A prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress has asked the National Assembly to begin impeachment steps against President Bola Tinubu over allegations surrounding the Tax Reform Bill.

The call came from Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a former National Publicity Secretary of the defunct nPDP and an APC chieftain.

He accused the President of interfering with a bill already passed by lawmakers.

Eze said the controversy strikes at the heart of Nigeria’s constitutional order.
He argued that the matter goes beyond politics and touches on legislative integrity.

The Tax Reform Bill was approved by the Senate and the House of Representatives after weeks of debate.

The legislation was designed to expand the tax base, improve administration, increase government revenue, and reduce reliance on borrowing.

Trouble began after claims emerged that the law made public was not the same version passed by lawmakers.
The allegation was raised by Abdulsammad Dasuki, a member of the House of Representatives from Sokoto State.

Dasuki told the House that his legislative privileges had been violated.
He said the gazetted tax laws contained provisions that were never debated or approved during plenary.

According to him, a comparison of the gazetted law with official parliamentary records exposed major differences.
He said the discrepancies appeared after both chambers had concluded work on the bill.

The lawmaker explained that he reviewed the documents over several days.
He claimed the final version contained insertions that were completely absent from the draft passed by the legislature.

Reacting to the claims, Eze alleged that the changes could not have happened accidentally.
He described the situation as a deliberate distortion of the law after legislative approval.

Referring to the incident, Eze invoked the biblical imagery from Matthew 13:25, saying, “When men slept, the enemy sowed tares.”
He alleged that the bill was altered after lawmakers had completed their work.

Eze further accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of frustrating efforts to clarify the matter.
He claimed lawmakers were denied access to certified true copies of the bill.

According to him, this action has worsened suspicion within the National Assembly.
He said it has also fueled internal tension among lawmakers.

Eze described the alleged alteration as a serious constitutional breach.
He insisted that any interference with a passed bill amounts to legislative usurpation.

He argued that the President lacks powers to amend bills passed by the National Assembly.
According to him, such authority is not granted under the constitution.

Eze said the situation amounts to gross misconduct and abuse of office.
He maintained that impeachment is the appropriate constitutional response.

He warned that allowing the matter to slide would set a dangerous precedent.
He added that it could weaken democratic checks and balances.

The APC chieftain also criticised the silence of the National Assembly leadership.
He said lawmakers are duty-bound to act as a watchdog over the executive.

Eze claimed the controversy reflects an attempt to impose new tax burdens without due process.
He urged lawmakers to defend the institution and protect Nigerians.

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In October 2025, the redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the Trump administration sparked significant debate regarding its tone and intent.

Nigeria and the United States subsequently found common ground to collaborate on the airstrike, which took place on Christmas Day 2025.

This collaboration was a direct result of diplomatic engagement that followed significant Nigerian and international reservations about President Donald Trump’s initial communication, which many saw as threatening and misinformed.

Reservations about the CPC redesignation 

The primary reservations regarding President Trump’s communication redesignating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) on October 31, 2025, focused on its inappropriate tone, selective framing of the security crisis as purely religious persecution, and a perceived threat to Nigerian sovereignty.

In Nigeria: 

Rejection of Characterization: The Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, strongly refuted the U.S. characterization that Christianity faced an “existential threat,” stating it did not reflect the country’s reality or values. Officials stressed that violence affected citizens of all faiths, including Muslims, and was tied to broader issues like terrorism, resource conflicts, and governance challenges.

Sovereignty Concerns: Many Nigerians, including ethnic organizations and diplomats, viewed Trump’s subsequent threat of potential U.S. military intervention (“guns-a-blazing”) as an insult to national sovereignty and a dangerous oversimplification that could exacerbate sectarian tensions.

Internal Diplomatic Realignment: Nigeria’s initial, more assertive diplomatic response was soon replaced with a toned-down version to de-escalate tensions, highlighting internal government deliberation on how to manage the diplomatic friction.

Internationally: 

Counterproductive Framing: Analysts and some U.S. lawmakers argued that framing Nigeria’s complex security landscape in narrow religious terms was counterproductive and distracted from the wider problem of tackling jihadist violence and widespread insecurity affecting everyone.

Aggressive Tone: Trump’s rhetoric, including threats to enter the country “guns-a-blazing” and instructions to the “Department of War” to prepare for action, was seen as inflammatory and a violation of diplomatic decorum.

