The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will Tuesday arraign former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami on money laundering charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

He will be arraigned alongside his son, Abubakar Malami, and Bashir Asabe, an employee of a firm linked to the former minister, Rahamaniyya Properties Ltd.

PREMIUM TIMES learnt that the trio will be arranged before trial judge Emeka Nwite on 16 counts brought against them by the EFCC.

Mr Malami, who has been detained by the EFCC since 8 December, will be attending Tuesday’s proceedings from custody.

The anti-corruption agency accused the defendants of carrying out various suspicious transactions and attempting to conceal the unlawful origin of billions of naira through bank accounts and property acquisitions across Abuja, Kano, and Kebbi.

They allegedly committed the offences between 2015 and 2025, a period that includes the eight years he served as the AGF during the late former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

Details of charges

The EFCC alleges that Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe conspired to disguise the origin of funds, acquire properties indirectly, and retain sums they allegedly knew were proceeds of unlawful activity, in violation of the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Acts of 2011 (as amended) and 2022.

In count one, the EFCC alleged that between July 2022 and June 2025, Mr Malami and his son directed Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited to conceal over N1 billion (N1,014,848,500) in a Sterling Bank account, knowing the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity.

Count two states that between September 2020 and February 2021, the duo allegedly concealed more than N600 million (N600,013,460.40) through the same company.

In count three, the commission alleged that in March 2021, Mr Malami and his son retained N600 million as cash collateral for a N500 million Sterling Bank loan to Rayhaan Hotels Ltd, despite knowing the funds were illicit.

Count four alleges that in November 2022, Mr Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe disguised N500 million used to purchase a luxury duplex in Maitama, Abuja.

In count five, the EFCC claimed that between November 2022 and September 2024, the trio conspired to conceal N1,049,173,926.13 paid through Meethaq Hotels Ltd’s Union Bank account.

Count six states that between November 2022 and October 2025, Mr Malami and his son allegedly took control of N1,362,887,872.96 from the same account, knowing it was illicit.

Count seven alleges that in November–December 2018, Mr Malami and Mrs Asabe concealed N700 million used to purchase No. 3 Onitsha Crescent, Garki, Abuja (Hamonia Hotels Ltd).

In count eight, between September and December 2020, the duo and Mrs Asabe allegedly concealed N850 million to buy a property in Jabi District, Abuja (Meethaq Hotels Ltd).

Count nine states that in February 2018, Malami and Hajia Bashir acquired No. 3 Rhine Street, Maitama, Abuja, for N430 million, allegedly from unlawful sources.

In count 10, the pair allegedly concealed N210 million in February 2018 to purchase a property in Asokoro District, Abuja.

Count 11 alleges that between March and June 2021, they concealed N325 million used to acquire No. 1241B Asokoro District, Abuja.

In count 12, the EFCC stated that between November 2015 and January 2016, the duo concealed N120 million used to purchase No. 27 Efab Estate, Gwarimpa, Abuja.

Count 13 alleges that in November 2022, Mr Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe conspired to hide funds used to acquire a luxury duplex at Amazon Street, Maitama, Abuja.

In count 14, between December 2016 and April 2022, Malami, Mrs Asabe, and others allegedly conspired to acquire additional properties for Mr Malami with proceeds of unlawful activity.

Count 15 states that between June 2023 and January 2023, Mr Malami allegedly concealed N537 million used to purchase multiple properties across Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano.

Finally, in count 16, the EFCC alleged that between October 2018 and December 2021, Mr Malami concealed N415 million used to acquire several properties in Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano.

Proposed witnesses

The EFCC plans to call several witnesses, including commission staff, bank representatives, Bureau de Change operators, and other financial experts. Key witnesses include Folarin Dare, Chinedu Eneanya, Sani Lukeman, Abdulrahman Musa Basheer, Jamilu Mohammed, and representatives of Zenith Bank Plc and Sterling Bank Plc.

Folarin Dare, Chinedu Eneanya, and Sani Lukeman are expected to testify on how the EFCC received intelligence and petitions of alleged monumental corruption against Mr Malami. Abdulrahman Musa Basheer is to provide evidence on Rahamaniyya Properties Ltd’s role in allegedly purchasing properties for Malami.

Multi-billion naira properties linked to Malami

Documents obtained by PREMIUM TIMES indicate that Mr Malami is linked to 41 properties across Kebbi, Kano, and Abuja, with a combined estimated value of N212.89 billion. The properties, which include hotels, schools, factories, and residences, were part of EFCC searches conducted at his homes and offices in Abuja and Kebbi State on 17 December.

The revelations came amid an ongoing investigation of Mr Malami by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

READ ALSO: EFCC reacts to court order granting Malami bail

This newspaper had reported that the former attorney general raised the alarm over what he described as raids on his homes and offices in Abuja and Kebbi State by EFCC operatives.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Mohammed Doka, and shared on Mr Malami’s Facebook page, the former minister said EFCC operatives carried out “coordinated raids” on 17 December, allegedly without prior notice.

Source link

The internal crisis rocking the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) escalated on Monday after the Senator representing Kano Central, Rufai Sani Hanga, described the reported plan by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a deep betrayal.

Speaking in Hausa, Hanga who is the only NNPP Senator from Kano, warned that Kano people have never supported leaders who turn against those who helped them rise.

