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The Zone 2 Police Command in Lagos State has arrested a hotelier, identified as Macdonald, on charges of unlawful carnal knowledge of a male minor.

Macdonald, who is the Managing Director and CEO of Leuven Empire Hotel and Suites in Ejigbo, Lagos, was paraded by the Zonal Public Relations Officer (ZPRO), CSP Umma Ayuba, at the Command Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos.

The arrest follows a petition submitted by the father of the 16-year-old victim on January 23, 2025, to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Mr. Adegoke Fayoade. The suspect is accused of committing an act contrary to the natural order.

“The petition alleged that the suspect engaged in unlawful sexual acts with the minor.

“Upon receipt of the petition, Fayoade assigned CSP. Bangajiya Uba to conduct a discreet investigation into the matter.

“The victim, initially fearful of speaking out due to threats allegedly made by the suspect, confided in his mother.

“He recounted that the suspect warned him that disclosing the incident would result in him losing his sanity, ” Ayuba said.

The Zonal Public Relations officer, Zone 2 Police Command, CSP Umma Ayuba, addressing newsmen at the Command Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos on Wednesday

The ZPRO said that having been reassured by his mother, the victim detailed how the suspect had sexual intercourse with him.

“The victim narrated how the suspect had taken him from the hotel in his vehicle to his residence at No. 4B, Oshoba Street, Akowonjo-Egbeda, Lagos, where he was forcefully subjected to unlawful sexual acts.

“Following the incident, the suspect allegedly provided the victim with a bottle of Lucozade Boost and N5000 cash.

“Upon this revelation, the victim’s parents reported the matter to the Isheri-Osun Police Division, ” Ayuba said.

The image maker said that investigations were initiated but rather than cooperating with law enforcement, the suspect refused to honour police invitations and instead attempted to manipulate the process.

“Seeing that the accused was seeking to evade justice, the victim’s father escalated the matter to the Zone 2 Command Headquarters, where the hotelier was subsequently apprehended.

“To ascertain the veracity of the claims, the victim underwent medical examination at Mirabel Medical Centre, ” She said.

Ayuba said that a close friend of the victim, who was present at the hotel on the day of the incident, also corroborated the allegations.

“This friend confirmed that the suspect had been engaging in unlawful acts with the victim and had also attempted a similar act with him, which he resisted.

“He further presented recorded telephone conversations, chat histories, and video evidence filmed by the victim within the suspect’s residence using the suspect’s own phone.

“Initially, the suspect denied knowing the victim. However, when confronted with evidence, he admitted to taking him to his residence.

“The suspect allegedly threatened the victim with psychological harm should he reveal the incident, and since making his confession, the victim has exhibited signs of mental distress,” She said.

The ZPRO said that investigations also uncovered unprofessional conduct by the initial Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who removed a key witness’ statement from the case file before transferring it to the Zone 2 Command Headquarters.

“The IPO has since been detained and is undergoing disciplinary procedures.

Contrary to certain media reports, the medical report from Mirabel Medical Centre remains authentic and has not been tampered with in anyway, ” she said.

According to her, the victim is currently receiving medical care, and upon completion of investigations, the suspect will be formally charged in court.

She said that the suspect also lured five other teenagers to his hotel, where he sodomised them and warned the boys that they would die if they revealed the incident to anyone.

Ayuba said that AIG Fayoade urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, closely monitor their children’s activities, and provide guidance to protect them from harmful influences.

 

(Vanguard)
Senator Shehu Sani has responded sharply to the recent allegations made by former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, against the current governor, Uba Sani.

El-Rufai had accused Uba Sani of sycophancy toward President Bola Tinubu and of unduly receiving N150 billion in grants and interventions from the federal government.

In a post on his verified Facebook account on Wednesday, Sani criticized el-Rufai, claiming that the former governor was “coming to equity with dirty hands.”

Sani suggested that history should be revisited in order to understand the full context of the allegations and to shed light on past actions that may explain the current political dynamics.

The human rights activist turned politician wrote: “The Ex Governor collected millions of Dollars Paris Refund from President Buhari and never disclosed it to the people of the state. He collected Billions of Excess Crude funds from Buhari and never disclosed it to the Kaduna public.

“He collected Billions in Ecological funds from Buhari and never disclosed it to the Kaduna People. He collected Billions of special grants from Buhari through the CBN and never disclosed it to the Kaduna public and also collected stamp duties in Billions from Buhari and never disclosed it to the people of the state.”

