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Anambra Guber: INEC confirms 2,802,790 voters, reaffirms stand against vote-buying

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC yesterday said it has approved a final register of 2,802,790 eligible voters for the November 8, governorship election in Anambra.

Prof. Joash Amupitan, the INEC Chairman, said this during the signing of the Peace Accord for the Governorship Off-Cycle Election by the National Peace Committee (NPC) in Awka.

Amupitan also said that the commission had finalised deployment plans for 24,000 personnel and election materials across 5,718 polling units, 326 ward collation centres, and the 21 local government and state collation centres in Awka.

He reaffirmed the commission’s resolve to combat vote-buying during the election.

According to him, any individual or group attempting to subvert the will of the people would be firmly dealt with in accordance with the law.

“The Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) has instituted robust security measures for this election.

“The Nigeria Police Force will deploy 45,000 personnel, while the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps is deploying 10,250 officers, alongside other agencies.

“Voters should therefore, expect a significant improvement in Election Day logistics. Enhanced result management processes will also be evident,” he said.

While reaffirming the commission’s readiness to fulfill its mandate, Amupitan urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to uphold the principles of the peace accord.

“As the election management body, I want to reassure all political parties and candidates that INEC remains fully committed to discharging its duties in line with the law, global best practices and the very principles enshrined in the Peace Accord.

“However, let me emphasise that it is not the signatures on this document that guarantee peace; it is the genuine commitment to honouring its provisions.

“Without peace, logistics will be disrupted, our personnel and materials will be at risk and ultimately, the credibility of the process will be undermined.

“Therefore, as you append your signatures today, please ensure the message cascades to your supporters at all levels. This is the surest way to honour the sacrifice and labour of the NPC in advancing peaceful elections,” he said.

Tinubu orders immediate resolution of doctors’ strike

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to ensure that members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors who are on strike resume work immediately.

The directive was disclosed by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, during a press briefing yesrterday in Abuja, following the total and indefinite strike declared by NARD on Saturday.

Speaking at the briefing, Salako said, “I would like to update Nigerians on the challenges around the ongoing strike action by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors. First, on behalf of myself and the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, and all the top management staff of the ministry, we would like to express our regrets and unconditional apology to Nigerians, especially those who needed to access health care in the last 48 hours, who could not do it as a result of the strike action by NARD.

“I want to use this opportunity to assure Nigerians that Mr President has expressly directed that we do everything possible and legitimate to ensure that the resident doctors are brought back to their duty posts as soon as possible.”

The minister explained that the government had been engaging the leadership of NARD to resolve the issues behind their industrial action.

Salako revealed that the striking doctors had presented 19 separate demands, which the ministry was addressing one after another.

He provided background on the dispute, recalling that a circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) in July had caused division among health sector workers.

According to him, some groups in the health sector protested against the contents of the circular, while others welcomed it.

The ministry, he said, sought a review because it did not accommodate the interests of all health professionals.

“We approached the National Salaries and Wages Commission and the Presidential Committee on Salary Increase, and the circular was therefore withdrawn,” Salako stated.

He noted that a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) process was initiated in August to unify discussions across all health sector unions, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), and the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU).

“Between August and now, we have had 12 meetings of the CBA. But in the course of that CBA meeting, two issues came out that were very controversial,” he said.

According to the minister, one of the disputes was between groups advocating relativity in remuneration and others insisting on parity, both of which he described as mutually exclusive.

“You cannot talk about parity in one breath as government, and also talk about relativity in another breath as government. They are mutually exclusive. And we felt that it was important to come back home to resolve that issue,” he stated.

The second contentious issue, he said, was the appointment of some non-doctor health workers as consultants in 2020, which caused discontent among doctors.

“For us, we felt that it was an issue that we had to come and discuss in-house to resolve, and that is what led to a temporary suspension of the CBA.

“The ministry engaged an external consultant, a professor of industrial relations, to serve as a negotiator on these two critical issues and other matters that may arise during discussions with the health unions.

Police declare Sowore wanted over alleged plot to disrupt peace in Lagos

The Police command in Lagos State has declared activist, Mr Omoyele Sowore, wanted for allegedly planning to incite public disorder and obstruct major roads in the state.

Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, disclosed this to journalists yesterday at the Iyana-Oworo section of the Third Mainland Bridge.

He said the command was closing in on Sowore and others accused of coordinating activities intended to disrupt public peace.

“Sowore should surrender at the nearest police station or face arrest wherever he is found.

“Anyone attempting to cause disturbance or block our roads will face the full weight of the law,” he said.

According to him, intelligence reports indicated that Sowore and his associates planned to stage demonstrations at strategic locations, including the Third Mainland Bridge, Lekki Tollgate, and Freedom Park.

The commissioner described the alleged plan as criminal and warned it could trigger severe traffic congestion and endanger lives.

“It is only someone who needs examination that would attempt to block such a vital route used by thousands daily,” he said.

He revealed that 13 suspects had been arrested in connection with the planned protest, while Sowore allegedly fled. Investigations are ongoing to identify sponsors and collaborators.

Jimoh said officers had been deployed across key areas, especially major bridges and highways, where roadblocks and diversions were in place.

He noted that the measures were temporary and aimed at safeguarding peace and protecting critical infrastructure.

“The Third Mainland Bridge was not designed to hold stationary weight. Any gathering on it could pose structural risks,” he said.

The commissioner also addressed tension linked to recent demolitions in parts of Lagos, particularly in the Oworo-Soki area, stating that eligible residents had already received compensation.

“The government compensated those affected, and the media witnessed it. There is no justification to provoke crisis under the guise of protest,” he said.

He urged Lagos residents to continue their normal activities without fear, assuring that security agencies were fully deployed to maintain order.

“We are not sleeping. We will apprehend, investigate, and prosecute anyone attempting to undermine public safety in Lagos,” he said.

Jimoh reaffirmed the command’s commitment to enforcing the law without fear or favour, stressing that freedom of expression must not turn into public nuisance or risk lives.

Protest rocks PDP national secretariat as Wike-led faction takes over

A protest erupted yesterday at the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party, Wadata Plaza in Abuja, as supporters of the factional acting National Chairman of the party, Mohammed Abdulrahman, stormed the premises.

The group, chanting solidarity songs, demanded that the National Working Committee, led by Umar Damagum, vacate the headquarters immediately.

It had reported that Abdulrahman was named the acting national chairman of the party last week as the leadership crisis threatening the soul of the party worsened with the suspension of the party’s National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and the Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade, for a period of one month.

In a dramatic twist, the faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had converged at a separate venue in Abuja and announced the suspension of the Damagum-led NWC.

The protesters, who accused the Damagum-led leadership of mismanaging party affairs, vowed to reclaim control of the secretariat for the Abdulrahman-led faction.

Security operatives have been deployed to the area to prevent a breakdown of law and order as both factions struggle for control of the party’s edifice.

However, the faction of the party’s NWC led by Abdulrahman has taken control of the party’s National Chairman’s office.

Speaking to journalists at the office, Abdulrahman promised to unite and reposition the party in preparation for the next general election.

He also assured members of his commitment to work diligently for the party’s progress.

“We are ready to work in the interest of our dear party,” he said.

Trump must get approval from Tinubu before US military action – Presidency

The Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Tinubu, Daniel Bwala, has claimed it would be diplomatically unacceptable for the United States to carry out any military operation in Nigeria without consent.

Bwala stated this in an interview with BBC World Service yesterday.

He insisted that Nigeria is a sovereign nation and that any form of foreign intervention in its internal security issues must be collaborative and respectful of its territorial integrity.

Bwala’s comments came after US President Donald Trump designated Nigeria a “country of particular concern” over the alleged persecution of Christians.

Trump also threatened to deploy America’s “Department of War” against terrorist groups he claimed were targeting Christians in Nigeria.

“If it’s a joint operation with Nigeria, that’s acceptable,” Bwala said.

“But diplomatically, it is wrong to invade a sovereign nation without collaboration—especially one that remains a strategic partner in the fight against insecurity.

“Unilateral intervention only happens when there is evidence that a government is complicit in a crisis. That is certainly not the case in Nigeria,” he said.

Gov Diri formally joins APC amid pomp and pageantry

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri has formally defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Thousands of supporters of the Governor and his new party APC, from all eight local government areas, dressed in white t-shirts, graced the occasion in Yenegoa, the state capital.

Other supporters were seen signing and drumming along some major streets of the state capital.

Diri, who resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, recently, formally put speculation to rest by joining the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Already, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, the Governor of Delta State, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, and his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, the Governor of Ondo State, Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, former Governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole, Minister of Regional Development, Engineering Abubakar Momoh, have arrived at the state capital for the event.

Senate hails Tinubu over Nigeria’s exit from FATF grey list

The Senate Yesterday lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, and other key institutions for their roles in securing Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force Grey List, described as a major victory for the nation’s financial integrity and global reputation.

The motion was sponsored by Senator Emmanuel Udende under matters of urgent public importance pursuant to Orders 41 and 51 of the Senate Standing Orders, 2023 (as amended).

Moving the motion, Udende said Nigeria’s delisting by FATF reflects the country’s remarkable progress in addressing strategic deficiencies in its Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework and demonstrates its strong commitment to global financial integrity standards.

