A significant political realignment appears to be unfolding in Kano State as reports emerged that Governor Abba Yusuf may be planning to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This move could signal a major split from his longtime political godfather, Rabiu Kwankwaso, who is considered the leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

While the governor has yet to issue an official statement regarding his next move, PREMIUM TIMES understand that high-level consultations are already ongoing. The governor has reportedly been meeting with top government officials and elected representatives to brief them on the transition, convincing them of his intention and reason for aligning with the ruling party. In addition to this, he had dispatched some of his aides to the grassroots, meeting NNPP members to prepare the party’s base for the upcoming shift.

A testament to this was the meeting between Abdullahi Rogo, the director general of the Protocol Directorate at the Kano State Government House, and NNPP stakeholders from the Rogo Local Government Area. At the meeting, Mr Rogo outlined the justifications for the move to the APC.

Speaking on the resolutions reached during the meeting, Mr Rogo said, “We have consulted with the NNPP stakeholders in Rogo, and we are in agreement that the leadership of the Kwankwasiyya movement—specifically Rabiu Kwankwaso and Governor Abba Yusuf—should lead us back to the APC. We believe that Kwankwaso’s presidential ambitions can only be realised on the APC platform. Our decision is rooted in the best interests and future prosperity of Kano State.”

Mr Kwankwaso contested the 2023 presidential election on the NNPC platform but came a distant fourth, behind President Bola Tinubu, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and ex-Governor of Anambra State Peter Obi, respectively. Although Mr Kwankwaso has not signified his interest for future elections, many believe that he will contest for president again, either in 2027 or 2031.

Mr Rogo stated that the movement remains loyal to the Kwankwasiyya ideology. He also issued a stern warning to supporters on how to conduct themselves during the electioneering period.

“I appeal to our supporters, as we transition to the APC, there must be no room for insults or name-calling. Anyone who engages in such behaviour is not a true member of our movement,” Mr Rogo added.

While Mr Rogo appears to want both Governor Yusuf and Mr Kwankwaso to join the APC, that was not the case at a similar political gathering in the Dawakin Tofa Local Government Area. At that meeting, one of Mr Kwankwaso’s top loyalists, who is also the state chairperson of the NNPP, Hashim Dungurawa, was absent, despite being from the local government. The meeting was organised by the governor’s media aide, Sanusi Bature.

Mr Bature shared a short clip of the meeting on Facebook. He said it was a stakeholders’ meeting of all the top NNPC members in Dawakin Tofa, but queried Mr Dungurawa’s absence. Insiders said the meeting was part of the governor’s directives to engage the leadership and supporters of the NNPP at the grassroots ahead of the planned defection.

Mr Bature’s concern over Mr Dungurawa’s absence from the meeting suggests that the governor and Mr Kwankwaso do not have a united position on the planned defection.

The Daily Nigerian reported that Mr Yusuf had been scheming behind the scenes to garner the support of members of the National Assembly, State House of Assembly, and local government chairpersons for his alleged plan to join the APC.

The newspaper stated that it believes NNPP members in the House of Assembly, including Speaker Jibrin Falgore, have endorsed the governor’s planned defection.

The protracted, silent disagreements

The disagreement between Messrs Yusuf and Kwankwaso reached a breaking point last year, November, when the governor reportedly rejected Mr Kwankwaso’s requests to replace several top government officials. Insiders said the tension eased only after the governor’s mother intervened.

The rift was first signalled by Mr Kwankwaso’s media aide, Saifullahi Hassan. In a subtle Facebook post written in Hausa. Mr Hassan suggested a transition in leadership, stating, “The exit of a military commander does not mean the barracks have ended.”

Further evidence of the fallout came from Aliyu Madaki, the lawmaker representing the Dala Federal Constituency. After dumping the Kwankwasiyya movement, Mr Madaki claimed that Mr Kwankwaso—feeling betrayed by the governor’s recent actions—plans to replace Governor Yusuf with his deputy, Aminu Abdulsalam, in the 2027 election.

According to Mr Madaki, the relationship soured further after Governor Yusuf distanced himself from two major controversies linked to the Kwankwaso family, including the mass purchase of drugs in the state. The governor ordered an investigation into a contract awarded to Musa Kwankwaso, the younger brother of the NNPC leader.