The former lawmaker also accused el-Rufai of collecting billions of Naira from a commercial bank and allegedly mortgaged the state.

The Senator further averred that, “There is nobody in Kaduna state who can confidently hold his Holy Book and swear that he or she knows how every kobo of the Kaduna’s $350 million World Bank loans was spent;Until the Kaduna Assembly probe.”

He stated, “If the present Governor actually refused to disclose the mythical “150 billion”,he must have learned it from the Ex Governor.The ex Governor is coming to equity with dirty hands. If the Present Governor is supporting Tinubu because of money, can we say that the former one was supporting and kneeling down for Buhari for same reason.

“The man with a body odour is accusing another having a mouth odour. The ex Governor also accused the present Governor of betrayal. Its simply a case of the Legend of betrayal being outsmarted by the grand guru.”

 
A Federal High Court in Lagos has sentenced prominent Nollywood filmmaker, Emeka Mbadiwe, to five years imprisonment for drug trafficking.

The conviction follows his guilty plea to charges of unlawfully importing 17.30 kilograms of “Canada Loud,” a potent strain of Cannabis Sativa.

Justice Ambrose Lewis-Allagoa delivered the judgment after Mbadiwe admitted to the two-count charge brought against him by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

According to the NDLEA prosecutor, Abu Ibrahim, Mbadiwe was apprehended on December 24, 2024, during a routine examination of incoming cargo at the National Handling Company (NAHCO) Import Shed, Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja, Lagos.

The filmmaker’s arrest was linked to cargo with Airway Bill No: 00637337285, which originated from Houston, United States.

Ibrahim also claimed that the convict had enlisted the help of one Uzoekwe Ugochukwu James to import the banned substance.

He stated that Emeka’s actions violated Sections 21(1)(e) and are punishable under Section 11(a) of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Cap. N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

After convicting Mbadiwe, the court allowed the prosecutor to present the case’s facts and tender all exhibits related to the charges, including the bulk of the seized drug, the convict’s confessional statements, and an iPhone Pro Max 12.

The defence lawyer, Dennis Warri, pleaded with the court to consider a lighter sentence, arguing that his client’s timely guilty plea indicated remorse and saved the court time.

Warri also pleaded with the court to impose a non-custodial sentence or a fine instead of a prison term on the convict.

After considering the submissions from both parties, Justice Lewis-Allagoa sentenced Mbadiwe to five years in prison but also allowed him to pay a fine of N3 million as an alternative to the jail term.

The judge further ordered the forfeiture of the drug and the iPhone Pro Max 12 to the federal government of Nigeria.

The charges against Emeka stated: “That you, Mbadiwe Emmanuel Emeka, Male, Adult, on or about the 24th of December, 2024, during the examination of incoming cargo with Airway Bill No:00637337285 from Houston, United States, at the National Handling Company (NAHCO) Import Shed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja-Lagos, procured one Uzoekwe Ugochukwu James to import 17.30 kilograms of Cannabis Sativa, a narcotic drug similar to cocaine, LSD, heroin, and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 21(1)(e) and punishable under section 11(a) of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Cap. N30, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.”

 
A constable of the Nigeria Police Force, Dogara Akolo-Moses, has tragically taken his own life in Nasarawa State.

Akolo-Moses, who was attached to the Mada Station Division of the Nasarawa command, reportedly shot himself in a private room while on duty.

Sources say that the officer had gone about his normal duties earlier in the day, but colleagues were startled by the sound of a gunshot when he entered one of the private rooms at the station.

When his colleagues rushed into the room, they found him lying in a pool of his own blood.

A source said, “Colleagues of the deceased who were outside the apartment heard the gunshot, prompting them to rush inside, where they found the officer lying on the floor with his gun beside him.

While there are still uncertainty as to why the late officer took such an action, the spokesperson for the Nasarawa State command, Ramhan Nansel confirmed the incident.

Nansel told journalists in Lafia on Wednesday, February 5, that the command is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death.

According to him, the ongoing investigation would help the police unravel the reasons behind the officer’s uncontrolled action.

 
Senate President Godswill Akpabio took a jab at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during Wednesday’s plenary session, mocking the party over its ongoing leadership crisis.

In a sarcastic remark, Akpabio directed a question at Senate Minority Leader Patrick Abba Moro, asking who the PDP’s national secretary is.

