Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has ordered a suspension of all enforcement actions related to the proposed ban on sachet alcohol products, at least for now.

SGF directs suspension of sachet alcohol ban

The directive follows a formal correspondence from the House of Representatives Committee on Food and Drugs Administration and Control, which raised concerns about the planned enforcement by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

According to a statement issued by the SGF’s Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Terrence Kuanum, the matter is under careful review.

NAFDAC enforcement on hold amid National Assembly concerns

The statement further clarified that “any action or enforcement undertaken by NAFDAC or any other agency on this matter without due clearance and resolution by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation is of no effect and should be disregarded by the public until a final decision is formally communicated.”

Until then, any enforcement actions by NAFDAC or other agencies are of no effect and should be disregarded by the public.

The move comes shortly after NAFDAC announced it would prohibit the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and bottles smaller than 200 millilitres by December 2025, citing concerns over the misuse of cheap alcohol among youths and drivers.

Renewed pressure from the National Assembly played a role in the SGF’s decision, as lawmakers have repeatedly asked NAFDAC to pause the ban.

A letter dated December 1, 2025, from the Permanent Secretary (General Services), Mohammed Danjuma, requested the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare and NAFDAC to provide comments to allow the SGF to make an informed decision.

In the statement, the SGF assured Nigerians that the matter is being handled in a balanced, lawful, and well-coordinated manner and promised that the public would be updated once a final position is reached.

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Sunday Aborisade in Abuja 

The Senate on Tuesday directed the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to investigate and identify those behind the spread of false reports alleging the deaths of Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd).

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion raised during plenary by Senator Titus Zam, who expressed concern over what he described as a disturbing rise in misinformation and fake news circulating on social media platforms.

Moving the motion, Zam lamented that social media had recently been flooded with reports claiming that Akpabio had died in a London hospital, even as the Senate President was alive, well and presiding over plenary sessions at the National Assembly.

He further drew the attention of lawmakers to a similar false report concerning Gowon, noting that rumours of the former Head of State’s death were widely circulated on the same day he was publicly sighted attending a Christmas carol service in Abuja.

According to Zam, the unchecked spread of such misinformation poses serious security and social risks, capable of creating panic, undermining public confidence and destabilising the polity. 

He therefore called on the Senate to mandate a thorough investigation into the origin and promoters of the false reports with a view to holding those responsible accountable.

In his response, Akpabio acknowledged the reports and described the trend as a growing and troubling phenomenon. 

He noted that the deliberate circulation of fake death announcements had become commonplace on social media, citing instances where funeral ceremonies of prominent Nigerians were broadcast online while the individuals concerned were still alive.

“This has become a disturbing pattern. We have seen cases where even the burial of a well-known businessman was announced and circulated, only for the person involved to later appear alive,” Akpabio said.

The Senate President sustained the motion and ruled that the matter be formally referred to the NSA for a diligent and comprehensive investigation to unravel those behind the falsehoods.

“Your point is sustained. I think all we can do is to refer this matter to the NSA for investigation,” Akpabio declared.

When the proposal was put to a voice vote, it received unanimous approval from senators, sealing the Senate’s decision to involve national security authorities in curbing the spread of fake news and deliberate misinformation targeting public figures.

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Are you ready to discover the planet’s most stunning natural wonders and magnificent man-made marvels? From ancient cities carved into stone to vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, the world is full of breathtaking destinations that belong on every traveller’s bucket list.

We’ve compiled a definitive list of the 10 most beautiful places in the world, guaranteed to inspire your next great adventure.

1. Machu Picchu, Peru

Perched high in the Andes Mountains, this 15th-century Incan citadel is a masterpiece of dry-stone architecture, dramatically set against sweeping emerald peaks. The sheer scale and mystery of the “Lost City of the Incas” are simply unmatched.

Why You Should Visit: The sunrise views from the Sun Gate are legendary, offering a rewarding experience after hiking the Inca Trail.

2. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The world’s largest coral reef system, this Australian wonder is a dazzling underwater spectacle. It stretches over 2,300 kilometres and is home to an incredible diversity of marine life, including 1,500 species of fish and over 400 types of coral.

Why You Should Visit: Snorkelling or diving here allows you to explore an unparalleled, living ecosystem— a true kaleidoscope of colour beneath the waves.

