Breaking: Bandits Strike Again In Abuja, Abduct Father, Mother, Son From Their Bedroom

 

A resident of the community told our correspondent that the kidnappers, numbering about 30 and armed with AK-47 rifles stormed the community around 12 am on Monday and went straight to the house of one Adefija Micheal Akinropo, who was kidnapped alongside his wife, son and elder brother.

The resident, who is close to the victims, said the kidnappers later moved to another building housing a poultry farm, kidnapped a man and injured his wife.

He said police officials from Byazin police station had visited the scene, adding that the abductors are yet to make contact with the family members.

When contacted, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, a Superintendent, said she was driving to the office and promised to get back to our reporter when she gets to the office.

She was, however, yet to call back up till the time of filling the report

I Am Not Desperate To Be President - Obi Tells Nigerians

The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has insisted he is not desperate to be Nigeria’s president.

While speaking to graduating students, the former Anambra governor encouraged them to embrace a spirit of service.

Obi stated that effective leadership stems from a commitment to driving positive change rather than personal ambition.

“All of this is to inspire you to ignite the change and provide support,” he said.

It’s not about saying, ‘I want to be in charge, I want to do this, or I want to do that.’”

Addressing claims of desperation, Obi clarified: “When people say I’m desperate, I say, ‘No, I am not desperate to be Nigeria’s president. I am desperate to see Nigeria work because it can work.”

He urged Nigerian youths to help usher in the “right leadership that the country needs for development.” Citing economist and Nobel laureate James Robinson, Obi noted, “Last year, Robinson said that Nigeria is a country that knows what to do to prosper but refuses to do it.”

The former governor likened the country’s

situation to allowing drivers who have already reached their destinations to continue steering the vehicle, warning that such leadership would inevitably lead to losses.

“You cannot let people who have passed their time or reached their destinations drive you. That is what you need to help reignite. Use what you have to help us change society. Don’t become part of the problem,” Obi said.

He further challenged the youth to rise above the failures of past generations, stating: “You are victims of Nigeria’s situation because our generation and the one before us refused to do what was right. Now we are all suffering for it.”

Tensions Rise in Lagos GAC Over Obasa’s Impeachment

Some members of the Governance Advisory Council, GAC, the apex advisory organ in Lagos State, disagreed yesterday over the process that led to the impeachment of former speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, Mr Mudashiru Obasa.

The GAC members, including former Minister of Defence (State), Senator Musliu Obanikoro and Senator Anthony Adefuye, expressed divergent views over the embattled former speaker.

While Adefuye said Obasa was illegally removed, Obanikoro countered the latter saying his statement “was careless.”

However, the GAC secretary, Mr Mutiu Are said that the brewing crisis in the Assembly will be resolved in a family way.

This came as the Lovers of Lagos, yesterday, called for the arrest of Obasa for using the official residence of the Speaker.

Obanikoro, Adefuye divided over support for Obasa

Senator Obanikoro, however, faulted a statement made by Senator Adefuye expressing support for Obasa.

Adefuye, a member of GAC, said in a recent interview that he disagreed with Obasa that he was removed.

“What he is saying is that he was illegally removed and the procedure was faulty and I agree with him”, the APC chieftain said.

Reacting to Adefuye’s interview, Obanikoro said the APC chieftain was careless to have made the statement, adding that it was important to respect hierarchy in any organisation.

The former Minister said: “The statement of Senator Adefuye on the removal of the former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, is very unfortunate, childish and inconsequential.

“Senator Adefuye’s comment shouldn’t have come up, as leaders, if there are serious issues of this magnitude, rushing to make press statement or personal statement on such issues is unbecoming of a statement.

“Since GAC as a unit as not made any prounouncement on the subject matter, it is irresponsible of any member of that privileged body to go public and make comments on an issue that is as sensitive as that.

“Moreso our leader, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria waded in on the matter, so I believe nobody should come out individually to express an opinion based on privileged status.”

Breaking News: Tuface And Annie Marriage Hit The Rock

Popular Nigerian Power Couple, Tuface and Annie Idibia's marriage has hit the rock.

Doctors on Strike Slam FCT Minister Wike for Abandoning Hospitals

Striking resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have accused FCT Minister Nyesom Wike of neglecting health facilities and

Alhaja Sikirat Odumosu Rescued as Police Recover N100M Ransom in Ogun State”

The Nigerian police forces have neutralized the kidnappers who abducted Alhaja Sikirat Odumosu, the wife of former Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Hakeem Odumosu, in Arepo, Ogun State.

The rescue mission, which took place in Ogun State, also resulted in the recovery of the ransom money that had been demanded for her release.

This was announced by the Police Public Relations Officer, Prince Olumuyiwa Adejobi on his official X handle on Thursday.

He said the IGP praised the efforts of the Police Operatives and CP Lanre Ogunlowo of Ogun State for their commendable work.

”The IGP has commended the Police Operatives and CP Ogun State, Lanre Ogunlowo, for a good job. We are committed to safeguarding Nigerian citizens and our dear country.”

Recall that The wife of AIG Odumosu was kidnapped on the evening of January 16, 2025, in her residence in the Ijebu-Ode area of Ogun State.

The kidnappers, armed and ruthless, demanded a ransom of N100 million for her safe release.

Trump Pardons Two Police Officers Convicted In Murder Of Black Man In Washington

 

Republican U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday pardoned, opens new tab two police officers in Washington who were convicted in the 2020 murder of a 20-year-old Black man named Karon Hylton-Brown, the White House said, opens new tab.

In September 2024, Terence Sutton Jr was sentenced, opens new tab to 66 months in prison while Andrew Zabavsky was sentenced to 48 months in prison over "an unauthorized police pursuit that ended in a collision on Oct. 23, 2020, that caused the death of Karon Hylton-Brown, 20, in Northwest Washington D.C.," the Justice Department said last year. The officers remained free pending the outcomes of their appeals.

The Metropolitan Police Department said Sutton, in his early 40s, and Zabavsky, in his mid-50s, were on "indefinite suspension without pay, pending our administration process."

Sutton was found guilty by a unanimous federal jury in late 2022, after a nine-week trial, of second-degree murder, conspiracy to obstruct, and obstruction of justice. The same jury found Zabavsky guilty of conspiracy to obstruct and obstruction of justice.