The comment drew attention to the internal struggles within the party, which has faced disputes over key leadership positions in recent months.

He said, “Who is your (PDP) National Secretary? The governors have their National Secretary and other members have their National Secretary.”

In reply, Senator Moro insisted that Senator Samuel Anyanwu remained the legitimate National Secretary of the PDP. Aside from leading the opposition in the Senate, Moro heads the PDP Caucus in the National Assembly—which includes all PDP senators and House of Representatives members.

There has been unabated controversy over the PDP’s National Secretary position. Last Friday, PDP governors, in a meeting in Asaba, Delta State, recognized Sunday Udeh-Okoye as the party’s new National Secretary and directed the National Working Committee (NWC) to acknowledge him officially.

Similarly, the PDP’s Board of Trustees (BoT), in a meeting in Abuja earlier on Wednesday, sided with the PDP Governors and reaffirmed its recognition of Udeh-Okoye as the legitimate National Secretary.

In a communiqué signed by BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, the board stated that its decision was based on the findings of a committee led by Barrister Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN). The BoT cited a declarative judgment from the High Court of Enugu, which was upheld by the Court of Appeal, affirming Udeh-Okoye as the rightful National Secretary.

“The BoT, by adopting the report, recognizes Hon. Sunday Udeh-Okoye as the substantive National Secretary of the PDP in full obedience to the declaratory judgment of the High Court of Enugu, as also upheld by the Court of Appeal, there being no contrary or overriding judgment from any court of superior jurisdiction,” the communiqué read.

The BoT called on the NWC to immediately swear in Udeh-Okoye and urged all PDP stakeholders to abide by the court’s ruling. It also commended the PDP Governors’ Forum, the NWC, and other party organs for their commitment to upholding the party’s constitution and guidelines.

The drama in the Senate followed the official defection of Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North, from the PDP to the APC. In his defection letter, read aloud by Akpabio, Nwoko cited the PDP’s internal crisis as the reason for his departure.

“In view of this, I urge the Senate to take this matter seriously by setting up an ad hoc committee to investigate the crisis within the PDP and recommend a way forward to safeguard our democracy,” Nwoko stated. He urged the committee to examine the root causes of the party’s internal conflict and propose reforms to ensure a strong and viable opposition.

Senate President Akpabio has, however, said he will not be setting up the committee, given that the issue in contention is in court.

 

(PoliticsNigeria)
A lecturer at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Professor Peter Uduk, has been sentenced to three years in prison by a State High Court in Uyo.

The court found Professor Uduk guilty of announcing and publishing falsified results during the 2019 general elections while serving as the returning officer for the Essien Udim State Constituency election.

In addition to the prison sentence, the court imposed a fine of N100,000 on the professor.

Prosecuted by the Independent National Electoral Commission, Uduk’s conviction is the second high-profile case after that of Professor Peter Ogban who was jailed for three years for falsifying results in the Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District election.

The action of Ogban, a former lecturer at the University of Calabar was carried out to favour the current Senate President, Godswill Akpabuo.

First arraigned in December 2020, Uduk had pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.

However, Justice Nkanang while delivering his judgement held that Uduk knowingly announced and published fabricated results as a collation and returning officer during the election.

He found the professor guilty on two counts while sentencing him to three years in prison for each count, with both sentences running concurrently.

 
President Bola Tinubu has approved an increase in the retirement age for doctors and other healthcare workers in Nigeria, extending it from 60 to 65 years.

The announcement was made by the National Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr. Mannir Bature, in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lagos.

According to Bature, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, has been instructed to formally present the approval to the Council on Establishment through the Office of the Head of Service for finalization.

Prof. Pate conveyed this significant policy shift during a high-level meeting with NMA President, Prof. Bala Audu, and other key stakeholders in the health sector.

Bature said the meeting also had in attendance the leadership of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, and the Joint Health Sector Unions.

He said discussions centred on progress made regarding the welfare of doctors and other healthcare professionals in Nigeria.

According to him, the coordinating minister confirmed that the arrears resulting from the adjustment of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure are set for payment.

“The necessary funds have been secured, and disbursement to beneficiaries will commence soon,” he said.

Bature quoted the minister as saying that President Tinubu has approved the correction of consequential adjustments for both CONMESS and the Consolidated Health Salary Structure, arising from the implementation of the new minimum wage.