He recalled that Nigeria’s previous inclusion on the FATF Grey List had subjected the country to “heightened international monitoring, scrutiny, and reputational risks, which adversely affected investor confidence and limited access to global financial markets.”

The senator credited the development to “the successful implementation of extensive reforms and policy measures by the Executive Arm of Government, the National Assembly, and several regulatory and enforcement agencies.”

In its resolution, the Senate recognised “the invaluable leadership and contributions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of the Senate, the NFIU, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, the Central Bank of Nigeria, and other relevant stakeholders whose coordinated actions culminated in this significant national achievement.”

Lawmakers expressed delight that the delisting has boosted investor confidence and reassured the international community of Nigeria’s renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and global financial standards.

“The delisting has boosted investor confidence and reassured the international community of Nigeria’s renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and global financial standards.

“Nigeria’s financial and regulatory systems have regained international credibility and compliance with FATF recommendations, enhancing the country’s reputation as a safe and attractive destination for foreign investment,” the motion noted.

The Senate further observed that Nigerian financial institutions previously burdened by “additional scrutiny, high compliance costs, and delayed transactions” now enjoy smoother, faster, and more cost-efficient cross-border operations, improving trade facilitation and remittance inflows.

The motion also highlighted the long-term benefits of Nigeria’s delisting, including “transformative impacts on the economy through sustained foreign direct investment across key sectors such as energy, technology, agriculture, and manufacturing,” as well as a stronger naira, greater regulatory stability, and job creation.

Adopting the motion, the Senate resolved to commend the President and urged relevant financial and enforcement agencies to consolidate the gains by maintaining continuous compliance with international standards to prevent relapse.

The lawmakers also mandated the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes to sustain legislative oversight and policy reviews to further strengthen Nigeria’s financial governance.

Nigeria was first placed on the FATF Grey List in 2021 following concerns about weaknesses in its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing regime.

The country’s removal from the FATF Grey List was officially announced at the FATF October 2025 Plenary in Paris, France.

The decision followed the country’s successful implementation of a 19-point action plan aimed at strengthening its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing framework.

The global watchdog for financial crimes had in February 2023 placed Nigeria on its grey list after identifying strategic deficiencies in its AML/CFT systems.

Reps raise alarm over terrorists’ threat to bomb N’Assembly complex

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Internal Security, Garba Muhammad, Yesterday disclosed that the National Assembly has received threats from terrorists to bomb the complex and called for urgent fortification of the edifice as a proactive measure.

Garba disclosed this in Abuja at a public hearing on a bill seeking to establish the Legislative Security Directorate, which seeks to enhance security management, protect the lawmakers, staff members and visitors to the nation’s parliament.

The edifice housing the Senate, the House of Representatives and sundry offices, he said, has been facing security challenges, including cases of car and motorcycle theft, vandalism, fake identity cards, and infiltration by unregistered visitors.

It would be recalled that a similar incident happened on May 4, 2021, a security alert warned lawmakers of a planned Boko Haram attack on the National Assembly complex and other VIP/government locations in Abuja. In response, security measures were intensified, including strict vehicle checks that caused significant congestion at the gates. Lawmakers were advised to use the less-congested presidential gate for safer access. The alert underscored concerns over Boko Haram’s growing threat, with insurgents reportedly operating as close as Niger State, near the Federal Capital Territory.

Following the alert, the National Assembly limited members’ presence on the premises for safety, and security experts called for stronger federal protection of national infrastructure and assets.

Garba said, “We have received threats from terrorists to bomb the National Assembly Complex and threats from protesters to lock up the National Assembly.

“Legislators are exposed to threats from constituents and others who gain easy access to their offices without any formal appointment.

“It is obvious that with the ongoing security challenges, if proper measures are not taken, it will truncate the legislative activities in the National Assembly. If activities are thwarted, there will be no representation, no oversight, no annual budget, no plenary at all — and that will destabilise legislative procedure, democracy, and the stability of the system, and our nation at large.

The Kano lawmaker noted that robust security management requires a holistic and coordinated approach, integrating multi-layered approaches to secure the National Assembly environment to enable lawmakers to discharge their duties in an atmosphere of peace. “That is why this bill is important. It seeks to address all the challenges as aforesaid and adopt the world’s best practices of parliamentary security procedures and architecture.

“The need for effective security measures in the National Assembly cannot be overemphasised because parliament has to remain accessible to the public. However, this bill is committed to ensuring the best security architecture in the National Assembly — to protect legislators, staff, visitors, and property,” he said.

He urged State Houses of Assembly to take urgent steps to protect their complexes nationwide.

He called for support among stakeholders to ensure the quick passage of the bill, describing it as a major step toward securing Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

“I wish us a peaceful and fruitful hearing that will ultimately bring a turnaround in the National Assembly’s security architecture,” he said.

Natasha approaches Federal High Court, seeks dismissal of federal charges

The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has approached the Federal High Court, Abuja, seeking the dismissal of the six-count charges filed against her by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

She described the charges filed against her by federal authorities as an abuse of prosecutorial power, a violation of due process, and an attempt to shield the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, from public scrutiny.

In a motion filed through her legal team, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan urged the court to dismiss the charges leveled against her on the grounds that they were not in the public interest, but rather to protect the private and political interests of the Senate President and Bello, the Ex- Kogi State Governor.

Her legal team argued that the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) acted contrary to the constitutional principles guiding the exercise of prosecutorial powers under Section 174(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

According to her, the said provision mandates the AGF to act only in “public interest, the interest of justice, and to prevent abuse of legal process.” However, she maintained that the prosecution against her “serves no public purpose” and amounts to “a gross abuse of legal authority.”

In an affidavit supporting her claim, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that the six-count charge, initiated on May 22, 2025, was filed in bad faith, stressing that the alleged defamatory statements cited in the charge, were directed at Senator Akpabio and Yahaya Bello in their personal capacities.

The lawmaker equally attached several Newspapers publications to buttress her point describing them as “public records that reveal the true nature of the person of the Senate President.”

She further argued that the petitions and circumstances leading to her prosecution stemmed from personal and political rivalry, offering “no benefit to the Nigerian public.”

Senator Akpoti- Uduaghan further argued that the case represents a misuse of public resources to settle personal scores and shield individuals with questionable reputations from criticism.

Vigilantes foil IPOB attack in Anambra, kill one suspect

A suspected member of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), was shot dead on Monday during a gun duel with local vigilantes in Ezinifite community, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred around 7:30 a.m. when about 15 armed men stormed the community from neighbouring Imo State through the Amalum Village boundary.

According to members of the Agunechamba Vigilante Group, the gunmen were suspected to be on a mission to attack the community before they were intercepted and engaged in a fierce exchange of gunfire.

During the shootout, one of the attackers was neutralised while others escaped into nearby bushes with gunshot wounds. A pump-action rifle was recovered from the deceased suspect, whose body was later taken to the Ezinifite mortuary.

She wasn’t like this – Senator Nwoko finally opens up, accuses Regina Daniels of drug abuse

Police rescue one-week-old child in Anambra, arrest suspected traffickers

Operatives of Anambra State Police Command have arrested four suspects in connection with child trafficking in Ifite-Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area of the state.

The Command’s spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement.

Ikenga stated that police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, acting on credible intelligence, arrested the suspects in the early hours of Tuesday.

The police spokesman revealed that during the raid, the operatives rescued a one-week-old baby girl and arrested four female suspects in connection with a case of conspiracy and child trafficking.

“The Anambra State Police Command, through its operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, in the early hours of Yesterday, acting on credible intelligence, stormed a location identified as Mama Maternity situated at Ifite-Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area.

“During the raid, the operatives rescued a one-week-old baby girl and arrested four female suspects in connection with a case of conspiracy and child trafficking.

“The arrested suspects include: Elizabeth Okafor, 62 years, Esther Nweke 48 years, Ngozi Maanfa 45 years and Peace Elijah Moses, 25 years respectively. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects conspired among themselves and allegedly purchased a newborn baby girl, barely a week old, for the sum of N1.7 million.

“They had reportedly paid an advance sum of N350,000.00 to the purported biological mother of the child, identified as Peace Elijah Moses, who is among the arrested persons,” the statement read.

Ikenga further disclosed that the baby girl has been safely rescued and is currently under protective care while the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has ordered the immediate transfer of the Case to the State Criminal Investigation Department Gender Unit, Awka, for discreet investigation and necessary prosecution.

Nigerian banks take over Nestoil over $1bn debt

Nigerian banks have taken over and placed Nestoil Limited under receivership over alleged debt amounting to $1 billion.

The development led to the Nigeria Police Force sealing off the corporate headquarters of Nestoil Limited in Victoria Island, Lagos.

A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos had on October 22, 2025, issued an order of Mareva authorising First Trustees and its subsidiary, FBNQuest Merchant Bank, to take over the company’s assets.

Justice D. I. Dipeolu issued the injunction against the defendants — Nestoil Limited and its affiliate, Neconde Energy Limited, as well as Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi and Nnenna Obiejesi, the principal promoters.