The jury had found that Sutton caused Hylton-Brown's death by driving a police vehicle in "conscious disregard" for an extreme risk of death or serious bodily injury to Hylton-Brown.

It also found that Sutton and Zabavsky conspired to hide from officials the circumstances of the traffic crash leading to Hylton-Brown's death.

The DC Police Union had sought a pardon for the two officers.

Sutton's attorney, Kellen Dwyer, said in a statement cited by CNN that while he and his client were "confident that the D.C. Circuit would have reversed this conviction, we are thrilled that President Trump ended this prosecution once and for all." Zabavsky's attorney, Christopher Zampogna, also thanked Trump.

Hylton-Brown's mother, Karen Hylton, told CNN before the announcement that she was shocked and cried when she learned of the potential pardons.

The incident happened months after the killing of George Floyd, a Black man who died after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for several minutes. That murder led to protests against police brutality and racial inequality in the U.S. and around the world.

After taking office on Monday, Trump pardoned about 1,500 of his supporters who attacked the U.S. Capitol four years ago on Jan. 6, 2021. Among those pardoned were some who assaulted police officers.

The Fraternal Order of Police, the largest police union in the U.S. that endorsed Trump in the 2024 election, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police said in a joint statement they were "deeply discouraged" by those pardons.

Staff, Hackers, Compromise Sterling Bank’s Data, System, Steal N1.3bn

 The Nigeria Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Ikoyi, Lagos has arrested five suspects made up of three men and two women over allegation of compromising the banking platform and Bance Application of Sterling Bank Plc and purportedly stole N1,257,536,572.50 billion.

The five suspects who were docked on Friday, January 17, 2024 by the Nigeria Police Force at a Federal High Court, Lagos, were reported to have committed the offence between November 3 and 4, 2024, in connivance with some of the staff of the bank.

They were arraigned on a three-count charge of conspiracy, hacking, unlawful possession, and conversion of funds before Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa.

The suspects included; Victor Nwabueze Ogochukwu “M” 50; Favour Odey “F” 22; Adekunle Daniel “M” 34; Akachukwu Alagbogu “M” and, ’guntade Yetunde “F” 28.

The prosecution counsel, Justine Enang told the court that the defendants committed the offences in a connivance with others presently at large.

The prosecutor further said that the defendants connived with some insider staff members of Sterling Bank as well as external parties to compromise the bank’s sensitive data and security system, using international mobile equipment identity 14984244, IP address 84252.113.3, and 88 transaction.

Enang also said that the suspects’ alleged acts contravened sections 27(1)(b) and 14(1) of the Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention Etc.) Act, 2015, as amended in 2024, read along with section 14(1) of the same Act.

The prosecutor also told the court that the offences were contrary to and punishable under Section 18(2)(b) & (d) and Section 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

All the five defendants pleaded not guilty to the allegations and following their plea, their counsels moved their bail applications, praying the court to admit their clients to bail “in the most liberal terms.”

But, Enang opposed the bail applications stressing that the suspects are flight risks.

Ruling on the bail applications, Justice Lewis-Allagoa held that the offences were bailable and admitted each the defendants to bail in the sum of N50 million with one surety in the like sum, stressing that the surety must be a landed property owner within the court’s jurisdiction.

Justice Lewis-Allagoa thereafter said that the defendants should be remanded at the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS), pending the perfection of the bail conditions.

The trial judge accordingly adjourned the case till March 13, 2025, for trial.

Trump Orders US Withdrawal From World Health Organisation

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to initiate the process of withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organisation (WHO).

“Oooh, that’s a big one,” Trump remarked as he signed the order upon returning to the White House. It was one of several executive actions he approved on his first day back in office.

This marks the second time Trump has ordered the US to leave the Geneva-based agency. During his first term, he criticised the WHO’s handling of Covid-19 and began a withdrawal process, which was later reversed by President Joe Biden.

Carrying out this action on day one increases the likelihood of the US formally exiting the global health body.

“They wanted us back so badly so we’ll see what happens,” Trump said, suggesting a possible return in the future.

The executive order cited several reasons for the withdrawal, including

“the organisation’s mishandling of the Covid-19 pandemic that arose out of Wuhan, China, its failure to adopt urgently needed reforms, and its inability to demonstrate independence from the inappropriate political influence of WHO member states.” It also criticised the “unfairly onerous payments” the US made as part of the WHO’s budget, which totals $6.8 billion (£5.5 billion).

During his first presidency, Trump accused the WHO of being biased towards China, particularly in its guidance during the pandemic. Despite these criticisms, under the Biden administration, the US became the largest funder of the WHO, contributing nearly one-fifth of its budget in 2023.

Public health experts have expressed concern over Trump’s decision, warning it could have far-reaching consequences. Critics argue that leaving the WHO could undermine global progress in combating infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV & AIDS.

Ashish Jha, former Covid-19 response coordinator under Biden, previously stated that withdrawal would.

harm not only the health of people around the world, but also US leadership and scientific prowess.”

Lawrence Gostin, a global public health expert and professor at Georgetown University, described the move as a “cataclysmic presidential decision,” calling it “a grievous wound to world health, but a still deeper wound to the US.”

President Trump Ends Birthright Citizenship for Children of Illegal Immigrants

On his first day as the 47th president, Donald Trump signed an executive order eliminating birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to illegal immigrants.

The signing took place at the White House, nearly eight hours after his inauguration.

As he signed the order, Trump described it as a significant move, stating, “People have been wanting this for decades.”

Earlier in the day, White House officials outlined the new policy, clarifying that the federal government will no longer automatically grant citizenship to children of illegal immigrants born on U.S. soil, effective for future cases.

Although Trump had raised the issue during his campaign, the decision is likely to spark legal debates. Critics argue it may conflict with the 14th Amendment, which affirms, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.”

Rivers Crisis: Why I can’t make Peace With Fubara – Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ruled out any possibility of reconciling with Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, intensifying the ongoing political conflict between the two leaders.

Speaking during a live media chat broadcast on several television stations in Abuja on Sunday, Wike criticised Fubara for failing to adhere to directives issued by President Bola Tinubu during a peace meeting aimed at resolving their differences.

At the press briefing, Wike stated: “I’m wondering, what conflict to resolve? Mr President, in his wisdom, called all parties. He said withdraw the impeachment notice, you go and do this, you go and do that, but they never returned to him.