He said those encouraging the governor to move to the APC do not have his best interests at heart.

“In truth, all those gathering to call on Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to join the APC are not his friends,” Hanga said.

“Anyone who truly loves him would not ask Abba to betray the people of Kano, the North, and Nigeria especially at this time of fuel subsidy removal and new tax reforms.”

The Senator also reminded the governor of his long political relationship with NNPP leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, stressing that Abba Yusuf’s political rise was built under his mentorship.

“Anyone who loves Abba would not ask him to be ungrateful to Kwankwaso” Hanga stated.

“He mentored him from when he ‘had no teeth’ until he became what he is today… Is he so desperate for a position that he would allow everyone to perish?”

Hanga warned that defecting to the APC would not sit well with Kano voters, whom he said value loyalty.

He dismissed claims that Kwankwaso might secretly support the move, describing such reports as “theatre”.

“In Kano, we don’t cheer for betrayal; we pity the betrayed. You cannot betray someone and impress the people of Kano. If I see Abba, I will advise him to punish everyone seeking for him to betray Kwankwaso,” he said.

Reaffirming his own loyalty, the senator added: “I am with Kwankwaso 1,000%, until death. No elected official would be as foolish right now as those planning to join the APC.”

The fresh warning comes hours after the NNPP chairman in Kano, Hashim Dungurawa, publicly appealed to Governor Yusuf to remain in the party, admitting that holding the party together had become difficult.

SOURCE PAGE

• Pastor Adeboye’s son is trending over the prayers he made for himself and his wife during their wedding anniversary
• His prayer sparked mixed reactions, as some shared what they observed about the kind of prayer points that he had raised
• Netizens took to the comment section to share their thoughts on the prayers as the video went viral on social media

Leke Adeboye, the son of the General Overseer of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, is trending for his prayers.

The G.O’s son and his wife, Titi, celebrated their 14th wedding anniversary on Sunday, and a video from the event was shared online.

Leke Adeboye’s prayer for himself and his wife is trending online. Photo: @dammiedammie35, Instagram/ @rccgyp1
Source: UGC

In an X video reposted by @dammiedammie35, Leke Adeboye was seen praying for himself and his wife, who knelt beside him.

He prayed:

“Pray for us, that any woman that wants to look finer than my wife that the person will not make it anywhere near me in Jesus name.

Read also

“20 times at night”: Rare clip shows Pastor Chris Okafor disclosing what newlywed wife did

“Any brother with any six packs that want to be packer than my own will miss all the services that my wife will attend in Jesus name.

Watch the X video below:

Reactions trail Adeboye’s son prayers for wife

@callme_Riken said:

“I’m sure the wife too is wondering what kind of prayer is. So if a lady finer than his wife comes close to him baba will cheat? Wonderful.”

@Engrvirus1 said:

“Lmao… You and I both know that’s impossible. The prayer should be that you and your wife have the necessary respect and self control.”

@WomenRightsOrg said:

“That your god should make every man that has six packs to miss church in any service your wife is attending? Like father like son always talking n0nsense.”

@iya_samu_son said:

“The reality of this prayer is most women and men don’t cheat because someone else is finer than their wife or has a six-pack compared to their husband lol. Cheating is rarely about looks. Only insecurity would make someone pray like that. Just my opinion though.”

Read also

Man shares observations about Chris Okafor’s daughter’s body language while addressing allegations

@caryorday00 said:

“The comments are funny. Y’all dont know Pst Leke. . Dude is as funny and as jovial as jovial comes. It shows in his prayers as well. Just check his youtube page for his podcasts with ministers, you’ll see the real LEKE ADEBOYE. Shalom.”

@blakraz said:

“He is not praying to any of your family members He and his wife are praying It’s not your business to put mouth on marriage issues If you are t comfortable with that prayer, go and carry your wife and pray any prayer you want!!!!”

@Amy_beke said:

“This is so weird. What’s wrong with these pastors.”Leke Adeboye is trending over the prayers he made for his wife during their anniversary. Photo: @rccgyp1
Source: UGC

In related stories, Bishop David Oyedepo’s son shared a surprising fact about his marriage, while a video of how his father introduced him at Shiloh caught people’s attention.

Man reacts to Oyedepo’s son’s preaching at Shiloh

Read also

Pastor Chris Okafor presents younger brother as witness to what they caught his ex-wife doing

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a man posted a clip of Bishop Oyedepo’s first son preaching at Shiloh 2025 and shared his observations about the sermon

The man also mentioned what he noticed about Bishop Abioye since he retired from his post as vice president at Winners Chapel

Source: Legit.ng

SOURCE PAGE

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revealed that the fuel subsidy removal by President Bola Tinubu has made more money available to state governments.

Wike, who stated this during his End-of-the-Year Media Chat in Port Harcourt on Monday, argued that owing to the bold and courageous step of President Tinubu by removing the subsidy, some state governments now make an annual budget of more than N1trillion.

He, however, added that smart Nigerians, who know that so much money was in the states, have taken steps to get their share of the “national cake” through different means.

He pointed out that with so much money in the states, the quality of life of the people would generally improve, urging residents to demand accountability from their state governors.

He said he never got the kind of money that state governors now have in his eight years as governor of Rivers States, stressing that he never received more than N200 billion in a year.

