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Nigeria’s bizarre chase for 2026 World Cup ticket

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Nigeria’s bizarre chase for 2026 World Cup ticket



By Douglas Baye-Osagie

At a time when the Africa is preparing for the commencement of the biggest football event in the continent, the 35th edition of the biennial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the Nigeria Football Federation has awaken the hopes and raised the consciousness of soccer fans with a different kind of distraction.

They’ve whispered loudly to the Nigerian football lovers globally that there is a backdoor entrance available to the biggest football event in the World next year in America, Canada and Mexico. Like a petulant kid, Nigeria’s Football Federation is protesting at football world governing body, FIFA’s doorstep again. Remember during the qualifying rounds, a protest against South Africa for fielding a player, Mokhoena with accumulated yellow cards led to point deductions and helped push Nigeria to the playoffs NFF General Secretary, Dr. Sanusi Mohammed on Tuesday 15th December 2025 alleged players’ ineligibility as a reason Nigeria’s hope of making the World Cup next year is real.

“FIFA was deceived into clearing those players because it is not FIFA’s responsibility to interpret or enforce domestic citizenship laws. “DR Congo law does not permit dual citizenship, yet some of the players involved reportedly hold dual nationality. “It is not FIFA’s duty to know the domestic laws of every country; that is why we formally drew FIFA’s attention to the issue, and we are now awaiting their verdict”

We have a group of Administrators who have failed to grow our football in the last 10 years . From Amaju Pinnick to Ibrahim Gusau, the federation has focused on attending competitions rather than building the right structure for the game in Nigeria. From failure to qualify for consecutive Olympic soccer events to back to back World Cups and also missing out on our once birthrights 3 straight U17 World Cups, it is very obvious the politicians in them will want to grab at any window to jump into the 2026 World Cup. Right now they have awakened the hopes of millions of Nigerian football fans who are meant to have switched off from the World Cup to the Nations Cup tournament. But do we have a chance.

YES! Does the rule work in our favour? It will boil down to how FIFA interprets her own laws. There is total panic in the streets of Kinshaha because they know the registration of foreign players was a bit hurriedly done. “FIFA does not reason in terms of legal nationality but rather in terms of sporting nationality. If that is the case, I advise you dear Nigeria brothers to focus on the AFCON – Herita Ilunga former West Ham player and Head of Football, DR Congo ???? Federation.

Even though the Congolese are defiant and brash about the whole episode, there is a sense of fear that they milot of prayers to scale past these allegations. They claim once FIFA approves a player, they don’t have to bother and sports rules are different from Countries’ laws. Just this week FIFA penalised Malaysia with three 3-0 defeats for fielding ineligible players, the country’s football authorities said Wednesday, the latest punishment in a simmering scandal. Friendly wins over Palestine and Singapore, and a draw against Cape Verde, all at home this year, have been overturned, the Football Association of Malaysia said.

FIFA has already suspended seven foreign-born national team players over forged documents that claimed they had Malaysian ancestry. This will further send a chilled fear all over DR Congo as they await judgment day when FIFA gives a ruling on Nigeria’s protest. Under DR Congo’s own Constitution, nationality is not something that can be rushed or improvised. Foreigners can only become Congolese through clearly defined processes – naturalization, marriage, option, or adoption – and even then, only when the state determines that the decision is in its national interest. Final approval is not automatic; it must pass through the National Assembly, the Council of Ministers, and the President. In simple terms, a passport alone is not enough. Naturalization, for example, requires:

•Proven good character •No serious criminal convictions

• At least seven years of residence (or five years of permanent residency)

• Evidence that the applicant’s citizenship serves a real national interest. Some Nigerians have come out to say this is a shameful and disgraceful path to the World Cup and we should be worried about fixing our football. But in this scenario two truths can coexist. Nigeria football administrators have been below average despite the avalanche of talents and secondly DR Congo seems to have breached their own laws in the registration of players for the National team. So Nigeria can pull every form of evidence to nail the Congolese.