“The Assembly withdrew the impeachment notice; you did one and two, and then you sent people to go to court. Elder, have you gone back to Mr President to tell him we can’t do three and four? Nothing.

“I have never seen this in my life — for a president to call parties, and one party goes back and says it’s political. Who does tha

This statement underscored the deepening rift that has emerged since Fubara took office, with Wike accusing him of failing to fulfill his obligations as governor.

The feud has escalated tensions within the Rivers State House of Assembly, where 27 members have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to factionalism and a parallel assembly. The political landscape in Rivers State has been marked by power struggles as both leaders vie for control over state resources and influence.

Wike defended his infrastructure-focused agenda amid criticism for neglecting human capital development, asserting: “Infrastructure drives the economy.”

He emphasised that ongoing road projects are creating significant job opportunities, stating that over 200 people are employed through these initiatives in Kwali and surrounding areas. “These aren’t government positions; they are real opportunities,” he said, challenging the notion that employment is limited to government jobs.

“When we focus on infrastructure, human capital development naturally follows. It’s not just about government jobs; it’s about creating real opportunities. Not less than 200 people are being employed in Kwali and other areas. These aren’t government positions; these are people working as contractors and in other capacities that come with the development of our infrastructure.”

On concerns over the provision of streetlights on newly commissioned roads, Wike noted that the initial plans did not include streetlights but assured that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) had taken action to address the issue.

“When we flagged off these projects last year, there was no provision for streetlights. But now, in places like Kuje and Kwali, streetlights have been provided,” Wike confirmed. “The roads we flagged off in November and December will have streetlights by May or June.”

The minister issued a stern warning to officials and landowners in Abuja, emphasising strict adherence to land regulations.

He reiterated his commitment to expediting the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), critical for business growth and financing. Wike highlighted that his administration had already signed 7,000 C of Os in two years, surpassing the total issued by previous governments from 2015 to 2023.

“When I identify that you are not willing to work, I will kick you out,” Wike said, disclosing that he had already removed two directors from the FCT Administration. “I don’t give a damn. When I see you’re not working, I will kick you out. Heaven will not fall.”

He disclosed that N300 billion is owed in Right of Occupancy (R of O) fees, which he argued is delaying infrastructure development in the federal capital.

“Government gave you land, and you can’t go and pay over 15 to 16 years. What kind of country are we in?” he asked

Hackers Access Sterling Bank Accounts Steal N1.257 Billion As Customers Panic Over Loss

 

Sterling Bank Plc has lost a staggering N1.257 billion to an alleged five man internet Fraudster, have been arraigned before justice ambrose Lewise- Allagoa of a Federal High Court, Lagos, for allegedly  hacking platform and Bance Application, and removed a whooping sum of N1,257,536,572.50 billion.

The alleged five-man Internet fraudsters arraigned before the court on Friday, are: Victor Nwabueze Ogochukwu “M” 50; Favour Odey “F” 22; Adekunle Daniel “M” 34; Akachukwu Alagbogu and 28 years old Oguntade Yetunde “F”.

They were before the court by the operatives of the Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Ikoyi, Lagos.

The prosecutor, Barrister Justine Enang, informed the court that all the defendants and others now at large, conspired among themselves and committed the alleged infractions between November 3 and 4, 2024.

To carry out the alleged fraud, Enang told the court that the defendants collaborated with both the internal staff of Sterling Bank and external parties for possible compromise on sensitive data and security system of the bank by using international mobile equipment identity 14984244, IP address 84252.113.3 & 88 transaction.

He informed the court that the alleged acts of the defendants contravened sections 27(1)(b); 14(1) of the Cyber Crimes (Prohibition, Prevention Etc.) Act, 2015 as amended in 2024, Read along with section 14(1) of the same Act.

Enang also told the court that the defendants’ act was contrary to and punishable under Section 18(2)(b) & (d) and punishable under Section 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

NDLEA Warns Against New Drugs ‘Suck & Die’, ‘Rubber Solution’, Others Trending In Lagos, Kano

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised alarm over the rising tide of new drugs disguised under disturbing street names.

The agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, stated that the awareness became necessary after recent drug seizures in Lagos and Kano revealed the widespread abuse of hazardous substances among youths.

Babafemi explained that the substances include New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) and others with alarming names such as “Suck & Die,” “Rubber Solution,” “Dead Man,” and “Gelato.”

He urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to remain vigilant and proactive in identifying and curbing these trends within their spheres of influence.

“Narco-trend update: Parents, shine your eyes. Latest seizures by @ndlea_nigeria officers in Lagos and Kano reveal scary names of some substances, including NPS, we should all watch out for in our homes and communities: Suck & Die, Rubber Solution, Dead Man, Gelato,” Babafemi said after sharing a video of the confiscated contraband on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday

Catholic Diocese of Warri Suspends Priest Over Secret U.S. Marriage

The Catholic Diocese of Warri, Delta State, has suspended Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe following allegations of his secret marriage to Ms. Dora Chichah in the United States.

In a statement titled “Decree of Suspension,” dated January 16, 2025, and signed by Bishop Anthony Ovayero Ewherido and Very Rev. Fr. Clement Abobo, the Diocese confirmed that the marriage took place on December 29, 2024, at Streams of Joy Church in Dallas, USA. This act, documented in viral videos, contravenes Catholic Church laws.

The statement read: “Rev. Fr. Daniel Okanatotor Oghenerukevwe has incurred a Latae Sententiae suspension under Canon 1394 §1. He is suspended from exercising sacred ministry effective immediately.”

The Diocese noted that Fr. Oghenerukevwe had requested release from priestly duties on November 30, 2024. However, the required canonical processes were incomplete when he proceeded with the marriage. Attempts to obtain necessary documentation were reportedly ignored.

As per Canon 1333, Fr. Oghenerukevwe is barred from presenting himself as a priest of the Diocese. He may petition for the suspension’s revocation or amendment by demonstrating willingness to reform and comply with Church directives.

“May God grant him the grace to reflect and reconcile,” the statement concluded, emphasizing the Church’s commitment to its doctrines while allowing accountability and redemption.

Petrol price Hike: Queues Resurface At Filling Stations

Oil marketers have declared that filling stations should not be blamed for the hike in the pump prices of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol, as queues for the commodity surfaced in various locations on Saturday.

Many filling stations in Lagos, Ogun, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, among others, were closed on Saturday, as dealers explained that they were monitoring developments to make adequate price adjustments.

