NIGERIA NEWS
Libya’s army chief, other generals killed in plane crash in Turkey
Libya’s highest-ranking army officer, Mohamed Ali al-Haddad, and four other senior military officials were killed in a plane crash in Turkey on Tuesday night, the Libyan Prime Minister, Abdul Hamid Dbeiba, has confirmed.
“This followed a tragic and painful incident while they were returning from an official trip from the Turkish city of Ankara. This grave loss is a great loss for the nation, for the military institution, and for all the people,” Mr Dbeibah said in a statement reported by Reuters.
Mr Al-Haddad, the chief of general staff of the Libyan military, had been in Turkey for meetings with his counterpart, the Turkish defence minister, and other officials, the Turkish military said. He later departed in a private jet to return to Libya.
Turkish authorities reported that the aircraft lost radio contact shortly after taking off from Ankara, the capital. The Falcon 50 jet carried three crew members in addition to the five passengers.
According to the New York Times, the wreckage was found in the Haymana district, about 40 miles southwest of central Ankara. Turkish television broadcast footage of search teams at the crash site, where debris was scattered over a wide area.
“Turkish government spokesman Burhanettin Duran said the jet had reported an electrical failure to air traffic control and requested an emergency landing roughly 15 minutes after takeoff. The plane was redirected back to Ankara’s airport, but disappeared from radar while descending, and contact could not be reestablished,” the Times reported.
Mr Al-Haddad held the highest position in Libya’s armed forces under the internationally recognised Government of National Unity in Tripoli.
Appointed in 2020, he led efforts to organise and unify the Libyan Army under official state authority.
Libya remains divided, with rival factions controlling different regions since the death of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The eastern part of the country, based in Tobruk, has its own prime minister and is under the control of Khalifa Haftar.
Those who died alongside Mr Al-Haddad included: Al-Fitouri Ghribel, a major general and chief of staff of the land forces; Mahmoud Al-Qattouwi, a brigadier general and director of the Military Manufacturing Authority; Mohamed Al-Asawi Diab, adviser to the chief of the general staff, and Mohamed Mahjoub, photographer at the news media office of the chief of the general staff.
Turkish prosecutors have launched an investigation into the crash, Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc confirmed on social media.
Mohamed Menfi, chairman of the Libyan Presidential Council, described the deaths as a “significant loss” for both the military and the nation. He said the officials had dedicated their lives to Libya’s stability and national interests.
READ ALSO: EXCLUSIVE: Documents identify N212.8bn properties traced to ex-AGF Malami amid EFCC probe (PHOTOS)
The Government of National Unity has announced three days of official mourning. Flags will be flown at half-staff at state institutions, and official ceremonies will be suspended.
Libya’s state news agency reported that the prime minister’s office had directed the defence ministry to send a delegation to Ankara to coordinate with Turkish authorities and investigate the crash.
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has sent a special message to Nigerian Christians to mark the 2025 Christmas celebration.
In a statement released to Nigerian Christians by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President urged citizens to embrace love, peace and goodwill towards all people.
President Tinubu said the Christmas season should serve as a reminder of shared values that promote unity and national harmony.
He encouraged Nigerians to show compassion to one another and extend support to the less privileged during the festive period.
The President also called for peaceful coexistence across religious and ethnic lines as the country celebrates Christmas.
Read Tinubu’s full text:
My Fellow Nigerians, As we mark this year’s Christmas, may the love of Christ and his message of grace, hope, peace, and goodwill to humanity abide with us all.
Beyond the celebration and festivities of this season, Christmas reminds us to reflect on the significance of Jesus Christ’s birth and his message of salvation as the Prince of Peace.
On this Holy Day, I wish all Christians in Nigeria and around the world a Merry Christmas. I thank God for the opportunity to serve as the leader of our great country, and I pray for peace in our land, especially among individuals of differing religious beliefs.
As your President, I remain committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect all people of different faiths from violence.
As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, let us also reflect on the many contributions that Christians in Nigeria, as followers of Christ, have made and continue to make toward the progress of our country.