The Nsue case is a prime example of FIFA’s strict eligibility rules. Emilio Nsue, the former captain of Equatorial Guinea’s national team, was ruled ineligible to play for the country due to not meeting the necessary requirements. Nsue was born in Spain to an Equatoguinean father and played for Spain’s youth teams before switching to Equatorial Guinea in 2013. However, FIFA determined that Nsue didn’t follow the proper procedure for changing his nationality, making him ineligible to play for Equatorial Guinea. As a result, FIFA:

•Suspended Nsue for six months from international football

•Fined Equatorial Guinea $164,000

•Revoked Equatorial Guinea’s wins against Namibia and Liberia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, awarding 3-0 victories to their opponents Nsue had played for Equatorial Guinea for over 11 years, scoring 23 goals in 40+ games, including five goals at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. The decision was a major blow to Equatorial Guinea’s World Cup hopes However, in March 2025, FIFA lifted Nsue’s suspension, making him eligible to play for Equatorial Guinea again.

If FIFA confirms that any DR Congo player in the CAF playoffs final:

•Did not meet the country’s legal nationality requirements

•Illegally held dual nationality

•Or relied on falsified or misleading documents

Then FIFA will have no choice but to act. That would mean annulling the result of the match and applying forfeiture rules – a decision that would strip DR Congo of its place in the 2026 Intercontinental Playoffs and keep Nigeria’s hope alive. From the South African protest to the African playoffs to the ineligibility of DR Congo players, if we somehow manage to advance, it’ll be the most convoluted route to a World Cup in the tournament’s history..

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AAUA, College Sign MoU On Degree In Education

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AAUA, College Sign MoU On Degree In Education


The Ondo State-owned Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), and the College of Education and Entrepreneurship Studies, Lessel, Ushongo Local Government Area, Benue State have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to run degrees in Education.

The signing of the MoU had empowered the College of Education and Entrepreneurship Studies to offer degree courses in education-related programmes under the supervision of the University.

The MoU signing ceremony was witnessed by Principal Officers of the AAUA including the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige; the DVC Admin., Prof. Adebisi Daramola; DVC Academic, Prof. Olusegun Akinwumi; Registrar, Mr. Olugbenga Arajulu; the Bursar, Mr. Tobi Orina; and the representative of the University Librarian, Dr. Felix Adewusi; while the duo of the College Provost, Dr. Austin Ortiv; and the College Liaison Officer, Dr. Segun Ogunleye signed for the College.

Addressing the media, Dr. Ortiv, thanked the Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University for approving the partnership and for the trust reposed in the Management of the College.

Ortiv stated that the College of Education and Entrepreneurship Studies, Lessel, is set to train and graduate professional educators in both academic pedagogy and entrepreneurial skills, following the agreement signed in Akungba Akoko in Akoko Southwest local government area of Ondo State.

His words, “We now have the approval and the capacity to run several programmes, including Degree programmes in education, Certificate in entrepreneurship, and Advance Certificate in Education.

“With the agreement with Adekunle Ajasin University, our degree students are assured of graduating from one of the foremost universities in Nigeria. Their admission, curriculum, screening, examination, and certificate would be handled by the university.

In fact, their matriculation and convocation ceremonies would be conducted by the University.

“Furthermore, our students would not only get academic certificates, but would also be trained and certified in entrepreneurship with hands-on training in business, technology, and engineering, trade and craft, and many more.”

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Police Dismiss NBA Claims, Reaffirm Legal Backing

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Police Dismiss NBA Claims, Reaffirm Legal Backing


The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has defended the Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit Policy, dismissing claims by the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, as misleading and inaccurate, while reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law, public safety, and due process.

In a press statement issued on Friday, December 19, 2025, and signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police said the tinted glass policy is firmly rooted in law and not a discretionary or revenue-driven initiative, as portrayed in recent public commentary.

According to the Police, the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, is an Act of the National Assembly and not a military decree.

The law expressly empowers the Inspector-General of Police to issue tinted glass permits, provided applicants demonstrate legitimate security or health-related reasons.

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The Force stressed that the regulation is designed to address serious security concerns, including the use of tinted vehicles in crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism, and other violent offences.

The NPF clarified that it is not a revenue-generating agency, noting that any funds received in the course of its statutory duties are backed by law under the Police Act 2020 (as amended).

It further explained that the automated tinted glass permit system operates under a Federal Executive Council-approved Public-Private Partnership, implemented to enhance transparency, security vetting, and nationwide standardisation of the permit process.

Addressing allegations that payments are made into a private account, the Police described the claim as false, stating that Parkway Projects Limited, referenced in the controversy, is a Central Bank of Nigeria-licensed payment service provider engaged by the Federal Government, similar to platforms like Remita.

The Force added that the reference numbers cited publicly are transaction identifiers, not private bank accounts.

