brothers’ ongoing feud would become clearer with time, adding that their relationship should take precedence over their differences.

“Dragging themselves like this, the future will tell. No matter what, you guys are brothers. No matter what, you should look for a place to resolve things because you have children. Tomorrow you will carry this beef to your children,” he said.

Daddy Showkey’s comments come amid the lingering public dispute involving Peter, Paul, and their elder brother Jude, who previously managed the music duo, following disagreements that have continued to attract public attention.

The post “P-Square Destroyed Biggest Brand Africa Ever Produced” – Daddy Showkey appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Adeyanju made the statement during a recent interview with Channels Television anchor, Seun Okinbaloye.

According to him, his record as a human rights activist and the sacrifices he has made for the country distinguish him from Obi, a former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate.

Adeyanju said he doubted whether Obi had made similar sacrifices for Nigeria’s democracy, questioning his contribution to the democratic struggle.

“I am bigger than Peter Obi. The things I have achieved in my life as a human rights activist, he can never achieve them.

“Has he ever made any sacrifice for the country? What does he know about the democracy that he is enjoying?” he said.

His comments have since generated reactions, with Nigerians debating the respective contributions of Adeyanju and Obi to the country’s political and democratic development.

The post “I’m Bigger Than Peter Obi, He’s Never Sacrificed For Nigeria, Knows Nothing About Democracy” — Deji Adeyanju appeared first on Information Nigeria.

This is contained in a statement issued by the federation on Sunday in Lagos.

Samuel defeated the incumbent, Marie-France Dufour, at the federation’s elective Annual General Meeting, held at Rugby School Nigeria, Atlantic City, Lagos, on Saturday.

He secured 14 votes against Dufour’s six.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Samuel has become the first Nigerian and African to lead the CFF, breaking the long-standing tradition of leadership from countries such as Scotland, Australia and Canada.

“This is a great honour and a responsibility that I do not take lightly,” the statement quoted Samuel as saying.

“I am grateful to the Commonwealth fencing family for the confidence placed in me,” Samuel added.

He said his election would provide an opportunity to further develop fencing across the Commonwealth and create greater opportunities for athletes.

“I believe we can work together to grow the sport, support our athletes and make fencing more accessible and inclusive across the Commonwealth,” he said.

Samuel said the election also highlighted the growing influence of Africa in international fencing and marked a new era for the sport across the Commonwealth.

According to him, the election came as Nigeria hosts the Senior and Veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos, with more than 20 countries participating.

He said, for the first time, the Under-23 and Wheelchair Fencing events would be recognised as medal-yielding competitions, further promoting inclusivity in the sport.

Delegates praised Samuel’s leadership and vision, as well as his journey from a world-class athlete to President of the Nigeria Fencing Federation.

Under his leadership, Nigeria has successfully hosted International Fencing Federation-sanctioned Junior World Cups and African Championships.

Nigeria has also become the first African country to host the Senior Commonwealth Fencing Championships.

Samuel said his election was not only a personal achievement but also a major step forward for African representation in international sports leadership.

The post Nigeria’s Samuel Adeyinka Becomes Commonwealth Fencing Federation President appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The Paris Saint-Germain star acknowledged that the defending champions remain the favourites ahead of the crucial fixture in Casablanca.

“Nigeria is a very great nation in African Women’s Football and deserves all our respect. We know we are not the favourites and, in fact, we never really were in this competition. But we also know what we want to achieve.

“We have a game plan prepared by the staff and we work every day to progress, both in training and during video meetings or even in our exchanges amongst the players. We know that every match is different. Football always has surprises in store.

“At this stage of the competition, there will inevitably be a winner. Nigeria has great qualities, but a match is played on the pitch. One thing is certain – we will give everything on the pitch,” Naomi told cafonline.com.

The 21-year-old former En Avant Guingamp (EAG) forward added that anything is possible in football.

“I wouldn’t call it a surprise. We will approach this match as we have approached all the others since the start of the tournament. Our goal is to continue to have fun together, because it is this state of mind that has allowed us to come this far.

“We will not change the way we play. We will continue our work, apply the technical staff’s plan and seek to correct the few shortcomings that we have identified. We have little time, but we will make the best use of it to be more effective. We know there is a favourite, and it’s not us, but in football nothing is a foregone conclusion.

“Our greatest strength is the collective [teamwork]. There is an excellent atmosphere within the group, which allows us to approach each match with a lot of confidence and positivity. Above all, we have a real fighting spirit,” Naomi, who captained Cameroon at the 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, said.

The post 2026 WAFCON: “We Have What It Takes To Stop Falcons” — Cameroon’s Naomi Ahead Q-Final Tie appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Kidjo will receive the 2,854th star during a ceremony scheduled for August 18 at 11:30 a.m. PT on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles.

Her recognition will make her the second African-born entertainer to receive the honour, following South African actress Charlize Theron, who was awarded her star in 2005.

The ceremony will feature Oscar-nominated actor Willem Dafoe and Grammy and Primetime Emmy-nominated songwriter and producer Harvey Mason Jr., who is also chief executive of the Recording Academy and MusiCares.

Born in Benin, Kidjo moved to Paris in 1983 and has since built an acclaimed international career spanning more than four decades. The 64-year-old has won five Grammy Awards, including four Best Global Music Album prizes between 2015 and 2022, as well as a Polar Music Prize in 2023.