Sunday PUNCH reported that petrol prices had risen to between N1,050 and N1,150/litre depending on the area of purchase, following the hike in the cost of the commodity by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and various depot owners.

Dealers confirmed that PMS prices would continue to rise since the major component in fuel production, crude oil, has been on the upward swing lately.

On Friday, there was an increase in the price of petrol produced by the Dangote refinery. The $20bn plant raised its PMS from N899/litre to N955/litre at its loading gantry.

This led to a hike in the pump prices of the commodity by retail stations that dispensed the product on Saturday, while many others shut their outlets to monitor developments.

“There is no scarcity of product, rather filling stations are closed because dealers are observing developments and are careful not to run at a loss,” a major marketer, who spoke in confidence due to lack of authorisation to speak on the matter, stated.

The dealer Insisted that marketers should not be blamed for the hike in petrol prices, stressing that the situation was due to the rise in the cost of crude oil.

Meanwhile, as many stations stayed closed on Saturday, the few that dispensed petrol sold it above N1,000/litre in Lagos, while those that dispensed below N1,000/litre, such as MRS, had long queues.

The MRS filling stations in the Alakpere and Ojodu Berger areas of Lagos that dispensed petrol at the N935/litre price earlier agreed between the oil marketing firm and the Dangote refinery had massive queues of motorists on Saturday.

Commenting on the issue, the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria said filling stations should not be blamed for the changes In the prices of PMS.

PETROAN attributed the increase in PMS prices to the rise in the cost of crude oil in the international market.

It said the benchmark for oil prices, Brent crude, stood at $80.85/barrel, while WTI oil and the OPEC basket were priced at $78.82 and $81.72/barrel, respectively.

Prices were said to have risen to a four-month high following the introduction of new US sanctions against Russian oil.

The National President of PETROAN, Dr Billy Gillis-Harry, quoting Section 205 of the Petroleum Industry Act, stated that petrol prices are determined by market forces, indicating that the government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited no longer set petrol prices.

As a result, he noted that refinery operators in Nigeria will respond accordingly to changes in crude oil prices.

Gillis-Harry noted that increasing crude oil prices would inevitably affect domestic costs.

“It’s no longer funny; even retail outlet owners are affected by this up-and-down movement of prices. It affects our business,” he noted.

Gillis-Harry emphasised that PETROAN members cannot buy petrol at a higher price and sell it at a lower price.

As a result, he noted that refinery operators in Nigeria will respond accordingly to changes in crude oil prices.

Gillis-Harry noted that increasing crude oil prices would inevitably affect domestic costs.

“It’s no longer funny; even retail outlet owners are affected by this up-and-down movement of prices. It affects our business,” he noted.

Gillis-Harry emphasised that PETROAN members cannot buy petrol at a higher price and sell it at a lower price.

“Our selling rate always reflects our buying rate. Our members shouldn’t be blamed for the current increase; it’s an external factor,” he added.

To mitigate the impact of PMS pricing in Nigeria, PETROAN advocated privatising government-owned refineries and encouraging competition in the downstream sector.

He maintained that the privatisation of refineries will not only reduce the financial burden on the government but also increase efficiency and productivity in the sector, saying, this will lead to a more stable and competitive market, ultimately benefiting the Nigerian consumer.”

“In addition, PETROAN is calling on the government to provide a more conducive business environment for retail outlet owners, including access to affordable financing and infrastructure development.

“By doing so, the government can help reduce the costs associated with running a retail outlet, thereby making petrol more affordable for Nigerians,” Gillis-Harry said.

In a statement by PETROAN spokesperson, Joseph Obele, on Saturday, the association emphasised the need for strategic collaboration and investment in Nigeria’s petroleum sector at the inaugural meeting of the Petroleum Industry Stakeholders’ Forum, which brought together key stakeholders from the government, regulatory bodies, and the private sector in Abuja.

PETROAN’s National President, Gillis-Harry, reiterated the association’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s petroleum sector.

PETROAN pledged to add value to the stakeholders’ forum, contributing to shaping the industry’s future and addressing its challenges.

He commended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to fully deregulate the industry, unify foreign exchange rates, and implement policies “that unlock the full potential of our petroleum sector.”

PETROAN, in a position paper submitted to pressmen at the forum, said the Nigeria oil and gas sector recorded significant milestones that shaped Nigeria’s oil and gas downstream sector in 2024.

“As a critical stakeholder, PETROAN, comprising membership with over 6,900 retail outlets across Nigeria, played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth distribution of value to Nigeria. Therefore, it is correct to say that PETROAN was instrumental in the oil and gas sector’s achievements

“However, to reinforce previous achievements, PETROAN recommends the following: privatisation of Nigerian-owned refineries; establishment of a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track the performance of downstream operators; investing in infrastructure development, addressing cross-border smuggling; and prioritising local refineries’ access to crude oil.” 

Breaking: Erling Haaland Signs Record-Breaking 9.5-Year Deal with Manchester City Until 2034

 

Manchester City star striker Erling Haaland has signed a new contract extending his stay at the Etihad Stadium until 2034, when he will potentially be 34 years old.

The deal, finalized with all contracts sealed and an official announcement made, includes a record-breaking salary for the club and positions Haaland among the highest-paid footballers globally.

As part of the agreement, all previous release clauses have been removed. However, a new release clause will come into effect in 2029, reportedly set at an astronomical figure that remains undisclosed.

Nigerian Police Arrest Army Personnel With ‘Canadian Loud’ In Lagos

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The Nigeria Police Force has apprehended a soldier, Lance Corporal Sani Aminu with substances said to be Canadian Loud, an imported strong synthetic strain of cannabis.

Aminu with service number 13NA/70/11481 was arrested with the illicit drug consignment on Wednesday in Lagos State.

A police signal obtained by SaharaReporters confirmed the arrest.

The signal said a police patrol team led by one ASP Alex Dung intercepted the soldier attached to Abalti Barracks, Surulere area of the state, around 8pm.

“SITUATION REPORT X ARREST OF MILITARY PERSONNEL X TODAY BEING 15/01/2025 X AT ABOUT 2015HRS X PATROL TEAM LED ASP ALEX DUNG ATTACHED MINE X INTERCEPTED AND BROUGHT TO THE STATION 13NA/70/11481 L/ CPL SANI AMINU ATTACHED TO ABALTI BARRACKS SURULERE X WITH SUSBTANCE SUSPECTED TO BE CANADIAN LOUD X SUSPECT WILL BE TRANSFERRED TO CP TACTICAL SQUAD 1 FOR FURTHER INVESTIGATION PLEASE X SUPOL 74 ORILE-IGANMU,” it read.