Also listed as “affected parties” in the suit are Citibank Limited, Central Securities and Clearing Systems Plc, Fidelity Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, Globus Bank Limited, Keystone Bank Limited, Opay Limited, Polaris Bank Limited, Providus Bank Limited and Stanbic IBTC Bank Limited.

Others are Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, Sterling Bank Plc, Titan Trust Bank Limited, Unity Bank Plc, Wema Bank Plc, Gobowen Exploration and Production Limited, Hammakopp Consortium Limited, Krawcod Properties Limited, Santa Spring Oil and Gas Limited, Marine & Ocean Infinity Nigeria Limited and White Dove Shipping Co Ltd.

The court injunction mandates that all the listed banks are to freeze the assets of the defendants while the substantive case will be heard next month.

Justice Dipeolu restrained dealings in the sum of $1,012,608,386.91 and N430,014,064,380.77—the total indebtedness as of September 30, 2025.

Also there were other debts personally guaranteed by Azudialu-Obiejesi, with over N366.8 billion, $61.2 million, $152 million, and N10.4 billion owed to Access Bank, First Bank, and Zenith Bank.

Two die as speeding car plunges into gutter

Two male youths have been confirmed dead in the Osisioma axis of Aba after a Toyota Camry they were riding in veered off the road and crashed into a deep gutter.

The impact of the crash trapped the victims inside the ill-fated car in the water- logged gutter, resulting to their death before help could arrive.

Confirming the incident to our correspondent, the Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps, Abia State Sector Command, Ngozi Ezeoma said that the incident was reported to FRSC office (FRSC) Yesterday’s morning.

According to her, those who reported the accident said it happened at 1:00 am, noting that FRSC brought out the bodies of two male victims who were trapped.

” Their bodies has been deposited to the mortuary. FRSC recovered the vehicle from a ditch with a crane.

“The vehicle is Toyota Camry. Preliminary investigation revealed excessive speed which made the driver to lose control,” she said.

Some residents of Osisioma wept profusely Tuesday morning when the remains of the victims were brought out of the water.

PDP crisis deepens as Lamido threatens legal action after being denied chairmanship form

Former Jigawa State Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, has threatened to take legal action against the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, after he was allegedly denied the opportunity to purchase the nomination form to contest for the position of National Chairman.

Lamido, who arrived at the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja, yesterday morning, was reportedly prevented from obtaining the form, a development he described as “unacceptable and undemocratic.”

Speaking to journalists outside the party headquarters, the former Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed disappointment over the incident and vowed to seek redress in court if he was not allowed to participate in the forthcoming National Convention slated for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.

“I came here to buy the form for the chairmanship position, but I was denied. This is not the democracy our party stands for,” Lamido said. “If this continues, I will have no choice but to approach the court for justice.”

Lamido had earlier declared his intention to contest the position in a post on his verified Facebook page, announcing that he would visit Wadata Plaza on Monday morning to obtain the nomination form.

His move cames amid growing tension within the PDP ahead of the national convention, where new members of the National Working Committee, NWC, are expected to emerge.

Finally, Kanu declines to enter defence, insists no case against him

The detained self-acclaimed leader of the proscribed separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu has shelved his earlier plan to call witnesses in his defence in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism offences.

The court had on October 24 adjourned till October 27 for Kanu to open his defence.

The IPOB leader had written the court, indicating his intention to call witnesses and applied for witness summons. He also begged the court for time to study his case-file.

When the case was called Yesterday, Kanu said he has gone through the case-file and has realised that there is no valid charge against him.

He argued that since he is convinced that there is no valid charge against him and that he was subjected to unlawful trial, there would be no need for him to open any defence.

Justice James Omotosho asked him to file a written address to that effect and serve the prosecution.

The judge advised him to consult experts in criminal law on the consequences of the option he has chosen.

The judge thereafter adjourned till the 4th, 5th & 6th November for the adoption of the final written addresses based on the defendant’s position that evidence led so far and the charge have not established any case against him, or for the defendant to enter his defence.

‘I’m under serious pressure to join APC’ – Plateau Gov, Mutfwang

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has said he is seriously being pressured by political figures to dump the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Mutfwang made this disclosure during the weekend at an event held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Jos.

The governor noted his decision to remain in the PDP, stressing that only God and the electorate who voted him into office can determine his political direction.

“It is true that they have been putting pressure on me.

“But I told them that only two people can authorise me to change my party — one is the God of heaven, and the other is you, the people,” he said.

This is coming a few weeks after APC leaders in Plateau moved to block Mutfwang from joining the party.

The APC leaders, at a recent stakeholders’ meeting in Jos, unanimously endorsed a motion seeking to stop Mutfwang from defecting to the party.

The motion was reportedly moved by Festus Fuanter, former Deputy National Secretary of the APC.

“We don’t want anybody coming to our party. You do your thing, and we’ll do ours,” Fuanter said at the meeting.

He added that the party was confident of its strength ahead of the 2027 general elections and did not need external reinforcement.

Reacting to the development, Mutfwang had said those rejecting his rumoured defection were acting out of fear.

Father arrested for defiling two daughters in Enugu

The Enugu State Government has confirmed the arrest of one Ozioma Okonkwo for allegedly defiling his two biological daughters, aged two and five.

Okonkwo, who is a native of Imo State residing in Enugu, was arrested on the night of Saturday, October 25, 2025, after a concerned citizen alerted authorities about the disturbing incident.

This was contained in a statement issued by the state Ministry of Children, Gender Affairs, and Social Development on Sunday.

According to the statement, the suspect is in police custody and will be charged in court once investigations are concluded.

The ministry also revealed that the two children have been admitted into a government-approved shelter, where they are receiving medical care and psychosocial support.

Their mother, described as deeply traumatised, will also undergo therapy under the supervision of the ministry’s social welfare and counselling team.

“The Enugu State Government commends the Nigeria Police Force for their swift and professional response, which led to the prompt arrest of the suspect,” the statement read.

Reaffirming its zero-tolerance policy on sexual and gender-based violence, the ministry warned that all offenders would face the full weight of the law.

The ministry also condemned the act, calling it “a heart-wrenching and unacceptable crime against innocence.”

The statement reads, “The Enugu State Government under the leadership of Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, remains unwavering in its commitment to protect every child and ensure that perpetrators of such evil acts are brought to justice.

“No child should ever have to endure such trauma, especially from those meant to provide care and protection.”

The government also thanked citizens for their vigilance and cooperation, urging continued support in efforts to safeguard the rights and dignity of women and children across the state.

In 2022, a father, Michake Ogbar, was sentenced to triple life imprisonment for defiling and raping his three daughters of age 10, 20, and 24 years.

Ogbar faced three counts bordering on defilement and rape, offences which violate Sections 137 and 258(1) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Lagos boxer kills carpenter during dispute over burst football in Ikorodu

A professional boxer, popularly known as Bintin, has allegedly punched a local carpenter, identified simply as Yellow, to death during an altercation over a burst football in the Adamo area of Ikorodu, Lagos State.

According to eyewitnesses, the confrontation began after Yellow, known in the neighbourhood for his fair complexion, accidentally punctured a football belonging to the boxer’s young son.

The boy’s mother reportedly called her husband, who was away from home at the time, to inform him about the incident.

Upon returning, Bintin allegedly confronted the carpenter in anger, accusing him of deliberately damaging his child’s ball.

The heated exchange soon turned physical until the community head, known as the Baale, intervened and ordered Yellow to replace the damaged football.

Witnesses said that Yellow complied and left to purchase a new ball. However, the boxer, still enraged, pursued him and struck him with a heavy punch on the forehead.

The carpenter collapsed on the spot and was rushed to the Agbowa General Hospital, where doctors confirmed him dead on arrival.

A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity described the boxer as a troublesome figure known for his aggressive behaviour.

“He has always been arrogant and quick to fight. Everyone in the area knows his temper,” the resident said.

Following the incident, Bintin reportedly surrendered himself at the Imota Police Station, where he was taken into custody.

Confirming the development, the Baale of the community stated that the deceased would be buried later in the day according to Islamic rites, adding that normalcy had since returned to the area.

There were initial rumours suggesting that the suspect might have been released, but police authorities dismissed the claims.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the incident, assuring that the suspect remains in custody.

“Divisional Police Officers do not have the authority to release a murder suspect. I have spoken with the Divisional Head, and the case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, for further investigation,” she said.

 Eze Obi Ejeshi warns against ‘Supreme Council of Oha’

…Inaugurates Oha-in-Council of Emekuku

The Traditional Ruler of Emekuku Ancient Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Eze Obi Ejeshi, (Ezeukwu IV of Emekuku), has formally inaugurated the highly respected Oha-in-Council of Emekuku Autonomous Community, marking the completion of his cabinet’s full configuration.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Eze Obi Ejeshi charged the newly inducted members to uphold integrity, discipline, and fairness in the discharge of their duties. The revered monarch expressed satisfaction at the successful inauguration, reminding the council  members that their positions are a call to service, not an avenue for oppression or abuse of authority within the community.

Reacting to the on-going rumours about the existence of a “Supreme Council of Oha” in Emekuku, the royal father dismissed such claims as false and illegal. He clarified that no such body exists under the law governing traditional institutions in Imo State.