“The process to effect this correction is at an advanced stage, providing much-needed relief to doctors and other healthcare workers,” he said.

He said following an extensive review initiated by the NMA, approval has been granted for the implementation of new tariffs for healthcare service providers.

“This will particularly benefit members of the Association of Nigerian Private Medical Practitioners and Nurses (ANPMPN), ensuring better financial remuneration and sustainability for healthcare services nationwide,” he said.

Bature said the Coordinating Minister expressed appreciation for the patience and collaboration of all stakeholders, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of all healthcare workers.

Bature said Pate emphasised that collaboration was crucial to strengthening Nigeria’s health sector.

He said attendees at the meeting renewed their commitment to work together to advocate for the welfare of healthcare workers and ensure the full implementation of key reforms.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that NMA has championed increasing the retirement age of health workers from 60 to 65 years to address brain drain, improve knowledge transfer and for quality healthcare delivery.

NAN reports that various health associations or unions had declared nationwide strikes over the non-implementation of CONMESS and CONHESS for doctors and healthcare workers.

 

(NAN)
Kaduna Electric has addressed concerns surrounding its recent restructuring, clarifying that 450 employees were disengaged, not 900 as speculated.

In a statement obtained by PlatinumPost on Tuesday, the company explained that the restructuring was necessary to ensure long-term sustainability amid financial and operational challenges.

“Contrary to claims by labour unions that 900 staff members were affected, the company confirms that ‘services no longer required’ letters were issued to 450 employees,” the statement read.

While  emphasizing that the decision was made to align with market realities and create a more efficient workforce, Kaduna Electric also noted that the restructuring, along with planned capital investments, is aimed at improving operations and ensuring sustainability.

The company acknowledged the impact of the industrial action that followed the layoffs, which resulted in prolonged power outages for some customers. However, it reassured the public of its commitment to resolving labour disputes amicably and restoring normal operations swiftly.

Kaduna Electric also expressed appreciation to security agencies for ensuring the safety of personnel and facilities during the strike. The company reaffirmed its dedication to providing reliable power supply and apologized for any inconvenience caused by the disruption.

Despite the challenges, Kaduna Electric said it remains focused on overcoming obstacles and strengthening its operations to better serve customers and stakeholders.
A devastating explosion occurred at an MRS filling station near Yola International Airport in Adamawa State, leaving several people feared dead.

Eyewitnesses reported that the blast happened during the discharge of fuel from a tanker. The situation escalated as two tankers laden with fuel exploded, causing widespread panic and significant damage to the area.

“We heard a loud bang and the filling station went up into flames while a fuel tanker was offloading,” a nearby businessman explained the incident.

The explosion led to massive flames which have engulfed the station and nearby areas. Several vehicles have also been caught in the fire.

Meanwhile, firefighters from the Adamawa State Fire Service, Federal Fire Service, and the American University of Nigeria (AUN) are battling to contain the blaze.

 
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has demanded a public apology and retraction from prominent Northern activist Hajia Naja’atu Muhammad over allegations made in a viral TikTok video.

In the video, Naja’atu accused Ribadu of hypocrisy, claiming he now works with President Bola Tinubu and others he allegedly once described as among Nigeria’s most corrupt during his tenure as Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In response, Ribadu, through his lawyer, Dr. Ahmed Raji, SAN, stated that the allegations were false and defamatory. He emphasized that he never made such accusations against Tinubu or any other officials mentioned by the activist.

The NSA’s legal team has demanded a formal public apology and immediate retraction of the claims to prevent further legal actions.

In the letter dated February 4, 2025, and signed by Dr. Raji, Ribadu said the intention of Najatu Muhammad in the video was to bring him to public ridicule, opprobrium, scorn and shame.

The NSA who added that the damage done to him by the video is unquantifiable therefore as Mohammed Najatu to retract the publication and tender an unreserved public apology to him in at least 5 [five] national daily newspapers within seven days of receipt of this letter to assuage the wrong done to his integrity.

Failure to do this, Ribadu said he will seek redress in a court of law where exemplary damages will be claimed against Najatu Mohammed.

The letter by Ribadu’ lawyer to Najatu Mohammed partly reads,“Clearly, in the text of your recording [reproduced and translated above] you stated that when our client served as the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes, [EFCC] he allegedly named President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, alongside Sen. George Akume and Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu [all former Governors, and in that order] as the governors in Nigeria who stole the most from public treasury.