The love of Christ and the message of the Gospel have inspired many Christians to care for the vulnerable and less privileged in our society.
We honour those who, following the example of Jesus, work tirelessly to promote peace, harmony, and tolerance in their communities.
For those who bring hope and faith in the midst of despair, this season is a reminder that, despite daunting challenges, God is with us.
Since I assumed office in 2023, I have continually reassured Nigerians of our unyielding commitment to safeguarding the security, unity, and stability of our nation.
That commitment remains steadfast under God and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. All Nigerians have the right to live, worship, and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.
No one, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing and practising his faith. The love for God and love for humanity is at the heart of all the great faiths.
These shared values must continue to bind us together as one indivisible and resilient people of our blessed country.
Throughout the year, I have had the privilege of engaging with prominent leaders from the two major faiths in the country, particularly amid concerns about religious intolerance and insecurity.
We will build on these conversations to strengthen collaboration between government and religious institutions, prevent conflict and promote peaceful coexistence.
As many Nigerians travel to reunite with family and loved ones during this holiday period, I urge all citizens to exercise patience and maintain discipline on the roads.
I wish all travellers a safe journey and a safe return to their destinations.
With confidence in divine providence and our collective strength, we will continue the work of building a greater Nigeria, one that future generations will be proud of.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year in advance.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,
Federal Republic of Nigeria
December 25, 2025.
The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Yusuf Atah, has empowered more than 100 economically vulnerable non-indigenes residing in Kano State as part of efforts to promote social inclusion and poverty alleviation.
The minister provided each beneficiary with undisclosed cash support to either start small businesses or improve their living conditions, describing the gesture as part of his sustained commitment to grassroots engagement and support for the less privileged.
A statement by his publicity aide, Seyi Olorunsola, said the empowerment exercise formed part of Atah’s End-of-Year outreach programme, aimed at assisting economically disadvantaged individuals from various non-indigenous ethnic nationalities living in Kano State.
According to the statement, the beneficiaries were drawn from low-income groups who have contributed to the social and economic life of the state but often lack access to structured support systems.
Atah explained that the initiative was driven by his belief that governance must translate into tangible relief for ordinary Nigerians, regardless of ethnic background, faith, or state of origin.
“This initiative is a modest but deliberate effort to make life a little better for the ordinary Nigerian, particularly those who live and work outside their ancestral homes and are often the most vulnerable to economic shocks. Every Nigerian deserves dignity, opportunity, and a fair chance to survive and thrive,” he said.
The minister noted that the government alone cannot address poverty nationwide, calling on privileged individuals to see supporting the less fortunate as both a civic and moral responsibility.
“Eradicating poverty requires a collective crusade that cuts across government, individuals, and communities,” he added.
Atah said the empowerment programme aligns with his long-standing approach to public service, which prioritises identifying vulnerable segments of society and implementing practical interventions to support them.
He added that he has remained actively engaged with grassroots communities in Kano State over the years, listening to their challenges and responding with targeted assistance.
The minister emphasised that the End-of-Year empowerment initiative is not a one-off event but part of a broader philosophy aimed at narrowing the gap between the haves and the have-nots through compassion, shared responsibility, and collective action.
The beneficiaries, in turn, expressed appreciation to the minister for what they described as his inclusive approach.
NIGERIA NEWS
Akinyemi rallies support for Oyebanji, distributes relief packages to over 5,000 Ekiti residents
By Rotimi Ojomoyela
Ado-Ekiti — As Ekiti State revels in the festive season, an All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwart and philanthropist, Mr. Jide Akinyemi, has distributed food items and gifts worth several millions of naira to about 5,000 residents across the 16 local government areas of the state.
The distribution was carried out through his non-governmental organisation, the Jide Akinyemi Foundation, at the All Progressives Congress Secretariat in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.
Akinyemi said the outreach was organised to spread joy during the Christmas season and to reaffirm his support for the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Speaking with journalists, he explained that the foundation’s annual Christmas outreach is aimed at ensuring that vulnerable members of society are able to celebrate the season with dignity. He noted that food items and essential gifts were distributed to beneficiaries drawn from different parts of the state.