“In all my life, as governor for eight years in Rivers, I never received from the Federation Account more than N200 billion in a year. The records are there.

“States are now making a budget of over a trillion because the removal of fuel subsidy has now made money available to the states and so most of them are blindfolded,” he said.

The minister said that he would do wonders if he had N500 billion in FCT accounts, stressing that FCT gets only one per cent of the share of the Federal Government from the federation account.

“Take for example, if FG gets N1 trillion, 1 per cent is N10 million and that is not enough to pay salary. I will have to go back to Internally Generated Revenue, but look at what is happening in Abuja?

“With the little we have got, we have been able to do the best that we can for the residents of FCT,” he said.

He, however, cautioned that money has its own limitations, adding that there were areas where money could not go but goodwill would take someone there.

He expressed confidence that the candidates of the All Progressive Congress (APC) would win the FCT Area Council elections, scheduled for February, 2026, due to President Bola Tinubu’s goodwill.

He added that no President had done what Tinubu did in the FCT Area Councils, which he said will give the APC candidates an upper hand.

The minister equally added that beyond infrastructure, the FCT Administration had intervened in education, health, and the agricultural sectors.

“This, in the long run, will improve the standard of living of the people,” Wike added.

SOURCE PAGE

There are years that pass quietly in governance, and there are years that redefine trajectory. For Lagos State, 2025 belongs firmly in the latter category. It is a year that demonstrated clearly and convincingly what focused leadership can achieve when policy is anchored on vision, discipline, and delivery.

This year, despite economic uncertainties and urban pressure, Lagos has charted a remarkable path of progress under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwoolu. From the bustling streets of Ikeja to the serene waterways of Eko Atlantic, citizens have experienced the tangible impact of landmark reforms, completed projects, and ambitious initiatives. 

Sanwoolu’s 2025 agenda has not only focused on generating revenue but also on translating it into visible improvements in the daily lives of Lagosians.

Under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Lagos has not merely expanded its economy; it has reordered its priorities, accelerated long delayed projects, and laid foundations whose impact will be felt well beyond the present political cycle. This year, Lagos moved decisively from planning to performance, from announcements to outcomes. 

This is not accidental progress. It is intentional governance. Governor Sanwoolu has moved Lagos From Revenue to Results, Turning Capacity into Capability

Lagos remains Nigeria’s economic nerve centre, contributing a significant share of national non oil GDP and sustaining one of the highest internally generated revenues in subSaharan Africa. But the defining feature of 2025 is not how much Lagos earned, it is how wisely that capacity was translated into outcomes.

Governor Sanwoolu’s administration made a deliberate choice to convert fiscal strength into visible, life improving infrastructure, while maintaining macro stability, institutional continuity, and social inclusion.

Across transportation, housing, health, education, energy, food systems, culture, and youth development, the story of 2025 is one of completion, consolidation, and courageous expansion. A story of Rail Revolution, Redefining Urban Mobility in Africa’s fastest growing megacity. 

Perhaps no sector better illustrates Lagos’ longterm thinking than rail transportation. In 2025, Lagos continued to consolidate gains from its rail investments while accelerating work on new rail corridors designed to fundamentally change how millions move across our city.

Our reality is that rail is no longer theoretical in Lagos, it is functional.

The Lagos Blue Line has now firmly established itself as a backbone of west – east mass transit, easing pressure on road networks, reducing commute times, and improving productivity for workers and businesses. It has moved firmly into operational normalcy, transporting thousands of commuters daily between Marina and Mile 2. For residents along this corridor, commute times that once stretched into hours have been significantly reduced.

Beyond passenger movement, the Blue Line has decongested major road arteries such as Lagos – Badagry Expressway, Improved productivity for workers and traders, Reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

The Red Line project running along the Agbado –Oyingbo axis and integrated strategically with the Lagos – Ibadan railway corridor has advanced significantly, connecting densely populated areas and integrating Lagos’ transport ecosystem with national rail infrastructure. 

The Red Line now move hundreds of thousands of passengers daily, reducing logistics costs, and unlocking new residential and commercial clusters along its route. It has recorded major milestones in 2025, serving densely populated mainland communities. 

Passenger adoption has grown steadily, validating the state’s longterm bet on rail as the most sustainable solution to Lagos’ mobility challenge.

But that’s not all. Beyond these, planning and early works on additional rail lines such as the Green Line including corridors linking emerging growth centres signal a government not reacting to congestion, but anticipating population growth decades ahead.

The economic impact is clear: reduced transport costs, increased labour mobility, lower carbon emissions, and higher urban efficiency.  Transportation policy under Sanwo-Olu is no longer about managing chaos, it is about designing order.

Sanwoolu is investing in Roads, Bridges, and Urban Renewal, Infrastructure That Solves Problems. 2025 also marked the completion and commissioning of several critical road and bridge projects, alongside aggressive rehabilitation of inner city and arterial roads across Lagos’ five divisions. Importantly, these projects were executed alongside aggressive drainage expansion, addressing perennial flooding and protecting homes, markets, and businesses.

This Drainage upgrades, flood control projects, and urban regeneration initiatives have helped mitigate the effects of climate related flooding, an existential issue for a coastal megacity like Lagos.

These are not cosmetic interventions. They are risk-reduction investments, protecting lives, assets, and longterm economic value.