UBA, FCMB, Fidelity, WEMA Bank To Loose USSD Connection

 

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has revealed that Fidelity Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA), and First City Monument Bank (FCMB) are among the banks owing telecommunications companies over Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) codes assigned to them.

According to the NCC, the affected banks must settle their outstanding obligations by January 27, 2025, or risk losing access to their USSD codes. The commission noted that some of the unpaid invoices have remained unpaid since 2020, indicating a prolonged financial dispute between the banks and telecom operators.

The NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, on Tuesday in a public notice disclosed that nine out of 18 financial institutions had not complied with regulatory directives. The total amount initially owed by the financial institutions was reported to exceed N200 billion.

However, the regulator did not disclose the precise debt currently owed by the affected banks. The affected USSD codes include 770, 919, and 822, among others. These codes are essential for enabling mobile banking services and could be reassigned to other applicants if the debts remain unresolved.

The other banks on the list include Wema Bank Plc, Jaiz Bank, Fidelity Bank Plc, Polaris Bank Limited, Unity Bank Plc, and Zenith Bank Plc.

Dangote Refinery Disrupts European Fuel Market – OPEC

The Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has highlighted how the Dangote Petroleum Refinery’s efforts to boost Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) production are reshaping the European fuel market.

The refinery, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, began operations in January last year and started PMS production in September.

This marked a significant shift for Nigeria, which previously relied entirely on fuel imports. The facility has since exported petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel to various countries, both within and beyond Africa.

An OPEC report on Wednesday noted that the Dangote Refinery has reduced Nigeria’s dependency on imported petroleum products from Europe.

“The ongoing operational ramp-up efforts at Nigeria’s new Dangote refinery and its gasoline (petrol) exports to the international market will likely weigh further on the European gasoline market.

“Continued gasoline production in Nigeria, a country that has relied heavily on imports to meet its domestic fuel needs in the past, will most likely continue to free up gasoline volumes in international markets which will call for new destinations and flow adjustments for the extra volumes going forward,” the report stated.

OPEC observed that in the last quarter of 2024, Nigeria’s petroleum product imports declined, enhancing the country’s external sector outlook.

Wike Revokes 568 Abuja Land Allocations Over Unpaid C-of-O Fees

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revoked the allocation of 568 lands in the nation’s capital Abuja over unpaid Certificates of Occupancy fees.

The FCT Administration, in a public notice, said the allottees of the plots of land in Maitama II, Cadastral Zone A10, Abuja, failed to pay for their Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) bills after the expiration of the grace period granted by the minister.

The notice said the allocation of the plots of land has been withdrawn, “pursuant to the provisions of Section 28 of the Land Use Act of 1978 for contravention of the terms of grant which obligated the title/interest holders to settle all bills. The general public is, however, invited to note that allottees/ title holders who

have completed their payments on or before 15/01/2025 are not affected by this publication”.

As reported by Channels TV, the names of the allottees/title holders whose titles have been withdrawn are:

FG To Distribute N75,000 To 70 Million Poorest Nigerians By 2025

The Federal Government has announced plans to distribute N75,000 cash transfers to an estimated 70 million ‘poorest of the poor’ Nigerians by 2025.

This was disclosed by Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, during his appearance on The Morning Show on Arise Television on Wednesday.

Prof. Yilwatda revealed that the ministry aims to deploy the program across all 36 states of the federation by the end of January 2025, targeting the registration of up to 18.1 million Nigerian households through the National Identity Number (NIN) system.

“We want to deploy by the end of January across 36 states to ensure we start harvesting the NIN number of up to 18.1 million Nigerian households that we need to capture as fast as possible so that we can make payment for them,” the minister said.

“The target of the president is that we should target 15 million households. And an average household is about 4 to 5. We are discussing here roughly about 70 million households with about N75,000 per person this year,” the minister noted.

Soldiers, Civilians Missing As Terrorists Ambush Troops In Borno

 Unspecified numbers of Nigerian military personnel have been missing in a recent ambush by Boko Haram terrorists in Baga, at the fringes of the Lake Chad.

Personnel of the armed forces, who spoke Channels Television in anonymity, said soldiers were ambushed while trying to recover dead bodies of 40 residents killed by the insurgents and several soldiers were shot dead in the gun battle that ensued.

“Our troops went in search of dead bodies of civilians killed by the terrorists, we went too far in search of them and the terrorists played ambush on us; a combined team of the armed forces including civilians.

There was exchange of fire; they killed some of our soldiers. We are yet to ascertain the number because the dead bodies are yet to be collected and some soldiers are still returning to base, so we are yet to know the number of deaths,” the military source said

Another civilian source in Baga said about 50 civilians went to recover dead bodies of those killed yesterday but only one person has return so far.

The source said the 50 men include civilian joint taskforce, local hunters and some other young men.

“About 50 villagers mobilized and went out to recover the dead bodies of the villagers that were killed by Boko Haram terrorists and then the terrorists ambushed them. They killed several people, but we don’t know the number yet because one person has return to the village, we are awaiting others.

“I don’t know the casualty on the side of the military as such I cannot talk about it, but the civilians include civilian joint taskforce members, hunters and vigilantes,” the local source said.

This incident occurred on Tuesday in Baga after an attack that killed forty residents.

There was an attack in Gwoza which resulted in the death of six people, five of them are said to be repentant insurgents, civilian joint taskforce and hunters.

Economic Hardship: Why I Won’t Help Tinubu’s Government – Sanusi

 

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has made it clear that he will not offer any advice to President Bola Tinubu’s administration, on how they can tackle the economic challenges facing Nigeria.

The Emir stated this at the 21st Memorial Lecture of Chief Gani Fawehimi on Wednesday held in Lagos.

Sanusi stated that he started by helping the government but that he has now resolved not to help the government again.

He said: ” I can give a few points here about what we are going through and how it was predictable and avoidable. But I am not going to do that.

“I have chosen not to speak on the economy, or reforms or to explain anything because if I explain it, it will help this government. But I don’t want to help this government. They are my friends, but if they don’t behave like friends, I won’t behave like a friend.”