The philanthropist, who hails from Ayedun in Ikole Local Government Area, said the Christmas outreach has been sustained for about four years, adding that the foundation remains committed to continuing and expanding the initiative in the coming years.
Addressing speculations that the event was linked to any political ambition, Akinyemi dismissed such claims, stressing that the foundation’s activities are purely humanitarian and supportive of good governance.
He further disclosed plans to expand the foundation’s interventions by 2026 to reach more communities and social groups across Ekiti State.
On his support for the Oyebanji administration, Akinyemi said the government has performed creditably in critical areas such as workers’ welfare, pension payments, social interventions and infrastructure development.
He reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to complementing government efforts, noting that while government may cover a significant portion of citizens’ needs, civil society organisations can help bridge existing gaps for the overall benefit of the people.
“We are here to celebrate Christmas with our people and to ensure that everyone can enjoy the season. Many people struggle to afford food at this time, so providing food items is our way of sharing joy and hope,” he said.
“Across the world, governments cannot do everything alone. That is why foundations and NGOs exist to complement government efforts. Supporting the government does not mean political ambition; it means supporting good governance.
“For the first time in a long while, people across the state are speaking with one voice about governance. Workers are paid, senior citizens receive their pensions and there are visible initiatives that touch the lives of the people. It is only normal to support a government that is doing well,” he added.
Receiving Akinyemi officially into the party, the Ekiti APC Chairman, Barrister Sola Eleshin, commended the philanthropist for supporting residents with relief packages, describing the gesture as a reflection of his commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of the people.
Eleshin said Akinyemi’s decision to join the APC was a welcome development, noting that Ekiti State needs more patriotic citizens to complement government efforts by contributing to the welfare of residents through private and community-based initiatives.
The post Akinyemi rallies support for Oyebanji, distributes relief packages to over 5,000 Ekiti residents appeared first on Vanguard News.
The Oyo State Police Command has arraigned one Ali Muhammed for allegedly defrauding the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, of N39,500 on the pretext of selling him a car purportedly on auction by the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS).
Muhammed, 45, was arraigned at a Magistrate Court in Ogbomoso on December 23 on a 4-count charge bordering on defrauding the first-class monarch.
The suspect, according to charge sheet MOC/234c/C/2025, presented himself as the NCS Comptroller in Oyo State with a promise to auction a car to the monarch.
The act was described as impersonation, contrary to and punishable under Section 484 of the Criminal Code, Cap 38. Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.
Two of the charges read: “ That you Ali Muhammed ‘m’ and others now at large, between the 12th day of October, 2025, and 19th day of October, 2025, at Oja-Igbo area, Ogbomoso, in the Ogbomoso Magisterial district did Conspire with one another to commit felony to wit: Obtaining money under false pretence, stealing and impersonation and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 516 of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.
“That you Ali Muhammed ‘m’ and others now at large, on the same date, time and place in the aforementioned Magisterial district with intent to defraud obtain the sum #39,500,000:00 from Oba Ghandi Olaoye ‘m’ under the pretence of selling aunctioned vehicles and bags of rice to him which you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 419 of the Criminal Code, Cap 38, Vol. II, Laws of Oyo State of Nigeria, 2000.”
Muhammed pleaded not guilty to the charges.
He was thereafter granted bail in the sum of N5 million with two sureties living within the court’s jurisdiction.
The court subsequently adjourned the hearing to January 28, 2026.
In a sweeping security operation ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Delta State has deployed no fewer than 1,293 personnel across the state, underscoring mounting concerns over public safety and the protection of critical national assets during the festive season.
The deployment, ordered by the Delta State Commandant of the NSCDC, Chinedu Igbo, brings together officers drawn from specialised units, including the Armed Squad, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Anti-Vandal Unit, Disaster Management Unit, Tactical and other Component Units.
