The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has taken formal steps to investigate allegations made by billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote against the former Managing Director of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Alhaji Farouk Ahmed.

The anti-graft agency made it clear that the burden of proof lies with the petitioner, stressing the principle that “He who alleges must prove.”

As part of the process, Dangote has been invited to appear before the commission or send his legal representative to submit documents and evidence backing his claims.

Findings by POLITICS NIGERIA indicate that the invitation marks the official commencement of the probe into the allegations, which centre on claims of corruption, abuse of office and illicit enrichment.

The commission is expected to formally adopt the petition at the scheduled meeting, after which the investigation will move into a full evidence-based phase.

ICPC officials confirmed that a special panel of investigators has been set up to handle the case. The move signals the seriousness with which the commission is treating the petition, especially given the public interest generated by the claims.

The commission also clarified that Ahmed’s resignation from office does not in any way affect the investigation.

According to officials, the allegations concern actions allegedly carried out while he was a public officer, and such matters remain subject to investigation regardless of resignation or change of status.

Once the petition is formally adopted, investigators are expected to isolate specific allegations and invite Ahmed to respond accordingly.

The ICPC assured that all parties involved would be treated fairly and that due process would be strictly followed throughout the investigation.

The commission further warned that while it is duty-bound to investigate credible allegations, the law also provides penalties for malicious or frivolous petitions that waste public resources. Petitioners, it said, must be prepared to substantiate their claims with verifiable evidence.

Dangote’s petition accuses Ahmed of living far beyond his legitimate income as a public servant.

Central to the allegations is a claim that the former regulator spent millions of dollars on the education of his children in Switzerland, an expense Dangote argues cannot be justified by Ahmed’s official earnings.

The businessman also alleged that Ahmed abused his position by diverting public funds for personal benefit and using the regulatory agency to advance private interests at the expense of Nigerians.

He claimed that these actions contributed to public discontent and protests in parts of the country.

Dangote has reportedly expressed willingness to personally cooperate with investigators and provide documentary evidence to support his claims.

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Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have foiled a terrorist logistics movement and neutralised 17 suspected insurgents during a coordinated long-range ambush in Borno State.

The operation, conducted in the early hours of December 21, 2025, is part of the Nigerian military’s intensified kinetic operations against terrorist elements in the North-East.

The troops were working in collaboration with local vigilante groups.

What the statement is saying  

According to a military statement, the troops acted on credible intelligence indicating the planned movement of logistics supplies by suspected Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements.

“Troops of OPHK, alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local hunters, were deployed to an interception point between Sojiri and Kayamla villages on the night of December 20, 2025. 

“At about 2:24 a.m., suspected terrorists riding bicycles arrived at the location conveying logistics materials, confirming earlier intelligence reports.”

17 terrorists neutralised, logistics seized 

The troops, positioned in concealed and coordinated formations, engaged the insurgents decisively during the ambush.

In the ensuing exchange, 17 suspected terrorists were neutralised, while others reportedly fled the scene with gunshot wounds.

Items recovered at the scene included:

• Several bicycles
• Assorted food items
• Drugs and medical supplies
• Detergents
• Clothing materials
• Bicycle tyres
• Torch lights and sundry logistics items
• Assorted weapons of different calibres and ammunition

Following the successful engagement, the ambush team safely withdrew to its base at about 4:20 a.m.

Follow-up operations ongoing 

Military authorities said exploitation and follow-up operations were ongoing to further assess the area and deny insurgents freedom of movement.

Troops involved in the operation were reported to be in high morale, with fighting efficiency described as strong and unwavering.

The operation, according to the military, highlights the continued effectiveness of intelligence-driven joint security efforts in degrading terrorist networks and disrupting their sustainment capabilities.

Checkpoint operation intercepts terrorist supplies 

In a separate operation on December 19, 2025, troops of OPHK deployed at a checkpoint along the Maiduguri–Bama Road intercepted a Lagos-registered vehicle with registration number AKD 244 YE.

