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Malami: My Problem With EFCC

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Abubakar Malami

Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, says he’s ready to honour the invitation from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, saying as a well-grounded public servant he believes in accountability.

The former minister made the remark in a post he shared on the social media, where he said he has started cooperating with the anti-graft agency who are investigating him.

He said: “This is to confirm that I have been invited by the EFCC. As a law-abiding and patriotic citizen, I hereby reaffirm my commitment to honour the invitation.

“I understand the spirit of accountability and transparency in public service — the principles that I both advocate and champion.

“Rooted in public service and in the spirit of transparency and accountability, I am committed to sharing with the Nigerian public the developments as they unfold.”

The former minister had recently declared his intention to contest the governorship election in  Kebbi state in 2027, saying he will start his campaign as soon as INEC gave a go -ahead to politicians to start campaigning.

Malami: “INEC guidelines do not allow us to begin any form of mobilisation yet, but I assure you that when the time comes, you will see that we have the support of the people of Kebbi state,” he said.

“I have agreed to contest, and there is no retreat. God willing, we are going to win because we have people who believe in us, and we will not let them down.”

Not a few insist that his predicament with the EFCC could be a setback for him to achieve his governorship ambition.

CBN Directs Banks To Stop Misleading Customers With Adverts

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Yemi Cardoso - CBN Governor

The Central Bank of Nigeria has ordered financial service institutions and commercial banks to immediately seize from using promotional materials that do not conform with established marketing extant rules in the country.

According to the Yemi Cardoso-led apex bank, the directive was meant to ensure that bank customers are protected in line with the Consumer Protection Regulation Act 2019 and the Advertisement Guidelines enabling laws for deposit money banks and other Financial institutions., OFIs.

In the circular issued  on Thursday by Olubunmi Ayodele-Oni, CBN’s Director of Compliance Department, the apex bank said it has uncovered widespread inconsistencies and lack of transparency in promotional materials by some of these banks and payment institutions, saying some of the information provided are largely exaggerated, as they are linked to the unaudited financial statements of the said banks, and in most cases not beneficial to the customers.

The government bank, has therefore, banned promotional inducements such as lotteries, lucky dips, prize draws and other chance-based incentives, stressing that  such schemes are capable of pushing customers to make harmful financial decisions.

Instructively, the apex bank said commercial banks and OFIs must henceforth ensure that advertisement complied with regulatory framework, saying it will not hesitate to sanction them for any infractions.

The CBN also directed the banks to withdraw such advertisement within 30 days, submit a compliance attestation jointly signed by the Managing Director or Chief Executive Officer, the Executive Compliance Officer, and the Chief Compliance Officer.

CBN said: “New compliance steps for all advertisements. Under the tightened framework, financial institutions must now submit detailed notifications to the CBN before releasing any advert or marketing material.

“The notification must include the duration of the advert, creative content to be aired or published, intended demographic and geographic targets, and written confirmation of internal clearance by both the compliance and legal departments.

“This attestation must confirm that all current advertising and promotional practices meet regulatory requirements and internal governance rules,

“Sanctions will be applied to any institution found violating the rules, in line with the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act 2020 and the Consumer Protection Regulations,” the bank said.

It said it will begin to apply sanction on banks for infractions beginning from January next year, after investigating the level of compliance.

Guinea Bissau Coup: How Côte d’Ivoire President Airlifted Jonathan To Nigeria After FG Abandoned Him

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Goodluck Jonathan
Dr. Goodluck Jonathan:

More revelations have emerged on how former President Goodluck Jonathan was abandoned in Guinea-Bissau by the federal government following the military coup in that tiny West African nation.

The magazine reported that Jonathan retuned back to the country yesterday days after the military putsch in that country on Tuesday.

The former Nigerian leader was among some mediators sent to the country  by the Economic Community of West Africa, ECOWAS for meditation before the coup that ousted President Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco Embaló early this week.

The magazine reported that following the ouster of Embalo, the coup plotters have since appointed the country Military Chief of Staff, as its new leader.

Following the coup detat on Tuesday, Jonathan was reported to have been stranded in the country , with calls back home in Nigeria on the federal government to immediately bring him back home.

But according to Thisday newspapers, the Nigerian government did not make concrete efforts to airlift him back to Nigeria, and did not make a direct contact with the former Nigerian leader, except for some calls to his aides by some low level government officials.

According to the report, it was President Alassane Ouattara of Cote Devore that ordered the use of his Presidential jet to fly  Jonathan back to the country following the lackadaisical attitude of the Tinubu administration, which critics of the government said has the responsibility to act on the issue because of the status of Jonathan as a former Nigerian President.