With 19 albums released since 1981, Kidjo is celebrated for blending West African musical traditions with genres including funk, jazz and R&B.

Her impressive list of collaborators includes Nigerian star Burna Boy, Sting, Alicia Keys, Peter Gabriel, John Legend, Bono, Yo-Yo Ma and Philip Glass.

Her star ceremony will be streamed live on the official Hollywood Walk of Fame website.

The post Angélique Kidjo To Make History As First Black African Performer On Hollywood Walk of Fame appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Fayose made the remarks on Friday in Abuja while speaking after his inauguration as Chairman of the Rural Electrification Agency board.

In a video clip shared by ARISE News on Saturday, the former governor said the absence of electricity in rural communities had limited recreational activities and left residents with little choice but to remain at home at night.

He said, “Why you don’t address this issue of electricity? The people at that level have no alternative attraction. Nothing else matters to them. After 7 o’clock, it gets dark there.

“Everybody is engaging their wives. And the population simply becomes double. The simple problem is because there is lack of electricity.”

Fayose further argued that providing electricity to rural communities would encourage residents to stay out later, promote nightlife and create alternative forms of recreation.

“People go to bed early. Their mind is simply prepared that, well, if this is the only available recreation, let me remain here.

“But when we address this electricity, there will be nightlife. There will be recreation outside your wife,” he said.

Fayose’s remarks came as he assumed leadership of the REA board, which is responsible for advancing the Federal Government’s efforts to expand electricity access to underserved and unserved communities across Nigeria.

Fayose was sworn in alongside other members of the REA governing board by the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe.

Also inaugurated were Ahmadu Abubakar and Ilyasu Makinta as board members, along with three other non-executive directors, while Abba Aliyu was formally installed as the agency’s Managing Director.

Watch the video here: https://twitter.com/i/status/2086092569528729690

The post “Lack Of Power Supply From 7pm Making Nigerians Give Birth To More Children” — Fayose appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Kalu made the proposal during an appearance on News Central TV’s 60 Minutes With Mr Kay, saying individuals who allegedly took public funds should be given an opportunity to return the money without being prosecuted.

He said, “President Tinubu should give people pardon, because between the houses in Abuja, if you search all the houses, you might have over 50, 60 billion lying down there.”

According to the senator, large amounts of money allegedly kept in private residences are effectively removed from the formal financial system and therefore cannot contribute to economic activities.

He said, “People who keep money in their houses, and it’s not right; it’s not the right thing to do. It’s not in the banking system. It’s not in the banking system that could have helped this economy to grow.”

Kalu subsequently proposed that the amnesty should cover money allegedly taken at any point since Nigeria’s independence, regardless of where the funds are currently being kept.

“So I would like President Tinubu to give a window of two years and say, no matter from 1960, no matter where you keep the money, return it to Nigeria, nobody will touch you. You are pardoned,” he said.

He added that the proposed arrangement could encourage people holding the alleged funds to bring them back into the country and make them available for economic use.

“So let people repatriate this money and use it for the benefit of this economy,” Kalu said.

His proposal is therefore centred on recovering allegedly looted public funds through a temporary amnesty rather than immediately pursuing prosecution, with the expectation that the returned money would re-enter the financial system and contribute to Nigeria’s economy.

The post “Pardon, Give Two-Year Amnesty To Looters Of Nigeria’s Funds For Them To Make Refunds” — Orji Kalu Appeals To Tinubu appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Moroe, who disclosed this in an interview with Saturday PUNCH, said 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.”

The professor said applicants were assessed based on immigration requirements regardless of their status.

“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.

He explained that travellers applying for visas are required to submit relevant documents, including a yellow fever certificate from their home country, as proof of vaccination before travelling to South Africa.

The clarification comes amid renewed concerns over alleged visa restrictions on Nigerians travelling to South Africa following claims that some Nigerian entertainers had faced difficulties obtaining entry permits.

The South African diplomat dismissed claims that the country had stopped issuing visas to Nigerians, saying visa decisions were based strictly on requirements.

He said, “Whether you are Ayra Starr or anyone, if you qualify, you will get it. The narrative that we have stopped issuing visas to Nigerians is false. We are not politicians; we don’t get into politics. Whether there are unrest or not, if you qualify for the visa, you will be given.”

Moroe also disclosed that visa applications from Nigerians had increased compared with previous years.

He said applications, which previously averaged between 40 and 60 monthly, had risen to between 60 and 80 monthly.

“The visa applications have increased compared to the past. Before now, it used to be between 40 and 60 applications monthly, but now it has increased to between 60 and 80 applications monthly,” he added.

Meanwhile, the South African Consulate in Lagos on Wednesday issued visas to five Nigerian disc jockeys travelling to the country for an event.

One of the DJs, Solomon Akinkunmi, who spoke with our correspondent at the embassy, confirmed the development.

He said, “We were five that were given visas. I was given a one-year visa, while others were given three months each.”

The post “Ayra Starr’s 2024 Visa Denial Was For Submitting Wrong Yellow Fever Certificate, Was Thereafter Given One-Year Visa To Perform” — S’African Envoy appeared first on Information Nigeria.

In an interview with social commentator Jos Connection at the Okoye family residence in Plateau State on Friday, Henry said he was P-Square’s sponsor when the duo – Peter and Paul – did not find anyone to sponsor their music and that Jude was not involved at the time.