Quoting from the Imo State of Nigeria traditional rulers, Autonomous Communities and Related Matters Law No. 16 of 2016—which repealed the 2006 Law No. 6, the monarch explained that the law clearly recognizes the traditional ruler as the custodian of the people’s culture and traditions, and the final authority within an autonomous community, working in council with his officially constituted cabinet.

“There is no such body as a Supreme Council of Oha anywhere in Emekuku,” EzeEjeshi declared. “The law is explicit that the Traditional Ruler, in concert with his cabinet, remains the sole governing traditional authority. Any parallel body or self-styled group claiming such powers is acting outside the law.”

The Eze further warned individuals parading themselves as members of Supreme Council of Oha to desist immediately, or face the full weight of the law. He explained that with the inauguration of the Oha-in-Council, the circle of his traditional cabinet is now complete, paving the way for a more structured and unified governance of the community.

The Traditional Ruler also expressed profound appreciation to the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator (Dr.) Hope Uzodimma, for his continued support to traditional institutions across the state. He commended the governor for fostering unity, dignity, and responsible leadership among Traditional Rulers.

The newly inaugurated members of the Oha-in-Council of Emekuku were also charged to work collaboratively for the peace, progress, and development of the community. Members of Oha-in-Council who were inaugurated were, Oha Damian Onyegbule, OhaOkechukwuChikwere, OhaNnamdiEjemmanu, and Oha Godwin Chukwu.

Ogbenna emerges Imo ADC caretaker chairman

…As Apex Leader, Uba urges committee to work for party’s interest,

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), Imo State Chapter, on Saturday October 18, inaugurated the Comr. Ogbenna Vitalis Chima-led Caretaker Committee, to pilot the affairs of the party in the state.

The inauguration was held at Uzii Mission, Mbaise Road, Owerri, with the venue filled to capacity.

Speaking during the inauguration, the Imo ADC Apex Leader, Comr Chinonso Uba (Nonso Nkwa) charged the newly inaugurated Caretaker Committee to work for the party’s interest diligently and selflessly.

The highly respected radio broadcaster, further charged the new leaders to ensure that the party’s vision, rules and regulations were upheld in all their exercises, and avoid any act capable of  derailing the integrity of the party. Nonso Nkwa also admonished  them to uphold the ADC terms of reference (T.O.R) for harmonization.

He went on to enjoin them to deliver ADC mandate entrusted into their hands without fear or favour.

Also speaking, the new caretaker chairman, Comr Ogbenna who is also known as Aluta Prince, said he was happy to be inaugurated as the Caretaker Committee Chairman, and vowed to bring back the party’s lost glory, as well as take the party to enviable height, bring peace and unity to the party as well carry everybody along.

There was jubilation, and praises for Nonso Nkwa for stepping up at the right time, to correct the anomalies allegedly ochestrated by the Okoroma led Rebuild ADC. Ochi War as he is also called, was also commended for not compromising his integrity for a morsel of bread, not just for the sake of the party, but also for the benefits of Imolites in general.

Meanwhile, the Imo ADC has distanced itself from any coalition with the rebuild Imo structure, noting that the former Imo ADC chairman, Prof James Okoroma and the Rebuild Imo were not working for the interest of the party, and have no respect and regard for the real ADC members, or the rules and regulations that brought them together.

The ADC  Caretaker Committee was  described a child of circumstances which sprang from the imbalance brought about by the anomaly created when Rebuild Imo was integrated into ADC  which later metamorphosed into Rebuild Imo ADC,  because the original members of ADC were dropped from the Executive lists at both state, local government and ward levels and filled with Rebuild members without regard to ADC  template for integration.  While others deemed worthy were relegated to insignificant roles except Prof. James Okoroma who allegedly exchanged, transacted,  maneuvered, and sold the party’s leadership at various state levels  to Rebuild Imo,  in order to maintain his position as the state ADC  Chairman. An action that  have caused internal wranglings within the party.

It was gathered that the ADC  integration  template 3.1  states that ” All persons being considered for membership of the leadership teams and any committees shall first establish their membership by formal registration and obtaining party membership cards” ,

Also template 3.2  states that  “In all cases, integration of members of the coalition, as well as other new members with the existing ADC structures shall be strictly in line with the provisions of the extant ADC constitution”.

It was also gathered that none of these rules and regulations were observed during the coalition process,  meaning that,  the constitutional provisions of ADC in matters of coalition were not carried out.

It was also revealed that the 30% to ADC and 70% to Coalition parties sharing formula for executive members of the party as provided by the ADC coalition template were not also carried out in the appointment of party executives, instead, they dismantled the executive structures of the party, and filled them with members of Rebuild Imo which are not even a political party nor have a chance to be accepted as a Coalition member.

Tourism: Driving force for economic development – Egemba

By Jude Onyenedogha

Imo State Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality and Culture, Barr. Jerry Egemba has asserted that tourism is more than leisure or travel, but a driving force for Imo state’s economic development, social inclusion, the preservation of culture and heritage.

Egemba made this assertion in his address during the World Tourism Day celebration, tagged “World Tourism Day Extravaganza 2025: the Imo Idea”, with the theme: Tourism and Sustainable Transformation, which held in Owerri, the Imo State capital city on Thursday.

The Tourism , Hospitality and Culture Commissioner further described tourism as the soul of progress that touches lives, creates jobs and shapes the identity of communities.

He added that under the purposeful leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma, Imo was rapidly evolving into a hub of culture, hospitality, creativity and enterprise, adding, “we are not just constructing roads, we are connecting dreams, we are not only building hotels, we are building hope, we are not only developing tourist sites, we are transforming lives”.

He listed some of the achievements of the present Imo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma in the Tourism, Hospitality and Culture sector to include; Building the foundation for tourism to thrive, through improvement in infrastructure and accessibility through quality road networks, massive establishment of Hospitality, Convention and Leisure facilities.

Others were; Expanding the Imo tourism landscape through bold infrastructural and economic initiatives, cultural renaissance and creative industry synergy, among others.

The Commissioner went further to list plans in  the vision ahead for the sector to include;

Completing and upgrading key tourism facilities across the state, expanding rural tourism through better access roads, lighting, and directional signage leading to cultural and ecological sites.

Further listed were; Branding and promoting Imo’s festivals, heritage and destinations, for national and global visibility, launching a comprehensive Imo Tourism Brand Campaign, leveraging digital technology to showcase our culture, beauty and hospitality to the world and empowering our youths with practical training in tourism management, catering, tour guiding, event planning and digital promotion, ensuring they are active participants in the new tourism economy.

The event which was chaired by a renowned  culture and tourism enthusiast, Ndaa Paddy Obinna, featured; Cultural dance performance by Unique Nursery and Primary School, performance by Omenimo cultural troupe, performance by a team of the Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN).

Others were; Drama performance by Creative Art Unit of the  Ministry of Tourism, Hospitality and Culture, lecture on Tourism and Sustainable Transformation, by Engr. Chibuike Diala, release of Balloons, to signify success of the celebration, among others.

Don’t succumb to intimidation – APC chieftain advises INEC chair, Amupitan

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, (APC) in Osun, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has advised the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, not to succumb to any form of intimidation while discharging his duties.

Oyintiloye, a member of the defunct APC Presidential Campaign Council, (PCC), made this statement while speaking with newsmen on Sunday in Osogbo.

He urged the INEC boss to demonstrate a high level of courage and integrity in the face of intimidation from politicians, especially opposition parties, ahead of the off-cycle and general elections.

Oyintiloye, a former lawmaker, also advised Amupitan not to disappoint Nigerians and to resist all forms of undue pressure from politicians, especially opposition, who may seek to blackmail the Commission to discredit valid electoral process.

According to him, the commission, under Amupitan’s leadership, must act in line with the established rules and regulations, as well as, acceptable standards of practice to avoid committing errors in the face of pressure from politicians.

“All eyes are on the new INEC boss, and I want to advise him to stay focused and resist all forms of pressure that could undermine the integrity of the Commission.

“Amupitan must ignore all forms of negative criticism and ensure he abides by the laid-down rules and regulations for the conduct of free and fair elections in the country.

“Those who lost elections will continue to undermine the efforts of the Commission towards conducting a credible elections in the country for their own personal gain, but the INEC boss must fear no one. He must apply the rules without favour,” he said.

Oyintiloye also commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Amupitan for the noble job, saying his choice could not have been a mistake.

The APC chieftain said that Amupitan’s appointment shows that he is a man of integrity and honour with capacity to sanitise the country’s electoral process.

He noted that the Anambra governorship election in November and the 2026 governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun would be a litmus test for Amupitan.

Police arrest herbalist, step-brother over murder of 22yr old yahoo boy

Police detectives from Agbor Area Command have arrested a twenty year old herbalist, Amechi Okwuokenye and his elder step-brother over the alleged abduction and murder of a suspected internet fraudster, Friday Liberty, aged 22 years in his shrine at Owa-Alidima in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State.

The herbalist was arrested at his shrine on 23rd October 2025. He and his suspected accomplice are currently in police custody.

The Police also recovered the corpse of the deceased from the suspect’s shrine and deposited same in the mortuary.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe confirmed the report in a statement sent to newsmen in Warri.