Governor Sanwoolu continued delivery under the Lagos State Affordable Housing Programme, completing and allocating housing units in multiple locations including Odo-Onosa/Ayandelu, Ibeshe, Sangotedo and Epe axis developments is worth commending. These estates are not merely buildings; they are integrated communities with supporting infrastructure, easing housing pressure and supporting urban expansion in a planned manner.

In 2025, Lagos deepened investments in healthcare through Upgrading of General Hospitals and Primary Health Centre, Expansion of diagnostic and specialist capacity, and Continued strengthening of the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme (ILERA EKO). The focus has been on access, affordability, and quality, ensuring that health outcomes improve across income levels. His continued investments in diagnostic capacity and specialist care has reduced the need for outbound medical tourism and improving access for ordinary citizens.

In education, school rehabilitation, teacher capacity development, digital learning initiatives, improved learning environments across primary and secondary levels and curriculum support reinforced the state’s belief that human capital is the ultimate infrastructure. Governor Sanwo-Olu’s approach treats education as economic infrastructure, recognising its central role in productivity, innovation, and social mobility.

These investments may not always trend on social media, but they compound quietly and powerfully over time.

In 2025, Sanwoolu expanded Lagos capacity to Power Productivity. Lagos’ energy strategy this year continued to focus on decentralised power solutions, embedded generation, and public – private collaboration to improve electricity access for households, MSMEs, markets, and industrial clusters. Reliable power remains one of the strongest enablers of job creation and business competitiveness. By prioritising energy reforms, the Sanwoolu administration strengthened Lagos’ position as Nigeria’s most business friendly state. 

For thousands of MSMEs, the engine room of Lagos’ economy, unreliable electricity is often the single greatest cost driver. By expanding power access through embedded systems and partnerships, the Sanwo-Olu administration has helped Reduce energy-related operating costs, Improve business uptime and productivity, Enhance competitiveness for Lagos-based enterprises

This is not abstract reform; it is felt directly in markets, workshops, factories, and offices. Building on the passage of the Electricity Act, Lagos has taken concrete steps to assert sub national leadership in power regulation and market development. 

In 2025, the state accelerated work on establishing a structured Lagos electricity market, laying the groundwork for Independent power producers, Competitive distribution models and Private investment in generation and distribution infrastructure. 

This reform oriented approach positions Lagos to attract longterm capital into power generation and distribution, critical for sustaining a megacity economy.

In agriculture, the Lagos deepened its focus on food security and value chain development, supporting local production, aggregation, processing, and distribution. Strategic investments in rice, poultry, aquaculture, and vegetable production combined with logistics and market access have helped stabilise food supply and create jobs, particularly for young people. In a volatile global food environment, these policies are not optional; they are economic insurance.

Governor Sanwoolu’s administration has been unapologetic about positioning Lagos as Africa’s creative and cultural capital.

In 2025, Lagos strengthened its global brand through Investment in creative infrastructure, Support for festivals, museums, and cultural districts, Tourism promotion and destination marketing, and Strategic partnerships with global cultural institutions. 

The result is a sector that generates billions annually, employs hundreds of thousands mostly young people and projects Lagos’ identity confidently to the world.

This is soft power with hard economic returns.

As National Youth Leader, I have also been excited about Governor Sanwoolu’s Youth Development and Sports Initiatives, his effort in Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today. Youth focused programmes in skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, digital economy training, and sports development expanded significantly in 2025.

Sports infrastructure upgrades and talent development pipelines reinforced Lagos’ status as Nigeria’s leading sports hub while youth empowerment initiatives focused on capability building, not tokenism.

I see firsthand how these investments translate into confidence, competence, and civic engagement among young Lagosians.

One of the most underappreciated aspects of Governor Sanwoolu’s leadership is his strategic international engagement. Throughout 2025, the governor held high level meetings with foreign governments, development finance institutions, global investors, and multilateral partners. These engagements yielded Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) spanning Infrastructure financing, Transport and urban planning, Energy transition and renewables, Technology and innovation, Housing and urban development, Climate adaptation and resilience. 

While MOUs are not ends in themselves, they represent access, credibility, and optionality positioning Lagos to attract longterm capital, technical expertise, and global best practices. In a competitive global economy, cities not countries are increasingly the units of growth. Lagos is clearly playing that game with seriousness and sophistication.

The Sanwo-Olu administration has continued to strengthen the Lagos civil service through capacity building, welfare improvements, digitisation, and institutional reform ensuring continuity beyond personalities.

Equally important is the governor’s ability to manage politics without derailing governance carrying along stakeholders, maintaining party cohesion, and fostering stability. Development thrives where politics is predictable. Governor Sanwoolu is arguably the biggest financial supporter of the party in Southwest Nigeria, with the exception of our Father, the President. 

Governor Sanwoolu’s consistent alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ideals of the All Progressives Congress has ensured synergy between state and federal initiatives. This loyalty is rooted in shared philosophy, not convenience. It has enabled policy coherence, infrastructural alignment, and institutional respect benefiting Lagosians directly.

The recently presented 2026 Lagos State budget is bold, forward looking, and unmistakably legacy driven. With strong emphasis on infrastructure, transportation, human capital, climate resilience, and economic competitiveness, the budget signals a government preparing Lagos not just for the next election but for the next generation.