“When they started music, they were looking for sponsors. They didn’t see any. When I started sponsoring them, Jude was not there. When Benson & Hedges came to Jos looking for artistes, it was me that took them to the stadium for a performance; they came first. Jude was not there. We were travelling from state to state for music, sometimes they used my car (to distribute) flyers.

“We just took it as a family thing but we knew that it’s Peter and Paul that own it. We’re only supporting them. Sometimes we travelled to Abuja; my sister, the one we call Lilian, was the one who collected gate fee. As the elder brother I was the bodyguard.

“They started making money bit by bit. Jude came in and said he wanted to manage them. We allowed Jude, my mum disagreed,” he said.

Mrs Okoye died on July 11, 2012, in India following heart surgery.
Speaking further, Henry said Paul’s change in behaviour surprised him and added that he (Paul) used to be “the nicest person in the family”.

“They promised me 20 per cent when they start making money. Jude intervened and dismissed that. I challenged him that he wasn’t there when we started everything but now chasing everybody away from them,” Henry said.

He added that he would be happy if the brothers reunited but expressed doubts that such a reconciliation would happen.

“I will be happy for them to come back together but I don’t think it will happen. Paul was a very kind person,” he added.

Henry urged Jude to help restore the family to its former state by settling the disagreements among the siblings.

Henry, who is older than Jude, said their eldest brother Christopher does not want to be involved in the dispute as he is “born again”.

Peter and Paul effectively split in 2017. However, in 2021, they reunited but fell out again in 2024.

The rift resulted in the arraignment of Jude in 2025 by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over allegations of fraud to the tune of N1.38bn, $1m and £34,537.59. He pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The case is still in court.

The post “Our Mother Didn’t Want Jude To Manage P-Square” – Eldest Brother appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Argentinian media reported Jorge Messi had passed away on Friday in a hospital in Rosario.

“His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel,” Newell’s Old Boys said in a social media post.

Jorge Messi was his son’s first coach in Argentina and his sole companion when he first moved to Barcelona as a child, before later becoming his agent.

“My father helped me enormously. He is very critical of me. That made me always want to push myself further,” Lionel Messi told DirecTV Sports in 2022.

Messi’s family asked the media for “humanity” during the recent World Cup amid persistent rumours over Jorge’s health.

AFP

The post Lionel Messi’s Father Jorge Dies Aged 68 appeared first on Information Nigeria.

In dollar terms, the country’s debt increased by $17.71 billion, or 18.22 per cent, from $97.24 billion to $114.95 billion within the same period.

Between December 2025 and March 2026, total debt increased marginally by N75.51 billion, or 0.05 per cent, from N159.28 trillion to N159.35 trillion. However, its dollar value rose by $3.98 billion, or 3.59 per cent, to $114.95 billion, largely due to exchange-rate changes.

The DMO used an exchange rate of N1,386.2156/$ for its March figures, compared with N1,435.2571/$ in December.

External debt stood at $51.90 billion in March, up slightly by $48.05 million from $51.86 billion in December. In naira terms, however, it fell by N2.48 trillion, or 3.33 per cent, from N74.43 trillion to N71.95 trillion.

Meanwhile, domestic debt rose by N2.55 trillion, or 3.01 per cent, from N84.85 trillion to N87.40 trillion. It increased by N8.64 trillion, or 10.98 per cent, year-on-year, accounting for 54.85 per cent of total debt, compared with 52.72 per cent a year earlier.

The Federal Government remained the dominant domestic borrower, with its debt rising from N80.49 trillion in December 2025 to N82.88 trillion in March 2026. Compared with N74.89 trillion in March 2025, this represents a N7.99 trillion, or 10.67 per cent, increase.

The Federal Government’s domestic debt alone accounted for 52.01 per cent of Nigeria’s total public debt as of March 2026.

The post “Nigeria’s Public Debt Rises By N9.96trn To N159.35trn In One Year Under Tinubu” — DMO appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Henry, who spoke with a social commentator, Jos Connection, in an interview at their father’s residence in Plateau State on Friday about the renewed crisis involving the Okoye brothers, said although Peter had made efforts to resolve the disagreement, he was not optimistic that the twins would return to the relationship they once shared.

He, however, appealed to Paul to end the rift with Peter, recalling the support his twin brother gave him when he was hospitalised.

“Peter is trying, I don’t know if Jude used juju on Paul because he was the nicest person in the family before. But the way he changed is surprising. What is happening now is my prayer. I watched all Peter’s series on what transpired.

“They promised me 20 per cent when they start making money. Jude intervened and dismissed that. I challenged him that he wasn’t there when we started everything but now chasing everybody away from them,” Henry said.

He said he would be happy if the brothers reunited but expressed doubts that such a reconciliation would happen.

“I will be happy for them to come back together but I don’t think it will happen. Paul was a very kind person,” he added.

Henry also recalled an incident involving his finances, saying Peter had once directed him to Jude after his wife’s father died, telling him that Jude was in possession of his money.

“When Peter’s wife’s dad died, I spoke to them why they left only me in Jos, Peter said I should meet Jude, he’s the one holding my money. I want all the family to come back. I have tried my best. Even Shehu Dantata spoke to them and they didn’t listen,” he said.

He urged Jude to help restore the family to its former state by settling the disagreements among the siblings.