Domestic Political Intent: Some observers viewed the move as an attempt to appeal to Trump’s domestic religious base in the U.S. rather than a nuanced foreign policy effort.

Focus on Dialogue over Force: A visiting bipartisan delegation of U.S. Congress members later clarified that the CPC designation was intended to foster reforms through dialogue and partnership, not military force, dismissing any plans for U.S. troops on the ground.

Call for Broader Engagement: Experts urged the U.S. to use its leverage to pursue a broader, more nuanced approach to religious freedom that acknowledged Nigeria’s complex, multi-layered crises rather than a single-issue focus.

Common ground and the Christmas Day airstrike 

The two countries did find common ground, leading to a collaborative operation. The U.S. airstrikes on December 25, 2025, targeting ISIS in Sokoto State, were conducted in coordination with and with the approval of Nigerian authorities.

Official collaboration: Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar confirmed that President Tinubu gave the “go-ahead” for the operation after discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and the Nigerian government officially described it as a “collaborative effort” and “precision strike operation”. Nigeria provided intelligence and strategic coordination, while U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) carried out the kinetic action at the request of the Nigerian government.

Differing public Narratives: While collaboration was confirmed, a slight divergence remained in the public framing. President Trump’s statements emphasized targeting those “persecuting Christians”, while Nigerian officials stressed the operation was about general counterterrorism and ensuring the safety of all innocent civilians, irrespective of religion.

Have the Reservations Been Addressed? Yes, the initial reservations have been addressed to a reasonable extent through ongoing dialogue and practical security cooperation.

The shift from Trump’s initial threats of unilateral military action to a coordinated operation with Nigerian consent indicates successful diplomatic de-escalation.

• Following a high-level meeting in Washington, D.C., in November 2025, both nations agreed to a non-binding cooperation framework and the creation of a Joint Working Group to unify their approach to counter-terrorism and civilian protection.
• Since late November 2025, the U.S. has conducted daily intelligence-gathering flights over Nigeria using contractor-operated aircraft to monitor militant movements and support Nigerian tactical operations.
• Also, high-level engagement and bipartisan congressional visits have helped clarify the U.S. intent as partnership and capacity-building rather than “punishment” or “invasion”.
• The incident has spurred more concrete actions from the Nigerian government, including a declaration of a nationwide security emergency and planned recruitment of more police officers, demonstrating a commitment to addressing security concerns internally.

In November 2025, Nigeria unveiled its Strategic Plan 2025–2030, which prioritizes bilateral cooperation with the U.S. to enhance intelligence analysis and modernize Nigeria’s security architecture.

However, a few Nigerians still have sovereignty concerns despite the collaboration while the fundamental disagreement over whether the violence constitutes “religious persecution” or “regional insecurity” persists, with the U.S. administration and Nigerian government continuing to use different language to describe the same conflict.

Overall, both nations ultimately chose pragmatism, leveraging the moment of diplomatic tension to reinforce their shared interest in counterterrorism, ensuring the bilateral relationship remains a strong, albeit complicated, partnership.

Hafiz Bakare is a Consultant and Former Bank Chief Executive. 

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Political activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has renewed his criticism of Nigeria’s political leadership, linking it to the recent fatal road accident involving world boxing champion Anthony Joshua (AJ) and his friends in Ogun State.

Sowore said the incident, which reportedly claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s friends, highlighted deep-rooted governance failures and systemic neglect, particularly in road safety and emergency response.

In a statement shared on his official social media platforms, Sowore disclosed that he had previously cautioned Joshua against associating with what he described as “Nigeria’s rotten leadership,” adding that his position remains unchanged.

He stressed that the tragedy should not be trivialised simply because Joshua survived, noting that the loss of life deserved deeper national reflection.

“Yesterday or indeed today is not a time to gloat over the horrific accident that nearly claimed the life of international boxing icon Anthony Joshua,” Sowore wrote.

“Tragically, it did take the lives of his associates and possibly the driver involved. Their deaths must not be reduced to mere footnotes in the survival of a celebrity.”

According to him, while the accident attracted widespread attention due to Joshua’s global status, similar incidents occur daily across the country with little notice.

Sowore blamed weak institutions and poor governance for recurring fatalities on Nigerian roads.

“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,” he stated.

“A country where road safety agencies and the police cannot provide even the most basic first aid.”