Continuing he said: ” They don’t even have people with pedigree that can come and explain to the people what they are doing. I am not going to help. I started by helping, but I am not going to help. Let them come and explain to Nigerians why they are pursuing the policies that they are pursuing.

”But I will say this one thing though. What we are going through today is at least in part, a necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible management. People were warning that if we continued the way that we were going, this is how we will end up but they refused to listen.

“Now, is everything being done correctly? No. When I am ready to talk about the economy, I will.”

5 gunmen Shot Dead As Joint Security Team Storms Anambra Hideout

 

Five suspected gunmen have been killed in their hideout in Ufuma, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said that a Joint Security Team comprising the Police, Military, and other security agencies successfully carried out an offensive operation on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 12:30 PM against a suspected armed secessionist gang on Umugem Road, Ufuma.

He said that in the course of the operation, the team neutralized five members of the armed group, while others escaped with various degrees of bullet wounds.

The Police Spokesman added: “During the operation, the security team razed the criminal camp and recovered four undetonated Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), two AK-47 assault rifles, one pump-action gun, one 75-volt battery, and other incriminating items.”

While attributing the success of the operation to the collaboration and coordination among the various security agencies, Ikenga revealed that operations are still ongoing in the area to apprehend the fleeing gang members.

He said: “The Commissioner of Police (CP), Nnaghe Obono Itam, has called for greater cooperation from the people in the area for patriotic involvement to ‘take back the space’ and deny these criminal elements the environment they use to cause tension in the state.”

Police Reject N1m Bribe From Lakurawa Suspects

Police officers in Kebbi State have rejected a bribe of ?1 million offered by suspects linked to the notorious Lakurawa bandits.

This was disclosed in a statement on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Kebbi State Police Command, Nafiu Abubakar.

Abubakar, a Chief Superintendent of Police, identified the three suspects as Umaru Garba (53) of Dangandu village, Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji Mamman (51) of Maimaichi village, both in Arewa Local Government Area, and Usman Muhammadu (50) of Bakaramba village in Argungu Local Government Area.

He said the suspects conspired to offer a bribe of ?1,060,000 to the lead investigator, saying the bribe was intended to compromise the investigation and prosecution of a banditry case involving suspected Lakurawa terrorists operating in northern Kebbi State.

The attempted bribe occurred at the premises of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Gwadangaji, Birnin Kebbi.

According to the Command’s spokesman, the suspects were immediately arrested, and investigations are ongoing.

They will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation, Abubakar stated.

On his part, the state Commissioner of Police, Bello Sani, commended the detectives for their integrity and professionalism. He urged other officers to emulate their commitment to upholding justice.

Sani reiterated the command’s resolve to intensify efforts in combating banditry and other crimes to ensure socio-economic development in Kebbi State.

CBN Sanctions 9 Banks For Failing To Dispense Cash Via ATMs

 

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) says it has sanctioned some Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) for failing to make Naira notes available through automated teller machines (ATMs), during the yuletide season.

According to a statement by Hakama Sidi-Ali, CBN’s Director, Corporate Communications Department, this is a clear message of zero tolerance for cash flow disruptions.

The affected banks are Fidelity Bank Plc, First Bank Plc, Keystone Bank Plc,

Union Bank Plc, Globus Bank Plc, Providus Bank Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc, and Sterling Bank Plc.

Sidi-Ali said that each of the banks was fined N150 million for non-compliance, in line with the CBN’s cash distribution guidelines, following spot checks on their branches.

She said that the enforcement action followed repeated warnings from the CBN to financial institutions to guarantee seamless cash availability, particularly during periods of high demand.

“Communication with the banks revealed that the fines would be debited directly from their accounts with the apex bank.

“Ensuring seamless cash flow is paramount to maintaining public trust and economic stability.

“The CBN will not hesitate to impose further sanctions on any institution found violating its cash circulation guidelines,” she said.

She said the CBN’s investigations and monitoring would continue to scrutinise cash hoarding and rationing, both at bank branches and by Point-of-Sale (POS) operators.

She added that the CBN was working with security agencies to crack down on illegal cash sales and operational violations, including enforcing POS operators’ daily cumulative withdrawal limit of N1.2 million.

She urged all financial institutions to comply with its guidelines, warning that further violations would attract swift and decisive sanctions.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the CBN Governor, Yemi Cardoso, had earlier warned banks to strictly adhere to cash distribution policies or face severe penalties.

Cardoso gave the warning in his address at the Annual Bankers’ Dinner of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) in Nov., 2024.

He underscored the apex bank’s commitment to maintaining a robust cash buffer to meet the need of Nigerians.

“Our focus remains on fostering trust, ensuring stability, and guaranteeing seamless cash circulation across the financial system,” Cardoso had said

Inadequate funding: Senate Committee Rejects 2025 Budget For Ministry Of Information

 

The Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation has rejected the eight billion Naira 2025 budget for Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

The Chairman of the Committee, Sen. Emeka Eze, during the budget defense on Tuesday in Abuja, said that the budgetary provision for the ministry was grossly inadequate.

Eze also said that the committee would summon the Minister of Budget and National Planning to discuss how the budget of the ministry can be improved.

Fire Guts Building Materials Plaza At Nnewi

An early morning fire, on Tuesday, gutted a building materials plaza at Ahia-Mgbede, opposite Motor Spare Parts Market, in Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the plaza is a two-storey building.

Many other stores in the market at Uruagu, Nnewi, were, however, saved by firefighters.

The Chief Fire Officer, Anambra Fire Service, Mr Chukwudi Chiketa, who confirmed the incident to newsmen in Onitsha, said that the service received a distress call about 2.15 a.m. on the incident.

“We received a distress call at 02.15 a.m. and immediately deployed firemen from Nnewi Fire Station and Ogidi Fire Station to the scene.

“The firemen fought tirelessly and contained the fire.

“The fire, however, re-ignited and the firemen are currently at the scene making efforts to stop it.

“The cause of the fire outbreak is still unknown,” he said, adding that no life was lost to the fire.

Chiketa urged members of the public to be fire conscious and avoid anything that could cause fire outbreak.