Henry also appealed to Paul to forgive Peter, recalling how the latter reportedly paid his hospital bills when he was ill.

This development came amid a long-running dispute between Peter, Paul and their elder brother, Jude, who previously managed P-Square.

The post “Peter, Paul May Never Reconcile” — Henry, P-Square’s Eldest Brother appeared first on Information Nigeria.

In a new video, VDM recalled meeting Peter in 2025 at the Sheraton Hotel after Peter invited him for a private conversation. He said he went along with some of his associates, including Coco P and CPAC, and that they spent more than three hours together as Peter detailed what he described as years of alleged financial disagreements, betrayal and diversion of funds involving his brothers, particularly Jude.

According to VDM, Peter brought out his laptop and showed him receipts, bank transactions and other documents which he claimed supported his side of the story. Peter allegedly explained that some properties and cars had been acquired with money that was supposed to belong to him, while his own share was allegedly withheld.

VDM said the story was so emotional that he almost broke down in tears. As someone who had been a longtime fan of P-Square, he admitted that he believed Peter’s account at the time.

Peter also allegedly told him that he had become a nominal claimant in a legal case against Jude and that some of Jude’s properties had been sealed by the EFCC. According to VDM, Peter claimed those properties would eventually be handed over to him and insisted that he still had a major “checkmate” against Jude.

That alleged “checkmate,” VDM said, was Phyno.

Peter reportedly told him that Phyno had also been allegedly defrauded by Jude of hundreds of thousands of dollars and would eventually appear as a witness against him.

VDM further claimed that Peter spoke about Cynthia Morgan, alleging that Jude had treated the singer unfairly and withheld money connected to her music catalogue.

However, the story took an unexpected turn weeks later when VDM said he crossed paths with Phyno.

According to VDM, he approached the rapper, thanked him and casually mentioned that he had heard Phyno had also been allegedly scammed by Jude and would be helping Peter with the case.

VDM said the rapper immediately asked what he was talking about, insisting that he knew nothing about the alleged scam. Phyno allegedly denied ever being scammed by Jude and told VDM that he had not spoken to Peter in years.

The rapper then reportedly asked VDM to put Peter on the phone so they could clarify the matter directly.

The encounter left VDM questioning the information he had previously received from Peter and raised even more questions about the complicated dispute surrounding the Okoye brothers.

The post “Peter Told Me Jude Scammed Phyno Too, But Phyno Denied It” — VDM appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The secessionist figure was sentenced to six years imprisonment on September 1, 2025, by a Finnish district court following his conviction on t£rrorism-related charges connecting him to k!llings in southeastern Nigeria.

Addressing supporters during appeal hearing proceedings on Thursday, Ekpa maintained that the wrong individual is being held in custody, asserting that the truth would eventually emerge.

He stated, “I’m very confident that the truth is going to come out. They will know that the wrong person has been imprisoned.”

The post Simon Ekpa Vows To Appeal, Ensure Terrorism Conviction Is Overturned In Finland appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Yusuf Gagdi, chairman of the committee, disclosed this on Thursday during an investigative hearing where lawmakers questioned Shehu Mohammed, Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), over the issuance of seven vehicle number plates to the PFIPC.

The lawmakers were particularly concerned about why the FRSC approved the number plates despite apparent irregularities in documents submitted by the organisation.

Gagdi said the purported PFIPC governing board included Tinubu; George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation; Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory; the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation; the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria; the Attorney-General of the Federation; and the ministers of finance, aviation, agriculture and food security, interior, budget and national planning, marine and blue economy, police affairs, transport, works and power.

According to the committee chairman, the FRSC should have raised questions about a document that purportedly named the President and members of his cabinet as members of the council’s governing board.

He also questioned the acceptance of a purported mandate from the organisation that allegedly lacked official government security features.

“We are trying to expose the leakages so that agencies can close these gaps going forward. It is not to indict anybody,” Gagdi said.

He added that the unusual composition of the purported governing board, alongside the nature of the documents submitted, should have prompted the FRSC to independently verify the organisation’s status with the Presidency and other relevant government institutions before approving its request.

Mohammed defended the FRSC’s actions, telling the committee that the agency followed its standard operating procedures during the application and verification process.

The Corps Marshal said the FRSC received the PFIPC’s application on April 4, 2025, followed by a reminder dated April 11. Both documents were signed by Prince Adeyemi Adeniyi.

He said the application contained documents purporting to establish the council, outlining its mandate and governing structure, as well as details of the vehicles for which official number plates were being sought.

Mohammed said FRSC officials also checked the organisation’s website, which operated on a federal government domain, and visited its office at the Federal Secretariat Complex in Abuja.

According to him, the website and physical office created the impression that the PFIPC was a legitimate federal government organisation.

He added that the FRSC also verified the chassis numbers of the vehicles before approving the number plates.

Mohammed said the agency was subsequently surprised to discover that the PFIPC was not an authorised federal government agency.

He said the FRSC had since begun retrieving all official number plates issued to the organisation and had strengthened its verification procedures to prevent a similar incident from occurring again.

The development comes after the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) recommended the prosecution of Adeniyi, the man accused of operating the PFIPC.

Adeniyi had claimed that Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Tinubu, issued his appointment letter. Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, denied the allegation.

The ICPC cleared the Presidency and the Central Bank of Nigeria of wrongdoing but identified institutional lapses across several ministries, departments and agencies.