He further criticised the lack of emergency infrastructure, including functional ambulances and trained responders.

“Where there are no stretchers, no functional ambulances, and certainly no air ambulances,” Sowore added.

“Where people die not only from accidents, but from institutional neglect.”

The activist argued that the situation underscored the need for fundamental national change, driven by accountability and respect for human life.

“This is why we must work sincerely and relentlessly toward a revolution one rooted in dignity, competence, and the sanctity of human life,” he said.

Reflecting on his past interaction with the boxing star, Sowore said he had warned Joshua years ago about aligning with political leaders he believes have failed the country.

“I spoke frankly to Anthony Joshua years ago about the danger of aligning with Nigeria’s rotten leadership,” he wrote.

“It was an unpopular warning at the time, and many dismissed it. Time, however, has a way of validating uncomfortable truths.”

Sowore concluded by urging Joshua to distance himself from Nigerian political elites, arguing that influential figures should not legitimise what he described as dysfunction.

“I must still insist that Anthony Joshua stop genuflecting at the altars of those who have failed Nigeria so catastrophically,” he said.

“It is time for him to turn his back on them. Icons must not lend legitimacy to dysfunction.”

He also extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident.

“My sincere condolences go to the families of the deceased,” Sowore stated.

“Their lives mattered, and they deserved far better than this broken system.”

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*To hear bail application January 2

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Justice Emeka Nwite of a Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday ordered the remand of former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN at the Kuje Correctional Center, Abuja, pending the hearing of his bail application.

The judge made the order shortly after Malami, his son Abdulaziz Malami, and an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, Hajia Asabe Bashir, were arraigned on a 16 count criminal charge by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Although, they pleaded not guilty to the entire count and their lawyers moved an oral application for their bail, the court however declined to take the oral application on the grounds that it would amount to denying the prosecution the right of fair hearing.

According to the judge, there is evidence of a written application for bail which was served on the prosecution on Tuesday in court and that the prosecution by law needs time to respond to the written application just served on it.

Justice Nwite explained that the court cannot on its own withdraw the written application because the defendants through their lawyers moved an oral application for their bail.

He stated that hearing and granting the oral application would amount to ambushing the prosecution who has the right to respond to the written application already served on it.

He subsequently adjourned till January 2, for hearing in the bail application.

Malami, his son Abdulaziz Malami, and an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, Hajia Asabe Bashir, are being accused of conspiracy and concealment of proceeds of unlawful activities running into billions of naira.

According to the charge, the defendants were said to have committed the various alleged offences between November 2015 and June 2025.

Malami, who was Minister of Justice under former President Muhammadu Buhari, has been in custody of the anti-graft agency since December 8, following his failure to meet his bail conditions granted him by the EFCC.

The defendants would however be arraigned at the Federal High Court, Abuja, shortly after the suit is assigned to a judge.

The commission in the suit filed by Mr Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, claimed that the funds allegedly acquired unlawfully were used for the purchase of luxury properties in Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and other locations.

In count one, Malami and his son were said to have between between July 2022 and June 2025, “procure METROPOLITAN AUTO TECH LIMITED to conceal the unlawful origin of the total sum of N1, 014, 848, 500.00 in the Sterling Bank Plc Account No. 0079182387″, when they reasonably ought to have known that the said sum formed proceeds of unlawful activities and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 21(c) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act”.

Malami and his son were in count two alleged to have procured the same METROPOLITAN AUTO TECH LIMITED to conceal the unlawful origin of another sum of over N600 million.

In another count, they were alleged to have in November 2022, used Rahamaniyya Properties Limited to conceal N500 million paid for a luxury duplex at Amazon Street, Maitama, Abuja.

While in count five the trio were alleged to have sometimes in September 2024, conspired to disguise the unlawful origin of the aggregate sum of N1, 049, 173, 926. 13 paid through the Union Bank Plc account of Meethaq Hotels Ltd Jabi savings Account No. 0179011105 between November 2022 and September 2024, they were in count six accused of indirectly taking control of the aggregate sum of N1, 362, 887, 872.96, paid through the savings account of Meethaq Hotels Ltd in Union Bank Plc when they “reasonably ought to have known that the said funds formed proceeds of unlawful activity and you thereby committed an offence contrary to section 18(2) (d) and punishable under section 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

In another count, Malami, his son and Hajia Bashir were also charged with concealing the sum of N700 million paid for a property at No. 3 Onitsha Crescent, Garki, Abuja, and N850 million for another property at Plot 683, Jabi District, Abuja.