The vehicle was found to be conveying large quantities of food items and energy drinks suspected to be logistics supplies intended for Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists operating around Kirawa Ward in Gwoza Local Government Area.

More insight  

Two suspects were arrested in connection with the interception.

Recovered items included assorted food items and energy drinks, three mobile phones, an identity card, a ring, and sums of cash in both Naira and CFA francs.

The suspects, vehicle, and recovered items have been handed over to the appropriate military intelligence unit for further investigation and necessary action.

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…as NPF mourns

The Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG), Theophilus Akeredolu is dead.

Akeredolu died on December 9, 2025.

A statement issued on Sunday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP, Benjamin Hundeyin said, “The Nigeria Police Force announces with deep sorrow the passing of a distinguished senior retired police officer and elder statesman, Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Chief Theophillus Adetunji Akeredolu, who passed to glory on 9th December, 2025

“Born on 25th October, 1942, the late DIG Akeredolu devoted several decades of his life to the service of the Nigeria Police Force and the nation at large. He was enlisted into the Force on 1st September, 1969, initially serving as a civilian lecturer at the Police College, Ikeja, before converting to a General Duty Police Officer with the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) on 1st August, 1973.

“An accomplished scholar and seasoned professional, DIG Akeredolu attended St. John Primary School, Afao, Ikere-Ekiti; Teacher Training Colleges in Epinmi, Akoko and Ifako, Lagos; and the University of Lagos, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in English and a Diploma in Education. He also obtained a Diploma in Law from the University of Ilorin and a Diploma in Journalism, among other professional qualifications.

“Throughout his illustrious policing career, he held several strategic and leadership positions, including the Officer-in-Charge of Investigation at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Kwara State Command; Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command; Commandant, Detective College, Enugu; Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 6, Calabar; and Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of ‘B’ Department (Operations), Force Headquarters, Abuja. He was promoted to the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police on 1st January, 2001, serving as DIG in charge of ‘B’ Department (Operations), Force Headquarters, Abuja, until his retirement on 14th March, 2002.

“The late DIG Akeredolu also benefitted from extensive local and international professional training, including courses at the Metropolitan Police College, Hendon, London; Middle Management Course at the Royal Institute of Public Administration, London; Intermediate Command Course at the Staff College, Jos; the Senior Command Course, Durham, Great Britain; and the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos.

“In recognition of his exemplary service to the nation, he was honoured with several medals, including Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). Beyond policing, he was a respected traditional and religious leader, serving as the Chief Aremo of Afao, Ikere-Ekiti, as well as holding notable titles within the African Church community in Abuja and Ekiti State. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Yemi Akeredolu and children.

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, on behalf of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, associates, and the good people of Ekiti State on the passing of the eminent officer. The Force mourns the loss of a dedicated professional whose legacy of service, leadership, and integrity will remain a source of inspiration to generations of police officers. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”

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The ancient town of Oyo is agog as the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, is set to confer the chieftaincy title of “Okanlomo of Yorubaland” on Mr Seyi Tinubu.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports on Sunday that dignitaries are already arriving at the venue, awaiting the ceremonies to start.

Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, is a distinguished entrepreneur and business leader, born on Oct. 13, 1985.

He earned a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Master of Laws (LLM) in Corporate and Commercial Law from the University of Buckingham, United Kingdom.

He was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar in 2013.

Also to be conferred with the title of “Obaloyin of Yorubaland” is Sen. Abdul’ aziz Yari, representing Zamfara West Senatorial District.

Yari is also the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Water Resources and Sanitation.

Among the early dignitaries at the event are the former Ogun governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

Others include members of the House of Representatives, led by Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu; members of the Federal Executive Council and traditional rulers from Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.

The Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu; the Statistician-General of the Federation, Mr Adeyemo Adeniran; Minister of Finance and coordinating minister of the economy, Mr Olawale Edun, and Sen. Teslim Folarin.

The event offers petty traders the opportunity to make brisk business around the venue, with ace Fuji musician, Saheed Osupa, on the music stand.

NAN reports that Oyo, a pre-colonial kingdom in present-day Nigeria, was founded about a thousand years ago by Oranmiyan of the Yoruba people of West Africa.