Those cited included the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, the Budget Office and the National Information Technology Development Agency, among others.

The post Tinubu, Wike, Akume Listed as PFIPC Board Members As Reps. Raise Questions appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The spokesperson for the command, SP Dungus Abdulkarim, who disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, August 6, 2026 said the suspect shot the victim after he allegedly found him in a compromising situation with his wife near her parents’ residence.

“The Command is investigating a case of causing grievous hurt reported at Tarmuwa Divisional Police Headquarters,” the statement read.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the incident followed an allegation that a 22-year-old suspect allegedly discovered his wife in a compromising situation with another man near her parents’ residence at Danewa-Biriri Village, Tarmuwa Local Government Area.

“In the ensuing altercation, the suspect reportedly shot the victim with a bow and arrow, inflicting serious injuries.

“The victim is currently receiving treatment at the Police Hospital, Damaturu, while the suspect has been arrested.

“Investigation is in progress to establish all the circumstances surrounding the incident, after which appropriate legal action will be taken.”

The command also arrested five other suspects over fraud and vandalism of community transformer in Damaturu and Fika LGA.

“On 6th August, 2026, at about 1300hrs, operatives of ‘A’ Division, Damaturu, responded to a report of a fraud incident which occurred on 31st July, 2026, where unknown persons fraudulently obtained one carton of OBA Spaghetti and two half bags of parboiled rice from a shop along Ajari–Gashua Road, Damaturu, after an accomplice impersonated the complainant through a telephone call,” the statement added.

“Following the report, detectives visited the scene and launched a discreet investigation which led to the arrest of two suspects, namely Mohammed Sani, 26 years, of Zanna Zakarya Housing Estate, and Ali Isa Waziri, 25 years, of Waziri Ibrahim Housing Estate, Damaturu.

“During interrogation, the suspects confessed to the commission of the offence. The stolen food items were recovered and registered as exhibits, while investigation is ongoing with a view to prosecuting the suspects.

“In another development, on 6th August, 2026, at about 0800hrs, Fika Divisional Police Headquarters received a distress report that unidentified persons had vandalised a community transformer and carted away its power cable.

“Upon receipt of the report, Police operatives, in collaboration with community members and local vigilantes, immediately mobilised and trailed the suspects, leading to the arrest of one Ibrahim Musa, 23 years, of Bizagula Ward, Potiskum, in possession of the stolen transformer cable.

“During interrogation, the suspect confessed to the offence, while two additional suspects were subsequently arrested in connection with the crime. The stolen power cable was recovered as an exhibit, and investigation is ongoing to establish the full extent of the criminal network and ensure all those involved are brought to justice.

“While analysing the incidents, the Commissioner of Police, CP Usman Kanfani Jibrin, psc, mspsp, SM.ICM, urged members of the public to remain law-abiding, avoid taking the law into their own hands, safeguard critical public infrastructure, and promptly report suspicious activities and criminal incidents to the nearest police formation for immediate intervention.”

The post Yobe: Husband Catches Man In Compromising Position With Wife, Shoots Him With Bow And Arrow appeared first on Information Nigeria.

Davido made the statement during a livestream hosted by Carter Efe, while speaking about his plans to venture into politics and his concerns about Nigeria’s electoral system.

The singer said he would only go into politics when there is transparency in the electoral process, insisting that he is confident of winning any election conducted freely and fairly.

“Until there’s transparency, then I can go ahead with politics because nobody can beat me in any election. If there’s a free and fair election, let everybody come out to vote, I will win. But because of the system, there’s no transparency; they write the results.”

Speaking specifically about the Osun election, Davido said he was watching to see how the process would unfold.

“I want to see what they are going to do in Osun. We are waiting.”

Davido then said he would seek Trump’s intervention if he was dissatisfied with the conduct of the election, stating that he was prepared to take the matter all the way to the White House.

“I’ll tag Trump, I’ll call Trump, everybody. If they still don’t see anything, I’ll go in front of the White House and say, ‘Help us.’ They think it’s a joke.

“Trump will just say, ‘I think there’s a Nigerian artiste sending me a message. Don’t worry, my message will be delivered.’

He concluded saying
“Leave Osun alone oo, Leave it.”

The post Osun Election: “I’ll Involve Trump If Anything Goes Wrong” – Singer Davido appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The 19-year-old athlete threw 18.08 meters to win the event’s final at Hayward Field in the early hours of Friday.

Oji’s junior gold medal came a few days after she won silver for Nigeria at the 2026 Commonwealth Games (CWG) in Glasgow, Scotland.

The CWG was her debut international competition for Nigeria after she switched allegiance from the US in February.

Her victory in Oregon is also Nigeria’s first-ever gold medal in the field events at the U20 World Championships.

Oji had qualified for the final with just a single throw in the qualification round. Her throw landed around 17.56m to send her into the final as the favourite.

She failed to disappoint in the final and was the only athlete in the competition to throw beyond the 18-metre mark. She opened with 18.05m, improved to a winning mark of 18.08m, followed with 17.95m, and two fouls followed. Her final attempt was another impressive throw of 18.07m.

Belsy Jenniffer Quiñonez of Ecuador took silver with a 17.90m throw, while Germany’s Emily Scherf completed the podium with bronze.

