President Bola Tinubu has renamed the Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, Bauchi State, as Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi University of Health Sciences, in honour of the late Islamic scholar and spiritual leader.

The announcement was made during President Tinubu’s condolence visit to the Bauchi State Government and the family of Mr Bauchi.

President Tinubu highlighted the remarkable legacy of the revered cleric, noting that the honour is well deserved.

“The late Sheikh brought impactful knowledge to the people, a great scholar, a Nigerian conscience that had worked so hard on the path of Almighty Allah, preaching the word, the sermon, the knowledge, and the value of honesty, integrity and a great character”, the president said.

The visit provided the president with an opportunity to pay tribute to the late cleric’s lifelong contributions to religious scholarship, national unity, and social development.

“I am here to offer my condolences to all of you: the government, the people, and the public at large—not just Bauchi alone, but the entire country,” he added.

The president also urged Nigerians to uphold Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi’s principles of righteousness, tolerance, and unity, and to ensure that future generations continue to learn from the values he stood for.

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, expressed profound gratitude to the president for personally paying a condolence visit and for the support extended to the family.

He highlighted that President Tinubu had previously sent Vice President Kashim Shettima and a high-powered delegation to attend the funeral prayers, a gesture reflecting the nation’s respect for the late scholar.

“Looking at the streets, Mr President, you know that the people of Bauchi are with you. It’s a reciprocal love, because even going back to memory lane, you had a good relationship and with the late Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi,” the governor stressed.

Mr Mohammed described the president’s presence as a demonstration of deep solidarity and respect for both the family and the people of Bauchi State.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Bashir Bauchi thanked President Tinubu for his support and for recognising Dahiru Bauchi’s contributions. He described the late cleric as a global scholar and spiritual leader whose legacy includes the establishment of educational institutions and philanthropic initiatives that benefit both Muslims and non-Muslims across Nigeria and beyond.

Mr Bashir affirmed the family’s commitment to continuing his work under the leadership of the Khalifa, while also praising Mr Mohammed for his unwavering support of the family.

READ ALSO: Nigerian billionaire Rabiu offers rare glimpse into luxury lifestyle

Among those present during the visit were the Governor of Yobe State, Mala Buni; the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang; members of the National Assembly from Bauchi; the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar; and the Minister of Health and Social Development, Muhammad Pate.

Members of the presidential entourage include the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; a former Speaker, Yakubu Dogara; and former governors Isa Yuguda and Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, among other dignitaries.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)

December 20, 2025

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It is only in Nigeria that the Supreme Court will deliver judgment and instead of one party rejoicing, both parties are rejoicing.

This is exactly what happened recently when the apex court delivered judgment in the suit filed by the Osun State government against the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice over the withholding of the allocations due to local governments in the state.

The Governor Ademola Adeleke-led state government urged the Supreme Court to compel the federal government to release all seized funds and to stop what it described as “an unconstitutional and arbitrary seizure” of local government revenues.

In a split decision of six justices to one, the court struck out the suit, saying the Osun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice has no legal right to have instituted the case on behalf of the 30 local governments in the state.

It held that those who won the local government election and were inaugurated are the right persons who can sue and be sued directly.

Justice Mohammed Idris who read the lead judgment, held that the federal government was wrong in withholding the local government fund, adding that the action was in breach of the 1999 Constitution. The court ruled that the federal government improperly seized funds and urged it to ensure that the funds are directly allocated to local government accounts.

It dismissed the AGF’s contempt allegations against the Osun State government, adding that he was in more contempt than the state by not paying the funds as required by law.

Justice Idris, however, said that since there was no evidence that the Osun Attorney General was briefed by the local governments, he ought not to have filed the case on their behalf.

Since after the judgment was delivered, both parties have been jubilating, claiming victory. Meanwhile, the allocations are still being withheld. Though the court held that the federal government was wrong to have withheld the allocations, the fact that the suit was struck out is making the APC in the state to jubilate.

The purpose of going to court has been defeated. Elsewhere, courts settle cases and bring disputes to a permanent closure. In Nigeria, court judgments complicate disputes and make mockery of them.

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By Olayinka Oyebode

Christmas indeed came early for the people of Ekiti State this year. For them the celebration begun on December 10th when the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in Ado-Ekiti commenced commercial flight operations signaling a new phase of development under the leadership of Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as Governor of the State. On that day, Ekiti did not just celebrate the birth of a world class airport which invariably will bring the markets and the world closer to Ekiti, the people celebrated the power of vision and the beauty of unity. The emphasis was on how unity breeds peace, how peace breeds progress and how that translates into shared prosperity under a visionary leader.