“You also stated that today, our client who once held the above odious view about President Tinubu has turned around to be his staunchest defender; especially, with regard to what you stated to be the government’s agenda to silence voices of dissent to the government, citing the alleged arrest of a certain Prof. Usman Yusuf as an example.

“You also stated that our client’s alleged attitudinal change towards President Tinubu means that he has either become a liar or that he lied when he allegedly described President Tinubu, Sen. Akume, Sen. Kalu and other governors as thieves.

“Privately or publicly, our client has never expressed the above viewpoint about President Tinubu and/or Senators George Akume and Orji Uzor Kalu, which you attributed to him.

“In fact, our client has never held such a viewpoint about the President; hence, it came as a complete surprise to him when his attention was drawn to the aforesaid publication by you against him.

“In the foregoing premise, our client hereby challenges you to provide evidence of your allegations therein against him; which have cast him as double-faced, duplicitous and deceitful in the eyes of right-thinking members of the society.

“Although masked as a clarion call to the North to rise up to your perceived injustice against the North by the government of the day, your publication is also inciteful of violence towards our client. Given this far-reaching ramification of your publication, our client will not sit back and watch his hard-earned reputation and goodwill destroyed by your malicious decision to not only lay false allegations against him, but also, to cause the same to be published for the world’s attention.

“Your intention to bring our client to public ridicule, opprobrium, scorn and shame etc., is laid bare when it is considered that you deliberately caused same to be published on social media, where it has since gone viral.

“Surely, the damage occasioned to our client by your deliberate but ill-advised action is unquantifiable. However, our client will be assuaged if you retract the said publication and tender an unreserved public apology to him in at least 5 [five] national daily newspapers within 7 [seven] days of receipt of this letter. If not, we have our client’s further instructions to seek redress against you in a court of law where exemplary damages will be claimed against you. Kindly be advised.”

 
The Australian government has issued an immediate ban on the use of DeepSeek across all government devices due to security concerns.

According to a report by Reuters, the Department of Home Affairs announced the directive on Tuesday, mandating the removal of all DeepSeek products, applications, and web services from government systems.

Tony Burke, minister for home affairs, described DeepSeek as an “unacceptable risk” to government technology.

He added that the ban is essential to “protect Australia’s national security and national interest”.

The restriction, however, does not extend to private citizens.

Australia joins a growing list of nations scrutinising DeepSeek over potential security threats.

Italy’s privacy regulator recently blocked the AI service after the Chinese company failed to address concerns about its data policies.

Taiwan has also issued warnings about the risks of cross-border data transmission and potential information leaks.

Also, regulators in South Korea, Ireland, and France have launched investigations into DeepSeek’s data-handling practices.

DeepSeek rose to global prominence with the release of its open-source AI platform, which showcased advanced human-like reasoning.

In January, it surpassed OpenAI’s Chatgpt as the most downloaded free app on the Apple store.

DeepSeek’s rise disrupted the global tech landscape and the financial markets.

Nvidia, the maker of the chip used in DeepSeek, saw its market valuation drop by $500 billion as the stock market reacted negatively to the Chinese app’s emergence.

Following the impact of DeepSeek in the American stock market, US President Donald Trump acknowledged China’s AI progress but framed it as a “wake-up call” for American tech companies.

He urged the US industry to ramp up innovation and competition to maintain leadership in the global AI race.

Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, recently revealed the US is also looking into possible national security implications of the chatbot.
A Chief Magistrate’s Court in Sokoto State has sentenced Dahiru Ibrahim and four others to seven years imprisonment each for vandalizing a 50KVA distribution transformer and other power infrastructure in the Runjin Sambo area of Sokoto metropolis.

According to a statement issued by Abdulazeez Abdullahi, Head of Corporate Communications at Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company, the suspects were apprehended by officers of the Sokoto State Police Command following the incident at a distribution substation in the area.

He stated that Dahiru Ibrahim, identified as the mastermind, and his accomplices were charged and convicted for Criminal Conspiracy, Mischief, and Theft under Sections 60, 323, and 275 of the Sokoto State Penal Code Law of 2019.

Describing the ruling as “a victory for decency and the collective resolve of all stakeholders to fight vandalism of power infrastructure,” Abdullahi praised the police and judiciary for their thorough investigation and prosecution.