The deal allegedly involved the unauthorised deduction of ₦10 million from each of the state’s 44 local government areas to supply medicines. Governor Yusuf denied authorising these deductions.

Also, in October 2024, the governor directed the State Anti-Corruption and Public Complaints Commission to investigate the state’s foreign scholarship scheme. Although ₦4.6 billion was approved to send 1,001 postgraduate students abroad, investigators found that only 418 students actually departed, despite a substantial portion of the funds being released.

The anti-corruption probe led to the interrogation of senior officials in the Ministry of Higher Education regarding the release of massive funds without executive approval. Following the investigation, ₦700 million was reportedly refunded to the state government. Consequently, the Commissioner for Higher Education and ally of Mr Kwankwaso, Yusuf Kofar Mata, was redeployed.

READ ALSO: NNPP nominates children of deceased lawmakers for Kano Assembly by-elections

In an effort to manage the fallout, Governor Yusuf also sacked the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Baffa Bichi. Mr Bichi was accused of sponsoring a political movement urging the governor to sever ties with the Kwankwasiyya leader.

Officials React

When contacted, Mr Bature, the spokesperson to the Kano State Governor, confirmed a growing rift among members of the NNPP within the state. However, he declined to comment on speculations regarding the governor’s potential defection to the APC.

“There is an internal crisis within the NNPP in Kano, but I have not been authorised to speak on whether the governor is defecting to the APC,” Mr Bature told PREMIUM TIMES on Monday morning.

Efforts to reach Saifullahi Hassan, the spokesperson for Mr Kwankwaso, were unsuccessful. Mr Hassan did not respond to multiple phone calls or text messages seeking clarification on the matter at the time of this report.

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December 29, 2025December 29, 2025

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By Mercy Aikoye

The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has expressed disappointment over the controversy surrounding the Tax Reform laws. The laws were passed by the National Assembly and signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Caucus noted that allegations of unlawful alterations to the laws have raised concerns among Nigerians. “We are aware that this issue has been raised by a member of the House of Representatives,” said Hon. O.K Chinda, Minority Leader.

The House has inaugurated a high-powered committee to investigate the allegations. The Minority Caucus assured Nigerians that it will stand with the House to expose any illegality and bring culprits to book.

The Caucus explained that legitimate procedures for gazetting laws involve the Clerk to the National Assembly transmitting actual copies of the laws to relevant federal agencies. “The National Assembly is always the custodian of the genuine documents of the laws of the federation,” said Hon. O.K Chinda.

The Minority Caucus called on the government to suspend the implementation of the tax laws until investigations are concluded. “Nigerians and the business community are entitled to copies of the laws that they are expected to comply with,” said Hon. Ali Isa J.C, Minority Whip.

The Caucus vowed to protect the independence of the Legislature and democracy. “Any attempt to foist fake laws on Nigerians is an attack on the independence and constitutional role of the National Assembly,” said Hon. O.K Chinda.

The Minority Caucus urged Nigerians to disregard any purported tax laws being circulated without the signature of the Clerk to the National Assembly and the President. “Such laws did not originate from the National Assembly and do not reflect the true character of what was passed,” said Rep. Aliyu Madaki, Deputy Minority Leader.

The Caucus called for clarity and certainty of the law to be implemented. “We want to assure Nigerians that we will stand with the entire House to see that the circumstances surrounding this illegality are exposed,” said Hon. O.K Chinda.

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has suggested that the political rivalry between him and Governor Siminalyi Fubara of Rivers State is far from over.

Wike stated that “all can never be well in politics,” noting that a recent comment by Fubara may indicate ongoing tension between them.

The Minister made the remarks on Monday while fielding questions during his monthly media parley in Abuja.

Recall that Fubara, while declaring for the All Progressives Congress (APC), said that some people were still doing “corner, corner” while supporting President Bola Tinubu.

The governor appeared to be referring to the FCT Minister, who has remained a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) despite working under the ruling APC.

Responding to questions about the matter, Wike said he was not aware of anyone “following President Tinubu and doing ‘corner, corner’.”

He insisted that his support for Tinubu is open and well known to all Nigerians, denying that he is acting secretly.

Wike said: “I don’t know who is following Tinubu and doing ‘corner, corner.’ How could that be when the whole of Nigeria knows that I have stated openly that this is what I will do? Even when governors of the PDP accused me of working for Tinubu, my position was clear.