The Police also recalled that enforcement of the tinted glass policy was earlier suspended voluntarily following engagements with the NBA and other stakeholders, stressing that the suspension was not based on any court order.

The Force maintained that no court has issued a restraining order against it, noting that an application for interim injunction was refused by the Federal High Court sitting in Warri.

While acknowledging ongoing court cases on the matter, the NPF assured Nigerians that it will not act in contempt of court and will fully comply with judicial outcomes.

It emphasised, however, that it cannot abandon its constitutional responsibility to safeguard lives and property, especially in light of current security challenges worsened by the abuse of tinted vehicles.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, reiterated that enforcement of the policy, where lawfully undertaken, will be professional and rights-compliant, warning that any officer involved in extortion, harassment, or abuse of authority will face severe disciplinary action.

The Police called for calm, responsible public discourse and respect for judicial processes, assuring Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to professionalism, transparency, accountability, and national security.

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Okpebholo Sends Delegation, Vows Support For Victims

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Okpebholo Sends Delegation, Vows Support For Victims


The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to the safety and welfare of residents following a petrol tanker fire incident in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of the state, which left several persons injured.

In a statement signed and issued on Saturday by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Ebojele Akhere Patrick, the state government disclosed that a high-powered delegation had been dispatched to the affected community and hospitals where victims are receiving treatment.

The delegation, led by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mallam Gani Audu, visited the scene of the inferno as well as Auchi General Hospital and Amazing Grace Hospital, where victims were admitted, on the directive of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

Audu said the governor mandated that the team immediately proceed to Auchi to sympathise with the community and conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the incident.

“We were given a clear mandate by the governor when we heard of this incident on the 17th of December that we should come to Auchi immediately to show solidarity and sympathise with the Auchi community and the victims,” he said.

“We are here on the directive of His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to assess exactly what happened.”

The Chief of Staff explained that although the governor would have personally visited the area, he was unavoidably engaged in Abuja on state matters.

According to him, the constitution of a strong delegation underscores the responsiveness of the administration.

“When you have the Chief of Staff, the Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, the Chief Whip of the Edo State House of Assembly, the Director-General of EdoSEMA and officials of NEMA, you can see that this is a responsible and responsive government that cares about the people,” Audu added.

He noted that the delegation had gathered first-hand information from the scene and the hospitals, assuring that a detailed report would be submitted to the governor to guide long-term preventive measures.

We thank God that no life was lost. We now have first-hand information and will report back to the governor so that measures can be taken to prevent such occurrences in the future,” he said.

Naija News reports that the Director-General of the Edo State Fire Service revealed that Auchi currently has no functional fire station, a situation he said the government was already addressing.

“There is already an assurance from the governor that by January next year, Auchi will have a fire station with fire trucks. This is a highly populated business area and it deserves a fire station,” he stated.

The Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Hon. Festus Ebea, attributed the incident partly to the poor condition of the Auchi–Okene expressway linking Jattu Junction.

“The undulating nature of this road is dangerous. We need urgent remedial work to avert future occurrences. From past records, several trailers have missed their way here,” he said.

Ebea assured that the state government would take responsibility for victims still receiving treatment.

The commissioner also warned residents against scooping fuel from fallen tankers, describing the practice as extremely dangerous.

“PMS is highly flammable. Anywhere you see fuel flowing, run away fast. Even a minor static force can ignite fire. This is strong advice to everyone,” he cautioned.

The Head of the Edo State Emergency Management Agency, Jerry Idahosa, disclosed that 25 persons were affected by the incident.

He said 16 of the victims were still undergoing treatment at Auchi General Hospital and Amazing Grace Hospital.

“Some shops were destroyed, four trucks were affected, and a few motorbikes were also burnt,” Idahosa added.

The Chief Whip of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Hussein Mustafa Lecky, sympathised with the people of his constituency and appealed to both the state and Federal Government to urgently fix the Auchi–Okene road.

He described Jattu Junction as a critical entry point to many communities in Etsako.

Similarly, the Chairman of Etsako West Local Government Area thanked the governor for his swift intervention, recalling a similar past incident where victims were compensated.

“Since the day of this incident, the government has been here. I believe His Excellency will also take care of the affected persons this time,” he said.

Victims and eyewitnesses, who spoke from their hospital beds, narrated their experiences, while officials of the National Emergency Management Agency were also present during the assessment.