According to a statement issued by the state command’s spokesperson, Anthony Uchenna, the scale of the operation is designed to ensure “watertight security” before, during and after the Yuletide.
Beyond conventional patrols, Rapid Response and Patrol Teams have been strategically assigned across the state’s three senatorial districts, while the newly reorganised Female Squad teams will conduct routine patrols in major towns throughout the festive period.
Particular emphasis has been placed on the protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI), a long-standing vulnerability in Delta State.
Commandant Igbo has ordered 24-hour surveillance of oil and gas installations and continuous patrols of the First and Second Niger Bridges—facilities whose disruption would have far-reaching economic and security implications.
While the NSCDC has urged residents to celebrate without fear, the deployment also serves as a reminder of persistent security challenges that tend to spike during festive periods, including armed robbery, vandalism and infrastructure attacks.
Commandant Igbo reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to working with sister security agencies to clamp down on criminal elements, pledging that miscreants would be “apprehended and brought to book.”
The Universal School of Aviation (USA) marked a significant milestone with its 14th Convocation Ceremony, held across two major Nigerian cities: Abuja on December 19 and Lagos on December 20, 2025.
The ceremonies brought together graduating students, faculty, industry stakeholders, and families to celebrate the achievements of the latest cohort of aviation professionals.
The events underscored the institution’s commitment to producing highly skilled personnel for both domestic and international aviation sectors.
Highlights of the Abuja Ceremony
– The Abuja event took place on December 19, 2025, with graduates from various programs, including travel and tourism, flight dispatch, cabin crew training, customer service, aviation management, etc
The Director of Studies and Chief Executive Officer of the institution, Onifade Eedris Adekunle, admonished graduating students to be ambassadors of the institution as they go into the labour market.
– Keynote speaker and Chairman of the occasion, Chief Abiodun Odusanwo, emphasised the importance of professionalism, safety, and innovation in the aviation industry.
– Graduates were urged to embrace continuous learning and uphold the values of the institution as they enter the workforce.
Lagos Ceremony.
– On December 20, 2025, the Lagos campus hosted its own convocation, drawing a large audience of industry leaders and alumni.
– The ceremony featured award presentations to outstanding students and recognition of faculty contributions.
– Alumni representatives encouraged graduates to join the growing USA Alumni Association, which serves as a network for career development and mentorship.
The Director of Studies and Chief Executive Officer, Onifade Eedris Adekunle, reaffirmed the Vision of Universal School of Aviation and reiterated its mission to bridge the gap between quality training and industry needs, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for careers in airlines, airports, and aviation-related organisations. The management highlighted ongoing collaborations with aviation authorities, domestic and international partners, to strengthen training standards.
Keynote speakers in the Lagos convocation included Mr John Omololu Olumuyiwa of TravelScope magazine, who was also the chairman of the occasion. Mrs Joy Ogbebor of Mamaj Aviation Consult, who was the chairperson. Mrs Onifade Ifeoluwa (Convenor, Aviator Scholars) and Mr Wale Odeyemi (Chairman, ITPN Lagos chapter) as special guests.
The management of the institution also used the event as an avenue to confer the Award of Excellence on the Chairman of Enugu East Local Government, Engineer Beloved-Dan Obi Anike, in recognition of his Exceptional Leadership and Trailblazing Human Capital Development for Sponsoring Enugu East Youths into Aviation Studies — A Landmark First in Local Government Administration Nationwide.
Several graduates expressed gratitude for the rigorous training and support they received. “This convocation is not just a celebration of our achievements, but a call to service in the aviation industry,” one graduate noted.
Looking Ahead
With the successful conclusion of the 14th Convocation, the Universal School of Aviation continues to expand its influence in Nigeria’s aviation sector. The institution reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing professionals who will contribute to the growth and safety of air travel across Africa and beyond.
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The Osun State House of Assembly, on Wednesday, formally passed the 2026 Appropriation Bill, which totals ₦723,454,988,670.00, following comprehensive deliberations and legislative scrutiny.
This marks a key milestone in the state’s fiscal planning for the coming year.