The post Jessica Oji Wins Shot-Put Gold At World Athletics U20- Championships appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The artist, while speaking in a recent podcast interview, revealed that he was once chased away from a stage during a performance by the club’s manager to ‘make way’ for P-Square.

Flavour explained that although he felt humiliated, he took the experience as a motivation to work harder and strive for success in his career.

“I was performing one time when P-Square came in, and the manager of the place told me to leave the stage immediately. I switched off my mic and went and sat down somewhere. Ladies were screaming and cheering wildly the moment Paul of P-Square took the mic and began singing ‘Temptation.’ I was wondering whether it is not the same music we are all doing because I have been performing there and the crowd had never cheered me that way. I didn’t let the experience discourage me. Instead, I took it as a motivation to work harder and now we are here,” he stated.

The post “I Was Chased From Stage Because Of P-Square” – Flavour appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The students were rescued by operatives of the Ogun State Police Command after spending eight days in captivity, bringing relief to parents, school authorities, and residents of the state.

Recall that the students were kidnapped last Wednesday at about 8 p.m. from a private student hostel along Paraga Road, Ipara-Remo, one of the communities adjoining the polytechnic.

Gistmania had reported that the attack lasted for approximately 30 minutes, during which the assailants allegedly fired gunshots and abducted several students.

Addressing newsmen on Thursday at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Dapo Abiodun disclosed that all security agencies were jointly mobilised to dominate the affected corridor and adjoining forests in an intensive search-and-rescue operation.

Abiodun disclosed that one of the victims sustained a gunshot injury during the incident and was immediately evacuated for medical attention. He has since been stabilised.

He added that the operation is ongoing and assured residents that security agencies are still tracking everyone linked to the crime.

He said, “Recognizing the need to strengthen the operation with additional air support, I reached out to the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, on Monday, 3 August 2026, to deploy aerial surveillance to complement the ongoing ground operations.

“I am glad to report that the IG responded without delay by approving and deploying a police helicopter the same day. I am standing here this evening pleased to inform the good people of Ogun State that, in the early hours of today, Thursday, 6 August 2026, the combined security operation successfully rescued all seven victims alive.

“One of the victims sustained a gunshot injury during the incident, and he was immediately evacuated for medical attention and has since been stabilised.”

The governor warned that the state would not be a hiding place for kidnappers and other criminal elements, stressing that security remains a shared responsibility and urging all residents to continue providing credible information to the appropriate authorities.

Fielding questions from newsmen, the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, noted that no ransom was paid and all the victims were rescued alive.

He noted that the rescued victims were taken to the hospital for medical attention and have been reunited with their families.

Ojajuni said, “It was an operational affair. No ransom was paid. We rescued five in the early hours of today and handed them over to their respective families. We reunited them, but before then, we took them for medical treatment.

“In the early hours too, the helicopter and the ground forces stormed the kidnappers’ den and rescued the remaining two victims. We have successfully arrested two of the kidnappers as we speak. They are with us and are talking, while we are still on the trail of the others as the operation continues.”

The post Abducted Ogun Poly Students Regain Freedom appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The victim, Sofwan Awae, was playing in a Golok FA Cup clash between SAMCOLTS and Abu x Nong Sirin at Santiphap Stadium in Sungai Golok on August 4 when the terrifying incident occurred.

According to reports, a powerful lightning strike hit the field during the match, critically injuring Awae. His teammates immediately rushed to his aid, turning him onto his back and performing CPR while emergency responders fought to save his life. Despite their efforts, he later died from his injuries.

Videos circulating on social media captured the frightening moment the lightning flashed across the stadium, followed by a deafening explosion that sent players collapsing to the ground in panic.

Police said 12 other players, including a Malaysian national, were also injured in the incident and taken to hospital for treatment.

Awae, who played as a winger for SAMCOLTS, had recently signed with Thai third-tier side Yala FC. Mourning his passing, the club paid tribute in a heartfelt statement, saying:

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of our new FC Yala player, Sofwan Awae. May he rest in peace.”

The shocking incident has left the football community in mourning and serves as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather during outdoor sporting events.

The post Lightning Strikes Footballer During Match, Dies On Spot appeared first on Information Nigeria.

ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, disclosed this while briefing State House correspondents after he submitted the commission’s interim report on the existence and operation of the fake agency at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Dr. Aliyu said the investigation revealed that Adeyemi was never appointed by the Federal Government and that the Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council was never established by law or executive order.

According to the interim report, the appointment letter presented by Adeyemi was forged, while the PFIPC illegally appropriated offices and instruments from the former Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC).

He said the fake agency, using the former PEAC office, engaged in false representation, widespread impersonation and various illegal activities that exploited weaknesses in verification and inter‑agency oversight.

He further stated that the investigation uncovered two additional fake government agencies: the FCT Investment Promotion Agency (PIFA) and the Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (PIPA).

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

The ICPC boss said Adeyemi changed the name of the fake agency from Foreign Investment Promotion Council to Foreign Intervention Promotion Council and attempted to expand its mandate 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.”

Some recommendations of the committee, which was given 30 days to unravel the mystery behind the existence of the fake agency, include prosecution of Mr. Adeyemi; imposing administrative sanctions on public officers who facilitated the illegal operations; and instituting reforms to improve internal controls.