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Nancy Isime Commissions Playground for Pupils to Mark 34th Birthday

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Nancy Isime Commissions Playground for Pupils to Mark 34th Birthday


  • Nancy Isime marked her 34th birthday by co
  • mmissioning a new playground for pupils of Methodist Primary School, Ikorodu. As part of the celebration, she hosted an end-of-year party for the students and staff, highlighting her passion for children’s development, outdoor play, and creativity.
  • The actress described the gesture as deeply personal, noting that playgrounds and libraries shaped her own childhood.

Nollywood actress Nancy Isime has touched many hearts by commissioning a new playground for the pupils of Methodist Primary School, Ikorodu. The philanthropic gesture was part of her 34th birthday celebration, which she spent hosting an end-of-year party for the students and staff.

Reflecting on her tradition of celebrating with children, Isime explained that playgrounds and libraries hold a special place in her heart. “As a child, reading and playing were my absolute favourite things to do, and you’d definitely find me in the play area, swinging and sliding my young stress away,” she shared.

The actress emphasized the importance of physical activity for children, stating, “I truly believe that it’s essential for children to have less screen time and more time outside, playing and creating.” After officially opening the area “in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost,” the actress was even seen joining the children on the dance floor.

Isime, who recently bid farewell to what she described as a “transitional” 33rd year, expressed her joy in seeing the children’s excitement: “I just know they’re going to create the best memories there together.”



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Police launch crime-free Christmas campaign in Jigawa 

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Police launch crime-free Christmas campaign in Jigawa 


The Jigawa State Police Command has launched a statewide Crime-Free Christmas Campaign to encourage the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, SP Shiisu Lawan Adam, and issued to newsmen.

According to the statement, “The Jigawa State Police Command has successfully conducted a one-day nationwide Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), tagged the Crime-Free Christmas Campaign/Sensitisation.”

He said the campaign is part of proactive measures to ensure peaceful, safe, and crime-free Christmas and New Year festivities across the state.

He explained that the campaign was carried out simultaneously across all Divisional Police Headquarters in the state, following a directive by the Commissioner of Police.

The Jigawa State Commissioner of Police, CP Dahiru Muhammad, however, directed all Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to mobilise critical stakeholders within their areas of responsibility and sensitise them on the dangers and consequences of social vices and criminal activities.

He said key areas of focus during the sensitisation included cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime, vandalism, mob action, alleged witchcraft practices, footprint tracing, gender-based violence, and other related social vices capable of threatening public peace and security.

The Jigawa State Police Command reiterated its commitment to community-oriented policing and called on parents, guardians, religious leaders, traditional leaders, youths, civil society organisations, the media, and the general public to support the command in its ongoing efforts to fight criminality and promote peace, justice, and lawful conduct.

He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through established emergency communication channels.

The command assured the people of Jigawa State of adequate security deployment throughout the festive period and beyond.



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National Shame: Nigerian Leaders Padding Budgets, Forging Laws

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National Shame: Nigerian Leaders Padding Budgets, Forging Laws


Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has accused the federal government of Nigeria of making decisions that leave a lot of questions unanswered.

According to Peter Obi, the government is fast losing the trust of the people.

He demanded more accountability, transparency and respect for the rule of law from the government.

The former Anambra State Governor, in a post on Saturday via his 𝕏 account, submitted that there are discrepancies between laws passed by the legislature and what was ultimately published as law by the executive.

He lamented that with the current developments, the government has moved beyond budget padding to forging laws.

Specifically, Obi mentioned that the executive is introducing new enforcement and coercive powers that the House of Representatives never approved.

Naija News understands Obi spoke against the backdrop of the allegations raised by House of Representatives member, Abdulsammad Dasuki, about discrepancies between tax reform laws passed by the National Assembly and the versions that were officially published by the executive arm.

The tax reform laws, scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, are the National Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act and the Nigeria Tax Act.

The former presidential candidate, in his post on 𝕏, stressed that Nigerians need to understand what was signed, what was passed, and what was formally recorded, adding that the government cannot continue to ask citizens to pay more taxes while trust in governance collapses.

He wrote, “Our national shame continues to unfold, evident in the decisions made by our leaders, even at the highest levels of government. This shame is highlighted by a deeply troubling—and frankly unacceptable—issue: the documented discrepancies between what the legislature passed and what was ultimately published as law by the executive. This is not merely an administrative oversight; it is a serious matter that strikes at the core of constitutional governance and reveals the extent of our institutional decay.