The presence of all the four former governors of the state at the airport event, (three of them on board the inaugural flight), supporting the incumbent Governor and each being given his due recognition for their roles in the airport project and in Ekiti development generally, was a classical example of true leadership. The fragrance of that air of unity was not only sweet to the ear, it was a beauty to behold. It speaks to what a state or a people can achieve when they work in unity. It speaks to the leadership qualities of Governor Oyebanji, whose politics of inclusion has brought every leader and every tendency together in the overall interest of the Ekiti people.

Barely a week after that glorious outing, precisely on December 18th, it was the turn of 4,567 young Ekiti farmers, under the Bring Back the Youth in Agriculture scheme to shine. Governor Oyebanji had presented a total one billion naira cheque to the young farmers as their profit for the 2025 harvest, under the initiative which is being done in partnership with a private concern, YSJ Limited. Exactly a year earlier, the Governor had presented N145 million naira cheque to 911 young farmers- the pioneer set of the initiative. Within a year, enrolment into the scheme moved from 1,000 to 5,000 across the sixteen local government areas of the state.   This was achieved through government’s strategic support to the farmers which came in form of free land clearing, provision of seedling, agric extenstion services, tractorisation and market linkages, which in turn has made farming a profitable business in Ekiti.

So, for the families of the 4,567 youth farmers Christmas actually came early, courtesy of an impactful leader who was born this season some fifty-eight years ago, and who is redefining governance,  making every day count, making everyday a celebration- (Ojo gbogbo bi odun), by virtue of  effective implementation of his six-pillar development agenda and by making the people the centre focus of his policies and programmes.

Oyebanji stands out as a true leader of the people. As noted by a former American President, Ronald Regan, “The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things, but the one who gets people to do the greatest things”. Oyebanji takes pride in creating economic opportunities for the people, he priortises their welfare and wellbeing. Little wonder the people of Ekiti celebrate BAO, as he is fondly called, not only on his birthday but daily with unparalleled gusto.

History teaches us that leaders that are most respected are those who inspire people to stand for something. Governor Oyebanji fits into this category of leaders perfectly because his leadership is characterized by a strong commitment to service, truth and loyalty, emphasizing empowerment over power and inspiring change through practical example. Above all, he believes in the grace of God and the power in His name. Gratitude remains BAO’s lifestyle. He regularly ascribes his success in public service to the special grace he enjoys from God; and the support of the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; as well as the massive support of Ekitikete home and abroad.

Oyebanji believes Ekiti people, highly rated for their intellect, have no business with poverty. “How can people be brilliant and at the same time be poor.”  His six –pillar development agenda anchored on the mantra of shared prosperity for all, was designed to provide the right answer to that poser. Human Capital Development via education- free, qualitative and compulsory from primary to senior secondary school as well as health care delivery –that is available and accessible. The huge investments in human capital development has led to comprehensive renovation of 203 secondary schools and over 900 primary schools, including the state’s special schools. Teaching quality is now better enhanced through proper motivation for teachers and provision of  modern learning and teaching facilities. Recently the Governor facilitated the training of 2,000 youths in advanced digital skills including cyber security, software development, artificial intelligence and data analytics in a bid to  prepare them for strategic roles in the digital revolution that is bound to happen when the Ekiti Knowledge Zone takes off.   Healthcare followed the same logic with comprehensive renovation and equipment of nine general hospitals, and about 105 primary health centres across the state. Through the Ulerawa initiatives, every resident of the state now enjoys and explicit and guaranteed package of essential services, free at the point of care.

Infrastructure is another battlefield where BAO has recorded his most visible laurels. Just about two months ago, he commissioned for use 10 major road projects. This is in addition to about 25 others that had earlier been delivered and put to use. Similarly, his intervention in power infrastructure has led to the reconnection of scores of communities to the national grid. Currently the state is constructing 2×60 MVA transmission stations in Ikere, Ijesa-Isu and Ilupeju Ekiti, while the state’s Independent Power Project (IPP) is powering major government institutions and private businesses.

