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An affidavit deposed to by David Nelson stated that a petition from concerned Kano residents alleged that N2.3bn was withdrawn in cash and diverted for non-government purposes.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

Read also

Man who knew Anthony Joshua’s friend trends online after his death, makes emotional request

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:

Read also

Anthony Joshua: Lawyer gives possible reason British boxer survived accident that killed 2 people

“…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.”

Read also

Anthony Joshua: Man who drove on same road 20 minutes before boxer’s accident releases video, speaks

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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‎A Nigerian man who witnessed Anthony Joshua’s car crash in Ogun State has shared details of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officials’ arrival.

‎Earlier, Gistreel reported that Anthony Joshua, who recently defeated YouTuber boxer, Jake Paul, was involved in a car crash.

‎ The boxer, seated in the backseat, was rescued and taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

‎According to reports, the two individuals who lost their lives were Sina was Anthony Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, while Latif was his personal trainer.

‎Man Shares Details Of Anthony Joshua’s Car Crash

‎The man identifed as @deyemidada on X (formely Twitter), shared that he was one vehicle behind the tragic scene.

‎According to him, FRSC officials arrived on foot, running, 5 minutes after the incident.

The X user disclosed that  Anthony Joshua was extracted from the vehicle and traffic was cleared in about 10 minutes.

‎His tweet reads below….

‎I was one vehicle behind the wreck of AJs car and I can confirm that the @FRSCNigeria officers were on the scene in about 5 mins. They arrived on foot running because a build up of cars had blocked access to the wreckage.

‎They extracted AJ from the car and removed the bodies from the road and cleared traffic in about 10 minutes. They did very well.

See below……

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…urges NEC to rise above factional interests to save Nigeria’s democracy

A former presidential candidate and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has said the lingering leadership crisis rocking the party can be resolved within one week if its leadership embraces political solutions rather than prolonged legal battles.

Hashim made this assertion during a meeting with the PDP national chairman, Ambassador Tanimu Turaki (SAN), as part of ongoing consultations aimed at achieving an out-of-court resolution to the party’s internal dispute.

The former presidential hopeful, who was also among the conveners of the PDP in 1998 and its first elected deputy national publicity secretary, said resolving the crisis politically would better serve the survival of the party and the health of Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.

According to him, the party already possesses the constitutional authority required to resolve the impasse without resorting to litigation.

“There are more than enough legitimate members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) to convene a meeting and resolve this crisis within one week,” Hashim stated.

He cited Sections 3(1) and 3(4) of the PDP Constitution, which empower two-thirds of NEC members to convene a meeting, stressing that the majority of NEC members were elected before the disputed Ibadan convention and therefore retain unquestionable legitimacy.

Hashim further explained that although the tenure of some members of the National Working Committee (NWC) expired on December 8, the pre-Ibadan NEC members remain constitutionally empowered to intervene and take corrective action in the interest of the party.

“What is required now is courage and responsibility,” he said.

“NEC members must rise above factional interests and stand for posterity, for the party, and for the nation.”

He warned that continued internal paralysis could weaken the PDP’s capacity as a credible opposition party and ultimately undermine Nigeria’s democratic balance.

“We can fix this problem, and we should,” he added.

Responding, the PDP National Chairman, Ambassador Tanimu Turaki (SAN), thanked Dr. Hashim for the visit and his commitment to party unity. He assured that the leadership under his watch remains open to reconciliation, stressing, however, that such efforts must not compromise the unity, stability, and continued existence of the party.

The meeting, which was held at Turaki’s Asokoro residence in Abuja, was also attended by the Deputy National Chairman and the National Youth Leader of the party.

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Dangote Group has rolled out a new supply arrangement aimed at easing fuel access for petrol station operators across Nigeria.

The plan introduces a 10-day fuel credit window, free delivery, and other incentives designed to support dealers and improve nationwide distribution.

The company announced the initiative on Tuesday through a public statement shared on its official social media platform.

Petrol station owners and marketers were invited to register and participate in the programme.