The online newspaper claimed that while Abidjan acted with urgency to protect a visiting African leader, Abuja appeared flat-footed, offering little visible coordination or assertive diplomatic engagement despite Jonathan’s status as a former head of state and an envoy of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

THISDAY learnt yesterday that the Ivorian government had already made arrangements to fly Jonathan using the country’s presidential jet, with some aides of President Bola Tinubu, getting in touch with a Jonathan aide in Abuja, rather than official communication from the highest level of the Nigerian government.

“It was the Côte d’Ivoire government that reached out to President Jonathan and they have provided an aircraft that’s bringing him back,” a source who preferred anonymity told THISDAY yesterday.

However, it was learnt that although the Nigerian government later reached out, the Ivorian government had already reached out to the former President and had already concluded arrangements to return him to Nigeria.

It was also confirmed last night that contrary to reports that it was the soldiers who carried out the coup that escorted the former Nigerian President out of the country,  they were not actually involved in the movement of Jonathan and his sides.

Rather, it was learnt that ECOMOG forces, comprising soldiers from Nigeria, Ghana and Senegalese soldiers, gave the former Nigerian President security from his hotel to the airport. “You will see that it was a presidential jet with the Republic of Cote d’ Ivoire mark”, the source stated.

Guinea-Bissau: FG Condemns Military Take-over, Calls For Restoration of Democracy

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Guinea Bisau Military leader

The Nigerian Government has reacted to the military coup in Guinea- Bisau, describing the development as a set back for democratic government in Africa. He development comes three days after the military take-over in the tiny West African nation.

According to a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the military putsch in the West African nation undermines democracy and threatened stability in the sub-region of West Africa.

Recall that the military announced its take over of power from President President Umaro Sissoco Embalo following a disputed election, in which the ousted leader and top opposition leader in the country claimed victory. The soldiers who took over power have since announced the Country military Chief of Staff, Maj.-Gen. Tomas Djassi   as the new president for a period of one year.

Reacting, the Tinubu administration said it supports the call for restoration of constitutional order from the people of the country, calling for the release of those that have been detained after the coup, adding that the coup plotters will be held responsible if the country plunged into anarchy. .

“The Federal Government of Nigeria has learned with profound dismay and deep concern the unfortunate military coup which has led to an unconstitutional change of government in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau,” Nigeria’s government said.

“We stand in solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau and call for the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order, the safety and security of all those detained, and full respect for democratic institutions.”

the Nigerian government stressed that, it will cooperate with ECOWAS and African Union to ensure the return of constitutional government and stability in the country.

“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the promotion of democracy, peace, and stability across the African continent.”

Meanwhile, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has returned to the country on Thursday, after report that he and other observers sent to monitor the disputed elected had been stranded in the country.

Again, 24 Rice Farmers Kidnapped In Shiroro, Niger State

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Gunmen

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Niger State Police Command on Thursday, November, 27 2025, informed that efforts are underway to secure the freedom of some abducted farmers in the state.

The Source reports that no fewer than 24 rice farmers, including some pregnant women and children, were on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, reportedly attacked and kidnapped by some suspected terrorists in Ungwan-Kawo/Kuchipa and Palaita communities of Erena Ward in Shiroro Local Council of Niger State.

According to local sources, the attack occurred at about 4.00 pm on Wednesday, while the victims were working on their rice farms.

While locals put the number of abductees at about 24, the Niger State Police Command, however, insisted that 10 persons were taken away by the hoodlums.

A statement from Wasiu Abiodun ,the Command’s spokesperson, while confirming the incident, assured that operatives have been deployed to track down the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the victims.

“On November 26, 2025 ,at about 8 pm, a report was received indicating that suspected armed men abducted about ten persons from Angwan-Kawo and Kuchipa villages of Shiroro Local Government Area. Efforts are being made to rescue the victims”, the police stated.

However, the Police assurance is coming at a time when victims of a school invasion and abduction in the state are still in the abductors den.

The Source further reports that some suspected terrorists had early Friday morning November 21 ,2025 invaded St Mary’s Catholic School Papiri in Agwara Local Council of the state, abducting no fewer than 300 pupils and students, including about 12 teachers.

As at the time of reporting, concerned authorities and security agencies were still battling to secure the freedom of the remaining victims,after about 50 reportedly escaped.

Insecurity: President Tinubu Announces Members Of US-Nigeria Joint Working Group

By
Ayodele Oni
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

By Ayodele Oni

As a follow up to the recent visit to the United States, (US) by a federal government delegation, President Bola Tinubu has approved the constitution of the Nigerian side of the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group as part of steps to deepen collaboration in tackling security challenges in the country.