Oyebanji’s political trajectory is one of the most inspiring in recent history. His journey to the Oke Ayoba Government House started some three years and two months ago. Or, as many have come to believe, it started some 30 years earlier when, as a young university lecturer, he joined the struggle for the creation of Ekiti State in the nineties, where he served as secretary to the Committee on State Creation Committee headed by Chief Deji Fasuan. Working with the committee, which consisted of traditional rulers, and frontline Ekiti leaders, he had a clear understanding of the vision of the founding fathers of the State. The creation of Ekiti State in 1996 paved the way for the first democratically elected state government in May 1999 under the leadership of Governor Niyi Adebayo. Biodun Oyebanji joined the government as a Special Assistant (Parliamentary Affairs) to the Governor, marking his foray into public service. He also served as Special Adviser (Parliamentary Affairs) and later as Chief of Staff to the Governor. During the first term of former Governor Kayode Fayemi, BAO served at different times as Commissioner, Ministry of Integration and Inter-Governmental Affairs; Head, Office of Transformation Strategy and Delivery (OTSD)  and Commissioner, Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning and Service Delivery. He also served as Secretary to the State Government between 2018 to 2021, when he resigned to contest the governorship election, which he won and was inaugurated as Governor on October 16, 2022.  

On the political turf, BAO’s rare simplicity continues to make him the darling of the people. He feels at home with the grassroots. He attends ward meetings and interacts freely with party faithful. He leads the youth on hiking at Ikogosi and Efon Alaaye hills. On a large scale he regularly holds stakeholders engagement, where he receives feedbacks from the people on quarterly basis. Prior to his emergence as the first ever consensus governorship candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the June 2026 election, no fewer than 350 groups and associations had publicly declared their support for him. This is in addition to the massive support he got from all the former governors of the state, all National and state assembly members as well as the traditional institution and other critical stakeholders.

Since assuming office, Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated that governance can be calm yet impactful, inclusive yet decisive. Under his stewardship Ekiti State has emerged top in some development indices. These include : First position in the BudgIT State Fiscal Transparency League (Q 2. Q 3, 2024 and Q1,and 2, 2025); Ranked first in the PSLI Subnational Audit Efficacy Index (2023); First in the Annual Growth Rate of IGR (2023). Under his watch Ekiti State established the first adapted classrooms in public special schools for Children with Disabilities in Nigeria. Ekiti was also ranked as the state with the second lowest out of school children in Nigeria. Quite importantly, is the significant reduction in infant mortality by 57 percent from 42 per 1,000 in 2019 to 18 per 1,000 in 2024; and infant mortality which reduced by 53 per cent from 57 per 1,000 in 2019 to 44 per 1,000 in 2024.

Today, I join family, friends, associates, and well-wishers across Nigeria and beyond to celebrate a man of uncommon grace, a jinx breaker, a unifier, a change agent, “Mr Solution” the one Ekitikete love to call “Omoluabi Gomina” or “Gomina ayiye”, His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, as he marks his 58th birthday. Happy Birthday Your Excellency. The celebration has just begun.

· Oyebode is Special Adviser, Media to the Governor, Ekiti State.

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*Jigawa rep demands suspension of implementation until house concludes probe

Rep. Muhammad Bello Fagge (Fagge Federal Constituency, Kano) and Rep. Yusuf Shitu Galambi (Gwaram Federal Constituency, Jigawa) have added their voices to the ongoing controversy over the discrepancies between bills approved by the National Assembly and the versions later gazetted.

The two federal lawmakers spoke on BBC Hausa’s Ra’ayi Riga programme. Rep Fagge confirmed the alleged alterations, while Rep Galambi demanded suspension of the planned January 2026 implementation of the Tax Laws until the House of Representatives concludes probe.

A member of the House of Representatives, Rep. Abdulsammad Dasuki (Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency, Sokoto State), had on Wednesday raised a matter of privilege on the floor of the House, alleging that the gazetted tax laws did not reflect what lawmakers debated and passed. Rising under Order Six, Rule Two of the House Rules, Dasuki said his legislative privilege had been breached.

On Thursday, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, constituted a seven-man ad-hoc committee to investigate the alleged discrepancies between the passed bills and the assented, gazetted versions

Rep Fagge said opposition lawmakers initially objected to the tax bills, prompting extensive nationwide consultations involving traditional rulers and governors before the bills were harmonised and passed. He said controversy arose when the gazetted versions differed from what lawmakers approved.

“However, when the laws were later gazetted, what appeared was different from what we approved in Parliament,” Fagge said, citing discrepancies in the Nigeria Revenue Service Act, particularly Sections 25, 26 and 30, as well as in the Joint Revenue Board Act, including Sections 9, 14, 30, 40 and 44.

