The National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved the commencement of several undergraduate programmes at the University of Fortune, Igbotako, Ondo State, with effect from the 2025/2026 academic session.

The approval was conveyed in a letter dated December 29, 2025, and addressed to the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). According to the NUC, the university satisfied all requirements for the establishment of the programmes, which have been assigned a combined admission quota of 800 students.

The newly approved programmes span four faculties. Under the Faculty of Science and Computing, the university will offer B.Sc. degrees in Information and Communication Technology, Computer Science, and Cyber Security.

In the Faculty of Law, approval was granted for the Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) programme.

The Faculty of Basic Medical and Allied Health Sciences will run programmes in Public Health (B.Sc.), Nursing Science (B.N.Sc.), and Radiology (B.Rad.).

Meanwhile, the Faculty of Social and Management Sciences received approval to offer B.Sc. degrees in Accounting, Finance, Economics, International Relations, Criminology and Security Studies, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Project Management, Procurement Management, and Intelligence and Security Studies.

The NUC requested JAMB to take note of the approved programmes for the purpose of student mobilization and admissions processing.

The letter was signed by the Acting Director of Academic Planning, Abubakar M. Girei, on behalf of the Executive Secretary of the Commission.

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…says we submitted candidate’s name manually

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vowed to challenge the exclusion of the particulars of its candidate from the provisional list of candidates for the Ekiti off-cycle governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The provisional list of candidates released by the commission on Monday revealed that the PDP candidate was excluded from the list by the commission.

No official reason has been given by the commission for the exclusion, but it may not be unconnected with the current leadership crisis in the Party.

But section 29(3) of the INEC guidelines for nomination of candidates for elections provides that the access code is to be made available only to the National Chairman and National Secretary of the parties, as contained in the INEC data.

The section reads, “The National Chairman and National Secretary of political parties as contained in the Commission’s records shall be issued an access code for the electronic submission, withdrawal, and substitution of names and particulars of their candidates as elected at the political party primaries monitored by the Commission.”

The guidelines also said that “where there are conflicting requests from the National Chairman and National Secretary of a political party, the access code shall be issued to the National Chairman of the party.”

INEC also outlawed the manual submission of the names and particulars of its candidates for elections.

The immediate past national chairman, Umar Damagun, who handed over affairs of the party to Tanimu Turaki, was in a position to obtain the access code from the commission before the expiration of his tenure and handed it over to the Turaki-led leadership.

In a statement on Tuesday, National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, said the decision of the electoral umpire to exclude the name of its candidate was a further demonstration of the bias of the commission, saying the PDP would explore all legal means to get INEC to recognise its candidate.

The statement reads, “The exclusion of the name and particulars of our candidate from the list of candidates for the 2026 Governorship Election in Ekiti State by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is yet another confirmation of the biased disposition of the current leadership of the Commission towards the affairs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“For the avoidance of doubt, INEC was duly notified of the conduct of our party’s governorship primaries. The Commission attended and monitored the exercise and subsequently issued reports confirming that the primaries complied with all extant laws and were democratically conducted.

“Following this, INEC released the relevant nomination portal codes to our party, through which the official nomination forms were accessed, before they disingenuously blocked the code a few days before the submission date, causing us to resort to manual submission at their office (receipt of which was acknowledged).

“Being fully aware of the grave and far-reaching consequences of excluding a validly nominated candidate from an election, INEC ought to have acted with caution and responsibility by including the name of Dr. Oluwole Oluyede, the duly nominated candidate of the PDP, in the published list of candidates.

“This would have been the safest and most lawful course of action for the Commission, had it acted without bias. There is no contrary submission before INEC disputing the validity of Dr. Oluyede’s nomination. There is also no court order restraining the Commission from recognising him as the PDP’s candidate. Indeed, INEC’s own monitoring report attests to the validity of the primaries and the nomination process.

“Having failed to act appropriately, our party has immediately taken steps to approach the courts to compel INEC to do what it ought to have done in the first place.

