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Fubara Commends Rivers pro-Wike Senators For Defection to APC

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Siminalayi Fubara
Governor Siminalayi Fubara

By Adesina Soyooye

Siminalayi Fubara, Governor of Rivers State, has commended  the State’s National Assembly members who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress.

In commending them, Fubara pointed out that their decision is courageous, principled, and forward-looking.

Fubara’s sentiments were contained in a statement which  his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Boniface Onyedi, issued Tuesday evening.

The statement  noted that the Lawmakers’ action represents a courageous demonstration of commitment to the collective progress of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole.

The statement reads: “Those who defected include two distinguished senators, Senator Allwell Onyesoh (Rivers East) and Senator Barinada Mpigi (Rivers South-East), as well as members of the House of Representatives — Dumnamene Dekor, Solomon Bob, Cyril Hart, Victor Obuzor, Blessing Amadi and Felix Nwaeke.”

Fubara also commended those who defected for aligning with those who had  defected earlier from the PDP to the APC.

He said: “These include Hon. Boniface Emerengwa, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, and Hon. Boma Goodhead, who joined the APC from the PDP, as well as Hon. Umezuruike Manuchim, who joined the APC from the Labour Party in solidarity with the Rivers State governor.”

The Governor noted that the decision of the Lawmakers goes beyond mere political realignment. Fubara described it as a  validation of his own earlier decision to join the APC.

The Governor stated that the development “signals the emergence of a united and strategic political front aimed at fully integrating Rivers State into the centre of national governance.”

Said the Governor: “This alignment will position Rivers State to maximise opportunities for accelerated growth, inclusive development and long-term sustainability.”

Fubara also noted that the “growing coalition reflects the visible transformation taking place under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and is fully aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.”

The expansion of the support base in Rivers State, Fubara said, will contribute significantly to the success of the President’s ongoing reforms.

He re-emphasised his unshakable resolve to deliver a resounding victory for President Tinubu in the 2027 Presidential elections and ended by  calling on the people of Rivers State “to join the APC in ushering in a new era of progressive politics, peace, stability, and  prosperity.”

Christmas: CDS Oluyede Thanks Nigerians For Supporting Military

By
Ayodele Oni
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Olufemi Oluyede

By Ayodele Oni

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has commended Nigerians for their resilience and continued support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria despite ongoing security challenges.

The Defence Chief noted  that trust and cooperation between the military and the populace remain critical to achieving sustainable peace.

In his Christmas 2025 and New Year 2026 goodwill message, General Oluyede described the season as one of love, sacrifice, hope and renewal, urging citizens to reflect on shared responsibilities toward national cohesion and progress.

He called on Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and tolerance as Christians celebrate Christmas and prepare for the New Year.

He paid glowing tribute to frontline troops deployed across various theatres of operation, describing their courage, professionalism and selfless service as the finest traditions of the Armed Forces, especially as many remain on duty, while others celebrate with family.

General Oluyede assured personnel that their welfare remains a top priority, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve living and working conditions, healthcare, accommodation and timely payment of allowances, as well as sustained support for families of fallen heroes.

He also urged members of the Armed Forces to uphold discipline, professionalism and loyalty to the Constitution, while calling on all Nigerians to use the festive season to strengthen unity across ethnic, religious and cultural lines.

The CDS expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support for the military and called for sustained collaboration among security agencies in safeguarding the nation.

Shock As Two Kano Lawmakers Die Same Day, Same Time, Almost

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Two Kano Law Makers that died almost simultaneously
Two Kano Law Makers that died almost simultaneously

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Commercial nerve centre of the North, Kano, was, on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, engulfed in mourning following the sudden death of two serving House of Assembly members.

Hons Aminu Sa’adu, Ungogo State Constituency and Sarki Aliyu Daneji, (Kano Municipal) died almost simultaneously, thereby, sending a huge shock wave across the state.

According to Sanusi Tofa, the Kano State Governor’s spokesman, who disclosed the unfortunate development on his official site, Hon Aliyu Daneji had died earlier in the day. But while the news of  his   death was being broken to his colleagues, Hon Sa’adu was pronounced dead few minutes   after being taken to the hospital

Hon Sa’adu was said to have fallen ill shortly after arriving the Assembly Complex for the business of the day. He was, then, rushed to the hospital for medical attention. But he passed.