The convicts were given an option of fines: N50,000 each for the first count, N150,000 each for the second count, and N100,000 each for the third count.

Additionally, the court ordered Dahiru Ibrahim to pay N1.5 million in compensation to Kaduna Electric.

In a separate case, Chief Magistrate Isa Idris Marafa sentenced Sirajo Umar and another individual to two years and eight months in prison for Criminal Conspiracy and attempted Mischief.

The offences, punishable under Sections 60 and 323 of the Sokoto State Penal Code Law of 2019, involved an attempt to vandalize aluminum conductors belonging to Kaduna Electric in Sanyinna village, Yabo Local Government Area.

The court ruled that the two convicts could either serve their sentences or pay fines of N50,000 and N150,000 each, respectively. All sentences are to run concurrently.
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has donated ₦100 million to support the families of 70 victims of the recent tanker explosion in Niger State.

During a visit to the Niger State Government House on Tuesday, Tinubu expressed her condolences to the affected families, stating that the donation aims to alleviate their suffering and help them recover from the devastating impact of the tragedy.

The First Lady emphasized the need for continued support for disaster victims across the country and urged the affected families to remain resilient as they navigate this challenging period.

“We usually write a condolence letter to the Governor each time we are aware of any challenges in the state, but this recent one, I know I had to do something. We are donating N100 million to rehabilitate the families. We are looking at 70 families. Each family will have N1 million to help them settle while the balance will be shared among them for other extra expenses like food items and others.

“This is to help them so that they won’t feel the disaster and the impact of it. We pray such a disaster will not happen again. We pray that this will be an end to it. So that the progress can come in”, she said.

Tinubu said she was not in the state for an official visit but rather a private visit to the former leaders, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar.

She commended the state Governor, Farmer Umaru Mohammed Bago, for what his administration is doing in the area of agriculture, saying, “You have been doing a lot in agriculture,e, and you should be proud of yourself. May God help you.”

In response, the Governor, Farmer Umaru Mohammed Bago appreciated the Wife of the President for her visit and her donation to the victims of the explosion.

He assured that though the distribution of the funds would not be made directly by him but by his wife, there would be equitable distribution of the funds to the victims.

“This is a consolidation of our relationship as a state and country. We are grateful that you have come to share with us in pains and commiserate with Nigerlites over the losses we had in recent times, the tanker explosion in Dikko, the dynamite explosion in Magama LG and Mashegu and the collapsed mines in Shiroro local government.

“Though this is not a state visit, it is a personal visit but we really appreciate you, Ma. Thank you so much for your widow’s mite. She brought N100 million; she said my wife would do the job of the distribution of the victims”, he said.
The ongoing budget defence sessions at the National Assembly have once again reignited a long-standing debate: Is Nigeria’s budgeting process truly a mechanism for national development, or is it merely an avenue for unchecked financial mismanagement? As lawmakers scrutinize budgetary allocations, recent revelations suggest that corruption, reckless spending, and unaccountable fiscal practices continue to plague government agencies, leaving many Nigerians questioning the integrity of the system.

At the forefront of this debate is Honourable Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, a vocal advocate for financial transparency and accountability in governance. During a live interview on Channels TV's Sunrise daily, Ikwechegh raised serious concerns over the alarming trend of government agencies persistently requesting increased funding without providing justifiable accounts of previous allocations.

“Every single agency that appeared before the National Assembly has asked for more money. And the million-dollar question remains: what have they done with previous allocations?” Ikwechegh asked. His scrutiny fell particularly on the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), an agency established in 1992 with the mandate to drive technological innovation and industrialization in Nigeria. Despite receiving billions in funding over the years, the agency’s tangible contributions remain questionable.

“What has NASENI manufactured?” Ikwechegh continued. “We are talking about an agency that has received hundreds of billions of naira. Where are the locally made power banks, streetlights, or any meaningful industrial output?” His statement underscored the need for increased scrutiny of budgetary allocations that fail to translate into real economic progress for Nigerians.

Hon. Ikwechegh representing Aba North/South at the House of Representatives, further revealed a disturbing pattern within the budget proposals submitted by agencies. “When you open these documents, you see suspicious line items such as ‘Engagement of Scientific Personnel for Infrastructural Growth’—budgeted at 17 billion naira. Another line reads ‘Engagement for This and That’ at 10 billion. These are vague and ambiguous figures that do not translate into any measurable impact for the Nigerian people,” he stated.