It quickly grew to one of the most powerful states in the Yoruba-speaking region.

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The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), has stated that the newly launched drug test policy for schools in Nigeria will discourage the craving for illicit substances among young Nigerians, especially those aspiring to gain admission into tertiary institutions.

Marwa made the statement while receiving the Vice Chancellor of Taraba State University, Jalingo, Professor Sunday Paul Bako, who led a team of management staff to seek partnership with the Agency in the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

According to the NDLEA boss: “We are glad to work and partner with you, your university and the Taraba State Government on this matter. It’s a good thing that what you’re doing aligns with the new national policy for tertiary institutions, which includes compulsory and random drug integrity tests for students.

“This initiative is a joint effort between the Federal Ministry of Education and NDLEA to combat substance abuse among young people in schools across the country.”

Marwa added: “At the NDLEA, we have been pushing for this, and we are happy to have a dependable partner in the Minister of Education and members of his team who worked with us and supported us on this.

“This is not in any way punitive but a strategic push that will largely discourage our youths from going into substance abuse because they know that at every stage of their education, they will face compulsory drug tests.

“We are fully prepared to work with all schools to ensure the success of this great initiative that will make a positive impact on youth development, security and national productivity in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.”

He commended the Vice Chancellor for leading the way by establishing a full Directorate of Narcotics and Drug Abuse Prohibition in the institution, and pledged NDLEA’s support through capacity-building training and other areas of collaboration.

In his remarks, Prof. Bako commended Marwa’s leadership of the NDLEA, describing it as professional, open and collaborative, qualities which he said have earned the Agency national and international accolades.

“We are particularly pleased to visit at a time when your excellent and unwavering commitment in the fight against drugs and illicit substances abuse and trafficking has earned you another five years of tenure renewal. Your relentless efforts in combating substance abuse have contributed significantly to protecting our youths and preserving the future of our nation,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor noted that the visit was prompted by his concern over the growing challenge of drug and substance abuse among young people, which he described as a serious threat to academic excellence, moral values and national development.

“This visit seeks to strengthen the relationship between Taraba State University, Jalingo, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, which started as far back as August 22, 2024, during the inauguration of the Directorate of Narcotics and Drug Abuse Prohibition and the launch of WADA by the NDLEA Taraba State Command, as well as the TSU Drug Free Club patrons and officials,” he stated.

Prof. Bako added: “We firmly believe that effective drug control and prevention require a multi-sectoral approach involving law enforcement agencies, academic institutions and the wider society.

“In this regard, Taraba State University is eager to partner with your agency in areas such as collaborative research on drug abuse and substance use disorder, policy-oriented studies, public enlightenment and sensitisation programmes, capacity-building training, student internship opportunities, and community outreach initiatives within Taraba State and beyond. Partnership with the NDLEA will further strengthen our institutional policies and programmes in this critical area.”

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Concerns have continued to mount over the appointment of Mr Bello Bawa Bwari as Director-General of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), following allegations that the appointment contravenes provisions of the NBMA Act.

The development has sparked sharp criticism from civil society groups and renewed debate over statutory compliance and scientific integrity in Nigeria’s biosafety governance.

In a public commentary, human rights lawyer and public policy analyst, Mr Frank Tietie, accused Nigeria’s scientific community of maintaining what he described as a deafening silence over what he termed a clear breach of the law.

According to Tietie, Section 5 of the NBMA Act expressly stipulates that the Director-General of the agency must possess at least a Master’s degree in biological sciences or a related field.

GMOs subjected to rigorous scientific scrutiny before release, NBMA replies critics

Tietie argued that the appointment of Mr Bwari, a lawyer by profession, undermines the credibility of biosafety regulation in the country and raises serious questions about the commitment of scientists to defend the integrity of their profession.

He likened the situation to appointing a non-pharmacist to head the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), noting that such a move would ordinarily provoke widespread outrage.

“Biosafety is not a ceremonial or administrative function. It requires deep scientific understanding, risk assessment competence and knowledge of complex biological systems,” Tietie said, warning that treating the position as a routine political appointment trivialises science and endangers public trust.