The budget, titled the “Budget of Economic Transformation,” was passed after detailed consideration by the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation. Contributions from relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) were also taken into account.
Lawmakers engaged in extensive debates to ensure that the proposals align with the developmental priorities and socio-economic needs of the people of Osun State.
The 2026 budget was presented to the House on November 12 by the Executive Governor, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke.
It is designed to promote sustainable development, enhance infrastructure, improve social services, and strengthen key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and economic empowerment.
The budget also emphasised fiscal responsibility, transparency, and prudent management of public resources.
The revenue estimates for the 2026 budget include an opening balance of ₦16,192,300,490.00, recurrent revenue of ₦421,253,229,320.00, and capital receipts of ₦286,009,458,860.00. This brings the total inflow to ₦723,454,988,670.00.
On the expenditure side, the budget allocates ₦135,005,722,430.00 for personnel costs and ₦185,768,933,880.00 for other recurrent expenditures.
The subtotal for recurrent expenditure is therefore ₦320,774,356,310.00. Capital expenditure has been set at ₦402,680,332,360.00, bringing the total outflow to ₦723,454,988,670.00.
Following the passage of the budget, the Speaker of the House, Rt Honourable Wale Egbedun, commended members for their dedication and cooperation throughout the budget process.
He emphasised that the legislature remains committed to safeguarding the interests of the citizens and reaffirmed the Assembly’s resolve to continue exercising effective oversight to ensure proper implementation of the budget.
The House also urged the Executive to ensure the timely and efficient execution of the approved estimates in accordance with the law, for the overall growth and development of the state.
The 2026 Appropriation Bill, as passed, will now be transmitted to Governor Ademola Adeleke for assent.
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A fire broke out at the Terminus Market in Jos, Plateau State capital, on Tuesday night, destroying about 25 shops.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Terminus market secretary, Zakari Sale confirmed the incident, saying no lives were lost.
He further revealed that the fire started between 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. and firefighters from the Federal Fire Service and the Plateau State Fire Service arrived quickly and were able to stop it from spreading to other parts of the market.
Zakari Sale, said the damage was not as severe as what was recorded during previous fire outbreaks at the market. Although, he did not provide an estimated value of property loss.
He added that investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.
The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has extended warm felicitations to Christians in the state and across the country as they celebrate Christmas and prepare to usher in the New Year.
The message was conveyed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohamed.
Naija News reports that Governor Radda urged Christians to use the Christmas season as a period of reflection on the teachings of Jesus Christ, especially the values of love, sacrifice, peace and compassion towards humanity.
According to the statement, the governor described Christmas as a significant moment for Christians to renew their commitment to values that foster peaceful coexistence and national unity.
“As we celebrate this joyous season, I call on all Christians to embrace the spirit of love and tolerance that Christ exemplified throughout his earthly ministry,” Radda said.
The governor stressed that unity among Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences, remains critical to building a safer and more prosperous Katsina State and Nigeria at large.
He called for sustained collaboration between Christians, Muslims and adherents of other faiths, noting that religious tolerance and mutual respect are essential ingredients for development and progress.
“When we stand together in unity, we become stronger and more capable of overcoming the challenges facing our state and nation,” he added.
Radda further urged Christians to use the Christmas season to pray for peace, security and prosperity in Katsina State and across Nigeria.
He emphasised that the country requires both divine intervention and human cooperation to achieve lasting progress and stability.
The governor reassured Christians in Katsina State of his administration’s commitment to protecting their rights, ensuring their safety and creating an enabling environment where all citizens can practise their faith without fear or hindrance.
He wished Christians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, filled with peace, joy and renewed hope.
Christmas is a Christian festival celebrated annually on December 25 to mark the birth of Jesus Christ. Over the years, it has also evolved into a secular family holiday observed by both Christians and non-Christians.
Immediate past Attorney-General of the Federation, AGF, and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, says the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has refused to comply with a court order granting him bail.
The ex-AGF also accused the anti-graft agency of subjecting him to unlawful detention and media trial.