“If I were doing ‘corner, corner,’ so many people would not have supported Tinubu. The council chairmen wouldn’t have gone.

“I’ve always stated this: why most people don’t trust politicians is that they don’t keep their word, which is very wrong. I don’t want to be that kind of politician. I want to be a politician that, once I say something, you can rely on it. Everybody knows that once I state what I will do, I will do it.

“No, no, it’s not well. It’s not about everything being well; in politics, all can never be well.

“People are always economical with the truth. The governor cannot claim that I have not intervened between him, the speaker, and the leadership of the House. He cannot say I have not engaged with the elders, even when he was present.

“So, regarding this issue of ‘corner, corner’, who? Everybody knows my stand. Everybody knows that my position is not hidden.”

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• A hospital worker who attended to Dunsin Oyekan’s wife on the night she died has shared details about what happened
• The anaesthetic technician shared what she saw Dunsin do when his wife was in a critical condition, and their brief conversation
• She shared the unusual thing the singer did while escorting his wife’s body to the mortuary, moving people to tears

A Nigerian woman who worked at the hospital where the wife of popular singer, Dunsin Oyekan, died has recounted what happened on that night.

Salome Daniel told Legit.ng that she worked with National Hospital Abuja as an anaesthetic technician and was on duty when Dunsin’s wife, Adedoyin, took her last breath.

Hospital Worker Who Witnessed Dunsin Oyekan’s Wife’s Death Shares What Singer Did After Painful Loss
Source: UGC

Dunsin lost his wife in May 2019 to health-related issues and had spoken about how he dealt with the loss after six years.

Nurse shares details of Dunsin Oyekan’s wife’s death

Read also

Moment Pastor Chris Okafor’s wife hugged him after his public apology to Doris Ogala trends

A recent TikTok post by @lighttv11 shared the inspirational story behind Dunsin and the loss of his wife.

The post read:

“Dunsin Oyekan’s story is truly inspiring. He and his late wife, Adedoyin, had a beautiful marriage that spanned six years before she passed away in 2019, leaving behind two children. Despite his immense loss, Dunsin Oyekan continues to minister with a smile on stage, showcasing his remarkable strength and faith. “RIP Adedoyin Oyekan. Your legacy lives on through your husband’s ministry and the children you left behind. Dunsin Oyekan has spoken publicly about how he coped with his grief, revealing that he channelled his pain into worship and found solace in God’s presence. He’s a testament to the power of faith and resilience.”

In the comments, @salomenchock shared details of what happened on the night that Dunsin lost his wife.

She wrote:

“To think that I saw her take her last breath, a night I would never forget, I didn’t know much about him then,it was my first time seeing him that closely.

Read also

Mohbad’s widow Wunmi clears air on rumours about her welcoming 2nd child : “Liam is my one and only”

“I remember how when I come out of the ICU to probably get something for her critical care response, I’ll see him praying, and the moment he sees me, he would rush to me, look at me in the eye and ask, “what is happening?”and I would look back and say to him, “you cannot pray and panic at the same time” and he would node and say “that’s true”.“I still remember just like yesterday how when her body was being taken to the morgue, he accompanied her beautifully playing the guitar and said she loved him playing the guitar.“It was beautiful and emotional, one thing I can say is that he loved that woman, rest on precious daughter of God.”

In a chat with Legit.ng, Salome shared how she was called to attend to Dunsin’s wife when her case got critical.

“I work with National Hospital Abuja as an Anaesthetic Technician. My work mostly covers Theatre and ICU and of course anywhere there’s need for critical care. “I was called to attend to Dunsi’s wife when her case got critical and she was brought into our ICU, I can’t remember the date, but she died like 3 hours after.”Hospital Worker Who Witnessed Dunsin Oyekan’s Wife’s Death Shares What Singer Did After Painful Loss
Source: Instagram

Reactions trail woman’s account of Dunsin Oyekan’s wife’s death

@Oby Onoh said:

“This is a beautiful testimony of love till death do us part. Thanks for sharing. It so consoling at this point in my life.”

Read also

Lady pays visit to her late husband’s graveside: “I went to talk to him”

@Babyturban.co said:

“Thanks for sharing.”

@Oluwa Shola said:

“He’s still unmarried after 6yrs of her demise, that alone shows he loves her and still grief

@seybabe said:

May her soul continue to rest in peace.”