Under the arrangement, dealers will have access to “a 10-day credit facility backed by a bank guarantee.”
The minimum volume required to qualify for the offer is 5,000 litres per order.

Dangote also confirmed that logistics support is part of the package.

According to the company, “Our free direct delivery service will commence soon,” a move expected to reduce transportation costs for operators.

The offer is not restricted to selected marketers.
The group stated clearly that it is open to “all petrol station owners and dealers” nationwide.

Operators interested in the supply scheme were urged to complete registration for their stations.
The company added, “Register your petrol stations today to benefit from our competitive gantry price.”

Petrol supplied through the programme will be sold at a gantry price of ₦699 per litre.
This price applies uniformly to dealers who meet the registration and volume requirements.

For further clarification and registration support, the company released dedicated contact lines for enquiries.
The numbers include 0802-347-0470, 0809-324-7070, 0809-324-7071, and 0203.

The latest announcement comes shortly after a price review by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
The refinery recently adjusted its ex-depot petrol price downward from ₦828 to ₦699 per litre.

An official familiar with the decision confirmed the development, saying, “The refinery has reduced petrol gantry price to ₦699 per litre.”
The adjustment reportedly took effect on December 11, 2025.

This reduction represents a ₦129 drop per litre, translating to about a 15.58 percent decrease.
It also marks the 20th petrol price adjustment carried out by the refinery within the year.

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• Health insurance for ageing parents is essential to protect family finances, as rising medical costs and limited income after retirement can quickly deplete savings without coverage.
• A comprehensive health insurance plan transfers the financial risk of medical expenses to the insurer, safeguards investments, and ensures access to preventive care and quality treatment.
• Key factors to consider include broad coverage for chronic and critical illnesses, a high sum insured (such as ₹1 crore), and shorter waiting periods to meet present and future healthcare needs effectively.

As parents step into their golden years, one of the biggest causes for concern is the state of their health. Just as ageing is inevitable, so are health issues that come with age.

And the cost of addressing an ageing parent’s health issues is more than that of a younger, healthier person. Added to this is the fact that this cost remains far from affordable and is on the rise.

This being the case, buying a 1 crore health insurance plan doesn’t seem like overkill if you can afford it.

A health insurance plan is the key to building a comfortable life for your elderly parents post-retirement. Here’s the role a health insurance plan plays in the financial planning for your ageing parents.

Why does health insurance matter for ageing parents 

Family finances 

When elderly parents don’t have the protection offered by a health insurance plan, it is usually their adult children who will end up bearing the cost of their medical expenses. Out-of-pocket medical spending under normal circumstances can be a financial pain point. With elderly parents who may need constant medical care, the medical bills can be quite high, and spending out of one’s pocket can destroy the family’s savings quite quickly.

Hence, a health insurance plan geared towards the elderly becomes a must to protect the entire family’s financial well-being as well as the elderly’s physical well-being.

Rising cost of health care 

The cost of getting medical care in the form of treatments, medicine, and hospitalisation is on the rise. And medical inflation is outpacing general inflation. This means you will end up spending more on your medical needs compared to your other daily needs.

As your parents age, their medical needs also increase. Without a good health insurance plan that can address their needs, large chunks of money will get taken out of their retirement funds and savings to be spent on their health. This money can instead be used to live a comfortable life in their golden years when a good health insurance plan takes on the financial burden of healthcare.

Limited income 

Once parents start ageing and retire, their source of income may dry up. Ageing also takes a toll on the body, and medical expenses start to increase due to this. Without a steady income, the elderly may hesitate to get the treatments they need.

This can lead to further complications, as most of the issues they face need immediate and sustained attention once diagnosed. Health insurance for parents can help put them at ease when they have no income, and encourage them to get the medical care they need at the right time. This will lead to better health outcomes for them in the future.

Role of health insurance in financial planning 

Risk transfer 

Without health insurance in place, the medical expenses incurred will have to be borne by the family. With a health insurance plan in place, the financial burden of a health issue is transferred from the policyholder to the insurance company. This helps the family to secure their investments and savings.