“Fire is dangerous. It kills but can be prevented,” he said.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Elects New NEC Members, Promises Renewed Commitment to Unity

 

The Secretariat of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide expresses its heartfelt congratulations to Senator John Azuta Mbata and all the newly elected NEC members, including:

National Executive Committee Members

President General: Senator John Azuta Mbata

Deputy President General: Dr. Okey Nwadinobi

Secretary General: HE Engr Emeka Sibeudu

Deputy Secretary General: Dan Okenyi

Vice Presidents General

Vice President General: Omeife Jideofor Omeife

_Vice President General: Chief John Duru

Vice President General: Dr. Ngozi Olejeme

Vice President General: Dr. Peter Mbam

Vice President General: Prof. Fred Eze

Financial Management Team

National Treasurer: Dr. Peter Chidera Aneke

Assistant National Treasurer: Nnanna Nwankwo

National Financial Secretary: Charles Kalu Nkata

Assistant National Financial Secretary: Jane Nwanga

Publicity and Communications Team

National Public Secretary: Dr. Chukwu Ezechi
Assistant National Publicity Secretary: Bismarck Orji

Legal Team National Legal Adviser: Barr. Okeagu Ogada

Assistant National Legal Adviser: Barr. Chizoba Iheka

The success of the elections can be attributed to the crucial roles played by the South-East Governors, led by Governor Hope Uzodimma, Chief Gary Enwo Igariwey, and the Electoral Committee. We also commend Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu KSM KSS for his principled resolve to ensure a timely and seamless transition decision, reflecting his steadfast commitment to the organization’s values.

The election of the new Executive signifies a renewed commitment to Ohanaeze, highlighting the fact that our people are now more invested in the organization than ever before. We invite all Igbos, both at home and in the diaspora, to unite in support of Ohanaeze, contributing their time, resources, and expertise to enhance our organization’s respect and achievements.

Once again, congratulations to Senator John Azuta Mbata and the new NEC members. We look forward to collaborating to advance the interests of Ndigbo worldwide.

Sir Ambrose Obioha KSM JP
Administrative Manager
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Secretariat

FG To Blacklist 18 Banks Owing Telcom Almost N200bn On USSD

There are indications that the Federal government will tomorrow list out names of 18 banks owing almost N200 billion to Nigerian telecom operators on Unstructured Suplementary Service Data (USSD) and remained adamant towards settling it for several years.

The reason for the public disgrace seems to be for the telcos to stop offering them services that enable their customers to conveniently do online banking.

It was gathered that the telecom regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been given the nod to publish the names and approve that telcos withdraw services to them if after two weeks they fail to settle the debts.

It will be recalled that the issue of banks’ multi billion naira USSD debt to telcos has lingered since 2020, rising from below N40 billion to N57 billion by the end of 2021 and N80 billion in 2022.

But now, the telcos claim the debt has risen above N250 billion and accused the banks of not complying with the repayment plan.

The recent development cannot be unconnected with a December joint meeting between the two regulators, NCC and the Central Bank of Nigeria which resolved that the banks pay part of the money by December 31, last year and defray the remaining gradually.

However, it was gathered authoritatively that only four banks complied with the directive, while 18 others are still adamant.

Similarly, when the matter brewed heavily a few years ago, the National Assembly, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, waded in and also generated such a gentleman’s agreement, which gave the banks leverage to defray the debts gradually.

However, that did not also happen as the banks allegedly reneged.

A few weeks ago the Chairman, Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, accused the banks of deliberately frustrating any move to resolve the issue and threatened that the only option, since the banks have consistently failed to honour the agreements, would be to withdraw the support that gives the USSD platform life.

USSD, commonly known as ‘bank transfers’, is done through short codes on mobile phones.

The support is provided by the telcos.

If the latest approval Vanguard gathered that telcos will be given, to blacklist the 18 banks is carried out, it means that in the next two weeks all the short code services to such banks may be suspended and users will not be able to carry out some online banking services from the comfort of their homes (

Lagos State Speaker Mudashiru Obasa Impeached Over Gross Misconduct

Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, accusing him of multiple statutory and financial infractions.

Mr Obasa was subsequently replaced by his deputy Lasbat Meranda. Mrs Meranda, who represents Apapa Constituency 1, was also a former chief whip of the House.

Obasa has been accused of spending N17 billion on a gate to the assembly complex, which critics argue is excessive and fraudulent. There have also been allegations of mishandling constituency funds and projects.

JUST IN: 40 killed, Dozens Missing As Boko Haram Goes On Rampage In Borno

Suspected Boko Haram terrorists have reportedly killed at least 40 farmers in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

It was gathered that the attack which happened around 4:30pm on Sunday in a farming community, Kayakura village, in Doron Baga ward, also left dozens of farmers missing.

This is coming barely 24 hours after two people were killed and a church was set ablaze in a similar attack on Chibok community, southern part of the state.

A local source said members of the deadly group invaded the villages in large numbers and started shooting sporadically.

“As we speak, many people are missing and they killed more than 40 farmers, predominantly those who escaped the attack in Gwoza local government area,” he said.

However, a security source in the area gave the number of people killed as 30.

“Thirty people lost their lives during the attack on the farmers in the Doron Baga ward,” the source said.

Efforts to speak to the state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Kenneth Daso, proved abortive as his telephone line was not reachable as of press time. (D

Shock As NDLEA Arrests Chief Priest After Three Months On The Run

Bariu Aliu (alias Malo), the traditional chief priest of the Igunuko shrine, Alpha Beach, Ajah, Lagos State, has been arrested by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The suspect had been on the run since October 25, 2024, when 2,760kg of skunk was recovered from his shrine.

According to NDLEA’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, in a statement on Sunday, the suspect was arrested after over three months of manhunt.

“Though two of his accomplices were earlier arrested at the shrine last year and have since been charged and convicted in court, Bariu was said to be the leader of the syndicate,” the statement reads.

Father Kills His 14 years-old son Over Alleged Criminal Activities

 

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a man, Elela Monday, for allegedly killing his 14-year-old son at Ajowa Akoko, Akoko North-West Local Government Area of the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr Wilfred Afolabi, said Monday was among the suspected criminals being arrested by the men of the state command recently.

The suspect was said to have buried the deceased in a shallow grave.

This was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the commissioner.

The police boss said, “On the 30th of December, the police received an anonymous call that one Elela Monday living in Ajowa Akoko killed his 14-year-old son named Tope Elela and buried him in a shallow grave under a banana tree behind his house.

“The suspect was arrested, and during interrogation, he said the boy was always involved in criminal activities and was embarrassing him, so in order to put a stop to the disgrace, he and his wife decided to kill the boy.”