The statement said, “It was a case of the hunter becoming the hunted, when on the 30th of September 2025, Mr Friday Liberty, aged 22 years old, visited his herbalist, whom he had known for some time now, but this time, he never returned. The family, who initially didn’t know what had happened to their brother, started looking for him.”

“The girlfriend of the deceased then informed the family that she heard a conversation about the said Friday liberty and a certain herbalist, and advised that they should reach out to the said herbalist.

“The family contacted the herbalist, who denied seeing him but promised to do some spiritual incantations so their brother could return alive.

“Having spent money on the herbalist, and the result was not forthcoming, they then reported the matter at the Agbor Area command via a petition on 14th October 2025.

“And this decision proved to be the turning point in the case as the area command detectives embarked on an intelligence-led investigation.

“During the course of the investigation, the detectives uncovered the last person whom Friday Liberty contacted, and found out it was the same herbalist who denied knowing his whereabouts. Surveillance was laid around his shrine at Owa-Alidima in Ika North East LGA, for days, until he was arrested on 23rd October 2025, in his shrine while hiding inside a refrigerator.

“Upon his arrest, the herbalist Amechi Okwuokenye, aged 20 years, confessed that both he and his brother Smart Okwuokenye, aged 26years, kidnapped the victim liberty Friday and the motorcycle rider identified as Isioma Ugbeje, who carried him to the shrine.

“They further stated that Friday Liberty has been his long-time customer who frequently visits him to hypnotise clients so they could give him money easily( in his words, ‘to tie clients ‘).

“The herbalist said his elder brother approached him that he needed money and advised him to lure any of his clients so they could kidnap him and ask for ransom, and the unlucky person they could lure was Liberty Friday.

“They kidnapped him and the Okada Rider and demanded a ransom of N10,000,000. When they noticed that the plan was not working, they murdered him and the motorcycle rider and dumped their bodies in a soak away pit by the shrine.”

SP Edafe stated that the suspects were in custody, and the remains of the victims have been evacuated and deposited at the mortuary for autopsy.”

He added that, “The commissioner of Police, Delta State, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda assures the public that the command will ensure that justice is served in this case.”

Gov Mbah, a strong force in APC — Tinubu Support Group

The Director General of the Tinubu Support Group, Dr. Umar Tanko Yakasai, has described Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State as a “strong force” within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Dr. Yakasai made the remark on Friday during the inauguration of the South East Movement for Tinubu 2027 in Enugu, noting that Governor Mbah’s successful defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC with his complete political structure reflects his performance and leadership in the state.

According to Yakasai, both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Mbah share similar political values anchored on hard work, vision, and a commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

“You don’t even need headlights to drive through Enugu at night because of the streetlights. The roads are smooth, the drainages are in order, and the city is very clean. Governor Mbah has completed legacy projects such as the International Conference Centre and the revitalized Presidential Hotel, Enugu,” Yakasai said.

He added that Governor Mbah’s developmental strides and leadership style have earned him overwhelming support from the people of Enugu State, making him a formidable force within the APC.

“It is because of his vision and work ethic that the entire people of Enugu State agreed to move with him from PDP to APC. We in the APC are confident that we have a gargantuan force in Governor Mbah, who will guarantee President Tinubu’s success in 2027,” he stated.

Yakasai expressed optimism about the APC’s growing influence in the South East, attributing it to the commitment of the region’s governors to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He commended the leadership of the South East Movement for Tinubu 2027 for its grassroots mobilization efforts, emphasizing that President Tinubu’s administration is committed to inclusivity and national unity.

“Some of those who got key national appointments under President Tinubu do not even share the same political background with him. That’s proof of his commitment to inclusivity,” Yakasai noted.

In his address, the Acting National Chairman of the movement, Professor Damian Opata, lauded President Tinubu’s economic reforms—particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and floating of the naira—saying the positive impacts are beginning to reflect in the economy.

He pledged that the movement would work to ensure President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, with structures to be replicated across all states, senatorial zones, local governments, and wards in the South East.

Opata also appreciated Governor Mbah for his support, assuring that the movement would collaborate with other political structures to guarantee victory for both Tinubu and Mbah in 2027.

The Chairman of the occasion, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa, represented by Henry Okenwa, commended Governor Mbah for connecting Enugu State to “the centre of governance” by joining the APC, describing him as a catalyst for development.

Leaders of the South East Movement for Tinubu 2027 include:

Dr. Nze Amechi Okolie – Acting Chairman, Board of Trustees

Prof. Damian Opata – Acting National Chairman

State Coordinators: Dan Agbalanze (Enugu), Ojisi Ogbaga (Abia), Chigozie Ogbu (Ebonyi), Tochukwu Amalu (Anambra), and John Uchenwoke (Imo).

Photo: DG, Tinubu Support Group, Dr. Umar Tanko Yakasai, addressing members of the South East Movement for Tinubu 2027 during their inauguration in Enugu State on Friday.

Reps summon NAFDAC, police, others for illicit drug probe

The House of Representatives has invited critical stakeholders including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Standard Organisation of Nigeria, Federal Ministries of Health and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to submit memoranda ahead of its probe into the prevalence in the use, trafficking and regulation of illicit drugs across the country.

Also invited for the submission of input are “Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of MAN, PMG-MAN, Major pharmaceutical companies (Emzor, Fidson, May and Baker, Juhel, Dana), Nigerian Breweries Plc, Guinness Nigeria Plc, International Distillers Limited and Tobacco industry representatives.”

Others include law enforcement agencies including “The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigerian Correctional Service, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and the Nigerian Medical Association.

The Association of Psychiatrists in Nigeria, National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Nigerian Bar Association, Civil Society Network on Substance Abuse and the National Youth Council of Nigeria are expected to make input.

The Committee also invited development partners comprising the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, World Health Organisation, United Nations Development Programme, US Agency for International Development and the United Nations Children’s Fund are also billed to submit memoranda to the Committee.

Recall that the House had earlier constituted an Ad-hoc Committee to probe the prevalence, regulation and impact of drugs, tobacco, alcohol, illicit trafficking and related crimes across the country.

The panel chaired by the member representing Owo/Ose Federal Constituency, Ondo State, Oluwatimehin Adelegbe was constituted following the adoption of a motion to probe the prevalence of drug abuse by Nigerians nationwide.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Adelegbe said the Committee is charged with the mandate of examining the root causes, identifying institutional weaknesses, regulatory and enforcement gaps and developing practical solutions to combat drug use and trafficking.

The Committee is also expected to come up with recommendations aimed at strengthening national drug control mechanisms, promoting public health and protecting citizens from substance-related harms.

“In view of the mandate and the urgency attached to it, the committee has resolved to interface with relevant stakeholders and other Nigerians with a view to identifying the causes and proffering a solution,” the statement read in part.

He urged Nigerians to submit memoranda to the committee “Addressing concerns, recommendations and proposed interventions on the subject matter,” to guide the panel draft its report for submission to the House for further legislative action.

Dangote begins refinery expansion to 1.4mbpd

The Dangote Refinery has announced the expansion of the facility from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million bpd.

The President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, made the announcement at a press briefing in Lagos on Sunday.

Flanked by his friend, the Chairman of First Bank, Mr Femi Otedola, Dangote said this would make the refinery the largest in the world.

According to him, the construction work for the expansion is expected to begin without further delay.  “We are expanding the Dangote Petroleum Refinery from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day.

“Upon completion, this will make it the largest refinery in the world, surpassing the Jamnagar Refinery in India,” he said.

He added that 65,000 workers would be needed for the construction exercise, and 85 per cent would be Nigerians.

Dangote added that the refinery would also ramp up its power generation from 500MW to 1,000 MW. He also stated that the refinery would produce Euro 6 standard, up from the current Euro 5 spec.Dangote noted that the refinery would be listed on the stock exchange in 2026, giving Nigerians the opportunity to be shareholders

The billionaire businessman appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his support.

“The expansion is expected to be completed in three years”, he said.

Nigerian lawmaker recommends creation of six new states

Nigeria’s Senate and House of Representatives joint committee has approved the creation of six additional states in the country.

This was one of the key resolutions reached at the end of the two-day retreat, co-chaired by the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, in Lagos.

The committee considered 55 requests for state creation on Saturday and unanimously resolved that six additional states be created in the country.

They considered a total of 69 bills, 55 state creation requests, two boundary adjustments, and 278 local government creation requests during the retreat.

“We have been in this process for the past two years, engaging our constituents, critical stakeholders, institutions, civil society organisations and interest groups in town hall meetings, interactive sessions and public hearings, harvesting and synthesising views and perspectives which has ultimately culminated in what we have here today – 69 bills, 55 state creation requests, two boundary adjustments and 278 local government creation requests,” Senator Barau was quoted in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir.

Accordingly, if the recommendation comes through, it would increase the number of states in the country from 36 to 42.

The resolution means that there would be the creation of one additional state in each of the six geopolitical zones: North West, North East, North Central, South West, South South and South East.

With the approval, South South will now have seven states, South West seven, South East six, North West eight, North East seven and North Central seven.

NDLEA arrests 75-year-old grandpa for drug peddling in Abia

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested a 75-year-old with 4.7kg of skunk seized from him at Ovum village, Obingwa Local Government Area of Abia State.