“We have transitioned from a Nigeria where budgets are padded to one where laws are forged—changes that impact taxpayers’ rights and, most importantly, access to justice.

“Even more alarming is the introduction of new enforcement and coercive powers that the House of Representatives never approved. These include an outrageous requirement for a mandatory 20% deposit before appeals can be heard in court, asset sales without judicial oversight, and the granting of arrest powers to tax authorities.

“Perhaps most disturbing is the silence of the Presidency on a matter involving allegations of forgery, institutional sabotage, and abuse of process. Who made these alterations?

“All of this must be made public. Nigerians need to understand what was signed, what was passed, and what was formally recorded. We cannot continue to ask citizens to pay more taxes while trust in governance collapses.

“We need leadership that follows due process, embraces transparency and accountability, and respects the rule of law. No nation can thrive where laws are forged and silence replaces leadership.

“A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO”



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Adherence To Fiscal Federalism Panacea To Stability, Democracy

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Adherence To Fiscal Federalism Panacea To Stability, Democracy


Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has declared that the nation’s quest for the attainment of virile democracy will be a mirage unless the doctrine of fiscal federalism as entrenched in the constitution was adhered to.

Makinde made this assertion in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital, during the launch of a Book titled “The Seyi Makinde Story, A testament to vision, courage and leadership” to mark his birthday, written by Chief Ali Obasi Odefa.

He reiterated that the nation must allow all voices to be heard, pointing out that one important issue the nation was currently facing was that of federation.

The erudite politician emphasised that the Igbos have a role to play in nurturing the nation on the part of true federalism.

Makinde recalled that Nigeria was negotiated as a federation, stating “how can we stay through to what was negotiated to us by practising federalism” he queried.

“Am calling on our brothers/sisters on this occasion of my 58th birthday, to play the same role and make the political environment competitive.

In a speech, Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, represented by his deputy, Princess Patricia Obila, extolled the leadership qualities of Governor Makinde for institutionalising good governance in Oyo State.

“Today we are here to launch a Book on Makinde and to celebrate his birthday. The book itself is a compendium of wisdom and experience”

“We are proud of Makinde in terms of delivery of good governance/infrastructure, if we have 80 percent of Governors like Makinde, the country will fare better”

In a remark, the author of the Book, Chief Ali Odefa Obasi, described Governor Makinde as a highly detribalized Nigerian.

“We are honouring Makinde to show appreciation and thank him for what he has done for us ”

Earlier, while delivering a lecture titled “2025 Birthday lecture in honour of Governor Makinde, Igbo Culture of Nwanne Di Na Mba”, Senator Ben Obi urged the government to incorporate the concept in order to foster a sense of unity and close ties.

“Adoption of the culture of Nwanne Di Na Mba will wittle down hostility among various nationalities in the country”

Reviewing the book, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication, Alex-Ekwueme Federal University Ikwo, Dr John Otu, reiterated that the Book portrayed Governor Makinde as a good man with a garment of love for education and an innovative security approach.

The event had in attendance the Chairman Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Adolphus Wagbara, the wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs Olufunke Makinde, the deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barrister Ifeanyi Ossai, a representative of Mr Peter Obi and members of the Ebonyi State Executive Counci.

Others include members of the National Executive Council of PDP, the wife of the former Governor of Ebonyi State, Mrs Eunice Ukamaka Egwu, members of the Yoruba community in Ebonyi State, leaders of Thought and stakeholders, among others.

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“I Will Retire” – Governor Alex Otti Rules Out 2027 Presidential or Senatorial Ambition

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“I Will Retire” – Governor Alex Otti Rules Out 2027 Presidential or Senatorial Ambition


  • Abia State Governor Alex Otti has ruled out any ambition for the presidency, vice presidency, or the Senate in 2027, stating that he will retire from active politics after completing his tenure as governor.
  • Speaking in Umuahia, Otti dismissed claims that his recent visit to Nnamdi Kanu was politically motivated, stressing that his political involvement is mission-driven and not about lifelong office-holding.
  • He emphasized his intention to step aside for younger leaders once his mandate is fulfilled.

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has announced that he will retire from active politics once he completes his tenure. Speaking Friday at the Government House in Umuahia, Otti dismissed rumors that he is seeking higher office, including the presidency or a seat in the Senate.