The burial ceremonies of the two Lawmakers were underway as at the time of reporting in accordance with Islamic rites

Gov. Sacks Four Aides For Assaulting Councillor

By
Ayodele Oni
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Governor Muhammad Yahaya Inuwa of Gombe State

By Ayodele Oni

Gombe State Governor, Muhammad Yahaya, has approved the immediate disengagement of four aides, following their alleged involvement in the physical assault of the Councillor representing Shamaki Ward in Gombe Local Government Area.

The affected aides were dismissed after a special committee set up by the state government investigated the incident involving Abdulrahman Sheriff.

Findings of the Committee were corroborated by reports from security agencies, which informed the Governor’s decision.

Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, who conveyed the directive, identified the disengaged officials as Adamu Abdullahi Danko, Senior Special Assistant II (Domestic); Garba Mohammed Mai Rago, Senior Special Assistant II (Political); Rabiu Sulaiman Abubakar, Senior Special Assistant II (Social Media); and Ali Ibrahim Baban Kaya, Senior Special Assistant II (Community Relations).

According to the SSG, the Governor directed that the disengagement takes immediate effect, while the affected officers have also been instructed to hand over all government property in their possession to the appropriate authorities without delay.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for violence, misconduct and abuse of office, stressing that any action capable of threatening public peace or undermining confidence in government would not be condoned.

He assured the people of Gombe State of his government’s commitment to the rule of law, accountability and peaceful coexistence, adding that decisive measures would continue to be taken to safeguard public order and sustain the state’s stability.

“With Divine Providence, We Will Build A Nigeria Future  Generations Will Be Proud Of” – Tinubu To Nigerians At Christmas

By
Ayodele Oni
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President Tinubu

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.

Malami Still In EFCC Custody Even After Court Order

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Mr Abubakar Malami, SAN: Still in EFCC custody/

By Akinwale Kasali

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, still has a the former Attorney General and Minister for Justice under the late President Muhammadu Buhari under its custody even an Abuja High Court granted him bail.

Malami has been in the custody of the EFCC for about three weeks.

Bello Doka, Malami’s Media Aide, revealed that his Principal is still in the custody of the EFCC.

In a statement on Wednesday, Doka described the continued detention of Malami as illegal.

He stressed that Malami was granted bail by an Abuja High Court in an order dated December 23, 2023, but that sadly, he is still being detained by the EFCC.

Doka decried the alleged use of the media by the anti- Graft Agency to push inaccurate narratives about Malami who he said had submitted himself for thorough investigations and met the bail conditions stipulated by the EFCC.

“His continued detention in EFCC facility constitute breach of legal procedures and a blatant abuse of office by the commission who are expected to respect and comply with court orders.

“His continued detention puts the commission on a position of an institution parading herself above the law when no Nigerian is above the law.”

He added that Malami’s media office viewed his further detention after being granted bail by a competent Court as infringement of the ex-AGF’s fundamental human rights.

He raised the alarm that the disobedience of a court order by a constitutionally created body like the EFCC will derail democracy and cast doubts on its ability to do justice to all Nigerians.

“Nigerians and the international community should know that the commission chased away bailiff who took the court order to them and continue to detain Malami in arrant disobedience to court,” he said.

Doka challenged the Commission to arraign Malami before a competent court and stop the alleged media trial and the spread of false narratives.

How Beninois Couple, Accomplice, Murdered TikTok Lover… Police Arraigns Them

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Beniniose Couple
The arraigned Beniniose Couple

By Akinwale Kasali

The Lagos State Police Command has arraigned a Beniniose Couple and an accomplice before an Ebute-Meta Magistrates’ Court over the alleged murder of a 45-year-old Man identified as Ayoola Bello.

The suspects — Sunday Sojunu, 35, his Wife, Toyin Sojunu, 31, and an accomplice, Dare Sampson, 32 — were arraigned on Wednesday on a Three-Count Charge bothering on murder.

Magistrate O. O. Adeosun ordered that the Two Male defendants be remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre, while the female defendant was remanded at the Kirikiri Female Correctional Facility, after rejecting their pleas.