On the cult clash that occurred in Owo town last week, Afolabi also disclosed that no fewer than 25 people had so far been arrested in connection with the incident where four persons were allegedly killed.

“We have arrested 25 individuals in connection with the recent crisis in Owo. Some of the suspects have been identified as having direct involvement in the criminal activities. One Olamide Ogunseyila, 28-year-old, confessed to being a member of a cult group.

“The remaining suspects are currently undergoing thorough interrogation to ascertain their roles in the crisis while the command is intensifying efforts to apprehend Steven Dada (alias “Ogodo”) and any other individual connected to these criminal activities.”

The new police commissioner, who reiterated his commitment to the protection of lives and property of the people of the state, urged the residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police and other security agencies around them.

FG Approves Ban On Homosexuality, Cross-Dressing In The Military

Nigeria’s military personnel have been banned from engaging in homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, cross-dressing.

These and other other acts are now deemed contrary to the ethics of the armed forces.

They are equally barred from body piercing, tattooing, disorderly behaviour, and drunkenness on or off duty.

This directive is contained in Section 26 of the revised Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service signed by President Bola Tinubu on December 16, 2024.

It read in part, “An officer must not engage in homosexuality, lesbianism, and bestiality.

“He/she is not to belong to, or engage in activities of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Trans, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual or Agender, Two-Spirit (LGBTQIA2S+) group and cross-dressing, amongst others.

“An officer must not engage in body piercing and tattooing of any part of his body. An officer shall not engage in any form of disorderly behaviour, brawl, or any action of public disgrace. An officer must not at any time be drunk whether on or off duty.”

The condition of service also forbids the involvement of officers in amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses.

“An officer shall not engage in any amorous relationship with any soldier/rating/airman/airwoman, fellow officer’s or soldier’s/rating’s/airmen’s/air women’s spouse, “ it stated.

The military personnel are obligated to pay financial dues, including vehicle licenses and insurance on time, while they are prohibited from joining secret societies or political parties.

“An officer shall pay all just financial obligations in a proper and timely manner, especially those imposed by law and mutual contract. It is a very serious offence for an officer to be apprehended for failure to license or insure his vehicle, and other legal financial obligations. In the same vein, the issuance of a dud cheque constitutes an offence.

The document read further, “An officer shall not hold membership of any secret society or political party. He shall not participate, in any way, in activities concerned with such societies or parties even in observatory capacities.

“For the avoidance of doubt, since cultural or purely traditional religious societies are not normally secret by membership or in the conduct of their affairs, they are ipso-facto excluded from belonging to secret societies.”

Having a private business, and misuse of government property for personal gain are also prohibited for serving personnel.

“An officer shall not engage in private business. He shall not use or be allowed to use government property, his name, position and connection in any way with commercial enterprises outside employment or activity with or without compensation, which interfere or has the tendency of interfering with his official duty or which may be reasonably expected to bring discredit to the Service.

“An officer shall not accept gifts, favours, entertainments, etc, from officers junior to him in rank or from soldiers/ratings/airmen/airwomen,” the condition of service added.

The punishments or disciplinary measures against any personnel who violate the rules were, however, not stated.

Rising Election Costs ‘Excessive and Burdensome,’ INEC Chairman Warns Lawmakers

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu has raised concerns over the rising cost of conducting elections in Nigeria, describing the expenses as excessive and burdensome. He made this statement on Friday while defending the 2024 budget implementation before the National Assembly.

Yakubu revealed that INEC, despite being one of the country’s largest employers, is operating on a reduced budget of ₦40 billion, significantly lower than the ₦80 billion initially requested. He stressed that the funding shortfall has placed a strain on the commission’s ability to fulfill its electoral duties effectively.

To address these financial challenges, Yakubu called on lawmakers to organize a retreat where both the legislature and INEC could collaborate on finding sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s electoral funding issues. “We need a major conversation, the commission cannot continue conducting elections all year round,” he said.

The INEC chairman also highlighted the poor state of the commission’s infrastructure, revealing that 860 buildings across the country require urgent repairs. He urged the National Assembly to ensure that the commission’s proposed ₦126 billion budget is approved to allow INEC to carry out its responsibilities without further financial strain

EFCC Summons Billionaire Industrialist Razaq Okoya’s Sons Over Alleged Naira Abuse

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has invited Subomi and Wahab, sons of billionaire industrialist Razaq Okoya, for interrogation over alleged abuse of the naira.

Subomi and his brother Wahab have been in the news lately after they were seen in a viral video spraying naira notes while a police officer held stacks of the currency, a violation of Section 21(3) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007.

The Nigerian Police subsequently identified and detained the policeman captured in the video, condemning his action as unprofessional.

This has led to a storm on social media, with Nigerians alleging double standard and demanding the arrest of the Okoya’s sons as well.

The campaign seems to be having the desired effect, as the EFCC has now summoned the two brothers, according to a report by TheCable.

It referenced an invite signed by Michael Wetkas, acting director of the Lagos directorate of the EFCC, in which the anti-graft agency directed the two young billionaire siblings to report to The Head, Special Operations Team at the 15A Awolowo Road Office of the commission by 10am on Monday, January 13, 2025.

Sex Worker Kills Barman Over N200

 A bar man in Adamawa State has lost his life to a sex worker over a N200 change the sex worker was supposed to give him.

According to available information, the sex worker, Riyanatu Musa, had bought drinks from the barman, Yohana Musa, to the tune of N1,700, out of which she paid N1,500 and promised the barman the balance of N200 the next day.

The state police command, which is investigating the matter, says Riyanatu, who is under its custody, has confessed stabbing Yohanna in a fit of anger over the change.

Riyanatu, a resident of Mubi South Local Government Area, said the fatal stabbing occurred in the course of disagreement over the N200 balance the barman was supposed to collect from her.

She said she had collected a dry gin known as ‘Big Ben’ and one other drink amounting to N1,700 from Yohana, and a fight ensued between her and Yohana when he demanded for his money, and she stabbed him with a knife in the chest.

She said the stabbing was the result of pure fury and not because she was drunk, as she did not take the drinks just before the fight.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Nguroje, said the normal course of law would be followed in the case.

He said the state Commissioner of Police, Morris Dankombo, had ordered discreet investigation into the matter with a view to prosecution.