“While we undertake this long and tortuous legal route, we once again draw the attention of INEC to the expectations of Nigerians that the Commission must remain independent, impartial, and neutral in matters relating to political parties and the electoral process.

“While we acknowledge the saying that he who pays the piper dictates the tune, the Commission must be conscious that the tune currently being dictated is dangerously high-pitched and will ultimately harm the piper. INEC must always act in defence of democracy, and never in antagonism to it.”

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By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of bias following the exclusion of its governorship candidate from the list of candidates for the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, describing the action as a threat to democratic fairness and announcing plans to seek redress in court.

The party said INEC’s decision to omit the name of its candidate, Dr. Oluwole Oluyede, came despite the commission’s full participation in, and validation of, the party’s governorship primaries. 

The allegation was contained in a statement signed by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, on Tuesday. 

“The exclusion of the name and particulars of our candidate from the list of candidates for the 2026 Governorship Election in Ekiti State by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is yet another confirmation of the biased disposition of the current leadership of the Commission towards the affairs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),” the party said.

According to the PDP, INEC was duly notified ahead of the primaries, attended the exercise, and later issued monitoring reports confirming that the process complied with all extant laws and was democratically conducted.

“For the avoidance of doubt, INEC was duly notified of the conduct of our party’s governorship primaries. The Commission attended and monitored the exercise and subsequently issued reports confirming that the primaries complied with all extant laws and were democratically conducted,” Ememobong said.

The party said INEC initially released nomination portal codes through which official nomination forms were accessed, but later blocked the codes a few days to the submission deadline, forcing the party to submit its documents manually at INEC’s office.

“Following this, INEC released the relevant nomination portal codes to our party, through which the official nomination forms were accessed, before they disingenuously blocked the code a few days before the submission date, causing us to resort to manual submission at their office (receipt of which was acknowledged),” it stated.

The PDP argued that INEC ought to have acted with caution, given the serious consequences of excluding a duly nominated candidate, and said the safest and most lawful option would have been to include Oluyede’s name in the published list.

“Being fully aware of the grave and far-reaching consequences of excluding a validly nominated candidate from an election, INEC ought to have acted with caution and responsibility by including the name of Dr. Oluwole Oluyede, the duly nominated candidate of the PDP, in the published list of candidates,” the party said.

It further maintained that there was no petition before INEC challenging Oluyede’s nomination and no court order restraining the commission from recognising him as the PDP’s candidate, stressing that INEC’s own monitoring report affirmed the validity of the primaries.

“There is no contrary submission before INEC disputing the validity of Dr. Oluyede’s nomination. There is also no court order restraining the Commission from recognising him as the PDP’s candidate,” Ememobong said.

Announcing its next move, the PDP said it had begun legal proceedings to compel INEC to reverse the exclusion, while reminding the commission of public expectations that it must remain neutral and impartial.

“Having failed to act appropriately, our party has immediately taken steps to approach the courts to compel INEC to do what it ought to have done in the first place,” it said.

The party warned that actions perceived as partisan could ultimately undermine the commission itself and damage public confidence in the electoral process.

“While we acknowledge the saying that he who pays the piper dictates the tune, the Commission must be conscious that the tune currently being dictated is dangerously high-pitched and will ultimately harm the piper. INEC must always act in defence of democracy, and never in antagonism to it,” the PDP said. 

The post Ekiti 2026: PDP accuses INEC of bias, heads to court appeared first on Vanguard News.

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President Bola Tinubu has stated that the implementation of Nigeria’s new tax laws will commence on January 1, 2026, as planned.

In a statement personally signed by him on Tuesday, the President said the new tax laws, including those that took effect on June 26, 2025, as well as the remaining acts scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, would continue as planned.

Tinubu described the reforms as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive and robust fiscal foundation for the country.

According to Tinubu, the tax laws were not designed to raise taxes but to support a structural reset, drive harmonisation and protect dignity, while strengthening the social contract.