In a related story, a widow shared the last promise her husband made to their daughter and why he was buried in their living room.

Lady shares sister’s last video before dying

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a heartbroken lady shared the last video her sister made before she died, after giving birth to her child.

Many were moved to tears after hearing the dying woman’s last words as her sister said she died on her daughter’s birthday.

Source: Legit.ng

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A touching video making the rounds on social media has captured the emotional moment a young man broke down in tears while watching his elder sister get married.

Video captures emotional last-born refusing to let go of sister during wedding

The clip, which was shared with the caption “POV: Last born watching his big sister get married”, shows the visibly emotional brother struggling to hold back tears as his sister embraces him.

Social media users noted that last-born children often develop strong emotional bonds with their older siblings, especially sisters who take on caregiving roles at home.

The clip has continued to trend, drawing thousands of reactions as Nigerians shared jokes, personal experiences, and emotional takes on the bond between siblings and the reality of “losing” a sister to marriage.

Social media reactions

Reactions poured in on X (formerly Twitter), with users interpreting the young man’s tears in different ways, from humour to heartfelt admiration for the sibling bond on display.

@Wemimoja commented: “My own brother no go cry for me never nah me know wetin I use him eye see.”

@SaintLavrentd0n commented: “Werey don know the chores wey go befall am for house.”

@clucluxclan commented: “Honestly I thought he was the husband. I expected to see a lil kid holding her leg or something. Agbaya.”

@Honor_Abimbola commented: “He knows that his full work go start for house soon.”

@afro_dany9 commented: “U sef be man naso u dey treat other people sisters.”

@arakunriniiyelola commented: “The sister is definitely a good sister. He can’t imagine living without her. Beautiful.”

Watch the video below…

Last born no wan let her sister go. Aww this is cute 🥹 pic.twitter.com/snmkbC6oEi

— TENIOLA (@Teeniiola) December 29, 2025

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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has warned that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may struggle to remain politically relevant by 2027 if its leadership fails to correct what he described as persistent internal mistakes.

Speaking during a media chat on Monday in Port Harcourt, Wike said the wave of defections rocking the opposition party was a consequence of poor and selfish leadership, stressing that leadership remains central to the survival of any political organisation.

When asked if he still considered himself a committed PDP member and whether the party could bounce back from the mass defections, Wike said, “There is nothing that is impossible once you are committed to carrying out due process.”

He added, “What has happened to my party is what I have been saying before now, that if things are not done in the right way, this is where we are going to find ourselves. No Nigerian will say they did not know what I said. I have said it several times.”

Wike emphasised that leadership failure was at the heart of the PDP’s current crisis.

“Leadership is very key, leadership in association, leadership in government. If a leader does not take the right decision, this is how it is bound to be,” he said.

Drawing parallels with past challenges, the former Rivers State governor noted that the party had survived similar crises before because its leadership was willing to make necessary changes.

“We have had this kind of issue before. Nothing collapsed because the leadership was committed to see that certain changes were made,” he said.

However, he accused the current leadership of lacking focus and selflessness. “But when you have a leadership that is not focused, a leadership that is selfish, a leadership that does not understand that equality is different from business, you are bound to see what you are seeing today”.

Warning of dire consequences ahead, he said, “If they don’t correct themselves, by 2027 it is likely that the PDP might not make it.”

Wike maintained that the party’s fate depended entirely on its willingness to admit mistakes and reposition itself. “It is not just about taking over government. You have to position yourself. If the leadership is committed and says, ‘Look, we have made a mistake, what do we do to correct ourselves?’ then there is hope,” he said.

His comments come amid fresh accusations from Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who has alleged that Wike’s actions were undermining unity and collaboration within the PDP.

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Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested the leader of the gang responsible for the 2023 kidnapping and murder of renowned neurology professor, Ekanem Philip Ephraim.

The gang leader, 23-year-old Patrick Essien Etim, along with his accomplice, 40-year-old Bassey Antiha Asuquo, were apprehended at a medical facility in Cross River State.

A source revealed that the DSS had been tracking the kidnap syndicate since Professor Ephraim’s death in July 2023. The perpetrators, who posed as patients, abducted and later killed her.

Both suspects have confessed, admitting they murdered the professor after receiving multiple ransom payments from her family.

“It has been two years of torment for her loved ones, not knowing what happened to the Professor.