He warned that some provisions appeared to transfer powers from the legislature and judiciary to the Executive, especially the Nigeria Revenue Service, undermining checks and balances. “This is not about party politics. This is about saving Nigeria,” he said.

Rep Galambi described the allegations as disturbing, though unproven, and noted that the National Assembly had set up a committee to investigate. He urged the government to suspend implementation of the tax laws, scheduled for January 2026, pending the committee’s findings.

“If alterations are found, the law should be brought back and corrected in line with what the legislators passed,” he said, raising concerns over alleged changes granting enforcement powers to the Nigeria Revenue Service without court orders.

Commenting on the development, constitutional law professor Auwalu H. Yadudu said the alleged changes threatened the foundation of constitutional governance, suggesting that elements within the Executive may have altered the laws without legislative approval. He identified concerns in the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, including provisions on petroleum income tax and value added tax, which he said no longer reflected lawmakers’ approvals.

The House committee is expected to conclude its review within four weeks and make recommendations

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By Olanrewaju Fatunmbi

Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (aka Yayi) maintains a strong lead among the prominent figures pushing for Ogun West to produce the next governor of Ogun State in the 2027 election. Like the time past, the odds against his lofty aspiration are quite enormous, but not strong enough to deter him. Breaking a 49‑year‑old jinx of marginalisation is no easy feat. But nothing can stop a man with the will, determination, and tenacity of purpose.

Historically, the creation of Ogun State rested on a tripod: the Egba (Ogun Central), the Ijebu/Remo (Ogun East) and Yewa/Awori (Ogun West) people-all equal partners. However, over the decades, power has oscillated between Ogun East and Ogun Central, leaving the Yewa/Awori (Ogun West) people perpetually marginalised. As a symbol of the struggle for change in the status quo, it is not unexpected that opposition and resistance from vested interests would arise. This resistance is not just abstract; it is fueled by a deep sense of entitlement by the entrenched power brokers who believe in maintaining the status quo. They view an Ogun West governor as disrupting their historical control over resources and appointments. These opponents often subtly or overtly challenge the political maturity and competence of the Ogun West zone to lead the state, a tactic used to de-legitimize the zoning argument.

Key figures within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) who presumably have their own succession candidates or preferred zoning formulas are also actively working to stall or divert the push for Ogun West. These include internal rivals who sometimes question Adeola’s bonafide as a true, homegrown Ogun politician, even though he is a son of the soil.

Again, in Nigerian politics, opposition often coalesces around a candidate perceived to be favoured by a powerful political godfather or the incumbent structure. Adeola has built enough support base to counter the efforts of any anointed rival from a different zone. Challenges like these are a reminder of the previous unsuccessful attempts by Ogun West candidates to secure the governorship, arguing that the zone lacks the necessary political unity or resources to win.

Even as the odds stack up, Yayi keeps grinding, pulling support from every corner. From his Ogun West home base to Ogun Central, across Ogun East Senatorial District, his broad-base backing continues to grow in leaps and bounds. Much more phenomenal is his cross-base appeal rooted in his competence, high-level power connection and empowerment initiatives. Arguably, his legislative experience makes him the most qualified candidate in terms of federal exposure.

Subtle in his ambition but resilient in determination, his counter-strategy against the forces of status quo focuses on action, unity, and people-oriented service delivery. While forging ahead with the ultimate goal of succeeding Governor Dapo Abiodun, he continues to visibly execute high-impact projects across all the three senatorial districts, proving that he is focused on governance, not just ambition.   As the most prominent champion of the Ogun West cause, his aspiration galvanizes a long-marginalized people, ensuring near-total support from his home base. He’s continuously working to ensure the unity of the Ogun West political class, regardless of party affiliation.

Added to that is his sustained and respectful engagement with the Obas across the three zones. By getting their quiet endorsement or public blessing, he has subtly eroded the resistance from political elites, as traditional institutions hold significant sway over public opinion.

Beyond that, Adeola’s legislative career far back in Lagos and now Ogun is marked by numerous empowerment programmes, projects, and constituency work. This track record creates a large beneficiary base that transcends ethnic or zoning lines. His sustained continuous grassroots contact and empowerment programmes ensures that even if the elite-level resistance remains, the sheer voting strength of the populace, motivated by his tangible projects and the equity message, can overcome the political hurdles.

In Ogun Central, Senator Adeola’s political network includes powerful figures from Egba, suggesting he has built bridges outside of his immediate zone. Similarly, his legislative competence and professionalism as a seasoned Chartered Accountant (ICAN Fellow), appeal to the business and intellectual elite in Ogun East, who value fiscal responsibility and competence over pure regional politics.