3. Amalfi Coast, Italy

This stunning stretch of coastline features dramatic cliffs plunging into the cerulean sea, dotted with picturesque, pastel-coloured villages like Positano and Ravello. The charming mix of natural beauty and historic architecture is quintessential Italian romance.

Why You Should Visit: Cruise along the coast, enjoy fresh seafood, and immerse yourself in the relaxed, luxurious atmosphere of the Italian Riviera.

4. Cappadocia, Turkey

Famous for its unique, cone-shaped rock formations — known as fairy chimneys — Cappadocia offers a landscape that feels truly otherworldly. The ancient caves carved into the rocks served as homes and churches for centuries.

Why You Should Visit: Take a sunrise hot air balloon ride for a surreal panoramic view of hundreds of balloons drifting over the stunning valleys.

5. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Covering over 10,000 square kilometres, the world’s largest salt flat transforms into a massive, reflective “mirror” during the wet season. The pure, stark white expanse blurs the line between heaven and earth, creating an optical illusion unlike any other.

Why You Should Visit: It’s a photographer’s paradise, offering incredible perspective shots and a profound sense of scale and solitude.

6. Banff National Park, Canada

Canada’s oldest national park boasts towering, snow-capped peaks, immense glaciers, and the impossibly turquoise waters of glacial lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. The raw, untamed wilderness is breathtaking year-round.

Why You Should Visit: Hike amidst the alpine meadows in summer or ski the world-class slopes in winter, always surrounded by spectacular Rocky Mountain views.

7. Petra, Jordan

This ancient city, dating back to 300 B.C., is famous for its architecture carved directly into pink sandstone cliffs. Walking through the Siq (a narrow canyon) to emerge before the majestic Treasury (Al-Khazneh) is an unforgettable moment of historical and natural splendour.

Why You Should Visit: Explore the network of tombs, temples and religious structures that earned it a place as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

8. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is famous for its 16 interconnected, terraced lakes. The waters shift between shades of emerald, blue, and green, linked by a stunning series of cascades and waterfalls.

Why You Should Visit: Walk the wooden boardwalks that weave through the water, offering up-close views of the pristine natural pools.

9. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke that Thunders”), Victoria Falls is one of the world’s largest waterfalls. The sight and sound of the Zambezi River plunging over 100 meters into the gorge is an overwhelming display of nature’s power.

Why You Should Visit: View the falls from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides for different perspectives, or take a helicopter ride for a spectacular aerial view.

10. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan

On the outskirts of Kyoto, this towering forest of dense, Moso bamboo stalks creates a beautiful, sun-dappled green tunnel. The ethereal light and the subtle, creaking sound of the bamboo swaying in the wind create a unique atmosphere of serene beauty.

Why You Should Visit: Find a moment of peace and reflection in this natural cathedral, an iconic example of Japan’s profound connection to nature.

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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Tuesday, signed the state’s 2026 Appropriation Bill of N1. 729 trillion into law.

Tagged the “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda,” Governor Oborevwori also signed into law three other key bills passed by the Delta State House of Assembly.

The other three bills assented include the Delta State Social Investment Programme Law, the Delta State Colleges of Education Law, 2025, and the Delta State Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law, 2025.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Governor Oborevwori described the 2026 budget as “not just a budget of figures, but a budget of vision, action and expected deliverables for the next twelve months,” assuring that the state would hit the ground running in 2026 to accelerate development across key sectors.

The N1,729,881,208,779 budget represents an increase of over 70 per cent compared to the 2025 budget.

The Governor said the estimate, though ambitious, was achievable, with 70 per cent dedicated to capital expenditure and 30 per cent to recurrent spending, thus underscoring his administration’s commitment to infrastructure-led growth and sustainable development.

He noted that the state intensified investments in infrastructure, security, fiscal discipline and revenue growth in 2025, leading to improved Internally Generated Revenue without imposing additional burdens on citizens.

Oborevwori explained that the three accompanying laws were designed to further reinforce social welfare, education and security in the State.

He said the Social Investment Programme Law provides a legal framework for equitable, grassroots-focused access to resources and services, particularly for vulnerable and underserved populations, without discrimination.

He added that the Colleges of Education Law, 2025, standardises the operations of state-owned colleges, allowing them to award Nigerian Certificate in Education ( NCEs) and education degrees concurrently, and expands their capacity to train more qualified teachers.