“I urge all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which is now firmly in the delivery stage,” the President said.

Tinubu noted that his administration was aware of public discourse surrounding alleged changes to some provisions of the recently enacted tax laws, but stressed that no substantial issue had been established that would warrant a disruption of the reform process.

“No substantial issue has been established that warrants a disruption of the reform process. Absolute trust is built over time through making the right decisions, not through premature, reactive measures,” he said.

The President emphasised his administration’s commitment to due process and the integrity of enacted laws, assuring that the Presidency would work with the National Assembly to ensure the swift resolution of any issue identified.

He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would continue to act in the overriding public interest to ensure a tax system that supports prosperity and shared responsibility.

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seizes 6,000 kg of illicit drugs, arrests 760 suspects

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ogun State Command, has arrested a 49-year-old man, Fatokun Rahmon, for allegedly stocking 347 kilograms of cannabis sativa in a warehouse located in Rounda, Abeokuta.

This follows intelligence-based operations targeted at the Rounda area, which led to the arrest of the suspect and the discovery of the warehouse known for stockpiling illicit substances.

The spokesperson of the NDLEA, Musa Harris, confirmed this to newsmen in a statement obtained in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Tuesday.

Musa said that based on the information, the operatives on December 28, 2025, swung into operation at about 10:00 pm and discovered the warehouse and a haul of cannabis sativa concealed inside a Honda Ridgeline pickup vehicle at Rounda.

“Acting on actionable intelligence, operatives of the Command, on December 28, 2025, at about 10:00 pm, conducted a targeted operation at Rounda, Abeokuta, Ogun State, where a warehouse used for the storage of illicit substances was uncovered.

“During the operation, operatives discovered a haul of cannabis sativa concealed inside a Honda Ridgeline pickup vehicle,” Musa said.

He stressed that the timely inception shows the Command’s unwavering commitment to suppress illicit drug trafficking within the state.

He said that the Command remains committed to maintaining this momentum in combating drug abuse and illicit substances.

Relatedly, the Command said it made significant strides in 2025, demonstrating its commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

NDLEA’s Commander, Tijjani Rabe, said that the agency seized approximately 6,060.72 kilograms and 2,655.75 litres of illicit substances.

He said the impressive feat was accompanied by the arrest of 760 suspects and the provision of counselling and rehabilitation support to 316 drug users, adding that the agency’s efforts also led to 159 convictions, with offenders sentenced to various prison terms.

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The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, Thompson Sunday has reaffirmed the agency’s firm stand on accountability and transparency in its regulatory dealings.

In a statement on Monday by Hawwau Gambo Head, Communication & Public Affairs Department at NDIC, Sunday made this known during a courtesy visit to the MD/CEO of Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), Armstrong Takang.

He noted that the NDIC has consistently remitted the required percentage of its earnings to the Federal Government in line with the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007.

He explained that the corporation’s culture of compliance aligns with its role as a key institution within Nigeria’s financial safety net, charged with protecting depositors and promoting confidence in the banking system.

Sunday further disclosed that NDIC also complies with the Federal Government’s 50 percent cost-to-income ratio policy, although he noted that the policy poses operational constraints, noting that the deductions affect NDIC’s ability to build a strong Deposit Insurance Fund, which is needed to respond effectively to bank failures.

In his remarks, Dr Takang commended the NDIC for its exemplary collaborative spirit and acknowledged the corporation’s compliance with fiscal regulations. He assured that MOFI would continue to engage the Federal Ministry of Finance on NDIC’s behalf, noting that a strong NDIC is vital to sustaining confidence in Nigeria’s financial system.

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The Kebbi State Government and the State Police Command have debunked speculations suggesting that a bomb explosion or helicopter attack was responsible for the recent blast at Bagudo General Hospital in Bagudo Local Government Area.

In separate statements issued on Tuesday, both authorities attributed the explosion to a fire outbreak involving gas cylinders, not an explosive device.