The court further directed that the case file be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions, DPP, for legal advice and adjourned the matter to January 21, 2026.

It was gathered that detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Panti, Yaba, led by they Deputy Commissioner of Police, Dayo Akinbisehin, arrested the suspects following investigations into the killing of the deceased in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State.

The Prosecutor, ASP Kehinde Olatunde, had informed the Court that the suspects were apprehended on November 24 for their alleged roles in the crime.

According to the Prosecutor, Toyin, a TikTok Content

Creator, met the deceased on the Social Media Platform, and both became friends.

On September 15, she allegedly traveled to Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, under the pretext of visiting Benin Republic, and spent two days with the deceased at a hotel.

Toyin was said to have confessed the affair to her husband, after which the couple allegedly planned to lure the deceased to their residence in Ikorodu.

The accomplice was reported to have hired as assassin to assist him in the murder.

The deceased was said to have been held captive, with ransom demanded and received from his family before he was eventually killed.

His remains were later disposed of in a remote area of the State.

The offence contravenes Sections 165, 222, and 233 of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015.

Daughter of the deceased, Afusat Bello, who spoke to Journalists at the Court Premises alleged suspicious financial activities shortly before and after her Father’s death.

She said the family had transferred about ₦76,000 to individuals who claimed they would assist with a business arrangement.

According to her, communication ceased after the transfer, and repeated calls were either unanswered or met with excuses.

Afusat Bello further stated that attempts to reach her Father later failed and his phone was switched off.

The family subsequently accessed the account used for the transaction and discovered several unusual withdrawals made at odd hours, which she described as inconsistent with her Father’s financial habits.

She added that a man who later came to collect additional money was identified as being connected to the earlier transaction, raising further suspicion.

The family has called on authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the financial dealings and the circumstances surrounding Bello’s death, as they seek justice and clarity.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, CP Olohundare Jimoh Moshood, has however reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to curbing criminality and ensuring the safety of lives and property across the State

CAN Applauds Governor Fintiri For Saving Adamawa Farmer From Hangman’s Noose

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Sunday Jackson

By Akinwale Kasali

The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Northern Chapter, has showered encomium on Governor Ahmadu Fintiri for granting full pardon to a Christian farmer, Sunday Jackson,  who was sentenced to death.

Jackson was sentenced to death following a violent attack on his farm by a herdsman during which he killed the armed herdsmen who tried to kill him.

In the state pardon by Governor Fintiri to mark Christmas and New Year  Jackson was fortunate to have been granted clemency. That sparked spontaneous jubilation across Yola, Adamawa State Capital, with residents trooping to the streets to celebrate the development.

Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri

Reacting to this development, Rev. Joseph Hayab, Chairman, Northern CAN and Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, described the earlier conviction as a miscarriage of justice, saying the governor’s intervention restored public confidence in fairness and the rule of law.

“The grant of clemency brings relief and affirms the principle that self-defence in the face of mortal danger should not be criminalised while terrorists and their advocates walk freely in our society”, the statement said.

Northern CAN said Christmas offers Nigerians “an opportunity for sober reflection on the moral conscience of the nation and the social direction of our country. Christmas calls the nation to peace, justice, compassion and respect for the sanctity of human life.’’

The group commended individuals, faith-based organisations, and community leaders who distributed palliatives and supported vulnerable citizens during the festive season, describing such gestures as “a reflection of enduring values of love and shared responsibility.”

The Christian Group applauded the Federal Government’s recent designation of kidnappers, bandits, and other violent criminal groups as terrorists, saying the move strengthened the national security framework and demonstrated a firm commitment to confronting insecurity.

The Northern CAN praised the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in the defence of lives and property, urging them to remain resolute until insecurity is decisively addressed.

“The continued existence of terrorism, banditry and kidnapping has caused immense pain to individuals, families and communities, leaving scars that many may never fully recover from,” the statement lamented.

It called on leaders at all levels to uphold justice, equity, and the rule of law, while urging citizens to remain law-abiding and committed to peaceful coexistence and national unity.

“As the nation celebrates Christmas, let us support our leaders, pray for the healing of our land and work collectively for a safer, more just and more united Nigeria,” the statement said.