Similarly, the three defendants were said to have in February 2018, acquired No. 3 Rhine Street, Maitama, Abuja, for N430 million and in the same month concealed N210 million for No. 3130, Cadastral Zone A04, Asokoro, Abuja.

They were also charged with concealing N325 million for No. 1241B, Asokoro District, between March and June 2021, and N120 million for No. 27 Efab Estate, Gwarimpa, Abuja, between November 2015 and January 2016.

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• …says Tinubu has performed well

The paramount ruler of Emohua Kingdom in Rivers, Eze Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse, has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a dependable ally and a leader to be followed.

Awuse, who is also the chairman of the South South Monarchs Forum, stated this during Wike’s Special Christmas visit to Rumuche Emohua in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers.

“I want to put it on record. You’re a man to be followed; you’re a dependable ally; a friend to the Omuoha people, and our leader.

“Your Excellency, Emohua owes you everything, and we are not going to wait for you to tell us what to do when the time comes.

“We have decided that wherever you put your leg, Emohua local government will follow you,” he said.

Awuse also said President Bola Tinubu has done well and deserves the support of Rivers people.

According to him, Tinubu has improved the nation’s economy, stabilised the Naira, and increased foreign reserves.

He said, “Before I became a traditional ruler, I was an accountant first, and then I became a politician.

“From my accounting and finance understanding, Tinubu has done very well.

“The indices are so clear. The value of the Naira has gone up. He has done well.

“The external reserve of the nation has also increased to more than 47 billion dollars.”

The traditional leader added that through Tinubu, Wike has transformed Abuja.

He advised Wike not to be distracted by the gimmicks of the enemy, saying, “In life, if you expect not to have enemies, then you’re a master of nobody.

“Only a man who is doing well is spoken about.”

He commended the minister for the annual visit at the end of every year to acknowledge the support of the people.

He also thanked Wike for always coming to the rescue of people in the local government.

“If I don’t thank you publicly, where will I say it?” he asked.

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Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Wizkid thrilled fans with a surprise appearance at Gunna’s headline show during the Detty December Fest at Ilubirin, Lagos.

The international collaboration came to life on stage as the duo performed their track “Forever Be Mine” from Gunna’s 2025 album The Last Wun.

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Blending Gunna’s trap flows with Wizkid’s signature smooth Afrobeats vibes, the performance marked the second live rendition of the track, following its debut in Washington, D.C., in September.

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Fans erupted in excitement as the pair showcased seamless chemistry, creating one of the festival’s standout moments.

The event was also highlighted by performances from Jamaican dancehall star Shenseea and Nigerian singers Fave and Tiwa Savage, adding more energy and variety to the festival lineup.

The appearance capped a monumental week for Wizkid, who also delivered a sold-out concert on December 28. Fellow Nigerian music star Olamide praised the superstar’s efforts online, further amplifying the excitement surrounding his performances.

The festival underscored Afrobeats’ growing global influence, as artists continue to bridge musical styles and captivate audiences both in Nigeria and abroad.

Vanguard News

The post Wizkid joins Gunna on stage for surprise performance at Detty December Fest appeared first on Vanguard News.

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The Kebbi State Police Command has clarified that the Tuesday explosion that rocked the General Hospital in Bagudo was caused by an overheated gas cylinder in the air conditioner units and refrigerators at the facility and not explosives or any form of aerial activity.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, sparked panic among residents of the area.

However, the police confirmed that no casualties were recorded.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Command, SP Bashir Usman, explained that the explosion resulted from overheated gas cylinders in air-conditioning units and refrigerators within the hospital premises, leading to the loud blasts heard by residents.

“Investigations and expert assessments have confirmed that the incident was caused by an inferno. No explosives or aerial activity were involved,” Usman said.

He added that assessments carried out by Explosive Ordnance Disposal–Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) experts, in conjunction with the Commissioner of Police’s Tactical Team, corroborated the findings.

“No loss of life or injuries occurred, as verified by the on-site expert teams,” he stated.

The police spokesperson urged members of the public and the media to disregard unverified reports suggesting the involvement of a bomb or a helicopter, advising them to rely solely on official information.

“The situation is fully under control, and the Command remains committed to public safety and transparency,” Usman assured.