“I believe that, with this arrest, her family can finally find some peace and the closure they deserve,” said a DSS source who preferred to remain anonymous.

The suspects also admitted to kidnapping other individuals and vandalising electricity cables, including another suspect, Isaac Ekpeyong, who was also arrested by DSS operatives, sources confirmed.

Professor Ephraim was abducted on 13 July 2023 by gunmen posing as patients at her private clinic on Atimbo Road, Calabar.

Her kidnapping prompted statewide protests led by the Cross River State chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), which launched an indefinite strike that paralysed the health sector for over a week in a bid to pressure the government into securing her release.

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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that the registration process for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) will commence in the first quarter of 2026.

The disclosure was made in the Board’s latest bulletin, which confirmed that all preparatory processes ahead of the exercise had been concluded.

JAMB said the move was aimed at ensuring a smooth, secure, and well-coordinated registration process nationwide.

What JAMB is saying 

In the bulletin, JAMB said it had concluded all accreditation, validation, and security checks for centres, personnel, and other stakeholders involved in the 2026 UTME registration exercise.

The Board explained that extensive preparations had been undertaken to ensure the process is secure, transparent, and largely free of irregularities.

JAMB noted that insights from the post-registration and examination reviews of the 2025 UTME informed a range of technological and operational enhancements now being deployed for the 2026 exercise.

It also issued a strong warning to individuals or groups intending to engage in registration or examination malpractice, stressing that such actions would attract severe legal consequences.

“The management of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has concluded all necessary accreditation, validation, and security checks for centres, personnel, and other stakeholders to be involved in the registration exercise for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME),” the bulletin read in part.

It added, “Consequently, individuals or groups intending to perpetrate registration or examination infractions are warned to stay away from the 2026 UTME registration process, scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2026.” 

The Board noted that these measures were designed to strengthen system integrity and prevent attempts at manipulation or malpractice.

More insights  

The bulletin also revealed that more than 30 suspects linked to previous registration and examination infractions are currently being prosecuted, with nearly 20 already in correctional custody.

JAMB warned that arrests could occur during or even after the 2026 UTME, as investigations are ongoing and continuous.

The Board further urged the public to steer clear of all JAMB processes unless they are duly registered candidates or accredited stakeholders.

It reassured candidates that application documents for the 2026 UTME would be released early in the year, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the integrity of the examination system.

What you should know  

JAMB’s reassurance for a more transparent 2026 UTME stems from investigations conducted after the 2025 examination. The Board disclosed that 6,458 UTME results from 2025 were found to be linked to suspected high-tech cheating.

• A 23-member special committee set up by JAMB investigated technology-driven malpractice during the 2025 UTME. The committee uncovered 4,251 cases of finger blending, a biometric fraud technique, and 192 instances of AI-assisted impersonation through image morphing.
• While these infractions highlighted vulnerabilities in the system, JAMB emphasized that actual malpractice during the exam remained relatively low. In response, the Federal Government approved a three-year ban for candidates caught engaging in examination malpractice.

JAMB has now stated that the lessons learned from these investigations will guide improvements for the 2026 UTME. The Board plans to deploy enhanced technological and operational measures to make the registration and examination process smoother, more secure, and largely free of infractions.

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Some prominent Nigerian politicians who welcomed 2025 with optimism did not live to see the end of the year, as death claimed several influential figures across the country.

While a number of the leaders died early in the year, others passed away towards its close, leaving behind political legacies that stirred national reflection.

Below is a recap of seven notable Nigerian politicians whose deaths shook the nation in 2025.

House of Representatives’ Deputy Chief Whip, Adewunmi Onanuga

The first major political loss of 2025 was Hon. Adewunmi Onanuga, the Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives.

Onanuga, who represented Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State, died on January 15, 2025, after a brief illness.

She was re-elected in 2023 and appointed Deputy Chief Whip of the 10th Assembly. She died at the age of 60.

Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo

Barely two months into the year, Nigeria lost a respected nationalist and leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.

Adebanjo died peacefully at his Lekki residence in Lagos State on February 14, 2025, aged 96.

He was buried on May 3, 2025, at his hometown of Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State.

Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark

Former Federal Commissioner for Information and Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, died on February 17, 2025, at the age of 98.

He passed away after a brief illness at a private hospital in Abuja, following breathing complications the previous night.

Clark was buried on May 13, 2025, in Kiagbodo town, Delta State.