For Lagosians, 2025 is A Year That Changed the Curve. 2025 will be remembered as the year Lagos chose long-term impact over short term applause.

Let me also use the opportunity to commend Deputy Governor Femi Hamzat who has been a steadfast partner to Governor Sanwoolu, providing unwavering loyalty, strategic counsel, and hands-on leadership across the administration’s ambitious agenda. Dr Hamzat has consistently reinforced the governor’s vision, ensuring that policies translate into tangible results for Lagosians. His dedication, professionalism, and alignment with Governor Sanwoolu’s goals exemplify the kind of teamwork that has powered Lagos’s remarkable progress in 2025, making him not just a deputy but a trusted pillar of the administration.

Governor Babajide Sanwoolu’s has demonstrated that leadership is about Completing what others abandoned, Starting what the future demands, Governing with discipline, humility, and purpose. 

Lagos is not perfect. No megacity is. But Lagos is working, learning, and building with clarity about where it is going. That is what leadership looks like. And that is why 2025 stands as a landmark year for Lagos State.

As Lagos closes out a year of visible delivery, 2026 is shaping up to be the moment when progress becomes part of everyday life for more people. With the rail system moving from early success to wider coverage and efficiency, Lagosians should expect shorter commutes, less pressure on major roads, and a transport network that increasingly works to the rhythm of the city. In energy, the expansion of embedded power projects across markets, hospitals, and business clusters will continue to ease daily frustrations, helping traders, artisans, and small businesses stay open longer and operate at lower cost.

Infrastructure and housing is expected to remain front and centre in the year ahead. Ongoing road, drainage, and flood control projects are expected to reach completion in more communities, improving safety and liveability, especially during the rainy season. At the same time, additional homes under the state’s affordable housing programme will come on stream, opening new, well planned neighbourhoods and easing pressure on overcrowded areas of the city.

Perhaps most importantly, Lagosians should expect greater stability and continuity. Many of the partnerships and investment commitments secured in 2025 are expected to translate into real projects on the ground in 2026, creating jobs, strengthening public services, and positioning Lagos for longterm growth. 

The direction is clear: a government focused not on noise, but on results that touch daily life and endure beyond the moment.

…Dr Dayo Israel, the National Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress writes from Kano Street, Ebute Metta, Lagos.

SOURCE PAGE

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the provisional list of governorship and deputy governorship candidates for the June 20, 2026, Ekiti state election.

INEC said the provisional list features candidates from 12 political parties, with the All Progressives Congress (APC) fielding Governor Biodun Oyebanji with Monisade Afuye as his running mate.

Other candidates include Opeyemi Falegan of the Accord Party, who is running with Omoyemi Olaleye. Akande Oluwasegun of the African Action Congress is contesting with Oluwasanmi Fajuyigbe as deputy.

Ayodeji Ojo of the Action Democratic Party is also on the list, with Itunu Ibitoye as his running mate. The African Democratic Congress is presenting Oluwadare Bejide and Paul Olowoyeye.

The Action People’s Party is fielding Bidemi Awogbemi and Akinyemi Adewumi. Other political parties listed include the Allied People’s Movement, Labour Party, New Nigeria People’s Party, People’s Redemption Party, Young Progressive Party and Zenith Labour Party.

However, candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party were absent from the provisional list.

INEC said it will update the provisional list on January 19, 2026, in line with the Electoral Act 2022, after parties conclude substitutions and resolve outstanding legal issues ahead of the election.

SOURCE PAGE

Former presidential aide, Reno Omokri, has criticised what he described as the rush by Nigerians on social media to “de-market” the country following the road accident involving Anthony Joshua in Ogun state.

Joshua, a British-Nigerian former world heavyweight boxing champion, sustained injuries in a fatal accident on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway on Monday morning.

The incident has generated international headlines following unverified claims on social media alleging the absence of emergency response at the scene.

In a post on X on Monday, Omokri said foreign media outlets in countries such as India and Australia had quoted Nigerian social media users in portraying the incident as evidence of a “failed state”.

“Instead of de-marketing Nigeria, why don’t you and I wait for the full details of what occurred to our beloved boxing champion before making dramatic and damaging statements whose veracity we cannot be sure of?” he wrote.

Omokri said many of those criticising the country were not present at the accident scene and relied solely on online videos.

“You were not at the scene of the accident; you are relying on videos you see online; you don’t know the full details. But your first instincts are to attack Nigeria and paint the worst possible picture to the outside world,” he added.

Omokri said eyewitnesses began assisting Joshua within two minutes of the accident before professional responders arrived.

He said Joshua was already close to a hospital before an ambulance arrived, contrary to claims that help took an hour.

The former aide said the two people who died in the accident were foreign nationals who suffered immediate trauma from the collision.

“How is that the fault of emergency response personnel? I see no blame for Nigeria in this, but I will still wait for the full official statement,” he added.

Omokri urged Nigerians to exercise restraint and patriotism by waiting for official reports before drawing conclusions.

He compared the incident with global cases, noting that emergency response delays occur even in developed countries.

He cited the death of Princess Diana in Paris, where it reportedly took 101 minutes to transport her to hospital, and a Spanish football accident involving Diogo Jota.

“Please be patriotic and wait for an official statement before hastily crucifying Nigeria,” Omokri said.