“Stop Blaming Governors, FG Takes 52% Of Revenue Generated By States” – Gov Radda

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Umar Dikko Radda - Governor of Katstina State

By Akinwale Kasali

Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has exonerated State Governors from the economic woes bedeviling the nation. He disclosed  that the Federal Government controls more than half of the Federation’s monthly revenue.

Radda urged Nigerians to stop blaming State Governors for the State of the Nation.

The Katsina State Governor made the remarks in an interview with Radio France Internationale, RFI, Hausa Service. He explained that the revenue-sharing formula leaves state and local governments struggling to meet rising demands.

He said: “Whenever there is hardship, people blame governors and local governments. But when revenue is shared, 52 per cent goes to the Federal Government. It is the remaining 48 per cent that is shared among the 36 states and 774 local governments,” he said.

He noted that for decades, the Federal Government has received the larger share of federation revenue and questioned the management of those funds.

Speaking further, Radda said: “For decades, the Federal Government has been receiving the larger share of federation revenue. So the question Nigerians should be asking is: “where has the bulk of that money gone?”

As regards Corruption allegation leveled against State officials, Radda sternly warned against generalisation.

“Leadership is about individual integrity. It is wrong to generalise and label everyone the same way. Public office holders would ultimately be held accountable for their actions,” he said.

Following the complains of his administration’s continued investment in Capital Projects despite prevailing economic challenges, Radda emphasised that infrastructure development helps stimulate the grassroots economy through job creation.

“When you execute capital projects, you create jobs and bring money down to the people at the grassroots because labourers earn wages, food vendors make sales, and suppliers benefit,” he said.

He added that the impact of these projects is already visible across Katsina State’s local government areas.

“If you go to the local governments today, you will see a lot of economic activity because funds have reached the communities”, he noted.

Awujale Stool: I Quit! – KWAM1

By
Akinwale Kasali
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KWAM 1

By Akinwale Kasali

Fuji Maestro, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, popular as KWAM 1, has withdrawn the suit he filed before an Ogun State High Court in Ijebu-Ode, seeking interlocutory injunction to stop the installation process of the next Awujale of Ijebuland.

It would be recalled that the Fusengbuwa Ruling House debunked the claims that the Singer was from its Ruling House and had the right to contest for the Awujale Stool.

KWAM 1 failed to produce substantial evidence that he is from the Ruling House as requested by the Chairman and Leader of the Ruling House.

However, the Fuji Artiste filed a Notice of Discontinuance before the Court dated 22nd December, 2025, following correspondence from the Chairman of the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area.

Ayinde prayed the Court to record the discontinuance of the suit and make orders as it deems fit.

Justice A. A. Omoniyi of Court 3 in Ijebu-Ode Judicial Division, on Monday, refused to grant the motion ex parte brought before it, seeking an interim order to stop the process of the installation of the new Awujale of Ijebuland.

Omoniyi, in his ruling, said the Court does not think an interim order can be granted pending the determination of the substantive suit, relying on Seven Up v. Abiola and City Express v. LASG.

The Court relied on Supreme Court precedent that interim applications must be filed alongside motions on notice.

The Court noted that the applicant has not filed a motion on notice and refers to Order 39 Rule 2, which states that the court must not grant an order ex parte unless there is a motion for injunction.

He said, “Where a procedure is laid down for making an order, that’s the only way to get the order. It is fatal to an application for an interim order to not file a motion on notice.

“Additionally, there’s no undertaking as to damages, which, in a plethora of cases, has been held to be absolutely vital.

“The application fails and is refused.”

The Notice of Discontinuance signed by Dr Wahab Shittu SAN on behalf of the applicant reads this: “Notice that the Claimnant /Applicant herein wholly discontinuance the above suit against the Defendant/Respondent pursuant to Order 23 ( or relevant Order) of the High Court of Ogun State(Civil Procedure) Rules 2024 and under the inherent jurisdiction of this Honourable Court.

“Reasons for Discontinuance

“The Applicant filed this Suit following correspondence from the 2nd Respondent herein 2nd December,2025, which correspondences have been withdrawn.

“The Applicant respectfully prays that the Honourable Court to record the discontinuance of this Suit and make orders as it deems fit.”

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