LEADERSHIP had earlier reported that the incident that occurred at early hours of Tuesday morning caused panic in the area.

However, the police stressed that the explosion was accidental and not linked to any criminal activity, noting that security agencies promptly secured the scene to forestall further threats.

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Gas cylinders, not bomb, caused Kebbi hospital explosion — Police

The Kebbi State Police Command has clarified the cause of the explosion that occurred at the General Hospital, Bagudo, dismissing reports suggesting a bomb blast or helicopter involvement.

According to the police, investigations and expert assessments revealed that the incident was caused by an inferno that led to the overheating of air-conditioning and refrigerator gas cylinders within the hospital, resulting in the loud explosions heard in the area.

A statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Bashir Usman, said assessments conducted by Explosive Ordnance Disposal–Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) experts, alongside the Commissioner of Police Tactical Team, confirmed that no explosives were involved in the incident.

“The assessment further established that there was no aerial or helicopter activity connected to the explosion,” the statement added.

The police also confirmed that no lives were lost and no injuries were recorded, as verified by the on-site expert teams.

The Command urged members of the public and the media to disregard unverified reports and rumours linking the incident to a bomb explosion or helicopter activity, and to rely solely on official information.

It assured residents that the situation remained under control and reiterated its commitment to public safety and transparent communication.

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The paramount ruler of Emohua Kingdom in Rivers, Eze Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse, has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, as a dependable ally and a leader to be followed.

Awuse, who is also the Chairman, South South Monarchs Forum, stated this during Wike’s Christmas visit to Rumuche Emohua in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers.

“I want to put it on record. You’re a man to be followed; you’re a dependable ally; a friend to Omuoha people and our leader.

“Your Excellency, Emohua owes you everything and we are not going to wait for you to tell us what to do when the time comes.

“We have decided that wherever you put your leg, Emohua local government will follow you,” he said.

Awuse also said that President Bola Tinubu has done well and deserves the support of Rivers people.

According to him, Tinubu has improved the nation’s economy, stabilised the Naira and increased foreign reserves.

“Before I became a traditional ruler I was an accountant first and then I became a politician.

“From my accounting and finance understanding, Tinubu has done very well.

“The indices are so clear. The value of the naira has gone up. He has done well.

“The external reserve of the nation has also increased to more than 47 billion dollars.”

The traditional leader added that through Tinubu, Wike has transformed Abuja.

He advised Wike not to be distracted by the gimmicks of the enemy, saying, “In life, if you expect not to have enemies then you’re a master of nobody.

“Only a man who is doing well is spoken about”.

He commended the minister for the annual visit at the end of every year to acknowledge the support of the people.

He also thanked Wike for always coming to the rescue of people in the local government.

“If I don’t thank you publicly, where will I say it,” he said.

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Prominent journalist and ARISE News Morning Show anchor, Reuben Abati, has publicly invited the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to appear on the programme, insisting that the minister would be subjected to tough questioning if he honours the invitation.

Naija News reports that Abati made the remark during Tuesday’s edition of the ARISE News Morning Show, where he questioned Wike’s frequent media engagements outside the studio while avoiding direct interviews with the programme’s panel.

Speaking on the show, Abati claimed that Wike lacked the confidence to face the Morning Show crew, stating that the minister preferred selective media chats where he controlled the narrative.

“He has gone from Abuja to Port Harcourt, only God knows where he is going for another media chat,” Abati said.

He added, “He doesn’t have the confidence to come to this studio. Let him come, he will sweat, even with the AC. In this studio, we will make him sweat. Let him come here.”

Abati’s remarks drew attention on social media, with many Nigerians reacting to the challenge thrown at the former Rivers State governor.

Earlier on the programme, Abati also took a swipe at Wike’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, accusing him of excessive loyalty and sycophancy.

The former presidential spokesman criticised Olayinka for publicly kneeling to serve the minister, describing the act as unbecoming of a media professional.

According to Abati, such conduct reflected blind loyalty rather than professionalism in public service.

In a swift response, Olayinka fired back at Abati, lambasting him and describing the former media aide to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan as a failure.

Olayinka’s reaction further escalated the war of words, turning the exchange into a public media spat between both camps.

As of the time of filing this report, Wike has not responded to the invitation by the ARISE News Morning Show or to Abati’s remarks.

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The planned defection by the Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is currently unsettling the political atmosphere of Kano State.

