NIGERIA NEWS
Hostage Crisis: Senator Arise urges Tinubu not to rule out military option in Burkina Faso
By John Alechenu, Abuja
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, Senator Ayodele Arise, has urged President Ahmed Tinubu not to rule out military action, if necessary, to secure the release of Nigerian soldiers reportedly being held hostage in Burkina Faso.
Arise made the call on Saturday while speaking on an Arise Television morning programme monitored in Abuja.
He was reacting to a recent disclosure by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, that Nigerian soldiers aboard a Nigerian Air Force transport aircraft, which made a forced landing in Burkina Faso, were still being held by authorities in the neighbouring country.
Tuggar had told journalists on Thursday that the Federal Government was handling the situation through diplomatic channels.
“We are discussing how we can resolve this delicate matter as quickly as possible, and we’re talking. So it’s something that is being handled diplomatically,” the minister said.
Burkina Faso, alongside Mali and Niger, recently withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to form the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) following the emergence of military governments in the three countries.
While acknowledging that Nigeria’s armed forces are currently stretched across several theatres battling insurgency, banditry and other forms of criminality, Senator Arise expressed confidence in the military’s capacity to act decisively if the situation demands it.
He recalled the 1976 Entebbe raid in Uganda, when Israeli commandos carried out a daring operation to rescue their citizens held hostage by terrorists, describing it as an example of decisive action in defence of national interest.
“I think we should move and do something. As a matter of fact, once they are aware that we want to do that, I am sure that the man that is President there will have a rethink because they are our neighbours,” Arise said.
“Yes, we should be friendly with our neighbours, but at the same time we should let them know that they can’t be messing with our country,” he added.
The former lawmaker, who represented Ekiti North Senatorial District, also expressed support for President Tinubu’s recent intervention, which he said helped to forestall a military coup in Benin Republic.
Commenting on the controversy surrounding the “bow-and-go” screening method adopted by the Senate for some ambassadorial nominees, Arise said the process could be interpreted in two ways.
“It is either the President and the security agencies have done a good job of due diligence on the candidates, or the senators have studied their profiles, CVs, achievements and contributions to national development,” he said.
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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.”
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.”
NIGERIA NEWS
Controversy trails appointment of NBMA DG as rights group files FOI request – Tribune Online
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.
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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NIGERIA NEWS
Presidential Hopeful, Gbenga Hashim Pays Condolence Visit to Family of Late Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi — Akelicious
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.
Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has urged the South-East governors to provide adequate security to checkmate terrorist elements within the zone during the Yuletide season.
The organisation also appealed to the governors to provide free buses to convey Igbos from Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, Kano and other northern states due to exorbitant transportation costs.
Ohanaeze stated that many people are unable to afford the journey home to reunite with their families, nothing that the pervasive atmosphere of insecurity, particularly within the South-East, further exacerbates the anxieties of those who might otherwise consider braving the financial strain to return.
It noted that Ohanaeze Ndigbo, as the unwavering voice and custodian of Igbo interests, is duty-bound to demand immediate and decisive action from the governors.
The pan-Igbo group insisted that South-East governors, as those entrusted with the welfare and security of the Igbo populace, must urgently address these critical issues.
This was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by Ohanaeze’s factional Deputy- President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Chief Chinenyeze Ohia, national spokesperson, and made available to journalists.
Parts of the statement read, “Immediately dispatch a minimum of 250 Free Christmas Buses (50 buses per state) or an even greater number, to various designated locations within Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Kaduna, and other areas where significant populations of Igbo reside.
“This initiative is essential to facilitate the safe and affordable return of our people to their families during this festive period.Recognize and fulfill their constitutional responsibility as the Chief Security Officers within their respective states.
“They must take concrete and proactive measures to fortify security protocols along all border communities in Enugu, Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Imo States.This is a crucial preemptive action to safeguard our people from any potential terrorist incursions or acts of violence, especially by fleeing bandit elements from the North.
“Let it be known, that any Governor who disregards these critical calls to action – who fails to provide the necessary assistance in facilitating the return of our people and fails to adequately secure their lives and properties during this Yuletide season – will face the uncompromising judgment of the Ndigbo.”
The body commended the Nigerian military’s concerted actions, in conjunction with other security agencies, which have contributed to the restoration of normalcy in many areas, creating a safer environment for our people to return to their homes.
Further, Ohanaeze Ndigbo acknowledged the strategic importance of President Bola Tinubu’s establishment of a military training depot in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
It said this initiative, breaking with historical precedent which limited such facilities to the northern regions since Nigeria’s independence in 1960, is a significant step.
Adding that the strategic move holds the potential to inspire Igbo youths to embrace military service and, consequently, aid in mitigating the lingering security challenges that affect the South-East.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has written to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to widely publish certified true copies of the tax bills received from the National Assembly and the tax laws signed into law.
SERAP made the request in a Freedom of Information letter dated December 20, 2025, and signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare.
The organisation listed the documents it seeks to include the National Revenue Service (Establishment) Act; the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act; the Nigeria Tax Administration Act; and the Nigeria Tax Act.
SERAP also asked the President to direct the Attorney General to clarify whether the versions of the tax bills transmitted by the National Assembly are identical to those signed into law and subsequently gazetted.
SERAP further urged the President to establish an independent panel of inquiry to investigate allegations that there are material differences between the tax bills passed by the National Assembly and the tax laws eventually gazetted by the Federal Government.
According to the organisation, the panel should investigate what occurred and identify those responsible for any alleged alterations.
“The panel should be headed by a retired Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria or Court of Appeal. The findings of the panel should be made public. Anyone responsible for the alleged alterations must face prosecution, as appropriate,” SERAP stated.
SERAP said publishing certified true copies of the bills and laws would enable Nigerians to scrutinise and compare the documents with the gazetted versions.
The group warned that alleged unlawful alterations would violate the 1999 Constitution (as amended), international human rights law, and the principles of the rule of law and separation of powers.
“The law-making processes including the passing of any bills and signing them into laws, as well as gazetting the laws must meet the requirements of the Nigerian Constitution, the rule of law and separation of powers,” the letter read.
SERAP gave the Federal Government seven days to comply with its request, warning that it would institute legal action if there was no response.
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions,” the organisation said.
National Assembly’s allegations cited
According to SERAP, the National Assembly has alleged unlawful alterations and material differences between the tax bills passed by both chambers and the versions gazetted by the Federal Government.
The organisation cited a motion raised under a matter of privilege by a Sokoto lawmaker, Abdussamad Dasuki, drawing attention to discrepancies between the harmonised bills approved by parliament and the gazetted copies.
SERAP said the National Assembly claimed that some provisions were inserted, deleted or modified after passage, without legislative approval.
It added that several oversight, accountability and reporting mechanisms approved by parliament were reportedly removed, while new coercive and fiscal powers were allegedly inserted without approval.
SERAP cited constitutional and international provisions guaranteeing the right to seek and receive information, stressing that citizens are entitled to access authentic and intelligible laws.
“The Nigerian Constitution, the Freedom of Information Act, and the human rights treaties rest on the principle that citizens should have access to information regarding their government’s activities,” the organisation stated.
SERAP said its requests were made in the public interest and in line with Nigeria’s constitutional and international obligations on transparency and accountability.