Investment 

Health insurance is as much of an investment as any other asset class, be it real estate or stocks. In fact, health insurance is more important than any of the other assets the elderly could have in their investment portfolio. This is because when a health crisis happens without the protection offered by a health insurance plan, the first thing to go will be their savings and investments. So a health insurance plan can protect their investments, which makes it an essential investment on its own.

Financial protection

A health insurance plan can allow your elderly parents access to preventive care and cashless claims, besides quality healthcare. These not only lead to better health outcomes for them, but they can also protect their finances in the long run.

Factors to think about when opting for health insurance for ageing parents

Comprehensive coverage: The insurance plan should provide coverage for the health challenges faced by the elderly parents. It should provide coverage for chronic conditions and critical illnesses. The waiting period for coverage to kick in for these conditions should also be on the shorter side if possible.

Sum insured: The sum insured that you have opted for your parents should be adequate to cover their present and future health issues. It has to be on the higher side, as their medical costs are higher when compared to those who are younger individuals due to their age.

Conclusion 

Elderly parents deserve a dignified retirement where they can enjoy a good quality of life. A health insurance plan can offer them both these things and allow them to lead an independent and stress-free life. So, ensure that your elderly parents have a good health insurance plan that can protect their health and wealth in the present and future.

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A former National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New Peoples Democratic Party and a senior figure in the All Progressives Congress, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has urged the National Assembly to act swiftly against President Bola Tinubu.

Eze called for the immediate commencement of impeachment proceedings over alleged alterations to the recently passed Tax Reform Bill, describing the issue as a serious constitutional breach.

Allegations Over Tax Reform Law

The Tax Reform Bill was approved by both chambers of the National Assembly to expand Nigeria’s tax base, improve administration, raise revenue, and cut borrowing.

Concerns emerged after Abdulsammad Dasuki, a Peoples Democratic Party lawmaker from Sokoto State, raised objections during a plenary session of the House of Representatives.

Dasuki alleged that the tax laws available to the public were not the same as the versions debated and passed by lawmakers.

Raising a Point of Order, he stated that his legislative rights were violated, insisting the gazetted law did not reflect what lawmakers approved.

Claims of Unauthorised Insertions

The lawmaker said he reviewed the gazetted tax laws for three days alongside the Votes and Proceedings and the harmonised versions adopted by both chambers.

He claimed to have discovered provisions that were not part of the original bill approved by the legislature.

Reacting, Eze likened the alleged insertions to the biblical parable in Matthew 13:25, saying, “When men slept, the enemy sowed tares.”

“After lawmakers legislated on the draft bill and sent it to President Tinubu for assent, in the thick of the night, while lawmakers had retreated to slumberland and Nigerians were deep in sleep, the President stealthily grabbed the document, tampered with it, and distorted the law to suit his personal perspective of what a tax law should be,” Eze alleged.

Accusations Against Legislative Leadership

Eze also accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of frustrating transparency following the controversy.

“And since this embarrassment was made public, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has disappointingly acted to sweep it under the carpet. He has denied lawmakers access to the certified true copies of the bills.”

“The restriction placed on lawmakers from accessing the certified copies by Sen. Akpabio has deepened suspicion and internal wrangling within the legislature,” he added.

Call for Impeachment

Eze described the alleged alteration as a criminal takeover of the legislative process and a violation of constitutional order.

He said the action amounted to gross misconduct, abuse of office, and a clear breach of the constitution.

“Such actions amount to gross misconduct, abuse of office, and violation of the constitution and should quickly trigger impeachment proceedings against the President under the constitutional provisions governing executive accountability.”

He stressed that the President lacks constitutional powers to amend bills passed by the legislature.

“Any discrepancy between the enrolled bill and the passed bill is treated as a serious constitutional defect.”

“The business of law-making is the exclusive function of the legislature. Therefore, by his action, the President has usurped legislative authority.”

Eze warned that such interference threatens democratic governance and weakens the separation of powers.