New Telegraph gathered that the planned defection is strongly opposed by the party’s leadership and its national leader, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso.

The development has sparked internal disagreements within the NNPP, particularly between supporters of the governor and loyalists of the Kwankwasiyya movement founded by Kwankwaso.

In a press statement issued on behalf of the NNPP, the party said it was fully aware of the unfolding political situation and does not support any defection to the APC.

“We are aware of the developments happening here in Kano State concerning some individuals who intend to defect to the APC,” the NNPP Kano State Chairman, Hon. Hashim Suleiman Dungurawa, said.

“I want to make it clear that the Kano State party, the national party, and our national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, together with other leaders, do not approve of what is happening.”

Dungurawa disclosed that the party made several efforts to persuade those involved to remain patient and stay within the NNPP in the interest of the people of Kano State.

“We did everything within our power to persuade them to be patient and not defect to the APC, because of our responsibility to them and our responsibility to the people of Kano,” he stated.

He further appealed to the governor and others allegedly planning to defect to reconsider their decision.

“On behalf of all of us collectively, we once again appeal to them, for the sake of Allah and the Prophet, not to leave this party and not to defect to the party that we have opposed and which the masses and other voters have rejected,” he said.

The NNPP chairman also dismissed claims that some party officials were plotting to pitch the governor against Senator Kwankwaso.

“We have never put anyone against our leader, and if anyone has evidence, let them present it,” he said.

He urged residents of Kano State to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities, warning party members not to append their names to documents allegedly being circulated by “mischief makers.”

Reacting to the situation, the Director General of Media and Publicity, Sanusi Bature, acknowledged that there was a rift within the party.

He, however, declined to comment on the alleged defection.

“Yes, there are issues within the party, and we are aware of the disagreements,” Bature said when contacted. “However, I cannot speak on any matter relating to defection at this time.”

He added that the NNPP leadership was handling the matter internally and advised the public to avoid speculation.

Dungurawa concluded by calling on the people of Kano State and Nigerians at large to continue supporting the NNPP and its national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, ahead of future political engagements.

The unfolding crisis is expected to have significant implications for Kano’s political landscape as alignments ahead of the forthcoming elections continue to take shape.

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The Nigerian Youth Unions’ Government (NYUG) has called on the Federal Government to suspend the planned implementation of the newly enacted tax reform laws, warning that failure to do so will further fan the coordination of a nationwide resistance of the Tax Laws by Majority of the Nigerian People.

The Youth Unions’ Government which has 63 registered Youth and student associations cutting across various socio-ethnic and civil society formations, well coordinated by the Emerging Leaders Forum of Nigeria (ELFON) raised concerns over what it described as a poorly communicated and constitutionally questionable implementation process ahead of the January 1, 2026 commencement date.

Addressing journalists in Abuja after the Unions’ emergency meeting on Tuesday morning, the National President of the Youth Union, Ambassador Godstime Chukwubuikem Samuel accused the government of failing to adequately enlighten Nigerians on the content, essence, long-term benefits and overall implication of the tax reforms.

According to the Nigerian Youth Unions, the lack of public enlightenment has heightened anxiety among citizens already battling economic hardship.

“Nigerians are not well enlightened about the essence, scope and long-term implications of the new tax reform law, hence you don’t expect us to keep quiet when the national assembly is also raising alarm over what many noted as forgery of tax documents sorrounding the passage of the same tax reform laws,” Godstime stated.

He further stated that reforms of such magnitude require extensive public awareness, grassroot enlightenment and trust-building.

“You sit with state governors and few allies who are the greatest beneficiaries of the trillions of naira allocated to states, to decide a tax reform without representatives of the people, Youth Unions, traders Union, teachers Union, drivers union, etc… just only you, state governors and Co? e no go work Sir”, Godstime noted.

NYUG also called on the Federal Government to form a body that will be saddled with the responsibility of monitoring how huge allocations sent to states are being utilized, noting that Local government funds are not significantly used to.the benefit of the local government areas and peoples development.

“It is more worrisome as Nigerians recieved shocks over claims by members of the House of Representatives that the gazetted versions of the tax laws differ from those passed by the National Assembly.

“If development happens to be true, then serious executive and legislative integrity concerns is eminent. A law whose authenticity is under investigation shouldn’t be implemented,” NYUG President opined.