SOURCE PAGE

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness following news that world heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua was involved in a fatal car accident on Monday along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Makun, Ogun State.

The crash reportedly claimed the lives of two individuals, while Joshua sustained minor injuries.

Details of the Accident

Reports indicate that Joshua’s Lexus SUV collided with a stationary truck on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

While the exact circumstances are still under investigation, preliminary information suggests that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking may have contributed to the crash.

Authorities are currently examining the scene and speaking with witnesses to determine the full cause of the accident.

Casualties and Injuries

Although Joshua reportedly sustained only minor injuries, the accident claimed the lives of two people at the scene, highlighting the severity of the collision.

Personal Trainer Latz Among the Deceased

Adding to the tragedy, Joshua’s personal trainer, Latz, died in the accident barely 24 hours after arriving in Nigeria.

Three-division boxing world champion Badou Jack confirmed Latz’s passing on Instagram, expressing shock and mourning the loss.

Tinubu’s Message to Anthony Joshua

In reaction to the tragedy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sent a message of sympathy to Joshua.

He wrote:

“AJ

I extend my deep sympathies to you following the tragic accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, which claimed two precious lives and caused you injuries.

This immense tragedy casts a deep shadow on this season. I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident.

As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride.

In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.

I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed.”

See below;

SOURCE PAGE

…Portuguese envoy marveled by 20th Calabar Carnival.

Calabar, the Cross River State capital, came alive on Saturday as top local and international dignitaries converged for the 20th edition of the Calabar International Carnival, popularly known as “Africa’s Biggest Street Party.”

Among those in attendance were the Portuguese Ambassador, Paulo Santos; Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma; National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and his wife; as well as representatives of ECOWAS. Others included the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh and his wife, retired military officers, Nollywood actors and several political and business leaders.

While flagging off the event at the historic Millennium Park in Calabar, Governor Bassey Otu charged the participating bands to creatively interpret the theme of the 2025 carnival, “Traces of Time,” in a way that would leave lasting impressions on the global audience.

“The carnival you see today is going to unveil some very explosive outcomes. We want all the bands to understand this year’s theme and interpret it practically and excellently so that the world will continue to remember Cross River State,” Otu said.

The governor described the Calabar Carnival as a major pillar of the state’s tourism calendar, noting that it represents two decades of ingenuity, resilience, continuity and sustainability. He urged both competing and non-competing bands to refine their performances and give their best, hinting that outstanding displays could earn recognition and elevation.

Otu also used the occasion to acknowledge the contributions of his predecessors, including former Governors Donald Duke, for initiating the carnival; Liyel Imoke, for sustaining it; and Ben Ayade, for ensuring its continuity even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier, Chairman of the Cross River Carnival Commission, Gabe Onah, said the carnival has significantly boosted the state’s commercial and tourism economy. He announced the presence of delegates from French- and English-speaking ECOWAS countries, the Spanish Consul, the Portuguese Ambassador, as well as other local and international partners.

In his remarks, Portuguese Ambassador Paulo Santos praised the Cross River State Government for the success and consistency of the carnival over the past two decades. He expressed admiration for the organisation of the event and said he would encourage other diplomats based in Abuja and nearby areas to spend their end-of-year holidays in Calabar.

Following the flag-off, revellers took to the 12-kilometre carnival routes, dancing and making stops at designated adjudication points to showcase performances in line with the competition guidelines and the year’s theme.

SOURCE PAGE

By Adegboyega Adeleye

Legendary singer Beyoncé is now a billionaire — making her the fifth musician to reach the remarkable milestone, according to Forbes.

The 44-year-old American, who holds the record for the most Grammy Awards ever won in a lifetime by an individual artiste, with 35 awards, joins Taylor Swift, Rihanna, Bruce Springsteen and her husband, Jay Z, as musicians in the billionaire club.

According to Forbes, Beyoncé has experienced remarkable success in her career in recent years. Her Renaissance World Tour in 2023 grossed nearly $600 million. In 2024, she released the country album “Cowboy Carter,” which went on to anchor the world’s highest-grossing concert tour of 2025.

“For almost any other musical artiste, The Renaissance World Tour would be a career peak. The three-hour, career-spanning journey through Beyoncé’s discography was one of the concert sensations of 2023, grossing nearly $600 million and cementing her place, alongside Taylor Swift, as one of the biggest pop culture icons in the world,” the famed business magazine wrote.

“But the 44-year-old pop supernova reinvented herself again in 2024, releasing a country album, Cowboy Carter, that would generate new commercial opportunities, a Christmas NFL halftime performance and the world’s highest-grossing concert tour of 2025, ultimately earning Queen Bey another title of distinction—billionaire.

“She now joins an elite group of celebrities who have recently crossed the three-comma threshold—of the 22 billionaire entertainers Forbes has identified, nearly half were added in the last three years—and she becomes just the fifth musician, joining her husband, Jay-Z, as well as Swift, Bruce Springsteen and Rihanna.”

The business publication adds, “In total, the Cowboy Carter Tour grossed more than $400 million in ticket sales, per Pollstar, and another $50 million in merchandise sold at the shows, according to Forbes estimates. And because Parkwood produced it all, Beyoncé was able to secure higher profit margins. Combining what she made touring with earnings from her music catalog and sponsorship deals this year, Forbes estimates she brought in $148 million in 2025 before taxes, making her the third-highest paid musician in the world.”