He further noted that the NBMA had already suffered reputational damage under the immediate past Director-General, Dr Yemisi Asagbra, particularly due to what he described as poor media management, and argued that the current appointment could further weaken public confidence in the agency.

Beyond public criticism, the Citizens Advocacy for Social & Economic Rights (CASER), a civil society organisation led by Tietie, has formally escalated the matter by filing a Freedom of Information (FOI) request with the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

In a letter dated December 19, 2025, CASER requested the disclosure of Mr Bwari’s educational qualifications and related records relied upon in his recommendation and appointment.

The organisation cited the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, insisting that the information sought is of overriding public interest, given the sensitive nature of biosafety regulation.

Specifically, CASER requested certified copies of Mr Bwari’s academic certificates, his curriculum vitae, any verification or due diligence reports conducted by the ministry, the formal recommendation letter to the President, and internal correspondence relating to compliance with Section 5 of the NBMA Act.

The group also referenced allegations surrounding the former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Mr Uche Nnaji, who reportedly recommended Mr Bwari for the role before his removal from office, stressing the need for transparency and accountability in the process.

CASER warned that failure to comply with the FOI request within the legally stipulated timeframe would compel the organisation to seek judicial enforcement.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation nor the NBMA had issued an official response to the allegations or the FOI request.

The controversy has continued to generate debate among stakeholders in science, policy and civil society circles over legality, professionalism and the future of biosafety governance in Nigeria.

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The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC), a foremost organisation advocating for the interests, unity, and cultural integrity of Yoruba youth, has vehemently opposed the planned conferment of the Obaloyin of Yorubaland title on former Zamfara State Governor and current Senator Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar by the Alaafin of Oyo.

In a statement released today, YYC President Dr Adebayo Ogunleye described the decision as a grave misstep that risks undermining the cherished Yoruba values of integrity, moral uprightness, and communal responsibility.

He said: “Yorubaland has always honoured individuals who embody the spirit of omoluabi – those whose character and actions reflect excellence, accountability, and the protection of life and property.

“Bestowing a title as exalted as Obaloyin, which signifies guardianship and military command, on someone with a deeply controversial record sends a dangerous signal to our youth and communities.”

The Council highlighted the unprecedented escalation of banditry and insecurity in Zamfara State during Senator Yari’s governorship from 2011 to 2019.

The group said this period saw thousands of lives lost, widespread displacement, and communities living in constant fear.

It added that persistent allegations have linked Yari to some of the very elements responsible for the violence, including claims of meetings with notorious bandits and allegations of political protection or complicity.

“Banditry did not emerge in a vacuum,” Dr Ogunleye stated. “It thrived in an atmosphere where questions of oversight and accountability at the highest levels were raised repeatedly.

” We cannot ignore this history when considering someone for a title that represents the guardian of the realm.”

The YYC also drew attention to the numerous corruption allegations that have trailed Senator Yari, including probes by anti-graft agencies, property forfeitures, and claims of misappropriation of billions of naira during his tenure.

According to the group, such accusations, involving alleged fraud, illegal resource exploitation, and mismanagement of public funds, stand in direct opposition to the Yoruba philosophy of transparency, equity, and selfless leadership.

“How can we, as a people who value hard work and moral rectitude, celebrate wealth and power whose origins are shrouded in controversy?” Ogunleye asked.

“This does not reflect the Yoruba ideal of leadership that uplifts the community rather than exploits it.”

The Council further warned that the Southwest is already facing serious security challenges from herdsmen-related violence, including killings, kidnappings, and destruction of farmlands.

“Honouring individuals whose leadership is associated with the rise of similar banditry in other parts of the country risks sending a message that such conduct is tolerable,” the statement read.

“We must not normalise or glorify behaviour that endangers lives and livelihoods. Our youth deserve role models who protect and unite, not those whose legacies are stained by insecurity and ethical questions.”

The Yoruba Youth Council called on the Alaafin of Oyo and all Yoruba traditional leaders to reconsider the conferment of these titles.