Malami made this allegation on Wednesday in a statement by his media aide, Mohammed Bello Doka.
He stated that the anti-graft agency ignored a valid order of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, admitting him to bail despite the fulfilment of all conditions.
DAILY POST recalls that the FCT High Court on December 23, 2025, granted him interim bail in a matter involving the EFCC after considering arguments from both parties.
The court reportedly ruled that the ex-AGF had met the bail conditions and ordered his release pending further proceedings, adjourning the case to a later date in January.
However, Malami’s office alleged that despite being formally served with the court order, EFCC officials refused to accept the bail documents and turned away the court bailiff, insisting on keeping him in custody.
The statement further noted that the former minister has now spent over 14 days in detention without being arraigned before any court of competent jurisdiction, a development his lawyers described as unconstitutional and oppressive.
The Kebbi-born politician also accused the EFCC of engaging in selective media briefings aimed at shaping public opinion against him, a move he described as a media trial after the failure to secure judicial backing.
“Court orders are not advisory. They are binding on all authorities,” the statement said.
At the time of filing this report, the EFCC had yet to respond to the allegations.
The Edo State House of Assembly has confirmed Chris Ewere Okaeban as Commissioner to be appointed to the State Executive Council, nearly three months after his screening was rejected.
Naija News recalls that the House had, on September 30, 2025, refused to screen and confirm Okeban as commissioner to be appointed to the State Executive Council following an alleged petition to the Department of State Services (DSS).
During plenary, while confirming the six other nominees, the Speaker of the House, Blessing Agbebaku, said that the screening committee’s report before him stated that Chris Okaeben, a former member of the House, was not cleared because he had outstanding issues with the DSS.
However, on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at the plenary sitting, the Governor sent a letter to the House requesting it to conclude Okaeban’s screening and confirmation.
The letter dated December 22, 2025 and titled “Request for the confirmation of Commissioner-designate” was signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, and addressed to the Speaker of the House.
According to the letter, Governor Monday Okpehbolo urged the lawmakers to conclude the screening process and affect Chris Okaeben’s confirmation.
Following the Governor’s request, the House, however, screened and confirmed him as the 27th commissioner in the state cabinet.
The letter read in part, “Sequel to the non-conclusion of the screening of Hon. Christopher Ewere Okaeben as Commissioner-designate for Edo State by the House of Assembly, I write to formally convey the request of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, that the Honourable House consider the nominee with a view to concluding the screening process and effecting his confirmation.”
The Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria) condemns in the strongest terms the arrest and detention of Mrs Adenike Atanda and her nine-month-old baby by operatives of the Nigeria Police Force.
Mrs Atanda was detained for several hours on Monday at Owutu Police Station, Ikorodu, Lagos, in place of her husband, Mr Sodeeq Atanda, a journalist with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ).
IPI Nigeria understands that police officers tracked Mrs Atanda and her infant to their neighbourhood and arrested them while Mr Atanda was not at home. Neither Mrs Atanda nor her nine-month-old child is a journalist, a suspect, or accused of any offence.
This arrest constitutes a clear and unlawful arrest by proxy, in violation of Section 7 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015 and Section 36 of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, both of which unequivocally prohibit the arrest of any person in place of a suspect.
Beyond the illegal arrest, Mrs Atanda was subjected to harassment and psychological pressure.
Officers coerced her into falsely telling her husband that their infant was gravely ill in order to lure him out, effectively using a nursing mother and her baby as bait. The child was subjected to needless trauma and distress.
Their only “offence” was their relationship to a journalist.
That this egregious violation of the law was carried out by officers attached to the IGP Monitoring Unit is particularly disturbing, coming barely weeks after IPI Nigeria listed the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, in its Book of Infamy for violations of press freedom.
Following that listing, the Inspector-General initiated engagement with IPI Nigeria and expressed commitment to improving police–media relations. He further mandated the IGP Monitoring Unit to engage with IPI Nigeria to address the growing pattern of harassment of journalists nationwide.