Speaking in Birnin Kebbi, the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala-Tafida, said preliminary investigations by security agencies revealed that the explosion occurred in the hospital staff quarters due to a gas-induced fire.

“The explosion was not caused by any bomb or aerial assault. It was a fire incident involving gas cylinders,” Bala-Tafida said.

He noted that no lives were lost, and residents had evacuated the affected building before the explosion occurred.

“We commend the swift response of the Police Command and other security operatives for promptly securing the area and ensuring public safety. The government remains committed to the protection of lives and property,” he added.

The Kebbi State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, also confirmed that the explosion was a result of an inferno that overheated air-conditioning and refrigerator gas cylinders.

A tactical team comprising Explosive Ordnance Disposal-Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) experts and the Commissioner of Police Tactical Team conducted an on-site assessment, which ruled out any explosive or aerial involvement.

“The assessment confirmed that no explosives or helicopter activity was involved. No injuries or fatalities were recorded,” Usman said.

He urged the public and media outlets to refrain from spreading unverified reports that could cause panic.

“We urge the public to remain calm and disregard misinformation suggesting a bomb blast or helicopter strike,” he added.

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The Bauchi State contingent of the 2025 Christian Pilgrimage to the Holy Land of Israel and Jordan has arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Pilgrims’ Terminal, Abuja, ahead of their scheduled departure.

The pilgrims, described as calm and orderly, were observed settling in comfortably as they awaited the completion of pre-departure formalities, including cladding, final documentation, and boarding procedures.

Officials from the Bauchi State Christian Pilgrims’ Welfare Board were on hand to ensure smooth coordination, strict adherence to guidelines, and the overall comfort and welfare of the pilgrims.

Their arrival coincided with the flag-off ceremony of the 2025 Christian Pilgrimage organized by the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), which brought together pilgrims from across the country, government officials, and key stakeholders in the Christian pilgrimage sector.

The ceremony, conducted under the spiritual theme of the year, “Pilgrimage of Divine Encounter: The Transfiguration Experience,” included prayers, exhortations, and the official send-off of the pilgrims.

Speaking at the event, NCPC Executive Secretary, Rt. Rev. Stephen Tunde Victor Adegbite, commended Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, for his consistent support of the spiritual welfare of Christians in the state.

Describing the governor as a “wonderful and exceptional leader,” Rev. Adegbite noted Bauchi’s outstanding record in sponsoring Christian pilgrims since 2019. He further highlighted that in 2025, the governor sponsored 356 pilgrims, a feat reflecting inclusive leadership, religious tolerance, and unwavering support for Christian pilgrimage activities in Nigeria.

The journey from Bauchi to Abuja was smooth and well-coordinated, with a scheduled relaxation and feeding stopover along the route, ensuring the comfort and wellbeing of the pilgrims ahead of their international journey.

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The Federal Government has dismissed as false a document in circulation alleging that it has established a multi-agency task force tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons) to target opposition politicians.

The document claims that the purported task force comprises the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), and is coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser to go after prominent opposition figures without due process.

Reacting to the allegation in a statement on Tuesday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said there is no truth in the claim, stressing that no such programme as ADP4VIP exists.

He said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains focused on its core agenda, including the implementation of economic reforms, the fight against insecurity, the expansion of trade opportunities and the restoration of investor confidence.

“The attempt by some opposition elements to frame lawful accountability as political targeting is a dangerous red herring designed to shield so-called VIPs from answering to our national laws and anti-corruption agencies,” the minister said.

Alhaji Idris reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to constitutional principles, particularly Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees every Nigerian the right to freely associate and assemble.

“President Tinubu swore an oath to uphold this Constitution and its protections, including the freedoms of association and religion. He is a democrat with considerable and positive footprints,” he stated.

He added that the Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process and the independence of institutions.

“Nigeria is a constitutional democracy where law enforcement and judicial agencies are obligated to perform their duties professionally, without interference, and in the nation’s best interest.