Parkwood, Beyoncé’s entertainment company, which she founded in 2008, “manages her career and produces all of her music, documentaries and concerts, fronting most of the production costs to capture more of the back-end economics.”

Forbes further confirmed on Monday that Beyoncé has earned other major sources of income as a solo artiste, including an estimated $60 million from Netflix for the 2019 documentary “Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé.”

She reportedly earned another $50 million for her halftime performance during Netflix’s first Christmas Day NFL game in 2024. The previous year, she produced a concert film of her Renaissance World Tour and distributed it directly through AMC, earning nearly half of the film’s $44 million global box office gross. These amazing feats have earned her a title of distinction as a billionaire—a hallmark of a legendary career.

The post Beyoncé becomes billionaire— Forbes appeared first on Vanguard News.

SOURCE PAGE

Osun State chapter of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has announced January 5, 2026 as the resumption date for its members at the local government secretariats across the state following the suspension of its 10-month-old strike action.

Recall that the State chapter of NULGE withdrew its services from all local government secretariats following the volatile security situation arising from the leadership tussle and political friction between the then ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State over the control of local government secretariats by rival elected councils.

The resumption date was contained in a letter of notification and request for security protection sent to all security agencies on Monday in Osogbo. The decision followed a series of security council meetings to deliberate on security guarantee and successful resumption of work at the grassroots.

The statement signed by the Osun Statw NULGE President, Comrade Nathaniel Ogungbangbe, further read: “As you are aware, our members were asked to withdraw their services and embark on a sit-at home action following the volatile security situation arising from the leadership tussle and rival political friction between PDP and APC over the control of Local Government Secretariats in Osun State. To safeguard the lives of our members, we had no choice but to vacate these premises.

“However, following internal deliberations, the Union has resolved that its members shall resume work on Monday, 5th January, 2026. To ensure this resumption does not lead to a breakdown of law and order or result in physical harm to our members, we formally request the deployment of sufficient security personnel to all 30 Local Government Councils, Area offices and LCDAs Secretariats to forestall violence and provide a secure working environment.”

The union of local government workers, however, made some demands from security agencies.

The conditions include, “Admission of Tenure Expiration: The sacked “APC Yes/No Chairmen” admitted under oath before the Supreme Court in Suit No: SC/CV/773/2025- Attorney-General of Osun State v. Attorney-General of the Federation (which forms part of the judicial record) that they were elected on 15th October, 2022, for a three-year tenure. By effluxion of time, their tenure legally expired on 30th October, 2025.

“Pending Litigation: These individuals have approached the Federal High Court, Osogbo in Suit No: FHC/OS/CS/147/2025- Onibonokuta Saheed & 7 Ors v. AGF & 5 Ors, seeking an extension of their tenure. This action confirms their awareness that their time in office has lapsed. Rather than awaiting the court’s decision, they have resorted to the illegal occupation of secretariats.

“Constitutional Violation: The current forcible occupation of public facilities by these individuals is a direct violation of Section 1(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which prohibits any person or group from taking control of any part of the government except in accordance with the law.

“Risk to Civil Servants: Local Government employees are law-abiding citizens. The current environment is highly volatile. Our members cannot be expected to navigate through unauthorized persons “occupying” their places of work without the protection of the Law.

“Running of the Local Government Secretariats: The 30 Local Government councils, Area offices and LCDAs Secretariats can be effectively run, without any Chairmen/Councilors by the Head of Local Administration (HLA), with the Director of Administration & General Services and Director of Finance, serving as the duly recognized signatories to the local government accounts under the Osun State Local Government Accounts Administration Law 2025.”

The union requested the deployment of adequate security to the 30 local government area secretariats and LCDA secretariats to prevent intimidation, harassment, or disruption of lawful duties and prevent any further illegal occupation of the secretariats by unauthorised persons to ensure public peace.

SOURCE PAGE

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed sorrow over the ghastly car crash involving former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua.

In a post on his verified X handle on Monday, Obi said he received the news with a heavy heart.

DAILY POST reports that Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious car accident on Monday, in which two occupants of the vehicle died on the spot.

The former Anambra State governor said the incident prompted reflection, noting reports that no ambulance was readily available to convey Joshua to the hospital.

While extending his sympathies to the families of the two deceased, Obi prayed for the speedy recovery of the renowned global boxer.

“It is particularly worrisome that this incident occurred while he was in Nigeria. It is with deep concern that I received the news of the road accident involving former heavyweight boxing champion, Mr Anthony Joshua, in Makun, Ogun State. May God grant the departed eternal rest,” he wrote.

SOURCE PAGE

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to set aside their differences and embrace peace.

Shettima warned that a sustained rift between the two leaders could have grave consequences for Benue State, the North-Central zone and the country at large.

Naija News reports that Shettima made the appeal on Sunday in Makurdi while addressing guests at the wedding reception of Akume’s son, stressing that Benue occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s unity and development.

The Vice President described Benue as more than the nation’s food basket, noting its influence in shaping national cohesion.

“Benue is not only the heartbeat of the nation; it goes beyond being the food basket. Benue is a trendsetter, and Benue has a large heart,” Shettima said.