A statement by the NDLEA spokesman, Femi Babafemi, on Sunday in Abuja, said the suspect was arrested on Wednesday, Oct. 22.

Babafemi said that another 60-year-old was also nabbed with 225 grams of the same substance at Apanta village in the same LGA.

Meanwhile, 150kg of skunk was recovered during a raid at Lot camp, Ikun Akoko, in Ondo.

Babafemi added that two suspects were also nabbed with 234.5kg of the same substance at Yan aya, Saminaka in Lere LGA, Kaduna State on Friday, Oct. 24.

“Another set of suspects arrested with 8,600 pills of tramadol 225mg and rohypnol along the Abuja/Kaduna highway.

“At the Seme border area of Lagos, NDLEA operatives on Wednesday, Oct. 22, nabbed another suspect with 55kg skunk at Ashipa area of Badagry.

“Another suspect was arrested with 121.3 litres of skuchies at Itoga Badagry,” he said.

In another development, in Zamfara state, NDLEA operatives on patrol along Gummi-Anka road on Monday, Oct. 20, arrested a suspect in possession of an AK-47 rifle.

Babafemi said that the suspect was also with 1,746 assorted calibres of ammunition, for AK 47 and GPMG rifles, while moving them from Sokoto to Bagega forest, Anka LGA, Zamfara.

“Both the suspect and the exhibits have since been handed over to the appropriate security agency for further investigation,” he said.

According to him, commands and formations of the Agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities in schools, worship centres, workplaces and communities, among others, in the past week.

“These include: WADA sensitization lecture to students and staff of Asabari Grammar School, Iluwa Isale Oke, Saki West LGA, Oyo; Government Day Girls Secondary School, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi; St. Mark’s College, Nsude, Enugu; Kusaki Secondary School, Gboko North, Benue;

“Others were Government Day Secondary School, Serti- Baruwa, Gashaka LGA, Taraba; Police Children School 2, Port Harcourt, Rivers and Hajara Ahmad International School, Tudun Wada, Kano state, among others”.

ASUU suspends two-week warning strike

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, has announced the suspension of its two-week warning strike, giving the Federal Government a one-month window to conclude the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement and address other unresolved issues affecting the nation’s university system.

President of the union, Prof. Chris Piwuna, disclosed this on Wednesday during a press briefing in Abuja, where he explained that the suspension followed fruitful engagements with the Federal Government and key interventions from the National Assembly.

Piwuna recalled that ASUU had declared the warning strike on October 13, 2025, after what he described as the government’s failure to respond to several appeals to address the lingering renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement and other welfare-related concerns of university lecturers.

He said, “When we gathered here about 10 days ago to painfully declare a warning strike, it was a decision that left us with no other choice. The government had ignored our repeated overtures to address issues critical to the survival of Nigeria’s public universities.”

The ASUU president revealed that following the commencement of the strike, the Federal Government re-engaged the union through a team led by Alhaji Yayale Ahmed, which met with ASUU representatives on October 16 and 18, to discuss the government’s response to the draft renegotiated agreement.

According to him, although the meetings did not fully resolve all issues, the union recognised that significant progress had been made compared to the pre-strike period.

He said, “We have not achieved all our objectives, but we are certainly not where we were before the strike began. This shows that had the government responded earlier, there would have been no need for the action.”

Piwuna also commended the intervention of the Senate Committees on Tertiary Education and TETFund, and Labour, as well as the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, whose mediation, he said, had rekindled hope for a lasting resolution.

He stated that the National Executive Council (NEC) of ASUU, after an emergency meeting held from October 21–22, 2025, reviewed the situation and concluded that the warning strike had achieved part of its purpose, particularly in compelling the government to return to the negotiation table.

“While noting that more work remains to be done, NEC resolved to suspend the warning strike to allow for a conducive atmosphere for further engagement,” Piwuna announced.

He explained that the decision was taken in deference to students, parents, the media, the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and other well-meaning Nigerians who had shown solidarity and mediated in the dispute.

ASUU, however, warned that should the government fail to resolve the outstanding issues within the one-month window, the union would be left with no option but to resume strike action without further notice.

“The struggle continues,” Piwuna declared, calling on patriotic Nigerians to prevail on the government to honour its commitments to guarantee industrial harmony and ensure stability in the academic calendar.

Why they don’t want Nnamdi Kanu out alive – Sowore

Former presidential candidate and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore has alleged that the Nigerian government does not want Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB out alive.

Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services, DSS since 2021 when he was rearrested over alleged terrorism and treason following his involvement in separatist movement.

On Monday, Sowore led a major protest in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, demanding Kanu’s release.

Several protesters including Kanu’s lawyer and brother were arrested and remanded in the Kuje prison.

In a post on his Facebook page yesterday, Sowore alleged that Kanu is continuously being incarcerated because “they know the lies sustaining their power will collapse once Mazi Nnamdi Kanu walks out as a free man”.

According to Sowore, authorities do not “want Mazi Nnamdi Kanu freed alive, and they are united in that mission.

“Ever since they realized that their web of deceit was beginning to unravel, they have gone into overdrive”.

The activist further declared that the authorities “know that the people’s eyes have opened, and the fake political careers were built on deceit, destruction, and the decimation of the oppressed will not survive the truth.

“They fear his freedom because it will expose their fraud, greed, backstabbing, and betrayal of justice”.

Police recover two children stolen from Anambra in Delta, Edo

Following a nationwide investigation, operatives of the Anambra State Police Command attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CSID) Gender Section, successfully rescued two missing children, namely: Sunday Aliya (14 years) and Ebenezer Emmanuel (12 years), after nine months of intensive and intelligence-led investigation that extended across several States of the Federation.

According to a statement issued by the police public relations officer in Anambra state, IkengaTochukwu, a Superintendent of Police, the case was first reported at Fegge Police Station, Onitsha, on 18th January 2025.

It was revealed that the guardian of the victims sent the two boys to fetch water at a nearby borehole, but they failed to return home.

Following the initial investigation, the case was transferred to the SCID Awka for further action.

The operatives acting on credible intelligence traced and arrested one Yusuf in Katsina State. During interrogation, the suspect provided valuable leads which guided the operatives to Umunede, Delta State, where one of the victims, Sunday Aliya, was rescued.

Further investigation led to the recovery of the second victim, Ebenezer Emmanuel, in Benin City, Edo State.

The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, while commending the operatives for their perseverance and professionalism, reiterated the Command’s resolve to follow every lead in any Case, no matter how long it takes, to ensure that justice is served.

He also appreciated the cooperation of residents whose information contributed to the success of the rescue operation and urged the public to continue to support the Police with information for a better result.

Meanwhile, the Command has contacted the parents of the rescued children, who reside in Ilorin, Kwara State, and arrangements are ongoing for their formal reunification.

NIS arrests 90 illegal immigrants in Rivers

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has apprehended over 90 illegal immigrants in Rivers State.

‎The Comptroller of NIS, Rivers State Command, CIS Yabagi Abdulmajeed, made the disclosure when he led his team to pay a courtesy visit to the Secretary to State Government (SSG), Benibo Alabraba, in Port Harcourt yesterday.

Anabraba called on  NIS to effectively implement the recently reviewed Expatriate Administration System (EAS) Policy that comprised the Expatriate Quota (EQ) programme in the state.

‎The SSG noted that the policy was designed to promote knowledge transfer, which he described as significant for local content and economic growth.

Alabraba said the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara would continue to partner and encourage the services of the NIS and sister agencies for national security and benefits of all Rivers residents.

He said: “The Expatriate Quota (EQ) programme was created to improve and grow our local content and personnel. By attaching our people to expatriates, this policy will help us have efficient manpower and seamless technology transfer. Attachees learning the technology from expatriates coming into Nigeria and working here, will also help us to grow our local industry.

“I encourage you to continue to uphold the good works as Rivers State Government will continue to work towards providing employment and an environment for the economy to thrive, it is also good that on your part, you are helping to develop our own manpower.

“We will continue to uphold an open-door policy, ready to partner, participate and encourage the service”.

On the illegal immigrants, CIS Abdulmajeed explained that they were undocumented immigrants fished out by officers in different parts of the state.

He called on Nigerians to desist from collaborating or hiding such category of persons for the safety of all.

‎Abdulmajeed disclosed that NIS had effected many reforms in the visa and passport issuance.

Again, Enugu pulls down property used for kidnapping

The Enugu State Government, on Tuesday, demolished yet another building used for kidnapping in the state, an action it said is in line with the laws of the state.

Security agencies had, during the week, rescued a kidnap victim at the demolished property, a bungalow at Umueze Awkunanaw in Nkanu West LGA of the state, used by the prime suspect, Igwenagu Ogbodo, and his gang for holding victims captive.

Ogbodo and some of his gang members, however, escaped with various degrees of gunshot wounds when security agencies stormed the property.

Speaking to newsmen during the demolition, the Council Chairman of Nkanu West LGA, Hon. John Ogbodo, commended Governor Mbah for consistently demonstrating political will in the war against insecurity.

“The prime suspect and his gang kidnapped the person and brought him here. He was rescued and his vehicle recovered. Some arms and ammunition were equally recovered.