“Politicians and citizens are therefore enjoined to desist from engaging in disinformation, misinformation and fake news, especially in an era where credibility is intrinsically linked to informational fidelity,” he said.

The minister noted that the government anticipates the spread of fabrications and falsehoods as the 2027 general elections approach, and urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and reject politics driven by distortion and division.

“Every Nigerian retains the constitutional right to lawful association and political activity.

“Concurrently, our security and anti-corruption institutions retain the lawful mandate to operate in the nation’s interest,” he added.

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The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically states that it harbours no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures. This clarification is in response to a fabricated document in circulation alleging the establishment of a non-existent multi-agency task force for a purported programme tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).

The baseless document falsely claims that a task force comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, aims to aggressively target prominent opposition figures without due process.

The authors of this deliberate disinformation imprudently cite “multiple credible sources” to allege a planned “systematic weakening and neutralisation of opposition political activity,” particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The Federal Government wishes to state emphatically:

1. There is no such programme as “ADP4VIP.”
2. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is firmly and successfully focused on its core agenda: implementing measurable economic reforms, defeating insecurity, expanding trade opportunities, and restoring investor confidence.
3. The attempt by some opposition elements to frame lawful accountability as political targeting is a dangerous red herring designed to shield so-called VIPs from answering to our national laws and anti-corruption agencies.

The Government underscores its foundational principles. Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees every Nigerian the right to freely associate and assemble. President Tinubu swore an oath to uphold this Constitution and its protections, including the freedoms of association and religion. He is a democrat with considerable and positive footprints.

Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions. Nigeria is a constitutional democracy where law enforcement and judicial agencies are obligated to perform their duties professionally, without interference, and in the nation’s best interest.

Politicians and citizens are therefore enjoined to desist from engaging in disinformation, misinformation, and fake news, especially in an era where credibility is intrinsically linked to informational fidelity.

With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the public should anticipate an increase in fabricated narratives and political blackmail by actors who employ falsehood as a strategy for relevance. We urge all Nigerians to remain vigilant and to reject the politics of distortion and division.

Every Nigerian retains the constitutional right to lawful association and political activity. Concurrently, our security and anti-corruption institutions retain the lawful mandate to operate in the nation’s interest.

As we draw the curtain on 2025 and step into a new year, this government will not be distracted by those invested in perpetual politicking. Nigerians deserve continuity, progress, and tangible results—and that is what the Tinubu Administration remains dedicated to delivering.

Mohammed Idris, fnipr
Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation
Federal Republic of Nigeria

Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Related

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The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the interim forfeiture of N1.1bn allegedly linked to the Kano State Government.

Justice Emeka Nwite made the order on Tuesday after granting an ex parte application filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The court held that the application was “meritorious” and ordered that the funds be temporarily forfeited pending further proceedings.

It also directed that the forfeiture order be published in a national newspaper, inviting any interested party to appear and show cause why the money should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

The case was adjourned to January 21, 2026, for a report on compliance with the publication order.

The funds, put at N1.109bn, were recovered during investigations into a petition alleging illegal withdrawals from the Kano State Federation Account domiciled with United Bank for Africa.

According to court documents, the ICPC said the money was “reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.”

An affidavit deposed to by David Nelson stated that a petition from concerned Kano residents alleged that N2.3bn was withdrawn in cash and diverted for non-government purposes.

Investigators allegedly traced authorisation of the payments to the Kano State Accountant-General, Abdulkadir Abdulsalam, involving transfers to two bureau de change companies.

The ICPC further alleged that the transactions were disguised as payments for diesel supplies based on letters of authority from A. Y. Maikifi Oil & Gas Ltd and Ammas Petroleum Company Ltd, but the managing directors of both firms told investigators that no such contracts or supplies existed.

The commission said it recovered the N1.1bn in instalments and urged the court to preserve the funds in the interest of justice, pending the determination of the substantive forfeiture case.