The public officers who were said to be collaborators are from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Accountant‑General’s Office, the Budget Office and the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA.
“The report is interim and the investigation continues to uncover more details to file criminal charges against Adeyemi and his collaborators,” he said.

Dr. Aliyu added that President Tinubu has taken note of the findings and has expressed his commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing the issue.

The post PFIPC Probe: ICPC Link Two More Fake Agencies To Adeyemi appeared first on Information Nigeria.

In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1762/2026, filed on August 5 before the federal high court in Abuja, the plaintiffs are asking  the court to nullify the anti-graft agency’s directive and award N2 billion as exemplary damages against the commission.

Ademola Adeleke, the state governor; the attorney-general of Osun; and the accountant-general of the state are the plaintiffs in the suit, while the EFCC, its executive chairman, and First Bank of Nigeria Limited are listed as defendants.

The plaintiffs are asking the court to determine whether the EFCC has the lawful authority to freeze, restrict or place a post-no-debit order on the state’s statutory account without first obtaining a valid court order.

They also want the court to determine whether the anti-graft agency’s directive to First Bank to freeze the account, without a prior or concurrent order of a court of competent jurisdiction, “does not constitute an egregious act of executive lawlessness, an unlawful resort to self-help, a flagrant abuse of statutory powers, an unlawful suppression of the constitutional powers and functions of the Plaintiffs, a threat to the constitutional and corporate existence of Osun State, a brazen and unlawful denial of the democratic rights and dividends of the people of Osun State, and a direct violation of the fundamental constitutional principles of due process, the rule of law, and the financial autonomy of a federating unit?”

According to the originating summons, the EFCC issued a letter dated August 5, 2026, with reference number CR:3000/EFCC/ABJ/HQ/PFS/TA/OSUN/VOL.17/666, directing the bank to freeze the state’s statutory allocation account.

The plaintiffs contend that neither the EFCC nor the bank can lawfully freeze or restrict access to the account without a subsisting order of a court of competent jurisdiction.

Among the reliefs sought, the Osun government is asking the court to declare that the freezing, restriction, blocking or placement of a post-no-debit order on its statutory allocation account without a valid court order is unlawful, unconstitutional, null and void.

It also seeks declarations that the EFCC is bound to act strictly in accordance with the constitution and the EFCC Establishment Act and cannot freeze a state’s statutory allocation account by mere administrative directive.

The state further wants the court to declare that First Bank cannot lawfully deny it access to the account based solely on the EFCC’s August 5 letter “except in the manner stipulated by law”.

The plaintiffs are also asking the court to set aside and nullify the freeze placed on the account, issue perpetual injunctions restraining the defendants from further interfering with the account without judicial authorisation, and award N2 billion as exemplary and aggravated damages for what they described as “unlawful interference with public funds”.

The post Osun Govt. Sues EFCC Over ‘Illegal’ Freezing Of Account, Demands N2bn Damages appeared first on Information Nigeria.

VeryDarkMan’s position was conveyed in a statement issued by his lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, and shared on the activist’s Instagram page on Wednesday.

The development follows an invitation from the police for VeryDarkMan to appear before the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja to provide evidence supporting his allegations against AIG Jimoh.

The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, had said on Tuesday that the police remained committed to due process, institutional discipline and the rule of law in handling the matter.

The police also confirmed that AIG Jimoh had been invited by the FCID for questioning over the allegations, while VeryDarkMan received a formal invitation on July 30, 2026, to substantiate his claims.

Responding to the invitation, VeryDarkMan’s legal team said the activist welcomed the investigation and remained ready to cooperate with the police.

“Our client appreciates the decision of the Nigeria Police Force to commence an official investigation into the concerns he raised and reiterates his willingness to cooperate with the investigation.

“For the avoidance of doubt, our client has never opposed any lawful investigation. On the contrary, he remains ready, willing and available to honour any invitation lawfully extended to him by the Nigeria Police Force,” the lawyers said.

However, the legal team argued that the circumstances surrounding the allegations required an open and accountable process, particularly given the public interest in the matter and the senior position of the police officer involved.

As a condition for VeryDarkMan’s appearance, his lawyers requested that representatives of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), civil society organisations and other independent observers be permitted to monitor the interview.

“The interview must be observed by the civil society organisations, the Nigerian Bar Association and such other independent observers, as may be appropriate in the circumstances, to ensure maximum transparency and eliminate any possibility of misinformation or misrepresentation.

“That his legal representative be permitted to accompany him and remain present throughout the interview.”

The post VeryDarkMan Gives Conditions For Police Appearance Over Allegations Against AIG Jimoh appeared first on Information Nigeria.

In a video circulating on social media, Odumeje criticised the President’s recent comments on hunger, accusing political leaders of prioritising personal and family interests over the welfare of citizens. “

Anyone you see singing praises for the current government is doing so because that person has been bribed. You are there to manage our resources, not your personal business or your family’s business. These resources belong to every Nigerian citizen,” he said.

Reacting to Tinubu’s statement that “there’s hunger before I was born,” the cleric accused governors and senators defending the President of doing so for personal gain.

He said, “In 2027, we shall decide if it’s you, governor or senator, whose family owns Nigeria, or whether all of us own Nigeria. We are no longer boys; we are fathers.”

Odumeje also faulted the Federal Government’s continued borrowing, insisting leaders must account for every loan obtained in the country’s name.