The Anti-Terrorism and Anti-Cultism (Amendment) Law, he said, strengthens the legal framework to combat terrorism, cultism and related crimes, aligning state laws with contemporary security realities.

The Governor commended the Speaker, leadership and members of the Delta Assembly for the timely passage of the budget and other bills, highlighting the strong synergy between the executive and the legislature.

He also thanked stakeholders, cabinet members, civil servants and citizens for their contributions, while wishing all Deltans a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Earlier, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, said the passage of the four bills followed rigorous legislative engagement, wide consultations and thorough scrutiny in line with the Assembly’s constitutional mandate.

The Assembly had on Monday passed N1.729 trillion budget for the services of the state government in the 2026 fiscal year.

The passage followed the consideration of a report presented by the Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, during plenary presided over by the Speaker.

Presenting the report, Okowa-Daramola disclosed that the committee noted that the presentation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill was timely and complied with relevant statutory provisions, including Section 121(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), Section 20(1) of the Delta State Fiscal Responsibility Law, 2008 (as amended), and the approved 2026–2028 Fiscal Strategy Paper.

She explained that the committee recommended an upward review of the recurrent expenditure from the proposed N499 billion to N500 billion, representing an increase of N1 billion (0.2 per cent). The capital expenditure was also reviewed from N1.165 trillion to N1.229 trillion, an increase of N64.65 billion over the initial proposal.

Consequently, the total budget size was adjusted from N1.665 trillion to N1.729 trillion.

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Scores of women from Kula, a coastal community in Akuku-Toru Local Council of Rivers State, have staged a peaceful protest to draw attention to their plight over lack of electricity and water supply in the community for more than two years. 
 
The women, who protested to the Jetty and security checkpoints in the community carrying placards with various inscriptions, lamented that the protracted absence of electricity in the community has resulted in severe scarcity of water in the area.
 
They lamented that despite hosting critical national assets and three major oil companies, they still suffer from lack of basic amenities, neglect, and deprivation, saying the situation has brought untold hardship to the area, making life unbearable for the people. 
 
The women said that lack of these basic amenities in the community had severely affected public health, the well-being of the populace, as well as their local economy, especially small-scale businesses in the area. 
 
They also said that the situation had further increased the high cost of living in the riverine community, forcing many households to rely on contaminated water from reptile-infested wells for their daily consumption, with its attendant health implications.
 
A protester, known as Ibitonye, said: “We are protesting because of the absence of light and water. We are angry. The women of Kula are suffering. Please, we want the Federal Government to intervene.
 
“If you see the well we draw water from, you will shed tears for us. And this is injustice for us the people who have oil wells surrounding them. At least in Rivers State, we have the highest number of oil wells. 
 
“Malaria wants to completely exterminate us because of the kind of water we drink and the environment we live in. Cholera is everywhere.” They, therefore, sent a save-our-soul message to the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, authorities of Akuku-Toru Local Council, the Federal Government, as well as oil companies operating in the area, to come to their aid by restoring power supply in the Island to alleviate their sufferings. 

“We are, therefore, calling on the governor, the local council chairman, Renaissance and Bella oil, to help us with light because we are suffering, no light, no water,” she said.

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The President of the 10th Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has broken silence on reports claiming that he collapsed and was flown to London for medical treatment.

Akpabio described the report as “fake news”.

The denial was issued by his Consultant on Communications and Strategy, Kenny Okolugbo.

ALSO READ: Bauchi govt, UNICEF collaborate to upgrade 11 PHCs

When contacted, Okolugbo said, “It’s a lie, fake news,” without providing further details.

The clarification followed a report published on Monday by an online news platform, which alleged that the Senate President collapsed and was airlifted on a private jet to London for treatment.

Akpabio has continued his official duties, with no indication of any health emergency.

ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE

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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has criticised the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, over plans to resume enforcement of the suspended tinted glass permit policy from January 2, 2026, describing the move as an affront to the authority of the courts.

The association also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and call the IGP to order.

In a statement signed by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, the NBA warned that issues surrounding the legality of the policy are currently before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where hearing has been concluded and judgment reserved.

The association stated that the IGP has a constitutional obligation to respect the judicial process and refrain from any action capable of undermining the court’s authority.

The NBA said its Section on Public Interest and Development Law (NBA-SPIDEL) had on September 2, 2025, instituted an action at the Federal High Court, Abuja, in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/1821/2025, between Incorporated Trustees of the Nigerian Bar Association and the Inspector General of Police, challenging the legality and constitutionality of the tinted glass permit policy.