Doyin Okupe

Veteran politician and media strategist, Doyin Okupe, died on March 7, 2025, at the age of 72.

Okupe, a former presidential spokesperson to Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, died in Lagos after a prolonged illness.

He was buried on March 28, 2025, in Iperu-Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State.

Former Kwara governor, Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo

Former senator and ex-governor of Kwara State, Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, died on June 25, 2025, aged 84.

Adebayo served as governor during the Second Republic and later as Minister of Communications and Transportation between 2003 and 2006.

He was buried in his hometown in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari

Nigeria’s immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari, died in London on July 13, 2025, at the age of 82.

He passed away after a brief illness and was buried on July 15, 2025, in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State.

Local and foreign dignitaries, including sitting and former presidents, attended his burial.

Bayelsa Deputy Governor

Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, died on December 11, 2025, after slumping in his office.

Governor Douye Diri ordered an autopsy to determine the cause of death and declared a three-day mourning period.

He also directed that flags be flown at half-mast across the state.

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Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado-Ekiti

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State and President of the Southwest Professional Forum, Chief Segun Ajibulu, has described the newly introduced federal and state tax laws as long-overdue reforms aimed at promoting fairness, widening the tax net and protecting low-income earners from undue financial burden.

Ajibulu spoke with journalists during a community outreach programme he personally organised for widows and children in Ipao-Ekiti, Ikole Local Government Area of the state.

According to him, the tax reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu, alongside complementary measures by state governments, represent one of the most significant policy shifts in Nigeria’s fiscal management in recent years.

He maintained that the new tax framework would not negatively affect poor Nigerians, stressing that clear exemptions were deliberately built into the laws to shield vulnerable groups.

The former senatorial aspirant in Ekiti State explained that the reforms are designed to improve transparency and ensure that government officials and high-income earners pay their fair share, while closing loopholes that have historically enabled tax evasion.

Ajibulu noted that increased tax compliance, if properly implemented, would enhance government’s capacity to fund social programmes and critical infrastructure, ultimately benefiting ordinary citizens.

He therefore urged Nigerians to take time to understand the new tax rules—particularly as they relate to banking transactions—to avoid misinformation and unnecessary anxiety.

In his words: “This is one of the best things that has happened to this country. The tax law is long overdue. 

“There is no way these reforms will affect poor people because anyone earning below N800,000 annually is not taxable. In addition, many essential items and categories of income are exempt.

“For too long, tax evasion has deprived the country of resources needed for development. These reforms are designed to ensure government gets its rightful revenue while promoting accountability.

“People need to understand how the system works. Not all money in the bank is taxable. Gifts are not taxable. Transfers to friends are not taxable. Even money returned after a loan is not taxable. There are clear guidelines.”

Ajibulu disclosed that he spent not less than N30 million on the outreach programme, explaining that the gesture was meant to spread joy during the festive season and had no political, ethnic or tribal undertones.

Items distributed, apart from cash, included clothes, shoes, books for students and foodstuffs, among others.

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Former Senate Leader and Senator representing Borno South, Mohammed Ali Ndume, has called on the Federal Government to take urgent humanitarian steps to support the Borno State Government in resettling, reconstructing and rehabilitating victims displaced by over a decade of insurgency.

Ndume made the appeal at a Christmas luncheon he organised in collaboration with the Coalition of Christian Youths (Youth-CAN) for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) taking refuge at the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Centre in Borno State.

A statement from his office in Abuja said the event attracted hundreds of displaced persons, traditional rulers, political leaders, religious figures, youth representatives and other community stakeholders.

The lawmaker commended Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, describing him as a leader with exceptional commitment to humanitarian recovery, particularly in conflict-affected areas such as Gwoza Local Government Area.

“Out of the 27 local governments in Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum has shown uncommon love, courage and dedication to Gwoza and other communities affected by insurgency,” Ndume said.

Responding to appeals by the displaced persons for assistance to return to their ancestral homes, the senator assured them that he would convey their requests to Governor Zulum.

“It pleases me to hear that you personally requested my support to take you back home. We will ensure your return. We are fortunate to have a governor who truly cares about his people, and I will engage him directly on this matter,” he said.

Ndume also pledged to facilitate the safe and dignified return of IDPs currently taking refuge at the Minawao Camp in Cameroon to their communities in Borno State.

At the event, the senator announced the distribution of 200 bags of rice and cash assistance. 