The lawmaker did not stop at exposing questionable expenditures; he called for a thorough investigation into NASENI’s financial activities over the past five years. He emphasized that at a time when Nigeria’s economy is struggling under inflation and mounting debt, financial transparency should be paramount.

“If we are truly serious about President Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, we must put an end to this financial recklessness. How can we claim to be tightening our belts when agencies are inflating budgets with frivolous spending?” Ikwechegh charged.

Beyond individual agencies, the broader picture of Nigeria’s budgeting crisis is even more alarming. With an estimated 85% of the national budget dedicated to overhead costs—leaving less than 20% for capital projects—the nation is on a path toward economic stagnation unless urgent reforms are enacted. “Our focus should be on production and manufacturing, yet we spend massively on bureaucracy while ignoring the fundamental issues hindering our economy. When will we stop living on borrowed funds and start generating revenue through actual industrial output?” Ikwechegh queried.

Honourable Ikwechegh further reinforced his stance, criticizing the inefficiencies and lack of measurable progress from agencies that continue to siphon national resources. “What have they achieved with the funds they’ve received in the past?” he asked, pointing out the absence of large-scale industrial impact despite claims of producing laptops and electric vehicles.

His solution? A call for immediate reforms and stringent oversight. “We need to check their books, identify leakages, and block them. The National Assembly must take responsibility. We must go beyond oversight visits and scrutinize financial records to ensure that the Nigerian people get value for their money,” he stated.

In response to Ikwechegh’s concerns, some officials within the National Assembly argue that the budgeting process remains rigorous and transparent. However, given the historical precedent of financial mismanagement in government agencies, scepticism remains high among citizens.

With the second year of the Tinubu administration fast approaching and no significant industrial or economic progress in sight, Nigerians are left questioning whether their leaders are truly committed to economic growth or merely sustaining a cycle of budgetary waste. One thing is clear: If these allegations hold true, the nation’s economic future remains in jeopardy unless urgent action is taken to curb financial excesses within the government.

Will the National Assembly heed these calls for reform, or will this budget defence session become another chapter in Nigeria’s long history of economic mismanagement? The nation waits in anticipation.

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declined assent to a bill for the establishment of Federal University of Education, Numan, Adamawa State.

He conveyed the decision in a letter addressed to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Abbas Tajuddeen, read by his Deputy, Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the plenary on Tuesday.

President Tinubu, while explaining his reasons for declining assent to the bill, stated, among others, that, Section 22 of the bill accords the authority on the disposal of land to the governor and not the President as it ought to be by law in respect of land belonging to a Federal Government entity in the case of universities.

Kalu added that President Tinubu also said in the letter that, the proposal on the Award of Degree by the proposed institution was omitted in Section 25(b).

The House had passed a Bill for the Establishment of Federal University of Education Numan in Adamawa State last year and forwarded it to the President for Assent.
Some streets in Chicago have changed under Donald Trump’s immigration policies, as communities retreat into the shadows amid intensified ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raids targeting undocumented immigrants.

In Little Village, a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood on the city’s south side, streets that were once lively now look empty.

Locals told Sky News that fewer people are venturing outside due to fear of being caught up in the crackdown.

The initial focus, officials say, is on targeting migrant criminals, but there is also concern over ‘collateral arrests,’ where undocumented immigrants not initially targeted could be detained. As a result, even those with legal status are exercising caution.

One resident, Steve, shared his fears for his mother, who came from Mexico years ago without proper documentation.

“She crossed the border over here to get a better life for us when we were born, to get education and all. She’s scared to go out there, that she might get picked up,” he told Sky News.

At a local community center that provides support to migrants, staff have ramped up security measures.

A gate at the entrance now remains closed, and workers begin their day by surveying the streets for immigration officers. A notice on the front door advises migrants on what to do if ICE arrives.

Inside the center, Oliber, a Venezuelan migrant working legally in the U.S. with a valid work permit, described how fear has altered his daily life.

“I feel scared,” he said. “I go out feeling frightened. I don’t go out now like I used to. I used to go out every day until night-time, I’d work at any time, but now I can’t go out anywhere.”

He added: “There are rumours about migrants and I’m scared, that they might catch me, deport me. My family depends on me. I can’t go out like I used to, I’m scared, I’m scared.”