According to the association, the suit questions the absence of constitutional or statutory authority empowering the Nigeria Police Force to levy fees or impose financial obligations on citizens under the guise of enforcing the policy. It described the policy as unconstitutional, illegal, extortionate and a threat to citizens’ rights and economic well-being.

The NBA argued that the Motor Tinted Glass (Prohibition) Act of 1991, upon which the policy is premised, is a military-era decree that no longer meets democratic standards under the 1999 Constitution.

It further contended that the National Assembly lacks the legislative competence to enact the law and that enforcement of the policy could encourage extortion, harassment and abuse by police officers.

The association maintained that the policy amounts to an unlawful revenue-generating drive by the police, an institution not empowered by law to generate revenue, noting that proceeds are paid into a private bank account rather than the Treasury Single Account. It also argued that the levy adds to Nigeria’s multiple layers of taxation, worsens economic hardship and undermines ongoing tax reforms scheduled to take effect in January 2026.

The NBA further noted that modern vehicles imported into Nigeria come with factory-fitted tinted glasses, yet the police have continued to disregard this reality, while also nullifying previously issued permits and introducing a renewal requirement which, it said, has no legal basis.

The association disclosed that court processes were duly served on the defendants, including the IGP, who briefed Chief Ayotunde Ogunleye, SAN, to represent them. It recalled that on October 3, 2025, the Federal High Court in Warri ordered parties to maintain the status quo in Suit No: FHC/WR/CS/103/2025, between John Aikpokpo-Martins and the Inspector General of Police, thereby restraining the police from enforcing the policy pending the determination of an interlocutory application.

According to the NBA, the court order and public outcry led to a meeting involving police authorities, their legal representatives and the NBA, where it was agreed that enforcement of the policy would be suspended pending the outcome of the cases in court.

The association expressed surprise that the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, announced the reactivation of enforcement of the policy from January 2, 2026, describing the move as confirmation of the police’s disregard for the rule of law and due process.

The NBA warned that it would not hesitate to initiate contempt proceedings against the IGP and the Force spokesperson if enforcement proceeds despite undertakings made in open court. It also directed all NBA branches and its Human Rights Committee to immediately intervene and provide legal representation to any Nigerian harassed, arrested or prosecuted under the policy.

Citing the Supreme Court decision in Governor of Lagos State v. Ojukwu (1986), the NBA stated that any action contrary to a judicial undertaking amounts to overreaching the court and undermining constitutional democracy.

The association urged the Nigeria Police Force to retrace its steps, respect the authority of the courts and align its conduct with the rule of law, while calling on President Tinubu to intervene to prevent further hardship on Nigerians.

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Residents of several communities in Yorro local government council of Taraba State have called for urgent action to abolish harmful cultural practices within the Mumuye ethnic group.

The call was made on Monday at the palace of the Chief of Mumuye, Alhaji Ado Adamu Manzan, during activities marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

The residents described the cultural practices as detrimental to social development and the wellbeing of women and girls.

Community representatives used the occasion to highlight cultural practices they said have perpetuated inequality and hindered development in the area.

Appealing to the monarch as the custodian of culture and tradition, the residents urged him to intervene by expunging such practices from Mumuye customs. They stressed that urgent reforms were needed to address long-standing injustices that have relegated sections of the community, particularly women, to the background.

Organisers of the event, the Women and Children Health Empowerment Foundation, WACHEF, and ActionAid Nigeria, also called on the traditional ruler and the Yorro local government leadership to enact bylaws aimed at abolishing harmful practices, many of which they noted disproportionately affect women and girls.

Speaking, the Chairman of WACHEF’s Board of Trustees, Dr Danjuma Garba, disclosed that gender-based violence remains prevalent in Yorro Local Government Area. He urged the monarch to collaborate with the council leadership to introduce bylaws to address cultural practices he described as inimical to the overall development of the area.

Garba, who is also the Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Health Service Management Board, outlined ongoing interventions by WACHEF and ActionAid Nigeria across eight communities in the council.

He said the initiatives are focused on tackling harmful cultural practices and supporting vulnerable populations, expressing optimism that sustained advocacy would drive positive change.

He was also noticed to have raised concerns over the high prevalence of hepatitis in one of the communities and pledged the foundation’s commitment to addressing the health challenge.