“I thank His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah, for his political will and demonstration of capacity in line with what he told Ndi Enugu that any house that harbours criminals or is used to aid criminality will be demolished. That is exactly what is happening here today and it is in line with the laws of Enugu State.

“This is not the first house to be demolished in Enugu by this administration, neither is it the second nor the third. But this is the first one to be demolished in Nkanu West, and I know this is going to be a deterrent to other criminal elements.

“I urge every community and Presidents-General to be very mindful of people around them. They should keep an eye on the people and report any suspicious movement to security agencies.

“Again, I want to use this opportunity to advise anyone who has a property in Enugu State to be mindful of his or her tenants and any activities ongoing in their property. This is because any house used to harbour criminality like kidnap victims stands demolished,” he stated.

He said the demolition would serve as a deterrent to the remaining criminals in the state, as there was no hiding place for them given the level of technology and manpower deployed by the governor to stamp out insecurity and criminality from Enugu State.

“The guy who did this is still on the run, but I know that Enugu State Government has the capacity and the equipment to capture him.

“Others who are into criminality should know that there is no hiding place in Enugu State of today because the arm of the government will catch up with them,” he concluded.

Some community members who witnessed the demolition testified to the suspect’s criminal ways and antecedents, noting that he was an ex-convict.

Ikechukwu Amos, who spoke to newsmen, said: “I can’t deny it, he is a criminal. I am their elder and I know how all of them behave. We have been advising him, but he refused. You have seen the resultant effect of his unholy character.

“This same boy returned from prison not too long ago. Since then, he has been maintaining bad company, using this place for all manner of illicit activities like smoking Indian hemp and other hard substances. I am not surprised that something of this nature will happen, and it has happened.”

Another indigene of Umueze Awkunanaw, Edeh Chidera Kingsley, also spoke about the prime suspect’s criminal records: “Any young man who doesn’t want to work to get money but chooses kidnapping should face the music.

“Fela, as he is also known, is a lazy man. If you call him for work, he would say that he would not go. He finds pleasure in drinking.”

The Councilor of the ward, Uchenna Jideofor, thanked the governor for putting into effect the harsh measures prescribed by the laws of Enugu State against kidnapping, describing the demolition as a welcome development for the people and leaders of Umueze Awkunanaw.

“The guy is notorious in criminal activities. In my first tenure, I made sure that some of them were remanded in prison, but after everything he was later released by some people from the community. And any time they come back, people will be witnessing insecurity in the community. The guy is involved in so many things.

“This morning, I had a confrontation with the neighbours, telling them that they are not doing us good by not giving us information on what is happening. But what is happening here now will serve as a lesson to others that have chosen the fast lane,” he said.

UNICEF, FG train journalists on ethical reporting, child rights

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, yesterday commenced a two-day media training on ethical journalism and child rights reporting for journalists drawn from the South-East, South-South, and North-Central regions of Nigeria.

The training, funded by UNICEF, is aimed at strengthening the capacity of media practitioners to report children’s issues with sensitivity, fairness, and respect for human dignity. It also sought  to promote responsible storytelling that safeguards the identities and rights of children.

Falayi Temitoye, Assistant Director and Head of the Child Rights Information Bureau, who represented the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Chinasa Ogbodo, stressed the importance of ethical journalism in shaping public attitudes toward children.

“It is a real pleasure to welcome you all to this important training on ethical and child rights reporting,” Temitoye said. “The media holds immense power, the power to inform, inspire, and hold institutions accountable. But with that power comes the responsibility to report with integrity, sensitivity, and respect for human dignity.”

She urged journalists to exercise caution when reporting on children, noting that “every image, every word, and every frame we publish can have lasting consequences on a child’s life, safety, and future.” Temitoye commended UNICEF for its continued partnership with the ministry and encouraged participants to make the most of the training sessions.

Anselm Audu, UNICEF’s Chief Field Officer in Port Harcourt, in his keynote address, highlighted the crucial role of ethical journalism in protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children.

“The media has the power to amplify the voices of children and draw attention to the issues affecting their well-being,” Audu said. “But that same power must be used responsibly.”

He added that ethical journalism fosters trust, prevents harm, and promotes peace. “Ethical reporting is the antidote to misinformation and hate speech,” he noted. “It helps to calm tempers, promote dialogue, and build peace, especially during times of social tension.”

Susan Akila, UNICEF Nigeria’s Communications Specialist and Acting Chief of Communication, Advocacy, and Partnership, reaffirmed the agency’s strong collaboration with the media.

“We do not take our media partners for granted because you are the foot soldiers,” she said. “Children do not have a voice, and journalists are in the best position to speak for them responsibly.”

The two-day workshop featured  interactive discussions, case studies, and practical sessions designed to deepen journalists’ understanding of ethical standards in reporting on children and to strengthen their commitment to child-sensitive journalism across media platforms.

Imo government signs MOU with Futo-CeSPESS

By Ezinne Ude

Imo State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Federal University of Technology, Owerri -CeSPESS, for more partnership with the organization.

Signing the MOU on behalf of the state government in his Office, The Secretary to the Imo State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu described the Project as important landmark that will ease the financial burden of the state government.

He disclosed that education advancement of Imo people is paramount to the present administration, and it was the reason the governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma established a Digital Center where graduates are being trained on Digital Economy, to enable them become self-employed.

Chief Iwu asserted that the state government attaches importance on procurement issues and it would do everything possible to ensure sustainability of Futo-CeSPESS for the benefits of Imo people.

He therefore commended the Director of the Center and his management team for initiating and running such a wonderful program.

Speaking, Director General, Bureau for Public Procurement and Price Intelligence, Chief Kelechi GiftGod Doro described the signing of MOU as the great achievement for Imo people. He maintained that the Center for Excellence was the only center that certifies procurement officers to become professionals, stressing that everything in procurement sustainable environment has been sealed by the department for the next four to five years.

He added that whatever that needed to be done in terms of procurement would be done by the Center with no cost effect.

The Director of Futo-CeSPESS, Prof Chris Nwokobi, disclosed that the center is a global training center, being funded by World Bank and supported by NUC and FUTO happens to be the only Center in the entire South East.

He said that the Center had been training some staff of various ministries and Chairmen and Staff of Local Government Areas on issue of procurement free of charge, adding that they thought it wise to enter MOU with the State Housing, FUTO, so that their works would be properly documented, and the people will maximally benefit from the training.

Dr Nwokobi said the Center operates an open door policy and was able to coordinate and enjoy mutual benefits.

While throwing more light on issues pertaining Procurement,Prof J.N Ogbulie, Deputy Director Sustainable Social Development Ce-SPESS , said procurement has both social and environmental challenges and once they are overcome, it brings about good governance.

 Jubilation as Otti hands over brand News cars to Abia permanent Secretaries for free

From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia

It was a moment of joy to Permanent Secretaries in Abia Civil Service as Governor Alex Otti, presented 28 of them with a brand new Geely Emgrand cars and informed them that they would not be paying back.

Presenting the cars to the beneficiaries on Tuesday, at the premises of the new commissioned Michael Okpara Auditorium, Otti said  that the gesture was part of his administration’s resolve to restore dignity of the civil service and provide the necessary tools for effective service delivery.

He revealed that having appointed them Permanent Secretaries, there is a need to make their job a little easier by providing them with mobility. He reiterated that the days of coming to work with keke was over.

“Your documents are also ready, so are the details in terms of amortization, i have discussed with the HOS, that you don’t pay for the car. Is totally free”.

He made it clear that the appointments of the Permanent Secretaries were done based on merit, transparency, and competence, reitereted that none of them was selected based on personal connection.

“All of you attained this position on your own merit, even those I knew before the process, did not make it because it was transparently conducted,” The Governor said.

He once again reassured of his commitment to transforming the Service, stated that his government is embarking on a new phase of civil service transformation driven by technology and digitization to improve efficiency and accountability.

So, you will be seeing a lot of new things. I have signed off on the procurement of devices for everyone. The internet ready devices. And of course, you are aware that we are trying to get the entire State to be internet ready,” Gov. Otti stated

He commended them for their cooperation, describing them as instrument to the success of his administration’s policies and programmes as he expressed confidence that the gesture would result in better service delivery, greater motivation, and a more efficient civil service in Abia State.

In a vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Lands, TPL Ukpabi Ukeje on behalf of other Permanent Secretaries thanked the  Governor for providing them with mobility and make the work easy for them. He prayed for God’s  protection and to continue to lead him alright

Also speaking in an interview, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Sir Chris Onwuegbu said he feel fulfilled, thankful and empowered to serve the state better.

He commended the governor for his vision, and foresight in transforming the state. He noted that this is the first time a governor is empowering permanent Secretaries in the state, adding that the one close to this was when a certain governor gifted cares to only female permanent Secretaries

The Permanent Secretary disclosed that, they were initially thinking of how the method of payment will be like but were completely surprised and thankful when the governor said the cars are free with our documents ready.

The Secretary to the State Government, the Head of Service, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Commissioners among others were present at the event.

Tears of joy as Anambra Police rescue two missing children after nine months of nationwide search

After nine long months of uncertainty and heartbreak, two missing children — Sunday Aliya (14) and Ebenezer Emmanuel (12) — have finally been rescued by operatives of the Anambra State Police Command, bringing an emotional end to a harrowing ordeal that spanned several states across Nigeria.