Godstime therefore advised the federal government to immediately postpone the implementation pending comprehensive nationwide sensitisation and the conclusion of the National Assembly’s review of the alleged discrepancies.

President Bola Tinubu had earlier signed four tax reform bills into law — the Nigeria Tax Act, Nigeria Tax Administration Act, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, and Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act — described by the government as the most far-reaching overhaul of Nigeria’s tax system in decades.

The reforms previously faced resistance from some lawmakers, particularly from the North. The controversy intensified after a House of Representatives member, Abdussamad Dasuki, alleged discrepancies between the laws passed by the legislature and the versions later gazetted.

Recall that the Minority Caucus of the House has also called for a halt to implementation pending clarification.

Godstime further stated that the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele’s continuous stands that the January 1, 2026 implementation date remains unchanged, insisting that the reforms are intended to provide economic relief for Nigerians maintains a serious anger within the youthdom and Society as many wonders if Nigeria is a banana Republic where you just come up with any law and expect it to be complied with.

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Fourteen persons suspected to be involved in traffic-related robbery have been arrested at various points along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos over the past two weeks.

The arrests were confirmed on Tuesday by the Lagos State Police Command spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, via a post on her official X handle, @AbimbolaShotayo.

According to her, operatives of the Command’s Tactical Squad based in Elemoro carried out the operations that led to the suspects’ apprehension.

She explained that the arrests followed sustained patrols and intelligence-driven operations aimed at curbing criminal activities associated with traffic congestion and improving the safety of motorists and other road users along the busy corridor.

Adebisi noted that the development reflects the Command’s determination to strengthen security and uphold law and order on the Lekki-Epe axis, adding that the Tactical Squad has continued to proactively identify crime-prone areas and respond swiftly to threats posed by criminal elements.

She called on residents and commuters to support police efforts by providing timely and credible information that could assist in preventing and detecting crime.

“Security is a shared responsibility. Members of the public are encouraged to stay alert and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station,” she said.

The police spokesperson further reassured residents and road users of the Command’s commitment to maintaining aggressive patrols and security operations to protect lives and property in the area.

She reiterated the Command’s community policing message, “See Something, Say Something,” stressing the importance of cooperation between the police and the public in sustaining peace and security.

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The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, his wife and son at the Kuje Correctional Centre, pending the hearing of their bail applications.

Judge Emeka Nwite fixed 2 January 2026 for the hearing of their bail applications, which imply that they will spend the New Year’s Day in prison.

Mr Nwite issued the remand order after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned the three of them jointly on money laundering charges on Tuesday.

In the 16 counts brought against them, the EFCC accused them of illegitimate acquisition and concealment of the origins of multi-billion-naira worth of assets, including a university and hotel, mall, and residential houses, among others, in Abuja, Kano and Kebbi.

Already, EFCC has traced N200 billion worth of assets to Mr Malami in the three locations.

Mr Malami, his son, Abdulaziz Malami; and his wife, Asabe Bashir, also described an employee of a firm linked to the former minister, Rahamaniyya Properties Ltd, all pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Thereafter, the defence lawyers attempted to present their clients’ bail applications, a move the EFCC opposed on grounds that the prosecution needed time to file a written response to the bail request.

The defence urged the judge to take oral arguments from lawyers and dispense with the written bail applications already filed on behalf of the defendants.

But the judge, in turning down the option of oral arguments, said the “bail application had only been served on the prosecution a day earlier and allowing an oral application at that stage would amount to an ambush.”

The judge stressed that “the interest of justice will be met” by allowing the prosecution adequate time to respond to the written bail application.

He therefore adjourned 2 January 2026 for hearing of the bail application.

Mr Malami attended Tuesday’s proceedings from EFCC custody, where he had been detained since 8 December.

He had made unsuccessful efforts to secure pre-trial bail and release from custody until Tuesday’s arraignment.

On 23 December, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja granted him bail in the same conditions earlier set by the EFCC.

But both the EFCC and Mr Malami disagreed over what the conditions were. Mr Malami maintained that he already met the bail conditions before the bail was revoked. But the EFCC denied ever revoking the bail and maintained that the former minister had yet to fulfil the bail conditions to be released from pre-trial detention.

The charges against him and his co-defendants included suspicious accumulation and frantic efforts to conceal the alleged illicit origins of multi-billion naira worth of assets in Abuja, Kano and Kebbi.