According to him, 30 bags were given to Youth-CAN, 20 bags used for the Christmas luncheon, 100 bags distributed to IDPs at the CAN Centre, while 50 bags were shared among IDPs in other camps across the state.

He added that similar Christmas engagements would be extended to Bayan Dutse, noting that many of the displaced persons originated from Ngoshe, Ashigashiya, Pulka and other communities in Gwoza Local Government Area.

Earlier, the Chairman of Indigenous Pastors of Borno State, Rev. Waziri Dibal, thanked Ndume for organising the luncheon and appealed for sustained legislative and governmental support to ensure the return of displaced persons to their homes.

Also speaking, Chairman of Borno State Christian Youths, Barr. Ephraim Yidawi, commended the senator for identifying with the youths and urged greater involvement of Christian youth organisations in the repatriation and reintegration of refugees from Cameroon.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Dr. Yohana expressed appreciation to Ndume for his material support and for personally attending the event, describing his presence as a symbol of unity, inclusion and empathy.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the APC Assistant Financial Secretary, Hon. Luka Apagu Mussa, and the Camp Chairman, Mr. John Gwoma Haghaya, who praised the senator’s intervention and acknowledged Governor Zulum’s sustained humanitarian leadership.

The event ended with the symbolic serving of meals, traditional dance performances and communal celebrations, leaving the displaced persons with renewed hope and confidence in ongoing efforts to restore dignity and stability to affected communities.

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has blamed the lingering crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on what he described as the presidential ambition of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.

Wike stated this on Monday during his end-of-year media chat in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he accused Makinde of actions that destabilised the party’s leadership structure and deepened internal divisions.

“Now he said he wants to be president,” Wike said. “It is Seyi Makinde’s ambition that brought PDP into this crisis.”

The former Rivers State governor alleged that Makinde deliberately orchestrated events aimed at undermining the party’s national leadership, particularly the office of the National Secretary.

“He went and arranged with some people to make sure the National Secretary is absent,” Wike claimed.

According to him, Makinde and his allies also sought judicial backing from a court that lacked the jurisdiction to intervene in party affairs.

“He lured people to the State High Court in Enugu when he knew that the State High Court has no jurisdiction over the party,” Wike said. “They got the judgment and we said, no problem.”

Wike explained that despite internal disagreements, efforts were made to resolve the matter amicably, noting that Senator Samuel Anyanwu eventually emerged as the PDP National Secretary. “Sam Anyanwu won,” he stated.

“We told him that the convention is coming, just hold on. It is remaining one year. After that, those that we don’t want to come back will not come back.”

He accused Makinde of rejecting the proposed political compromise and escalating the matter to the Supreme Court, where the case was eventually lost.

“He refused and went to the Supreme Court, then he lost,” Wike said.

The FCT minister further noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) later affirmed Anyanwu as the legitimate National Secretary of the PDP.

“Until when they went to INEC, INEC told them that Sam Anyanwu is the Secretary of PDP,” he added.

Wike said several reconciliation meetings were held involving key party leaders in an effort to maintain unity, but alleged that Makinde consistently acted contrary to agreements reached.

“Senator Bukola Saraki can bear me witness,” he said. “We have gone to his guest house several times. Governor Fintiri was there.”

“There is nothing we agreed to do that Makinde will not go and do a different thing,” Wike added, “and that is why we are where we are today.”

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The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has refuted claims by the Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, that heavy taxes imposed by the government are responsible for the increase in domestic airfares.

The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, said in a statement posted on X on Sunday that repeated allegations of excessive taxation on domestic flights are untrue.

His response followed Onyema’s comments during an interview on Arise Television, where the airline boss blamed high airfares on multiple taxes, warning that fares could rise further if the country’s new tax laws are implemented from January.

According to Onyema, the introduction of the new tax regime could push airfares even higher.

Reacting, Achimugu argued that no domestic airline pays 18 different taxes in Nigeria.

“Any domestic carrier operating domestic flights that says they are paying 18 taxes is a liar. No domestic carrier pays 18 taxes for domestic flights,” he said.

Achimugu noted that the current high airfares are driven largely by market forces, particularly demand and supply, questioning why fares have risen sharply in December.

“We understand that the high airfares this period are down to market forces, demand and supply. Even if we assume there are 18 taxes and that those taxes increased recently, why is it different in December?” he asked.