The combined advantage of his financial expertise, unblemished track record and governance experience, therefore, make him a formidable candidate despite the odds. It positions him as a fiscally responsible candidate capable of managing the state’s economy. Having served eight years as Senator for Lagos West, the largest senatorial district in Nigeria, he has had the rare privilege and unique experience of managing the complexities and economy of Nigeria’s foremost commercial hub, knowledge he can easily transfer to rapidly industrializing Ogun State. With the depth of his legislative experience in the House of Representatives and now the Chairman, Senate Committee on Appropriations, Adeola possesses vast knowledge of federal budgeting, allocations, and how to lobby Abuja for critical state projects.

Since governorship has historically rotated between Ogun Central (Egba) and Ogun East (Ijebu/Remo) for decades, it has become imperative for the state establishment to give voluntary support for a power shift arrangement based on the principles of fairness, equity and justice. Yayi represents the authentic face of the Ogun West Equity Movement. To this extent, conceding power to Yewa/Awori people would not just be a win for Yayi, but a re-engineering of the state’s 49-year-old political architecture-a monumental task requiring significant political sacrifices and compromises from the other two zones.The current status quo is unfair, unjust and inequitable. It can no longer be sustained. Any succession plan that does not take into account the yearning of the marginalized Yewa/Awori people to produce the next governor cannot stand. People are watching how the leadership of APC will navigate the unfolding complex power intrigues. It is high time the leadership of the party took a patriotic stand on the loud agitation of Ogun West to have its own fair share of power deal in the state. For sustainable peace and mutual trust, the Abiodun administration must not only be seen to be open and transparent in its succession plan, it must also ensure that there is a seamless power shift to Ogun West. Otherwise, APC may be heading for another rancorous and catastrophic transition process similar to those witnessed during the past administrations in the Gateway state. Those who refuse to learn from the lessons of history are bound to repeat history.  

No doubt, what Yayi represents is a fundamental threat to the political arrangement that has governed Ogun State for decades. For 49 years, power has essentially been a two-way street between Ogun Central and Ogun East. Yayi’s ambition, backed by his legislative muscle and proven cross-base support, is forcing a radical restructuring of the power dynamics. The establishment is fighting back fiercely because his success doesn’t just change the Governor; it changes the entire political future of the state.

Looking back to 1976 and the lopsided power-sharing arrangement that has denied the Yewa/Awori people their rightful place in the scheme of things, the odds against Senator Adeola are historic, but his resolve is even greater. This isn’t just about winning an election; it is about destiny and equity for an entire senatorial district. Adeola has spent years building bridges and establishing his legislative prowess. At this point, nothing short of breaking that 49-year jinx will satisfy his mission. He simply cannot be deterred.

Based on his antecedents, Adeola’s biggest strength is his proven capacity to transcend regional politics. His track record as a seasoned legislator and a qualified financial expert appeals directly to the elite in Ogun East and the progressive elements in Ogun Central. He is not just the Ogun West candidate; he is the candidate of competence and political gravity, which is why his support base is truly cross-cutting. In Ogun West constituency, people don’t just see Yayi as a politician; they see him as an empowerment agent. Whether it’s the market women, the youth benefiting from his scholarships, or the artisans who received start-up tools-his impact is felt. That is the grassroots support that no amount of political maneuvering can buy or stop. He is leading the people’s movement.

It is evidently clear that the opposing forces representing the status quo—the powerful elements that have benefited from the 49-year marginalization, aren’t relenting. But Adeola is not alone in this struggle. The unity and passion of his home base is the engine driving the entire campaign to break the 49-year jinx. His candidacy has effectively served as the focal point for all elements-traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, political factions within Ogun West who believe in the principles of power rotation and zoning. His is seen as the consensus aspiration of the entire district. Unlike past politicians who merely paid lip service to the region, Yayi has demonstrably invested in his constituency since transitioning from Lagos politics. His track record as the sitting Senator for Ogun West since 2023 includes massive empowerment programmes. At different times, he has facilitated large-scale empowerment schemes, such as the Oloja Yayi empowerment scheme for over 5,500 traders, providing grants and agricultural empowerment for thousands of farmers in areas like Ilaro. His infrastructural projects include commissioning of schools, healthcare centers, and rural roads, proving that he can attract federal projects and development funds to the previously marginalized zone.