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A legal practitioner, Liborous Oshoma, has argued that the Federal Government’s plan to ban sachet alcohol is insufficient to curb alcohol abuse in the country unless strict measures are put in place to regulate both sellers and buyers.

Oshoma made this known on Tuesday during an interview on Arise Television, as the deadline for the enforcement of the sachet alcohol ban draws closer.

The comments come amid preparations by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to commence full enforcement of the ban on the production and sale of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and small bottles below 200 millilitres.

NAFDAC had announced that the policy, which targets the widespread consumption of cheap alcohol, would soon be fully implemented nationwide.

Reacting to the development, Oshoma stressed that banning sachet alcohol without addressing the larger issue of regulation would amount to little or nothing.

He said, “Those who can sell need to be licensed also; if anybody can just sell, licensed or not, then anyone can buy and consume without due process.”

According to him, the ease with which alcohol is sold across the country remains one of the major problems fueling abuse.

The lawyer further noted that Nigeria’s major problem is not the absence of policies but the failure to enforce them effectively.

He said, “And then also it is not just enough to say we have banned, because the problem with us as a people is not policies. It is the implementation of the policy.”

Oshoma added that for the ban to be effective, authorities must ensure that only licensed vendors are allowed to sell alcohol and that the sales process is properly monitored.

Oshoma commended NAFDAC for its firm stance, citing its previous actions against illegal pharmaceutical dealers as a positive example.

He said, “Government is a collaborative effort. I believe, like not too long ago, we saw how NAFDAC had consistently broken down the neck of pharmaceutical dealers in Lagos to say, Look, this environment is not conducive for selling pharmaceutical products.”

He added, “I like the fact that NAFDAC is adamant and they have decided to go headlong. I like that fact.”

Oshoma maintained that proper regulation of alcohol sales is crucial, warning that people would continue to access alcohol even after the sachet ban if enforcement remains weak.

He said, “There’s a need to know people who can afford drinks and those who can sell. Because the problem actually started from the sale of this alcohol.”

He warned that without proper monitoring, consumers could simply switch to bottled alcohol.

“So even if we ban and there is no proper regulation, people can still buy, even in bottles, and consume,” he said.

The legal practitioner also acknowledged NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts to combat fake and substandard alcoholic beverages in the market.

He said, “NAFDAC has consistently done a whole lot trying to also regulate fake drinks in the market. We’ve seen them go into markets to destroy production of fake drinks.”

Oshoma concluded that without strict enforcement and proper regulation of sellers, the sachet alcohol ban may fail to achieve its intended goals.

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The Federal Government of Nigeria on Tuesday dismissed claims that it plans to unlawfully arrest, detain or prosecute opposition figures, describing such allegations as false, misleading and deliberately fabricated.

In a statement issued by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government reacted to a document circulating online which alleged the creation of a multi-agency task force aimed at targeting prominent opposition politicians under a purported programme tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).

Mr Idris said the document was entirely fictitious, stressing that no such programme or task force exists.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically states that it harbours no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures,” the minister said. “There is no such programme as ‘ADP4VIP.’”

According to the statement, the fabricated document falsely claimed that a task force comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), allegedly coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, was set up to target opposition politicians, particularly members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), without due process.

The government described the claims as disinformation designed to portray lawful accountability as political persecution.

“The attempt by some opposition elements to frame lawful accountability as political targeting is a dangerous red herring, aimed at shielding so-called VIPs from answering to our national laws and anti-corruption agencies,” the statement said.

Mr Idris emphasised that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains focused on its core priorities, including economic reforms, tackling insecurity, expanding trade opportunities and restoring investor confidence.

He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to constitutional democracy, noting that Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to freedom of association and assembly.

“President Tinubu swore an oath to uphold the Constitution and its protections. He is a democrat with a long and positive record,” the minister said.

The statement added that under President Tinubu’s leadership, law enforcement and judicial institutions are expected to operate independently, professionally and in the national interest, without political interference.

The government warned politicians and citizens against the spread of misinformation and fake news, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach.