“True cultural bridge-building must be rooted in unimpeachable character and a proven commitment to peace, justice, and the welfare of the people,” Dr Ogunleye concluded.

The Council urged Yoruba youth across the country to remain vigilant and united in defending the sanctity of their cultural heritage.

“We will continue to advocate peacefully for values that reflect our proud identity. Titles should inspire, not divide or endanger.”

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In preparation for the Christmas and New Year festivities, the Zamfara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 555 personnel across the state to ensure the safety of lives and property.

The State Commandant, Sani Mustapha, disclosed that the personnel have been strategically deployed to worship centres and other critical locations across the fourteen local government areas of the state to guarantee peaceful celebrations.

According to him, security measures have been intensified to ensure a safe and hitch-free Yuletide period for residents of the state.

Commandant Mustapha assured that NSCDC personnel would maintain consistency, professionalism, and vigilance throughout the festive season to sustain peace and order and ensure fruitful celebrations.

He also urged worshippers and residents to remain security-conscious and report any suspicious movements or persons to security agencies for prompt action.

The Commandant reaffirmed that the NSCDC, under the leadership of the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, OFR, mni, remains committed to protecting the populace and safeguarding the nation’s critical assets and infrastructure.

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Former presidential candidate, Gbenga Hashim, has paid a condolence visit to the family of late Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, who passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Hashim described the revered Islamic scholar as a rare religious leader defined not just by learning, but by deep moral conscience and national commitment.

The Ex Presidential Candidate, who shares the same birthday 28th June with the late cleric, spoke in Hausa, which he later translated. He said, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi stood out in an era where religiosity is often divorced from godliness, noting that while many claim religious authority, few truly fear God.

“Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi was not just a religious man; he was highly learned, informed, and above all, a man who genuinely feared God.

There are many religious people who do not fear God, but Sheikh Dahiru was different; he was a true man of God,” Hashim said.

Beyond his scholarly influence, Hashim emphasized the late cleric’s unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and peace, describing him as a national figure whose impact transcended religion, ethnicity, and region.

“Apart from being an Islamic scholar, he was deeply committed to the unity of Nigeria and worked tirelessly for the peace of the nation. That is why I regard him as my father,” he added.

Hashim reaffirmed his own lifelong commitment to the ideals Sheikh Dahiru embodied, stressing that national unity and peace remain non-negotiable values in a deeply diverse country like Nigeria.

“I am also committed to the unity of Nigeria and to working for peace, irrespective of tribe, region, or religion.”

While acknowledging the pain of the loss, Hashim noted that Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s legacy remains alive in the principles he lived for.

“Yes, he is no longer with us, but what he stood for, peace and unity, remains for every Nigerian to learn from.”

Dr Hashim came with a large delegation which included Sheikh Haliru Abdulahi Maraya (Kaduna),Dr Ibrshim Umar (Kaduna),Mr Kamaldeen Adebayo Sanni (FCT), Hajia Rabi Musa (Nassarawa),Mr Ezekiel Dinfa(Plateau)and Cordinators of the Hashim Organization in the three Senatorialcdistrics and 20 LGA’s of Bauchi State.

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The Police Command in Anambra State on Sunday said it has arrested five male suspected fake vigilance operatives, allegedly using firearms to rob unsuspecting members of the public.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement in Awka.

“In furtherance of the ongoing investigations on a case of criminal conspiracy and armed robbery, police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad Awkuzu have arrested five suspects,” he said.

Ikenga said that items recovered from the suspects includes: two pump-action guns, five live cartridges, one ash coloured shuttle bus, face masks, number plates and other incriminating items.

The police spokesman said that during interrogation, the suspects made useful statements, admitting involvement in criminal activities, and revealed how they operate in a shuttle bus under the guise of vigilance personnel.

Ikenga said that the suspects are currently cooperating with the police and providing useful information that will assist in uncovering other accomplices.

He assured that the command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property of residents.

The PPRO urged residents to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information to prevent and tackle crime in the state.

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