 In Ogun West, there are no political factions when it comes to Yayi’s governorship. His aspiration is the unifying force that has brought every community, every chief, and every youth group under one banner. He symbolizes the only vehicle people can trust to break the 49-year jinx. They view every vote for Yayi as a vote for the liberation and collective dignity of the Yewa/Awori people.

Beyond Ogun West, Yayi’s victory is predicated on his ability to convince the political elite in Ogun Central and Ogun East that equity for Ogun West is not a zero-sum game. His team is actively building bridges by campaigning on competence, not just correction. The message is clear: ‘We seek justice for the West, but we guarantee prosperity for all of Ogun State.’  That strategic outreach is the key to ensuring an easy sail to the Government House. It is worth noting that Adeola has established long-standing friendship and professional relationship with key political and business figures from the Egba axis, demonstrating that he is a familiar and trusted face.The most critical bridge is through the royal fathers. He has cultivated the public blessing and non-partisan support of major traditional rulers across the three zones. Evidence of his private and public consultations with Obas in all the three districts abounds, showing respect for traditional authority and seeking their counsel and blessing. His goodwill cuts across party lines due to his tenure as a high-ranking legislator. He can leverage his strong personal ties with key leaders and elders from the Egba zone in both the ruling party and the opposition to secure tacit, non-public endorsements, or at least a pledge of non-interference based on personal loyalty and mutual respect built over decades.

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A former contract worker with Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited has been killed during a fight inside a beer parlour in Eket, Akwa Ibom State.

The victim, identified as Essien James, had an argument which resulted in a fight with one Lawrence Alfred inside a beer parlour in Eket on 6 December, according to a source close to the family of the deceased.

“While they were drinking in a beer parlour, an argument ensued, which led to a fight. The suspect pushed the deceased down and hit his head with a stone.

“He was rushed to a hospital where he was pronounced dead by a doctor,” said the source, who did not want his name mentioned in the story because he was not authorised to speak on the incident.

READ ALSO: Akwa Ibom power company sacks workers, gives reasons

“He fled to Onna Local Government Area of the state after the incident and hid there before the police arrested him,” he added.

The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom, Baba Azare, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria in Eket on Sunday. He stated that the police have arrested the suspect and that the incident is being investigated.

Mr Azare said the deceased died during a fight with Alfred. He said the family of the deceased reported the incident to the police on 8 December.

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Arsenal ensured they will top the Premier League at Christmas with a 1-0 over Everton, while Liverpool survived a nervy finale to beat nine-man Tottenham 2-1 on Saturday.

Manchester City briefly moved top of the table after Erling Haaland’s double inspired a 3-0 win over West Ham.

Arsenal restored their two-point lead thanks to Viktor Gyokeres’ penalty but failed to shine in grinding out victory on Merseyside.

It was a tale of penalty appeals at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Arsenal had strong claims waived away for a foul on Gyokeres seconds before they were awarded a spot-kick for a Jake O’Brien handball, that the Swede converted.

Leandro Trossard and Martin Zubimendi hit the post after the break for the visitors, but Everton were furious that two challenges on Thierno Barry inside the area went unpunished.

City continued to apply pressure to the Gunners with a seventh consecutive win in all competitions.

Yet, Pep Guardiola was still far from satisfied as he demanded improvements if City are to win a seventh Premier League title under his tenure.

“I want to be honest. I said to the players, ‘Merry Christmas everyone but it will not be enough if we don’t improve’.”

The Hammers feared a rout when Haaland smashed home after just five minutes.

Haaland turned provider for City’s second just before half-time as Tijjani Reijnders scored his first goal at the Etihad.

And he netted his 38th goal of the season already for club and country when the ball broke his way 21 minutes from time to move City one point ahead of Arsenal.

– Isak injured –

Liverpool extended their unbeaten run to six games to inflict a miserable Christmas on Spurs boss Thomas Frank.

Xavi Simons’ dangerous lunge on Dutch international team-mate Virgil van Dijk on 33 minutes left the home side with a mountain to climb.

Despite the absence of Mohamed Salah at the Africa Cup of Nations, Alexander Isak again started on the bench.

Arne Slot introduced the most expensive Premier League player of all time at the break.

The Swede netted just his third goal since joining Liverpool for £125 million in September but suffered another injury setback in the process and had to be replaced.

Hugo Ekitike headed in his fifth goal in three league games to double Liverpool’s lead.

But Slot’s men still wobbled in the closing stages once Richarlison pulled a goal back.