“With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the public should anticipate an increase in fabricated narratives and political blackmail by actors who employ falsehood as a strategy for relevance,” Mr Idris said, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and reject what he described as “the politics of distortion and division.”

Reiterating that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to lawful political activity, the government noted that security and anti-corruption agencies also retain the legal mandate to carry out their duties.

“As we draw the curtain on 2025 and step into a new year, this government will not be distracted by those invested in perpetual politicking,” the statement said.

“Nigerians deserve continuity, progress and tangible results—and that is what the Tinubu Administration remains committed to delivering.”

Mr Idris spoke days after opposition politician, Najaatu Mohammed, alleged that the office of the National Security Adviser was coordinating a project aimed at arresting, detaining and harassing opposition figures.

However, Mrs Najaatu did not provide evidence to back her allegations.

READ THE FULL PRESS STATEMENT BELOW

PRESS RELEASE

FG Reaffirms Unwavering Commitment to Rule of Law, Dismisses Fabricated Allegations of Targeting Opposition

The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically states that it harbours no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures. This clarification is in response to a fabricated document in circulation alleging the establishment of a non-existent multi-agency task force for a purported programme tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).

The baseless document falsely claims that a task force comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, aims to aggressively target prominent opposition figures without due process.

The authors of this deliberate disinformation imprudently cite “multiple credible sources” to allege a planned “systematic weakening and neutralisation of opposition political activity,” particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The Federal Government wishes to state emphatically:

1. There is no such programme as “ADP4VIP.”

2. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is firmly and successfully focused on its core agenda: implementing measurable economic reforms, defeating insecurity, expanding trade opportunities, and restoring investor confidence.

3. The attempt by some opposition elements to frame lawful accountability as political targeting is a dangerous red herring designed to shield so-called VIPs from answering to our national laws and anti-corruption agencies.

The Government underscores its foundational principles. Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees every Nigerian the right to freely associate and assemble. President Tinubu swore an oath to uphold this Constitution and its protections, including the freedoms of association and religion. He is a democrat with considerable and positive footprints.

Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions. Nigeria is a constitutional democracy where law enforcement and judicial agencies are obligated to perform their duties professionally, without interference, and in the nation’s best interest.

Politicians and citizens are therefore enjoined to desist from engaging in disinformation, misinformation, and fake news, especially in an era where credibility is intrinsically linked to informational fidelity.

With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the public should anticipate an increase in fabricated narratives and political blackmail by actors who employ falsehood as a strategy for relevance. We urge all Nigerians to remain vigilant and to reject the politics of distortion and division.

READ ALSO: EFCC arraigns Bauchi finance commissioner for 65bn money laundering 

Every Nigerian retains the constitutional right to lawful association and political activity. Concurrently, our security and anti-corruption institutions retain the lawful mandate to operate in the nation’s interest.

As we draw the curtain on 2025 and step into a new year, this government will not be distracted by those invested in perpetual politicking. Nigerians deserve continuity, progress, and tangible results—and that is what the Tinubu Administration remains dedicated to delivering.

Mohammed Idris, fnipr
Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation
Federal Republic of Nigeria

Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, says the people of Rivers State will not repeat past political mistakes ahead of the 2027 general elections, signalling an early start to political mobilisation in the state.

Wike stated this on Tuesday during a visit to Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, stressing that political activities would begin in January 2026.

The immediate past governor of Rivers State warned residents against making choices they might later regret.

“We won’t make mistakes again. The first one you have done – have they said thank you. So, if you make another mistake, that means they will drive you out,” he said.

Although Wike did not mention Governor Siminalayi Fubara by name, the comment is a veiled reference to the ongoing political rift between both men.

Fubara, who succeeded Wike as governor in 2023, has presided over a deeply fractured political landscape in Rivers State, with his administration engulfed in a protracted power struggle over control of the state’s political structure.

The crisis later escalated into a constitutional standoff that led to the declaration of a state of emergency and his suspension.