Members of the delegation which included Lateef Fagbemi, Attorney General of the Federation; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff among others had visited the US to douse allegation of genocide in the country as well as seek cooperation to tackle banditry.

United States Government had affirmed its readiness to deepen security cooperation with Nigeria.

“This includes enhanced intelligence support, expedited processing of defence equipment requests, and the potential provision of excess defence articles—subject to availability—to reinforce ongoing operations against terrorists and violent extremist groups.

“The United States also expressed its willingness to extend complementary support, including humanitarian assistance to affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical support to strengthen early-warning mechanisms.

“Both countries agreed to implement immediately a non-binding cooperation framework and to establish a Joint Working Group to ensure a unified and coordinated approach to the agreed areas of cooperation.

“In return, the Nigerian delegation reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening civilian protection measures.

“The discussions provided ample opportunity to correct misconceptions about Nigeria, forged a constructive, solution-driven partnership with the United States, reinforced mutual trust, and advanced a coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities, especially in the Middle Belt.

“The Federal Government restates its awareness of heightened sensitivities regarding religious freedom and security, and urges citizens to remain assured that firm, urgent, and coordinated steps are being taken to secure the nation.”

A Statement on Thursday by Special Adviser to the President, (Information and Strategy), Bayo Onanuga stated that

“The composition of the Joint Working Group was part of the agreement reached during the recent trip to Washington, DC, by a high-level Nigerian delegation led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.”

The statement added that “Ribadu is to lead the Nigerian side of the Joint Working Group, supported by a multi-stakeholder team comprising senior officials from relevant government establishments.’

It added that “Members of the Joint Working Group include the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Others are Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Bernard M. Doro, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Amb. Mohammed Mohammed and the Inspector General of the Nigeria Police Force, Mr Kayode Egbetokun.

Ms Idayat Hassan of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and Mr Paul Alabi of the Embassy of Nigeria in the US will serve as the secretariat.

President Tinubu has urged members of the Joint Working Group to work assiduously with their US counterparts to ensure smooth operationalisation of all agreements across sectors.

Ngige Escapes Death As Gunmen Riddle Convoy With Bullets

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Chris Ngige

By Adesina Soyooye

Dr. Chris Ngige, the immediate past Federal Minister for Labour escaped death in his home State when his convoy was attacked by gunmen.

The attack left one woman who was recording the attack dead, and a couple of others, including a policeman and the driver of the escort vehicle, badly injured.

The convoy ran into the ambush along the  Nkpor–Nnobi Road in Idemili North Local Government Area.

Eye witnesses said the assailants were dressed in military and police uniforms. They opened fire on the pilot vehicle, and killed a policeman whose rifle and uniform they allegedly carted away.

The ill-fated woman was  reportedly recording the incident with her mobile phone when she was shot dead.

An owner of a shop who rushed out to see what was happening was hit by bullets. He sustained severe injuries, which resulted in loss of a lot of  blood. He is  scheduled for surgery to remove bullet fragments, and mercifully, in stable condition.

The leader of the escort sustained gunshot injuries and has  undergone surgery. He is stable and will have full recovery.

Luckily for Dr. Ngige, who was a Governor of the State before the Supreme Court sacked him, he was not in the convoy at the time of the attack.

A statement by his former Chief Press Secretary,  Fred Chukwuelobe, confirmed the frightening incident. “I spoke with His Excellency, Dr. Ngige, who confirmed the attack and assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure adequate medical care for the injured. He also extended condolences to the family of the woman who was killed while recording the attack”, he said.

At the time of filing this story, there has been no statement from either the Police or tye State Government.

Jonathan Safe, Departs Guinea Bissau – FG

By
Ayodele Oni
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Goodluck Jonathan
Dr. Goodluck Jonathan:

By Ayodele Oni

The Federal Government of Nigeria has assured of not only the safety of former President Goodluck Jonathan, but confirmed he has departed the Coup D’etat infested Guinea Bissau.

Jonathan was trapped in Guinea-Bissau due to military takeover of government.

He was in the country as part of a joint election observer mission deployed by the African Union (AU), ECOWAS, and the West African Elders Forum (WAEF), whose founder he is before the Military struck.

However, he has been moved under military protection as tensions escalated in the country and, is on his way back to Nigeria, aboard a special flight. Other members of his delegation, also joined him on same flight.

The military takeover occurred after both incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and opposition candidate Fernando Dias declared themselves winners of Sunday’s presidential election, even though official results had not been released.