EFCC alleged in the charges that the defendants carried out various suspicious transactions and attempted to conceal the unlawful origins of billions of naira through bank accounts and property acquisitions across Abuja, Kano and Kebbi.

EFCC said many of the offences violated the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Acts of 2011 (as amended) and 2022.

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

More details later.

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• A man who plied the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway 20 minutes before world-renowned boxer Anthony Joshua’s accident has broken his silence on the state of the road
• The man released a video taken when he drove past the road minutes before the crash and dismissed claims that the road was not in good condition
• He suggested a possible cause of Joshua’s road accident and prayed for the repose of the boxer’s inner circle members, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, who were killed in the accident

Orowale Kolapo, known on Facebook as Oni Foto, has revealed that he drove past the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway 20 minutes before British professional boxer Anthony Joshua had an accident that claimed the lives of his two team members, Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz” Ayodele, on Monday, December 29.

Joshua was hurt in the car crash and is receiving treatment in a Lagos hospital, with some people attributing the accident to the state of the road.

Read also

Man shares video of Anthony Joshua’s coach and friend arriving in Nigeria days before car crash

Anthony Joshua lost two of his close friends in a fatal crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
Photo Credit: Oni Foto, Instagram/@anthonyjoshua
Source: Facebook

Anthony Joshua’s accident: Man corrects wrong impression

However, Kolapo described such claims as untrue and tagged them the handiwork of propagandists.

According to Kolapo, the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is one of the smoothest roads in Nigeria, as a whole, adding that there are no bumps from Berger to Iwo Road.

While describing the accident as unfortunate, Kolapo believes it might have been due to the driver’s miscalculation.

He prayed for the souls of those who lost their lives in the accident. Kolapo, who shared a video of the road, wrote:

“Anthony Joshua’s accident was like 20 mins after I drove past the same road and there is a misconception and propaganda going on that it was bad road that caused the mischap,”That is untrue.”Lagos/ibadan express way is one of the smoothest roads in Nigeria as a whole.m You will not step into a Bump from Beger to Iwo Road.

Read also

“I can’t believe Sina and Latz are gone”: Peter Okoye mourns following Anthony Joshua’s accident

“It is just unfortunate and I think it was a driver’s miscalculation.”May the souls of the dead rest well.”British boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a terrible road accident in Nigeria.
Photo Credit: Oni Foto, Instagram/@anthonyjoshua
Source: Facebook

Watch his video below:

Anthony Joshua’s accident: Man’s reaction generates buzz

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

Oluwatobiloba Olabisi Babalola said:

“My husband had a flat tyre and we were fixing it when the accident happened like a flash. It was like I was watching horror film.”

Adegbite Ayoola said:

“I do pass this road every week.”I still pass there today nothing like bumps very smooth road.”The driver was the one that wasn’t driving carefully.”

Ajewole Clement Taiye said:

“I totally agree with you, it was the driver miscalculation or a seconds distraction when he was making a decision (overtaking) probably.”

Aremu Ọmọ Makinde said:

“Do they hired a driver or one of his friends drove the SUV. If one of his friends was the one driving. Probably inexperience he has on such road might have add up to the incident.”

Read also

Anthony Joshua’s strength coach’s last Instagram post before he died in accident breaks hearts

Idowu Olayinka said:

“I passed the same road this morning”I got to sagamu when I saw the news that an accident happened”Bad road???”No!!!”It’s really a sad occurrence.”May the souls of the dead rest in peace.”

Luqman Oyewunmi Oyeniyi said:

“According To FRSC, “illegal Overtaking Caused The Accident”.”Probably The Escorts Drive Their Usual Wawawa Way.!”

Kingsley Ojiakor-Uncle Santa said:

“I think overspending caused it and driver not being patient cos I learnt he hit a stationary truck.”

Anthony Joshua’s strength coach’s last post trends

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that the last Instagram post of Anthony Joshua’s strength coach, Sina Ghami, who died in a fatal road accident on Monday, December 29, had broken hearts.

While people from around the world heaved a sigh of relief that Joshua survived the accident with minor injuries, people also paid tributes to his close friends and team members who died.

The death of Sina, a qualified sports and exercise rehabilitator who co-founded Evolve Gym in London, left many in sorrow. His last Instagram post has now been flooded with condolence messages from heartbroken netizens.

Source: Legit.ng

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