He criticised the silence of the National Assembly leadership, stating that their inaction encourages executive overreach and undermines public trust.

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Sophia Momodu, entrepreneur and mother of Davido’s first child Imade, has cautioned fans and content creators against addressing her as the singer’s wife, stressing that such references are inaccurate and disrespectful.

Speaking in a recent video broadcast, Momodu said that although she and Davido ended their relationship years ago and the musician is now married, some members of the public still refer to her as his spouse.

She noted that the label makes her uncomfortable and urged people to respect personal decisions and boundaries, adding that she has long moved on from the relationship.

According to her, continued association with a past chapter of her life ignores the reality of the present and undermines the need to respect existing marriages.

“I once met a content creator who started hailing me as ‘Mama Imade, OBO [Davido’s] wife’ upon seeing me. I was shocked because I am not his wife.

“Stop referring to me as Davido’s wife. Let’s respect people’s marriages and rules. If people have moved on, allow them to move on in peace. Allow me to move on in peace. Everyone is happy and doing what they are supposed to do,” Momodu said.

Last year, Davido filed for joint custody of their daughter, Imade, but later withdrew the suit after Momodu responded with a counterclaim. She argued that Davido and his wife, Chioma, were unfit parents following the death of their son, Ifeanyi, who drowned in a swimming pool while under their care.

The post ‘I’m not Davido’s wife’ – Sophia Momodu tells fans appeared first on Vanguard News.

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Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu has publicly called on Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti to leave the Labour Party and join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Kalu, who assured Otti of full support if he defects, made the appeal on Monday during his annual Christmas Food Distribution/Town Hall Meeting in Agbamuzu, Bende Local Government Area of the state.

“Let me tell you, I want to use this opportunity again, publicly, to invite Governor Alex Otti to join our party. If he comes to our party, we will support him,” Kalu said.

He stressed that the APC remained open to leaders willing to work collectively to strengthen the party and advance its political objectives in Abia.

Speaking on his home visit, Kalu said the legislature and the President Bola Tinubu-led administration were working for Nigerians, adding that he remained accountable to his constituents.
He urged Nigerians to support Tinubu, the APC, and its Renewed Hope Agenda, saying, “The Tinubu-led administration is building a lasting legacy for future generations.”

Encouraging party members interested in contesting elections in 2027, Kalu assured them of Tinubu’s support for APC candidates and called for sustained grassroots mobilisation in the state.

The deputy speaker announced a N1 billion intervention to support 2,000 small and medium-scale businesses across all local government areas.

Each beneficiary would initially receive about N500,000, with agencies such as the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture, and SMEDAN expected to partner to expand the programme.

Describing Abia as an enterprising state, Kalu said the initiative would stimulate economic growth and empower the people.

Also speaking, the lawmaker representing Ukwa East and Ukwa West Federal Constituency, Chief Chris Nkwonta, praised Kalu’s achievements, noting that in less than three years, he had delivered 58 projects.

Nkwonta said, “Abia will deliver 100 per cent of the votes to APC. There is no need for alliances. Abia is APC, and APC is Abia.”

APC Chairman in Abia State, Mr Kingsley Ononogbu, also lauded Kalu for his integrity, vision, and grassroots leadership style, adding that he reflected commitment to equality and development across the state.

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Human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, has blamed the road crash involving ex-world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, to deep-rooted institutional failures in Nigeria.

Sowore said this on Tuesday in a post on his verified X handle, condoling with the families of those who died in the road crash.

According to him, the accident, which claimed the lives of Joshua’s associates, should not be overshadowed by the survival of the global sports icon.

The 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, AAC, stated that their deaths must not be reduced to mere footnotes in the survival of a celebrity, adding that the attention generated by the incident should compel national reflection and responsibility.

“These kinds of fatal accidents are the daily, naked reality of a nation that has failed failed in small things and in big ones alike.

“A country where road safety agencies and the police cannot provide even the most basic first aid. Where there are no stretchers, no functional ambulances, and certainly no air ambulances. Where people die not only from accidents, but from institutional neglect,” he wrote.