He also praised the Tiv people, whom he described as the largest non-Muslim ethnic group in Northern Nigeria, with significant populations spread across Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi, the Federal Capital Territory and parts of Borno State.

Reflecting on the 2023 general elections, Shettima said the polls were among the most polarising in the country’s recent history but commended Benue voters for placing national interest above ethnic and religious sentiments.

“The Tiv nation decided to vote for the Nigerian candidate, not the religious candidate, not the Northern candidate,” he said, describing the decision as a mark of political maturity and patriotism.

The Vice President lauded Akume’s leadership style, describing him as a unifying force not just in Benue but across the North-Central and the entire country.

“The people call him the leader of Benue. He is a leader of the North-Central and a leader in Nigeria,” Shettima stated.

He cautioned against political disunity, quoting American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., saying, “We either learn to live together with others or perish together.”

Shettima warned that the disagreement between Akume and Governor Alia must not be allowed to escalate, stressing that the people would ultimately bear the consequences.

“We cannot afford to allow the discord between the elder statesman, Distinguished Senator George Akume, and the Governor of Benue State, my brother, Rev Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to fester,” he said.

“We have a moral obligation to step in and heal wounds. What binds us together supersedes whatever divides us.”

According to him, a breakdown in the relationship would be disastrous.

“If this relationship goes asunder, it is the people of Benue that will suffer, the people of the North-Central that will suffer, and the people of Nigeria that will suffer,” he warned.

Describing Akume as one of Nigeria’s most experienced public officials, Shettima highlighted his long career in public service.

“He has paid his dues. He is the longest-serving public servant in the contemporary history of this country,” he said.

He listed Akume’s past roles, including Director of Protocol, Permanent Secretary, two-term governor of Benue State, senator for 12 years, Senate Minority Leader for eight years, minister and now Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

“This is why I used to call him a cat with nine lives,” the Vice President said humorously, while acknowledging Akume’s enduring relevance in Nigerian politics.

Despite past political differences between the two leaders, Shettima insisted that unity must prevail, assuring that he would personally intervene to restore harmony.

“We will not allow the relationship between him and the transformative governor to go asunder,” he said.

“I have that moral obligation as a leader of the North to work on that relationship, to repair the damaged relationship, because he has a big heart. He is our leader, and we hold him in the highest esteem.”

SOURCE PAGE

2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed sympathy over the road accident involving former heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, which occurred in Makun, Ogun State.

In a statement shared on his official X handle, Obi said he received the news of the accident with worry, noting that the incident was particularly troubling as it happened while the boxer was in Nigeria.

“It is with deep concern that I received the news of the road accident involving former heavyweight boxing champion, Mr. @anthonyjoshua, in Makun, Ogun State,” Obi wrote.

READ ALSO:

The former Anambra State governor also raised concerns about reports suggesting that no ambulance was readily available to convey Joshua to the hospital, describing the situation as worrisome and reflective of broader challenges in emergency response systems.

Obi prayed for Anthony Joshua’s speedy recovery and extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the two individuals who lost their lives in the accident.

“May God Almighty grant him a speedy recovery, and I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of the two lives lost. May God grant them comfort and grant the departed eternal rest,” he added.

The Ogun State Police Command and the Federal Road Safety Corps have confirmed that the accident occurred along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, resulting in the death of two passengers, while Anthony Joshua sustained minor injuries. Investigations into the crash are ongoing.

Please follow and like us:

SOURCE PAGE

The Conference of Professionals in the People’s Democratic Party (CP-PDP) has reacted to the media chat by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, saying the party is too big to be captured.

CP-PDP in a statement issued by the Protem National Chairman, Obinna Nwachukwu said Wike’s attack on Oyo State governor Seyi Makinde is diversionary and stems from his refusal to support President Bola Tinubu administration, which he said, has brought untold hardship and escalated insecurity across the country over the last two years.

“His resort to personal attacks and bogus allegations against our leaders, such as Governor Makinde, will not yield the results he desires,” he said.

According to him, Chief Wike’s media chat has exposed those behind the subversive court actions against the PDP, the violent attacks on the new National Working Committee (NWC), the sealing of the PDP National Secretariat, and the attempts to compromise certain officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against the party.

“From Chief Wike’s confessions during the media chat—including his failed attempts to engineer a parallel leadership for the PDP, it is now clear that the travails facing the PDP are contrived to cripple the opposition.

“This is part of a sinister plot to enable President Tinubu to establish a one-party state ahead of the 2027 general elections; a plot the PDP has firmly resisted,” he added.

Nwachukwu noted that Wike has been expelled from the PDP and said he is in mortal fear of imminent political oblivion, adding, “a desperation that has driven him to attack credible leaders in a futile attempt to retain his nuisance value.”

He said the CP-PDP will no longer dissipate energy on Wike’s antics, but advised him to face his self-inflicted political woes in Rivers State and Abuja, and to steer clear of the PDP and its leadership.

“Furthermore, Minister Wike would do well to use such live media events to allow Nigerians to engage him directly.

“This would provide an opportunity for him to address the serious allegations of corruption, fund mismanagement, land grabbing, and racketeering under his watch.

“He should also come clean regarding the vindictive revocation and demolition of property, as well as the alleged fleecing of FCT residents, commuters, and businesses through heavy tariffs and multiple levies,” Nwachukwu stated.

Please follow and like us:

SOURCE PAGE