Ironically, the very unit designated for that engagement has now executed one of the most brazen violations of journalists’ rights witnessed in recent times.
In protest against this gross abuse of power, IPI Nigeria has suspended all engagements with the Nigeria Police Force until there is clear evidence of accountability, respect for the rule of law, and an end to hostility towards journalists.
Mrs Atanda and her baby were released only after Mr Atanda presented himself to the police. He was subsequently arrested, handcuffed, and detained, and was released only after the intervention of IPI Nigeria.
IPI Nigeria therefore demands the following:
– A public apology by the Nigeria Police Force to Mrs Adenike Atanda and her nine-month-old baby;
– Adequate compensation for the unlawful arrest, detention, and trauma inflicted on them;
– The immediate arrest, investigation, and prosecution of all officers who instigated and carried out this illegal action;
– The dismissal from service of those officers, as a deterrent to future abuses.
IPI Nigeria further insists that Mr Sodeeq Atanda be allowed to carry out his legitimate journalistic duties without intimidation or harassment.
READ ALSO: Full detail: Why IPI Nigeria listed IGP Egbetokun, Govs Bago, Umo in Book of Infamy
The police must refrain from meddling in civil or commercial disputes properly within the jurisdiction of the courts and should advise complainants to seek redress through lawful judicial processes.
The persistent abuse of power by police officers thrives largely because acts of misconduct are rarely punished. Instead, officers who violate the law are often shielded and, in some cases, rewarded.
This culture of impunity incentivises further violations and continues to erode public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
IPI Nigeria observes with grave concern that indiscipline is too frequently tolerated in the Nigeria Police. Officers who have no business wearing the uniform continue to operate unchecked, worsening the already battered image of the police.
We therefore call on the Inspector-General of Police to act decisively by purging the Force of officers unfit to serve and by demonstrating, through concrete action, a genuine commitment to reform, accountability, and respect for press freedom.
Signed:
Musikilu Mojeed
President
Tobi Soniyi
Legal Adviser
23 December 2025
NIGERIA NEWS
Man Gives 1 Unusual Advice To Dangote After Purchasing Fuel At N739 Per Litre, Post Goes Viral
- A young man got many people talking online after he bought petrol at a cheap price following Dangote’s announcement
- The young man mentioned the place where he bought the fuel, just like a few others who had also confirmed the same thing
- He told the African businessman to do one thing about the price, and he mentioned it in the post that has now gone vira
A young Nigerian celebrated online after buying fuel at a low price following the announcement made by the president of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, on the reduction in fuel price.
A few days ago, Dangote promised that there would be a reduction in the price of fuel, starting from a specific filling station across Lagos State.
Dangote reduces fuel price to ₦739 at MRS filling stations in Lagos. Photo Source: Facebook/Abubakar Widi-Jalo
Source: Facebook
Nigerian celebrates buying fuel at low price
He mentioned that the filling station, MRS, would sell fuel at ₦739 per litre and nothing above that.
Read also
“N739 per litre”: 3 Nigerians confirm filling stations selling fuel at Dangote’s new price
Days after the announcement, some Nigerians who visited different filling stations confirmed the price and shared evidence online.
In the middle of this, another individual also confirmed the price of the fuel and went further to give an instruction to Dangote.
The individual, @Abubakar Widi-Jalo, wrote on his Facebook page about the new price after buying fuel.
He said:
“Just bought Dangote fuel at ₦739 at MRS.”
He also gave advice to the African businessman on what he should do to ensure the price drops further.
Nigerian celebrates buying fuel at reduced price following Dangote’s announcement. Photo Source: Facebook/Abubakar Widi-Jalo
Source: Facebook
The young man’s statement suggests that he wants Dangote to continue to work on the price of fuel until it reaches 500.
His post attracted reactions from a few individuals, who shared their thoughts on the development.
Reactions as man sends message to Dangote
Mallam said:
“We want it 200 or less. How much was it sold during the Buhari era?”