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the rescue followed a painstaking, intelligence-driven investigation led by officers of the upState Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Gender Section, who refused to give up despite the passage of time.

The case was first reported at the Fegge Police Station on January 18, 2025, when the boys’ guardian raised the alarm that the children, who had gone to fetch water at a nearby borehole, never returned home. The matter was later transferred to the SCID in Awka for a more comprehensive investigation.

Acting on credible intelligence, detectives tracked down and arrested a key suspect, identified as Yusuf, in Katsina State. During interrogation, the suspect provided vital information that led to a breakthrough in the investigation.

“The suspect’s confession guided operatives to Umunede, Delta State, where one of the victims, Sunday Aliya, was found. Further leads led to the rescue of the second child, Ebenezer Emmanuel, in Benin City, Edo State,” the statement said.

Speaking on the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc, mnips, PhD, commended the officers for their perseverance, professionalism, and relentless pursuit of justice. He assured the public that the command remains committed to following every lead, no matter how long it takes, to ensure that every missing person is found and every crime thoroughly investigated.

“This operation is a testament to our unwavering resolve. We will never give up on any case, no matter how long it takes. Every child matters, and every family deserves closure,” CP Orutugu stated.

He also expressed gratitude to members of the public whose cooperation and information greatly aided the rescue mission, urging continued community support for effective policing in the state.

Meanwhile, the police have contacted the children’s parents, who reside in Ilorin, Kwara State, and arrangements are underway for their formal reunification.

The successful rescue has drawn emotional reactions from residents and human rights advocates, many describing it as “a story of hope, resilience, and the power of determined policing.”

18-year-old emerges youngest Nigerian commercial pilot

Nigeria has produced one of the youngest commercial pilots at 18.

He is Mohammed Aminu Sani, who earned a United State Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Commercial Multi-Engine Pilot License from Phoenix East Aviation (PEA) in Daytona Beach, Florida.

The 18-year-old Sani completed the entire programme in 10 months, passing every stage of training without a single checkride failure, an  impressive accomplishment, even for seasoned trainees, which is a testament to discipline, resilience and focus.

Sani, in a statement, explained: “Becoming a pilot has always been my childhood dream, and today I am proud to say I’m living that dream and enjoying every step of the journey. It’s been an incredible experience filled with hard work, discipline and passion. I hope my story inspires others to chase their dreams with determination and never give up on what they believe”.

He represented  a new wave of young Nigerians breaking international barriers through education, determination and excellence.

Born and raised in Abuja Nigeria, Sani completed his High School Diploma at Al-Hidaayah Academy before proceeding to The Regent College Abuja, where he graduated with Distinction in Economics Foundation.

His academic excellence laid the groundwork for his flight training in the United States. At Phoenix East Aviation, one of the world’s most respected FAA Part 141 flight schools, he trained in diverse conditions, ranging from night flights and cross-country missions to instrument-rated navigation through rain and low visibility.

He logged an impressive flight hours, including over 50 hours on multi-engine aircraft like the PA-34-200 Seneca and over 30 hours of cross-country flight time.

He now holds an FAA Commercial Pilot License (AMEL).

Beyond the numbers, Sani’s achievement resonates deeply with Nigeria’s youth population. In a time when many young people seek inspiration and global relevance, his story stands as proof that age is not a barrier to excellence and that dreams, when matched with determination, can take flight literally.

He aspired to join a leading airline, where he hopes to continue learning, flying, and representing Nigeria proudly among the world’s elite aviators.

Reps probe $850bn unrepatriated crude oil proceeds

The House of Representatives has commenced investigations into the alleged non-repatriation of Nigeria’s crude oil export proceeds estimated at over $850 billion between 1996 and 2014.

Chairman of the House Ad-Hoc Committee on Pre-Shipment Inspection of Exports and Non-Repatriation of Crude Oil Proceeds, Hon ‘Seyi Sowunmi, disclosed this yesterday during the Committee’s inaugural press briefing at the National Assembly, Abuja.

He said recent allegations suggest a significant breakdown in compliance with the Pre-shipment Inspection of Exports Act, with operators in the oil and gas sector reportedly failing to repatriate between 40 and 45 per cent of Nigeria’s crude oil export proceeds, contrary to the law, which mandates full repatriation of export earnings within 90 days for oil exports and 180 days for non-oil exports.

Sowunmi also expressed concern over the “worrisome disparity” in export-earnings data reported by government agencies such as the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Department of Petroleum Resources (now NUPRC), Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), as well as inconsistencies between Nigerian data and that of international bodies like OPEC.

He added that non-oil exports, especially those involving solid minerals and other commodities, have also been marked by “high non-compliant export earnings reports.”

According to him, the Pre-shipment Inspection of Exports Act (CAP P26, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004) established the Nigerian Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) to prevent capital flight, ensure accurate export valuation, and safeguard Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings. Before the Act was enacted in 1996, he said, the country suffered from “endemic leakages in the form of under-valuation, delayed invoicing, price manipulation, illegal swaps, and deliberate over-loading.”

The Committee, he explained, will probe the exact volume and value of unrepatriated export proceeds from oil, gas, and non-oil sectors since 1996, determine why government agencies produce conflicting export data, and engage experts for a forensic reconciliation of export-proceeds accounts. It will also investigate the management and utilization of funds under the NESS.

“This Committee will be guided strictly by evidence, not speculation. Our work will be document-based, data-driven, transparent, and verifiable,” Sowunmi said. “Our aim is simple: Nigeria must receive, in full and promptly, every dollar legally due from its exports.”

He assured that the House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas is fully committed to supporting President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by plugging revenue leakages and recovering lost funds for the Federation Account.

Sowunmi further announced the Committee will actively utilise existing whistleblowing channels, promising confidentiality and possible financial rewards for individuals who provide credible information.

“The Committee will actively utilize existing whistleblowing channels, guaranteeing confidentiality and possible rewards for credible information from industry staff, inspection agents, bankers, and concerned citizens,” he stated, adding that this step was crucial to encourage transparency and expose fraudulent practices within the export value chain.

He called for the cooperation of all stakeholders—including oil operators, regulators, financial institutions, and exporters, emphasizing that the investigation is a “whole-of-system exercise.”

“Operators must supply shipment-to-receipt trails; regulators must reconcile production, certification, and FX returns; and financial institutions must provide account-level evidence of repatriation within time. Where breaches are discovered, appropriate civil and criminal sanctions shall be applied,” he warned.

Sowunmi described the Committee’s task as non-partisan, stressing that it is aimed purely at safeguarding the nation’s economic integrity.

“Our measure of success is not publicity, but verifiable financial recovery to the Federation Account,” he said. “This inquiry is non-partisan; it is about protecting and strengthening our economy in the interest of our great nation, Nigeria.”

He acknowledged the crucial role of the media in the Committee’s work, urging journalists to ensure accurate, evidence-based reporting and to avoid speculation. The Committee, he said, would provide periodic factual updates and publish non-sensitive documents when necessary.

“Members of the press are critical partners in ensuring accurate, evidence-based reporting. We urge the media to focus on verifiable progress and avoid premature figures that could mislead the public,” he said.

Sowunmi called for collective support from Nigerians, emphasizing that transparency and accountability are central to the Committee’s work.

Reps move against alleged use of harmful chemicals to preserve perishable foods

The House of Representatives has resolved to probe the alleged use of killer chemicals for preserving fruits and prolonging the shelf life of perishable foods.

The resolution was sequel to the unanimous adoption of a motion by Chike Okafor (APC-Imo) at plenary yesterday.

Moving the motion, Mr Okafor said that the use of harmful chemicals as preservatives in Nigeria posed a clear danger to the health and wellness of millions of our citizens.

According to him, available reports from regulatory bodies, health experts, and media investigations reveaed l that the chemicals commonly used for embalming corpses and industrial processes were now being used for ripening fruits and to prolong the shelf life of perishable foods.

“These chemicals pose serious health risks to consumers, including the potential for developmental disorder (autism) in children, cancer, organ damage, and other life-threatening health conditions for uncountable Nigerians, as documented by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).

“This is not a new alarm. This house is aware of the 2019 alert by NAFDAC on the use of formalin on fish and meat. We recall the 2022 study by the University of Ibadan, which found dangerous levels of pesticide residues in frozen foods. Despite these worrisome past reports, the practice persists. We are now facing what can only be described as the systematic poisoning of our populace.

“There is a dangerous development today: a huge number of young men and women in Nigeria are suffering from liver damage and kidney failure, and there is a noticeable increase in the number of children suffering from autism, and the cause of these is not far-fetched,” he said.

Mr Okafor said that as representatives of the people, the members cannot ignore the warnings any longer, calling for fast actions to protect the Nigerians from this catastrophe.

In his ruling, the deputy speaker, Benjamin Kalu, referred the matter to relevant committees led by the House Committee on Food Security and Nutrition to investigate the allegation.

They mandated the committee to report back within two weeks for further legislative actions.

Addressing journalists after the plenary, Mr Okafor, who is the chairman of the House Committee on Food Security and Nutrition, said that it is a case of emergency.

He said that the committees had started work already, as the case was very alarming, pledging that the committees will go all out to bring in all those culpable.

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