All is now set for the official commissioning of tolling operations on the 227.2km Abuja-Keffi- Akwanga -Makurdi Road Expressway by the Minister of Works, Sen. Nweze David Umahi.

The historic event is taking place at the first tolling plaza, Garaku, Nasarawa state.

Distinguished guests expected at the event are the governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdulahi A. Sule, the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Minister of State Works, Barr. Bello Muhammad Goronyo and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Olusesan Adebiyi among others.

The Abuja-Akwanga-Lafia-Markurdi Expressway was constructed under Highways Development and Management Initiative (HDMI) Phase II Value Added Concession (VAC).

The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, is billed to perform the ceremony at Garaku Toll Station, located at KM 32, Keffi-Akwanga section of the highway.

The Senate has announced Senator Orji Uzor Kalu APC, Abia-North as the substantive pioneer Chairman of the newly created Senate Committee on South East Development Commission, SEDC.

SEDC is one of the Regional Development Commissions signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

Before his new appointment, the former Abia State Governor was the Chairman, Senate Committee on Privatisation.

Senator Ken Eze ( Ebonyi Central ) was also appointed as the vice chairman of the committee, Akapbio also noted that other members of the committee will be announced in due course.

With this development, Senator Kalu is expected to lead other members of the committee to conduct oversight of the South-East Development Commission to achieve its laid down objectives some of which include; Civil restitution, tackling of erosion, restoration of security, and infrastructure among others.

The 18 members led by Dr. Emeka Nworgu, were also confirmed as Chairman and Hon. Mark Okoye as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer.

Others are Ugochukwu H. Agballah, Hon. Okey kzenwa, Chief Hyacinth Ikpor, Chidi Echeazu, Ifeanyi Agwu, Nasiru Usman, Hamma Adama Ali, Kumo Edward David Onoja and Orure Kufre Inima.

They also included Daniel Akwari, Chief (Mrs) Joke Adebayo-Chukwuma, Hon. Stanley Ohajuruka (E.D. Finance), Chief Sylvester Okonkwo ( E.D. Corporate Services) and Hon. Toby Okechukwu ( E.D. Projects).
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed into law a bill establishing the North-Central Development Commission (NCDC), aimed at driving development in the region, News360 Nigeria reports.

The Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, announced the signing of the bill during Tuesday’s plenary session in the Senate chamber.

The NCDC is expected to facilitate economic growth, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs across the North-Central states. This move aligns with the government’s broader efforts to address regional disparities and boost development nationwide.

With this approval, the North-Central region joins other geopolitical zones with dedicated development commissions, including the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the North-East Development Commission (NEDC).

As part of measures to develop maritime infrastructure and ease congestion at the country’s ports, plans are underway to finalise the establishment and commencement of a deep sea port in Agge in Ekeremor local government area, Bayelsa state.

The $3billion project is a joint Public Private Partnership project of the Bayelsa State, the federal government, and a major private investor.

The proposed deep seaport is expected to create more jobs and promote socioeconomic activities in the area, attract more investment, and make the state a major transport hub for the north and southeastern parts of the country.

According to sources from the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, a Project Delivery Team from the Ministry is in Bayelsa to work closely with the Bayelsa State government in finetuning plans to commence the project.

In line with his objectives to improve port infrastructure, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola said the ministry is making efforts to improve port infrastructure and connectivity and facilitate the ongoing development of critical maritime infrastructure in the country.

The team, according to a source familiar with the project, is in Bayelsa on the mandate of the Minister to fast-track the commencement of the project.

The Minister is optimistic that the project will help close the maritime infrastructure gap in the country.

The Bayelsa State Governor had last year, during a courtesy call on the minister in Abuja, solicited the support of the Federal Government towards the development of the deep seaport in Agge to harness the state’s blue economy potential.

Oyetola, during the visit, acknowledged the blue economy potential in the state and noted that the federal government will explore the Public Private Partnership (PPP) approach to ensure the completion of the project.

It was also learnt that the Ministry is working towards attracting more private sector investments and Foreign Direct Investment to develop the country’s maritime infrastructure, which would further position Nigeria as a leader among maritime nations.

Upon completion, it is expected that the Agge deep seaport project will attract multi-billion naira investment to the State, which is regarded as a major maritime hub of the nation.

It was also hinted that the Public Private Partnership (PPP) approach would be explored in the development of other proposed deep seaport projects in other parts of the country.