Read also
Man displays old air ticket showing price of flight from London to Lagos, amount generates buzz
Garba added:
“Thank you Baba Aliko!! Our prayers are with you.”
Adam stated:
“No be press abegi brake.”
Fatima noted:
“Supported. Monopoly or not, so long as the people benefit from affordable prices that’s all. I hope the price of all the products in the oil value chain will continue to drop for the benefit of humanity.”
Sagiy stressed:
“He should bring it down.”
Sani shared:
“If govt removed it’s tax of ₦310 per litre it will be less than ₦500.”
Sambo noted:
“MRS is the only fueling station with queue. Allah ya biya Alhaji.”
Harrison said:
“Just dat MRS no dey everywhere.. If wishes were horses..?!”
Read the post below:
In a similar story, Legit.ng reported that several Nigerians reacted after Aliko Dangote announced a reduction in the price of fuel to N739 per litre, with many people visiting filling stations to confirm the new rate.
Read also
Dangote new fuel price: Nigerian man living in Ilorin mentions filling station with cheapest petrol
Nigerian man buys fuel at N739
Meanwhile, Legit.ng recently reported that the president of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, announced a reduction in the price of petrol, fixing it at N739 per litre. He said the new price would start in Lagos from Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
After the announcement, a young Nigerian man shared his experience when he went to a filling station to buy fuel and confirm the new price.
Source: Legit.ng
NIGERIA NEWS
We’ll drag Wike from PDP to APC, won’t allow them destroy him – Rivers Senator, Onyesoh
Rivers East Senator, Allwell Onyesoh, has vowed that he and some of his friends are determined to drag the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Onyesoh said the PDP has refused to acknowledge the work that Wike has done, hence the need to pull him into APC.
In a video on social media, the lawmaker who defected to the APC a few days ago, said they won’t allow the PDP to destroy Wike or frustrate his work.
According to Onyesoh: “Wike is our leader and we are going to pull him out of that party, he has done so much for that party and they are not even appreciative of him, we won’t let him to be there.
“We are going to drag him out, we will force and pull him out and one of these days, we are going to his house to pull him out of that party. They have used him enough,
“Yes he is my leader and he would continue to be my leader, but I only wanted to be a senator because of my dreams of what I wanted to do for my people and he was able to assist me to realize it.
“So I don’t want any group of charlatans to destroy the man or frustrate him or make him work more than he should work, he will pull him, he is our own.
“We will worry him until he leaves, he made us so he should come to where we are, God used him to bring us to where we are so let him leave their party and come to where we are. Let them take their party, it’s high time we stop behaving like there are no rules.”
The Rivers lawmaker also noted that the PDP is under ground and there is hardly anybody to rescue the party.
“For me, PDP is lying frustrated on the ground and I’m not seeing anything in the nearest future trying to resurrect it because they still continue, new warlocks are coming up where the other ones stopped,” he added.
Former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, who was granted bail by an Abuja High Court in an order dated December 23, 2025, remains in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), his aide has said.
Bello Doka, Malami’s media aide, described the continued detention as illegal in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Doka accused the commission of using the media to circulate what he termed inaccurate narratives about the former AGF, despite the fact that Malami voluntarily submitted himself for investigation and fulfilled the bail conditions set by the EFCC.
“His continued detention in an EFCC facility constitutes a breach of due process and a blatant abuse of office by a commission expected to respect and comply with court orders,” Doka said.
He added that the development portrays the EFCC as placing itself above the law, stressing that no Nigerian is above the law.
According to Doka, Malami’s media office considers his continued detention, despite being granted bail by a competent court, as a violation of the former AGF’s fundamental human rights.
He warned that the alleged disregard for a court order by a constitutionally established body such as the EFCC could undermine democracy and raise questions about the commission’s commitment to justice.
Doka further alleged that court bailiffs were turned away when they attempted to serve the court order on the commission, insisting that Malami is being held in clear disobedience of the court.
He challenged the EFCC to either arraign Malami before a court of competent jurisdiction or desist from what he described as a media trial and the spread of false narratives.