He added that, given the level of support provided to domestic airlines by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Director General of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, there was no justification for repeatedly blaming the government.

“With the kind of support domestic carriers have received, I see no reason why the government keeps getting thrown under the bus through statements like this,” Achimugu said.

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The Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri, has charged newly trained forest guards in the state to conduct themselves professionally and avoid all forms of intimidation and harassment while discharging their duties.

The governor gave the charge at the graduation ceremony of 987 trained forest guards held in Yola, the state capital.

Naija News reports that Fintiri, who was represented at the event by his deputy, Kaletapwa Farauta, urged the guards to see their appointment as a privilege and a call to service.

In a statement released after the ceremony, the governor stressed that the forest guards must uphold discipline, diligence and professionalism in their engagement with members of the public.

He said the guards were expected to work closely with host communities and earn their trust through responsible conduct.

“You should see yourselves as privileged citizens called to serve your communities and the nation. Discharge your duties with diligence, discipline and professionalism,” Fintiri said.

The governor commended the Office of the National Security Adviser for coordinating and supervising the forest guard initiative, describing it as a strategic intervention to address security challenges in forested areas.

He also appealed to residents of Adamawa State to cooperate with the guards deployed to their various communities, assuring them of the state government’s continued support for the programme.

“On my part, I wish to assure you of the continuous support of the Adamawa State Government for this initiative. May God increasingly grant us peace and security in Adamawa, Nigeria, and the world,” the governor added.

Forest Protection Key to National Security – Ribadu

Speaking at the event, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, described the forest guard initiative as a fusion of environmental protection and national security objectives.

Ribadu noted that safeguarding Nigeria’s forests was critical to reclaiming ungoverned spaces, protecting lives and securing the future of communities affected by criminal activities.

He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the success of the programme and its alignment with the Federal Government’s security agenda.

“I assure President Bola Tinubu of our absolute commitment to ensuring that this programme delivers measurable security, environmental and socio-economic outcomes, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Ribadu said.

The NSA disclosed that he had ordered the immediate payment of salaries and allowances for the graduating forest guards, alongside their deployment to ensure operational readiness and boost morale.

“I have ordered the immediate payment of salaries and allowances, and deployment of the graduating forest guards to guarantee operational readiness and boost their morale,” he stated.

Ribadu further explained that the recruitment of the forest guards followed a nationwide security emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu, who directed the military and police to recruit additional personnel to strengthen security across the country.

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…Demands full weight of the law against perpetrators

The Nigerian Association of Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) has condemned, in the strongest possible terms, “The disgraceful, dehumanising, and utterly unacceptable humiliation meted out to Dr Don Pedro Obaseki, fta, a respected cultural worker, politician, and intellectual.”

NANTAP, in a statement signed by the National President, Adeniran Makinde, fta., called for the identification and prosecution of all persons involved, directly or indirectly, in accordance with the full weight of the law.

Makinde noted that this act represents a gross violation of human dignity, a shameful abuse of power, and an affront to the values of civility, justice, and respect upon which any sane society must stand, stressing, “No individual—regardless of circumstance—deserves to be subjected to public humiliation, physical or psychological abuse, or treatment that strips them of their humanity.

“Dr Don Pedro is not merely an individual; he is a symbol of Nigeria’s creative and intellectual community—a man who has invested all his creative energies into promoting culture. An attack on his dignity is an attack on the entire cultural sector and the nation’s conscience.

“NANTAP therefore demands: an immediate, transparent, and thorough investigation into the incident by the appropriate authorities; the identification and prosecution of all persons involved, directly or indirectly, in accordance with the full weight of the law; public accountability from institutions or agencies found complicit in this inhuman act; concrete assurances that such barbaric conduct will not be tolerated or repeated against any Nigerian citizen; and that since our country Nigeria is in a constitutional democracy, we demand that the rule of law be adhered to always and in all circumstances.”

He also emphasised that Nigeria must not become a place where intimidation, humiliation, and lawlessness are normalised.

“The rule of law must prevail over impunity, and justice must not be selective.

“NANTAP stands in solidarity with Dr Don Pedro, his family, colleagues, and all advocates of human rights, dignity, and freedom of expression. We call on the government, civil society, the creative community, and all well-meaning Nigerians to speak with one voice against this injustice.

“An injury to one is an injury to all,” he further stated.

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