Also speaking, the Advisor, Partnership and Local Rights Programme of ActionAid Nigeria, Hajara Opaluwa Adamu, identified poverty as a major driver of gender-based violence. She explained that ActionAid Nigeria is addressing the root causes of inequality through economic empowerment initiatives.

“At ActionAid Nigeria, we believe poverty is not accidental but the result of long-standing structural inequalities that deny women access to resources, opportunities and power. One of the most devastating consequences of this inequality is gender-based violence,” she said.

As part of the intervention, Adamu announced the launch of an economic empowerment grant scheme targeted at women in Local Rights Programme communities. She presented cheques totalling over N3 million to women trained in various skills, noting that the grants are meant to serve as start-up or scale-up capital for small businesses.

“These grants are not handouts but strategic investments in women’s resilience, dignity and leadership,” she said, adding that beneficiaries would receive continuous mentorship and business management training in collaboration with relevant government agencies.

A total of 70 women from Yorro and Gashaka Local Government Areas benefited from the grants. The communities include Bolimika, Dasso, Mika, Mazala, Nyaja Davo, Nyaladi Shumbo and Yali in Yorro, as well as Balewa, Mayang, Mayo Jakaza and Pumpo in Gashaka.

Responding to the appeals and advocacy by community members, WACHEF and ActionAid Nigeria, the Chief of Mumuye pledged to urgently address the concerns raised. He promised to take immediate steps to expunge all harmful cultural practices associated with the ethnic group.

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• A video circulating on X (formerly Twitter) has drawn widespread attention after a newly moved-in tenant was seen thoroughly washing the entire compound of his new residence on his very first day.
• Despite barely settling in, the man embarked on what many viewers described as an unusually intense cleaning exercise.

A video has gone viral on X (formerly Twitter) after a new tenant was seen immediately washing the entire compound upon moving into his new residence.

The tenant, who was barely settled, began the unusual deep clean, an action many online users found extreme for a first day in a new apartment.

The post, shared by user @Teeniola, sparked widespread reactions and speculation. Some users joked that the compound must have been extremely dirty. One user remarked: “The whole compound? Do you know how dirty the compound must have been for him to decide this was the next line of action ”.

Other users suggested the man might be following spiritual advice or instructions from his landlord to ensure peace in the new home

In other news….. The former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad (retd.), has passed away. A close source confirmed his death early Tuesday morning, stating he died at a hospital in Saudi Arabia.

The Nigerian Association of Muslim Law Students (NAMLAS) officially confirmed his passing in a condolence statement dated December 16, 2025, describing it as a “monumental loss” to the country.

The statement honored his career, noting that he was “a towering figure of integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to justice”. NAMLAS emphasized that throughout his judicial career, he “exemplified the highest ideals of the Bench—fairness, courage, and fidelity to the rule of law,”.

Beyond his service as the head of Nigeria’s judiciary, NAMLAS highlighted his role as a mentor: “To NAMLAS, the late Chief Justice was more than a jurist; he was a fatherly pillar and a source of encouragement to Muslim law students across the country,”.

The association extended condolences, concluding with the prayer: “Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return,” and asking that Allah grants him “the highest abode in Jannatul Firdaus,”.

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The Government of Benin Republic on Tuesday jailed at least 30 people, most of whom are soldiers, accused of links to a foiled coup attempt earlier this month.

DAILY POST recalls that soldiers appeared on national television on December 7 to announce that President Patrice Talon had been deposed.

However, the attempted coup was swiftly defeated by loyalist army forces with the help of the Nigerian air force and French special forces.

Several people were killed and the alleged coup leader lieutenant-colonel Pascal Tigri and other mutinous soldiers are still on the run.

At least 30 accused people on Monday appeared before a special prosecutor for the court for economic crimes and terrorism in the city of Cotonou.

They were reportedly placed in pre-trial detention the following day at the end of their hearing.

They are being prosecuted for treason, murder and endangering state security.

Meanwhile, Chabi Yayi, son of former Beninese President and current opposition figure Thomas Boni Yayi, who was earlier arrested, was released on Monday after being questioned but remains under prosecution in connection with the coup bid for reasons that are not known.

He is alleged to be a member of the opposition party led by his father.

President Talon is accused by critics of authoritarianism in a country once praised for its democratic dynamism.

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