“The thing in football is you always remember the last few minutes and they were the worst minutes of our total game,” said Slot. “It became very chaotic and hectic.”

A fifth defeat in nine home league games this season intensified the pressure on Frank and the Dane was not helped by his captain Cristian Romero, who got himself needlessly sent off in stoppage time.

Liverpool climb up to fifth, while Spurs are rooted down in 13th.

Chelsea remain above the Reds in fourth on goal difference as a second-half fightback rescued manager Enzo Maresca from more speculation over his future.

The Italian claimed after last weekend’s win over Everton that he and his players had not received enough support during a difficult run of results.

Maresca was then linked with being Guardiola’s successor at City in recent days.

Chelsea have won just once in their last five league games to see ambitions of a title challenge wilt.

But it could have been even worse for Maresca as Nick Woltemade’s double put Newcastle 2-0 up in a dominant first half from the Magpies.

A brilliant Reece James free-kick brought the Blues back into the game before Joao Pedro pounced on an error from Malick Thiaw to equalise.

Wolves remain without a league win this season and on course to enter the record books as the worst side in Premier League history after a 2-0 home defeat to Brentford.

Burnley ended their seven-game losing streak as Armando Broja’s 90th-minute goal snatched a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth.

Leeds moved six points clear of the bottom three as Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored twice in a 4-1 win over Crystal Palace.

Sunderland edged up to sixth after a 0-0 draw at Brighton.

AFP

The post Arsenal stay top of PL with narrow victory over Everton appeared first on Vanguard News.

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AMBO Media Front, a support group affiliated with Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate, has berated Governor Ademola Adeleke’s response to Oyebamiji’s remarks on the state of the health sector in Osun State, describing it as insult-laden and evasive of the real challenges confronting the sector.
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‎Oyebamiji had, during the investiture of his spouse, Dr Sekinah Bola-Oyebamiji, as President of Women Doctors in the State, drawn attention to what he described as the poor condition of healthcare facilities across Osun and pledged that, if elected governor, his administration would prioritise the sector and implement necessary reforms.
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‎The Oyebamiji support group, in a statement by its coordinator, Adebayo Adedeji, and made available to newsmen in Osogbo on Saturday, said the description of the health sector as moribund is supported by data from CheckMyPHC.org.
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‎According to Adedeji, the report shows that 73 per cent of primary healthcare centres (PHCs) lack sufficient staff to function effectively, with the majority of PHCs having between zero and one personnel, while 44 per cent have no staff at all. He said this means that almost three out of every four PHCs in Osun State are severely understaffed.

The report also noted that many PHCs lack clean water, functional toilets and basic hygiene supplies, forcing nurses and patients to rely on unhygienic sources for deliveries, sterilisation and hand washing.
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‎The group praised the achievements of the previous APC-led administration under former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, noting that over 300 PHCs were renovated or constructed and fully equipped, including the provision of boreholes and overhead tanks.
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‎“At the State Specialist Hospital, Asubiaro, a 120-bed ward and a 30-unit doctors’ quarters were built, with medical consumables and facilities worth billions of naira.

“Medical devices such as suction machines, DVT compression pumps, ECG and X-ray machines procured during the APC era remain in use today, just as doctors and other health professionals were handsomely rewarded,” the statement read in part.
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‎AMBO Media accused the Adeleke administration of neglecting existing health facilities, disengaging health workers employed under the APC government, and failing to recruit the estimated 9,000 health professionals required to bridge staffing gaps in PHCs across the state.

“Finally, the AMBO Media Fronts finds it troubling that 18 months after Dr Adekunle Akindele, Special Adviser on Health to Governor Adeleke, publicly acknowledged a shortage of health workers in the state’s hospitals, the government is yet to recruit the required professionals.

According to him, “We made our needs assessment when we came in as a government and realised that the primary healthcare centres alone require about 9,000 health workers to function efficiently and effectively, and we had done all that needed to be done to recruit in phases until the minimum wage issue came up.”

“About 9,000 health workers are needed in Osun, yet the government has not recruited a single worker to replace those sacked out of jealousy and political vendetta?

“Rather than expending energy on calling AMBO and APC leaders unprintable names, Governor Ademola Adeleke should use the remainder of his tenure to work for the people of Osun State. His performance in the last 36 months, particularly in the health sector, has been poor and uninspiring.”
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‎The statement also criticised the state government for allegedly removing equipment from the Mother and Child Hospital at Oke-Oniti to secure accreditation for courses at the State Teaching Hospital, instead of procuring new equipment, despite claims that the government earned close to N1 trillion in revenue over three years.