“The money you borrow, you borrow in all our names. So you must account for it, because that debt falls on our heads, and on the future of all our children,” he added.

The post “Anyone Praising Tinubu Has Been Bribed” — Prophet Odumeje Alleges appeared first on Information Nigeria.

The President said the directive was necessary to protect public confidence in the democratic process, noting that the state was only days away from its governorship election.

Tinubu, in a statement issued by the State House on Thursday, said he was not opposed to the EFCC’s exercise of its statutory powers but expressed concern over the timing of the action.

“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,” the President said.

The EFCC had obtained the order as part of its investigation into alleged financial infractions involving the Osun State Government.

The commission had earlier defended the move, insisting that its actions were within the law and that it had the authority to place restrictions on accounts suspected to be linked to financial crimes.

The anti-graft agency also stated that it could freeze accounts for 72 hours without a court order before seeking judicial approval for further restrictions.

Tinubu, however, said actions taken by federal institutions were often attributed to him as President, regardless of whether he had prior knowledge of them.

“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,” he stated.

The President said since assuming office, he had maintained that anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies should operate independently without interference.

“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,” Tinubu said.

He added that he had deliberately avoided directing or interfering in the operational activities of the EFCC or other investigative agencies because of his belief in strong democratic institutions.

“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,” he said.

Tinubu noted that although he was yet to be fully briefed on the facts that informed the EFCC’s decision to seek the court order, the timing of the action required his intervention.

“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,” the President said.

He said the proximity of the election made it necessary to avoid actions that could undermine confidence in the electoral process.

“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,” Tinubu added.

The President said his directive was issued in the overriding public interest and to preserve the integrity of the democratic process.

“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,” he said.

Tinubu subsequently ordered the commission to discontinue the action against the state government.

“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,” the statement read.

The development comes amid a dispute between the Osun State Government and the EFCC over the freezing of the state’s accounts.

The state government had dismissed the commission’s claims of financial misconduct, denying allegations of misappropriation of N11bn and accusing the EFCC of attempting to justify its action.

The EFCC had insisted that its investigation was not politically motivated and that its mandate was to investigate and prosecute suspected cases of financial crimes.

The directive by the President came ahead of the Osun governorship election, which has heightened scrutiny of actions by government institutions and their possible impact on the electoral process.

The post Tinubu Orders EFCC To Vacate Osun Account Freeze Order appeared first on Information Nigeria.

He also claimed that the 750km project — with completed sections already straddling a few kilometres in Cross River and Akwa Ibom on the Calabar end, and making incursions into Ondo from the Lagos end — would not go past Epe near Ogun state.

Duke, who is the presidential candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) for the 2027 election, spoke on Tuesday during ‘Prime Time’, a programme on Arise Television.

He said the government’s expenditure should reflect the country’s current economic realities, stating that some ongoing projects do not represent prudent use of scarce resources.

“I’ll bring this up. Take the Lagos-Calabar highway. I know the country cannot afford it,” he said.

“You cannot build a road on the coast from Lagos to Calabar. I mean, you can’t even go through Bayelsa. Bayelsa is swamp. Even Yenagoa, the capital, is swamp. You’ll probably have to build about 100 or 200 bridges to go through those swamps.”

Duke stated that there is already a road linking Lagos and Calabar, adding that the government should rehabilitate the existing infrastructure instead of embarking on a new project.

“There is already a road to Calabar. I’ve driven from Lagos to Calabar several times. If the road is poor, fix it,” he said.

“I don’t think that road is going to go beyond Epe, and I think the road serves other purposes because I drove once on the road and all I saw on the right flank going towards Epe was land reclamation and all that.”

He said funds earmarked for the project would be better invested in sectors with more direct impact on lives of citizens.

“The amount going to be spent on that road could be better spent providing electricity or upgrading your healthcare system,” he said.

Duke described funding for the health sector as inadequate, noting that the country’s healthcare and education systems require far greater investment.
“Last year, the capital budget that was released for health was barely N36 million. This came from the minister himself. That’s pathetic for a country of 230 million people,” he said.
“Not to talk about the schooling system that is hardly funded. So you prioritise, focus on your priorities, recalibrate your revenue system.”
The former governor also called for reforms to Nigeria’s revenue collection system, saying excessive reliance on taxing corporate profits encourages tax avoidance.

Duke described funding for the health sector as inadequate, noting that the country’s healthcare and education systems require far greater investment.

“Last year, the capital budget that was released for health was barely N36 million. This came from the minister himself. That’s pathetic for a country of 230 million people,” he said.

“Not to talk about the schooling system that is hardly funded. So you prioritise, focus on your priorities, recalibrate your revenue system.”

The former governor also called for reforms to Nigeria’s revenue collection system, saying excessive reliance on taxing corporate profits encourages tax avoidance.

According to him, expanding transactional taxes and improving revenue administration could significantly increase government earnings.

He also identified affordable energy as the foundation for economic growth, urging the government to make electricity and other energy sources more accessible.

“We are blessed with all the known forms of energy, from hydro to solar to gas to petroleum,” he said.

“I’m not saying give it free of charge, no, but make it available and very affordable because that is going to be a major stimulus for the productivity of your people.”

Duke governed Cross River from 1999 to 2007.

The post “Lagos-Calabar Highway Won’t Go Beyond Epe, Nigeria Can’t Afford It” – Donald Duke appeared first on Information Nigeria.