Nigeria’s  House of Representatives, at its plenary on Thursday, asked the Federal Government to explore diplomatic and every other measures to facilitate the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance moved by the House Leader, Prof Julius Ihonvbere.

Ihonvbere informed the House that Jonathan, who was in the country on election observation was trapped following the coup, saying, the government should explore ways of ensuring his safe return.

The Nigerian leader alongside hundreds of foreign observers were trapped on Wednesday after the military took over, while result of the elections were about to be officially declared.

Report stated that hundreds of foreign observers who raced to the airport in a bid to leave the country after the coup was announced are currently stranded.

A group of military officers claimed “total control” of the country, a day after two leading candidates – President Umaro Sissoco Embalo and Fernando Dias – each declared victory.

Calling themselves the “High Military Command for the Restoration of Order”, the officers ordered the immediate suspension of the electoral process “until further notice”.

They also ordered the closure of all land, air and sea borders and an overnight curfew.

Nnamdi Kalu: Court Withholds Warrant To Transport To Abuja, Brother Alleges

By
The Source
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Nnamdi Kanu
Mazi Nnamdi Kanu

By By Gideon Njoku

Emmanuel, younger brother to the jailed Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, has accused the Federal High Court of refusing to sign a warrant to authorise his  transportation from Sokoto to Abuja to enable him perfect paperwork for his appeal.

Kanu was on November 20, 2025, sentenced to life imprisonment by a Federal High Court Abuja, presided over by the Honourable Justice James Omotosho. He was prosecuted by the Federal Government on terrorism related issues and other sundry matters. After his conviction and sentencing, he was moved from the custody of the Department of State Services where he had been since 2021, to Sokoto Correctional Centre.

However, before his conviction, he had filed an appeal against the deliverance of the November 20 judgement.

But since he is in Sokoto, he would need a warrant from the Court to enable his transportation to Abuja.

According to Emmanuel, the settlement of records at the Registry of the Federal High Court is a must procedure for filing appeals at the Court of Appeal.

Emmanuel, on Thursday morning, showed  copies of the summons issued by the registrar of the Abuja Federal High Court, which  directed the IPOB leader to appear on November 28, 2025, for the appeal records settlement. But the  warrant has not been granted.

Emmanuel: “This is a summons to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to appear on November 28 at the Federal High Court in Abuja for the settlement of records regarding the appeal he filed prior to the November 20 judgment.

“A production warrant is required for the Sokoto Prison to transport him to Abuja, but the Court declined to issue it.”

The said summons was dated November 11, 2025, and signed by Ojonugwa Thomas, Principal Registrar 1. It read: “Summons to parties by Registrar to settle records (In compliance with Order 8 Rule 2 of the Court of Appeal Rules, 2021).

“Take notice that all parties concerned are required to appear before me at the Appeal Section of the Federal High Court Headquarters, Plot 1048 (710), Cadastral Zone A100, Off Shehu Shagari Way, Central Business District, Abuja, on 28th day of November, 2025, at the hour of 11:00 am, to proceed with settlement of record of appeal therein.”

The appeal,  numbered FHC/ABJ/CR/383/2025, is between Nnamdi Kanu, appellant, and Federal Republic of Nigeria. He is the appellant while the Federal Government is the respondent.

Withdrawal Of VIPs’ Escorts: IGP Set To Redeploy 11,566 Policemen

By
Ayodele Oni
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Nigerian Police

By Ayodele Oni

It has been revealed that not less than 11,566 Police personnel will be affected by President Bola Tinubu’s directive to redeploy policemen attached to Very Important Personnel, (VIP) in the country.

President Tinubu had given the directive following escalating banditry which led to abduction of School Children in Kebbi and Niger states, while church members were kidnapped in Kwara state. Some of the victims had been released and reunited with their families.

Report revealed that the Nigeria Police Force has an estimated 371,800 officers with over 200,000 of them serving the political elites, leaving 171,800 to Police 236.7million Nigerians.

Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, confirmed the recall of 11,566 police personnel and revealed that their redeployment to underserved and vulnerable communities across the country has commenced.

According to the IGP, the move aligns with ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening internal security, enhancing community policing, and ensuring a more equitable distribution of manpower nationwide.

He noted that the redeployed officers will boost security presence in rural and high-risk areas that have long suffered from inadequate policing.

The measure is expected to improve response time, deepen community engagement, and support ongoing operations against criminal networks.

The IGP reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to professional service delivery, stressing that the redeployment is part of a broader strategy to enhance public safety and ensure that every community—regardless of size or location—receives adequate security coverage.

He assured Nigerians that more reforms are underway to reposition the police force for improved efficiency and accountability.

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