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The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has confirmed that a fire incident occurred at one of its offices in Abuja on Saturday morning, with no loss of life recorded.

The incident took place at the FIRS office located at No. 15 Sokode Crescent, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, and was said to have broken out on the fourth floor of the building.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Technical Assistant (Print Media) to the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Sikiru Akinola, the service said the situation was swiftly brought under control through the prompt action of security personnel and emergency responders.

“The fire, which broke out on the fourth floor of the building, was promptly responded to by our security personnel on duty,” Akinola said.

He explained that the timely intervention of the Federal Capital Territory Fire Service, alongside other emergency agencies, ensured that the fire did not escalate or spread to other parts of the building.

According to him, “With the swift support of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service and other emergency responders, the fire was successfully contained and prevented from spreading further.”

Akinola confirmed that no casualties were recorded in the incident, adding that all staff and occupants were safe. However, he noted that some offices on the affected floor suffered damage as a result of the fire.

“The Service can confirm that no lives were lost in the incident. However, a number of offices on the affected floor sustained damage,” he said.

The affected floor houses the executive office suites of past Executive Chairmen of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, though the extent of the damage is still being assessed.

Meanwhile, an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the fire. Akinola disclosed that early findings suggest the incident may have been triggered by an electrical fault.

“An investigation into the cause of the fire has commenced, with preliminary assessments pointing to a possible electrical fault,” he stated.

He added that the Service has begun a comprehensive review of its internal safety procedures in response to the incident. According to the statement, all existing safety protocols are being examined and reinforced to prevent a recurrence.

“In the meantime, all internal safety protocols are being thoroughly reviewed and strengthened to mitigate against future occurrences,” Akinola said.

The FIRS assured the public that operations would continue while necessary remedial measures are taken to address the impact of the incident and improve safety across its facilities.

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By Ozioruva Aliu

BENIN CITY – Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, on Saturday mourned the passing of former Commissioner of Information in the state and unarguably one of the most vocal politicians in the state, Charles Idahosa.

Idahosa reportedly died on Saturday afternoon after his daily routine of receiving visitors in the morning at his house along Airport Road.

He was 72 years old and hailed from Ehor in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area where he once served as the chairman of the council in the early days of his political career.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Dr. Patrick Ebojele, said Governor Okpebholo sent his heartfelt condolences to the family of Idahosa over the death of its patriarch.

He said, “Governor Okpebholo who expressed shock at the sudden passing of Hon Idahosa, described him as a strong party leader and eminent Edo Indigene, who has given a lot for the growth and development of the state.

“The Governor eulogized late Hon Idahosa, who in time past was a Commissioner, board member, and Special Adviser as a genuine party stalwart who believed in the establishment of institutions and gave his all towards entrenching these beliefs.

“Governor Okpebholo prayed for the repose of his soul and for God to comfort his wife, children, family and the people of Ehor for this great loss.”

On his part, Obaseki described the late Idahosa as “an illustrious son of Edo State and a respected leader from the Edo South Senatorial District, who served our State and nation in various capacities.

“Charlie Tempo was someone with whom I shared a personal bond. We attended the same secondary school, worshipped in the same Anglican Church, and our families share longstanding ties, which makes this loss even more painful for me.”

Obaseki added, “I commiserate with the entire Idahosa family, the Oshodin family, the people of Edo South, friends and associates of the great Charlie Tempo and pray that God grants all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

Though no official statement has been issued by the family as his younger brother, Andrew Idahosa, did not pick several calls, a source close to the family confirmed his death.

According to him, “Daddy was full of life this morning, as usual he came downstairs receiving people. I don’t know what happened; it is shocking.” He said.

Idahosa, popularly known as Akakasiaka and Charlie Tempo, was a very vocal politician and was the Political Adviser to Comrade Adams Oshiomhole for the eight years he was governor of the state.

He pitched a tent with Godwin Obaseki when he fell out with Oshiomhole as governor and even wrote a book titled “The Fall of the Last Godfather”. He also defected with Obaseki to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for his second term election in 2020.

The late Idahosa also fell out with Obaseki after his re-election and he was among the first politicians to publicly say so. He went back to the APC and was also the first to release jingles for Governor Monday Okpebholo’s election.

The post Okpebholo, Obaseki mourn ex-Edo commissioner Idahosa appeared first on Vanguard News.

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