The Governor’s statement was a response to a viral video criticizing his recent visit to Nnamdi Kanu at the Sokoto Correctional Centre. The critic alleged that the visit was a strategic move to build political capital for a future presidential run.

Addressing the speculation, Otti defended the right to free speech while clarifying his stance:

“In the first place, that is the beauty of democracy. So people should hold their opinions, and we respect people’s opinions. And the fact that you hold a different opinion does not mean you are right.”

He was emphatic about his lack of interest in remaining in the political spotlight after his time as governor ends:

“By the time I am done with governorship, I will retire. So I do not have presidential ambition, nor vice-presidential ambition. I also do not have senatorial ambition when I finish with the governorship.”

Governor Otti explained that his entry into politics was mission-driven and that he intends to pave the way for a new generation once his work is complete:

“I came on a mission, and when I deliver that mission, I will give way for younger people. So he was talking of the Igbo presidency. I do not even understand what that means… the assumption has collapsed, because he will not see me on the ballot.”

Otti concluded by noting that he believes leaders should know when to take the “exit door” rather than jumping from one political office to another.



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Ekiti govt dismisses surgeon over alleged kidney removal

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Ekiti govt dismisses surgeon over alleged kidney removal


The Ekiti State Government on Friday announced the dismissal of the surgeon, who led the surgical operation on a patient whose kidneys were removed, from the service of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) with immediate effect.

The government also suspended other members of the surgical team for one month, pending further administrative review.

This followed the submission of the reports of the seven-member panel to the state Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Oyebanji Filani.

The panel, chaired by Francis Faduyile, a professor, was constituted 11 days ago to investigate the claim made by a patient, Joshua Afolayan, regarding a surgical procedure he underwent at EKSUTH.

Mr Filani said in a statement that the government approved the recommendation of the panel to dismiss the surgeon, whose name he did not disclose.

He said, “Upon careful review of the report and its recommendations, the Ekiti State Government has approved the following actions:

“That the surgeon who had primary responsibility for the surgery is to be dismissed from the service of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) with immediate effect.

“All members of the surgical team present in the theatre on the day of the operation are to be suspended from duty for a period of one month, pending further administrative review.

“The Ekiti State Government will bear the full cost of a new kidney transplant for Mr. Joshua Afolayan and will also take responsibility for his post-transplant care and transplant-related medical maintenance for a period of two years.

“In line with the recommendations of the Panel, a comprehensive reorganisation of relevant departments within EKSUTH will be undertaken to strengthen clinical governance, accountability, and patient safety.”

READ ALSO: ‘How alleged negligence at EKSUTH contributed to Ekiti APC chairman’s death’

The commissioner said that while the government continues to stand firmly behind the many dedicated and hardworking health professionals at EKSUTH and acknowledges their sacrifices and commitment to service, it would not hesitate to take decisive action where professional standards are breached.

“The government remains resolute in its commitment to protecting patients, upholding ethical and professional standards in healthcare delivery, and restoring and sustaining public confidence in the Ekiti State health system.

“Necessary reforms will be pursued to ensure that incidents of this nature do not recur and that EKSUTH continues to serve as a centre of excellence in patient care.

“We thank the people of Ekiti State for their patience, and trust, and we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to continued improvement in quality health care, compassion, and responsible governance,” he said.

Organ harvesting is a growing menace in Nigeria and across the world. Perpetrators have been found to target the organs of the dead and the living, prompting many countries to strengthen their laws to address gaps in their legal framework.



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TCN commissions 300MVA power transformer at Lekki 330/132/33kV transmission substation

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TCN commissions 300MVA power transformer at Lekki 330/132/33kV transmission substation



The Lagos Region of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has successfully commissioned a new 300MVA power transformer installed at its 330/132/33kV Lekki Transmission Substation, Lagos State on December 19, 2025.

This is contained in a statement signed by Ndidi Mbah, General Manager (GM), Public Affairs on Saturday.
The 300MVA power transformer increased the capacity of the substation from 300MVA to 600MVA at the 330kV side. This allows for more load on the 132kV side with redundancy and reliability during maintenance and planned outages.

This equally means more bulk power available for Eko Electricity Distribution Company to off-take to its customers in Lekki, Chevron Estate, Maroko, Agungi, and environs.

This project is part of the ongoing TCN-World Bank power projects aimed at enhancing power supply in Nigeria.






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