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• A man has paid tribute to Latif “Latz” Ayodele, British boxer Anthony Joshua’s fitness trainer and close friend, who was killed in a fatal road accident
• While Joshua escaped death with minor injuries and is in a hospital, his strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, and his fitness trainer both lost their lives in the accident
• Beyond Latif’s public life, a man has shone the light on the trainer’s touching deeds for children in The Gambia

A Facebook user, Elijah Lowe, has mourned the death of British boxer Anthony Joshua’s fitness trainer, Latif “Latz” Ayodele, who died in a road accident along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday, December 29, when the SUV he was in crashed into a stationary truck at high speed.

Joshua survived the accident with minor injuries and is receiving treatment in Lagos, but lost two members of his team.

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A man speaks about Latif “Latz” Ayodele’s charitable works following his demise.
Photo Credit: @healthy_mindset, Facebook/Elijah Lowe
Source: Instagram

Anthony Joshua’s fitness trainer: Man’s tribute surfaces

Elijah, in a Facebook post, disclosed that Latif had meaningful ties to The Gambia, as he was involved in a number of philanthropic initiatives which supported children’s Quranic learning, helped orphans and contributed to community development.

Emmanuel noted that Latif’s charitable deeds were largely carried out of the public eye. He lamented that Gambia has lost a friend, mentor and humanitarian. In his words:

“Kevin “Latz” Latif Ayodele, who passed away in the tragic accident involving Anthony Joshua in Nigeria, had meaningful ties to The Gambia.”Beyond his public life as a fitness coach, Latz was involved in philanthropic initiatives in The Gambia, supporting children’s Quranic learning, helping orphans, and contributing to community development. His charitable work was largely done out of the public eye.”Gambia has lost a friend, mentor, and humanitarian.”Rest in peace.”

Gamfoot Transfers, a verified page on Facebook, also spoke about Latif’s charitable side, not known to the public. A part of the recreation and sports page’s statement read:

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“…Latz was a regular visitor to The Gambia and was deeply involved with the Spot Project, where he supported community initiatives, helped children, and contributed generously to charitable causes.”We pray that Allah grants them Jannah and forgives them for all their sins…” A man pays tribute to Anthony Joshua’s deceased fitness trainer.
Photo Credit: @healthy_mindset
Source: Instagram

See man’s Facebook post below:

Anthony Joshua’s trainer: Man’s post stirs reactions

Legit.ng has compiled some reactions to the man’s post below:

Oli Yayi Ali said:

“Belai this is so sad. May Allah have mercy on his soul and grant him Jannah Ameen.”

Assan Jobarteh said:

“May Allah SWT have mercy on their souls & grant them the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus.”

Ceesay Bob Ceesay said:

“May Almighty Allah bless him jannatul fridaws his final destination highest level may Almighty Allah pay him his good Dee’s that hes did for lslam.”

Hassanking Goni said:

“Rest on brother. May the little gesture you have exhibited and the love you have shown to few during your life time be a source of joy to you in heaven. BYE !!!”

Muhammad Khatani Trawally said:

“To Allaah we belong and to him is our return. May Allaah forgive his shortcomings, brighten his grave and grant him highest ranks in Jannah, A’ameen.”

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Oladimeji Mojeed said:

“May Allah forgive his shortcomings, be pleased with his return, accord him the best place in Janna and grant those left behind the fortitude to bear the great loss.”

Last post of Anthony Joshua’s fitness trainer

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the last post of Anthony Joshua’s fitness trainer, who died in the fatal road crash, had broken hearts online.

The fitness trainer, popularly known as Latz, was travelling in the same vehicle as the boxer when it crashed into a stationary truck on a major road in Ogun State.

While Joshua survived the incident with injuries, the fitness trainer and another passenger did not make it out alive. Netizens visited Latif Ayodele’s Instagram page, @healthy_mindset, with his last post stirring strong emotions online.

Source: Legit.ng

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