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Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has announced plans to stimulate economic development in Abia State through a ₦1 billion support package for 2,000 Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs).

He disclosed this on Monday at a Renewed Hope Partners (RHP) meeting in Bende, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, where he also distributed trailer loads of rice, other food items, and ₦100 million in cash to over 100 churches, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and various support groups.

Kalu explained that the initiative is part of the Renewed Hope Partners programme aimed at empowering residents across the 17 local government areas of the state.

According to him, the programme will partner with the Bank of Industry (BoI), Bank of Agriculture (BoA), Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), and the Nigeria Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) to match the ₦1 billion fund.

The Deputy Speaker emphasised that Abia State is an enterprising state with a large population of traders and business owners, noting that the initiative is designed to stimulate economic growth and job creation.

He directed the Director-General of the Benjamin Kalu Movement (BKM), Pastor Emma Trumps Eke, to ensure that 2,000 viable businesses across the state are identified and properly structured for the empowerment programme.

“A few months ago, about six months ago, we gave about ₦500 million to this programme. We have been distributing from time to time. Today again, to support the party and its structures, we are giving ₦100 million,” Kalu said.

“Between now and February, we want to identify 2,000 small and medium-scale businesses across all local government areas of Abia State. Sometime in February, we will gather again for empowerment.

“Today is not for empowerment. Today is to share food and eat rice together. Empowerment will take place in the first quarter of the coming year. Each selected business will receive about ₦500,000 initially.

“Participants should collect the application forms from the Renewed Hope Office on Ojike Lane, Umuahia, and return them within 30 days. We are partnering with the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture, SMEDAN, CREDICORP, and others to match our ₦1 billion fund, which could increase the total support available.”

Kalu added that Abia’s strong entrepreneurial culture positions the state to maximise the impact of the programme.

Giving an account of his legislative stewardship, the Deputy Speaker disclosed that he has sponsored 127 bills in the last two years and delivered over 50 people-oriented constituency projects across the 13 electoral wards in Bende Federal Constituency.

“In two years, I have sponsored 127 bills at the National Assembly, spanning governance, inclusion, infrastructure, security, and economic reforms.

“Some, like the South East Development Commission (SEDC) Act, have progressed from proposal to institution, while other reform-driven bills continue to shape national debate and policy direction. These efforts reflect a legislative agenda focused on real needs, not abstract ideas,” he said.

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The Ondo State Security Network, Amotekun, has arrested 39 suspected terrorists who fled Sokoto State following the bombing of their hideouts by the United States and Nigerian military forces.

The arrests were made in the Elegbeka area of Ose Local Government, notorious for crimes including kidnapping, robbery, and murder. Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, said the suspects claimed they relocated south due to extreme heat in the North.

“A couple of days ago, 39 suspects were arrested, claiming that because of the heat in the northern part of the country, they relocated to the forest. We are profiling them, and those found with incriminating equipment will be prosecuted,” Adeleye said.

He added that the government requires permits to stay in forested areas, warning that the sudden influx of such elements raises serious security concerns.

In addition to the 39 suspected terrorists, Amotekun arrested 61 other suspects for various offences: 50 for breaking law and order, two for violating the anti-open grazing law, six for kidnapping-related cases, and three for gender-based abuse and rape.

Adeleye highlighted notable arrests, including 34-year-old Mustafa and 45-year-old Philip for kidnapping in Ofosu; Idris, Ibrahim Abdullahi, and Lawal Idris (23) in Isua-Akoko; and Daniel Ojo, Usman, and Bejide for assault and rape.

On armed robbery, three suspects, Olatunbosun, Ibrahim, and Shahidu were apprehended in Akure North and Oba-Ile, linked to a gang that recently stole a car in central Akure.

The gang planned to move the stolen vehicle to Abuja, Adeleye said.

The commander further noted the arrest of a gang of fraudsters who used commercial vehicles to rob passengers, who would also face prosecution.

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