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Corruption Hindering Nigeria’s Dev, EFCC Boss Says; Malami Spends Christmas In Detention

By
James Orji
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Ola Olukoyede - EFCC Chairman
Ola Olukoyede, EFCC Chairman

Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC has bemoaned the effects of corruption on Nigeria, saying graft has prevented the country from fulfilling its God-given potentials.

The EFCC boss made the remark in his Christmas message to Nigerians, who joined their counterparts all over the world in celebrating Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ the Savior of Mankind.

According to Olukoyede, God’s blessing will continue to elude the country so long corruption persists.

Olukoyede said, “Let’s join hands together to make our nation greater, stronger and richer. Corruption is a drawback. We should confront it more fiercely to allow the abundant life of God manifest in our nation.”

The magazine reports that the anti-graft agency has stepped up the war against graft in the country in the last few weeks, after arresting some high profile Nigerians who were alleged to have corruptly enriched themselves form the public patrimony.

Among those arrested in the last one month include, former Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige and Abubakar Malami, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN and former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the federation.

The former Nigerian chief Law Officer was alleged by the EFCC to have illegally acquired properties worth over N200 billion while he served under the administration of the late Muhammadu Buhari.

Malami has now being charged by the anti-graft agency even though he has denied the allegations.

In the 16 count charge, the EFCC accused the former AGF, his  first wife, Hajia Asabe, and his son  of fraudulently acquiring multiple properties and funelling billions of naira through bank accounts in Abuja, Knao and Kebbi states. Over 40 properties , the EFCC alleged was acquired by Malami between 2015 and 2025.

Their actions, the anti-graft agency said  were in violation of the Money Laundering (Prohibition and Prevention) Acts of 2011 (as amended) and 2022.

Allegations Against Malami

In count one, the EFCC alleged that between July 2022 and June 2025, Mr Malami and his son directed Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited to conceal over N1 billion (N1,014,848,500) in a Sterling Bank account, knowing the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity.

Count two states that between September 2020 and February 2021, the duo allegedly concealed more than N600 million (N600,013,460.40) through the same company.

In count three, the commission alleged that in March 2021, Mr Malami and his son retained N600 million as cash collateral for a N500 million Sterling Bank loan to Rayhaan Hotels Ltd, despite knowing the funds were illicit.

Count four alleges that in November 2022, Mr Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe disguised N500 million used to purchase a luxury duplex in Maitama, Abuja.

In count five, the EFCC claimed that between November 2022 and September 2024, the trio conspired to conceal N1,049,173,926.13 paid through Meethaq Hotels Ltd’s Union Bank account.

Count six states that between November 2022 and October 2025, Mr Malami and his son allegedly took control of N1,362,887,872.96 from the same account, knowing it was illicit.

Count seven alleges that in November–December 2018, Mr Malami and Mrs Asabe concealed N700 million used to purchase No 3 Onitsha Crescent, Garki Abuja.  (Hamonia Hotels Ltd).

In count eight, between September and December 2020, the duo and Mrs Asabe allegedly concealed N850 million to buy a property in Jabi District, Abuja (Meethaq Hotels Ltd).

Count nine states that in February 2018, Malami and Hajia Bashir acquired No. 3 Rhine Street, Maitama, Abuja for N430 million, allegedly from unlawful sources.

In count 10, the pair allegedly concealed N210 million in February 2018 to purchase a property in Asokoro District, Abuja.

Count 11 alleges that between March and June 2021, they concealed N325 million used to acquire No. 1241B Asokoro District, Abuja.

In count 12, the EFCC stated that between November 2015 and January 2016, the duo concealed N120 million used to purchase No. 27 Efab Estate, Gwarinpa, Abuja.

Count 13 alleges that in November 2022, Mr Malami, his son, and Mrs Asabe conspired to hide funds used to acquire a luxury duplex at Amazon Street, Maitama, Abuja.

In count 14, between December 2016 and April 2022, Malami, Mrs Asabe, and others allegedly conspired to acquire additional properties for Mr Malami with proceeds of unlawful activity.

Count 15 states that between June 2023 and January 2023, Mr Malami allegedly concealed N537 million used to purchase multiple properties across Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano.

Finally, in count 16, the EFCC alleged that between October 2018 and December 2021, Mr Malami concealed N415 million used to acquire several properties in Abuja, Kebbi, and Kano.

The case filed by the EFCC at the Federal High court, Abuja has been adjourned to January 15, 2026 for hearing.

Bishop Kukah To Christians: Violence Cannot Defeat Violence

By
James Orji
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Dr Mathew Hassan Kukah

Most Rev. Mathew Hassan Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese has urged Christians in the country not to resort to violence in the face of persecution against them, believers, he said must rely on faith, prayer and moral witness to defeat their enemies.

The Catholic Bishop made the admonition in his 2025 Christmas message to Nigerians, titled “Joy and Hope in a Time of Tribulation.”

His message comes on the heels of the backlash he received from not a few Nigerians after he argued that Christians are not being persecuted in the country.

He made the comment after the United States President, Donald Trump warned the federal government to stop Christians genocide in the country, failure which he would be forced to act militarily. The US leader also threatened to impose economic sanctions on Nigeria, part from withdrawing aids to the country, if perpetrators of violence in the country were not reined in.

Kukah, in his reaction had said that Christians were not the only subject of attacks by terrorists, he also downplayed the need for President Trump to intervene.

In his Christmas message he shared on his social media platforms on Thursday, the Bishop noted that “Violence cannot defeat violence,” urging Christians not to worry as a result of the persecution they are facing, saying history has shown that the faith has outlived centuries of violence and attacks against their belief.

He stressed that the birth of Jesus Christ as the Lord and savior of the world is a beacon of hope for mankind in the darkest moments which “darkness cannot overcome.”

He called for a peaceful co-existence among Nigerians calling on the people to unite and put an end to division and hatred in the country, adding that the challenges facing the country will be overcome if everybody works together. .

Kukah: “We have buried our dead together. We have mourned together

“We must hold together in darkness so we can welcome the light together.”

2025 Christmas Message: Jonathan Urges Hope, Unity, and Resilience

By
The Source
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Goodluck Jonathan

Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to Nigerians and friends of Nigeria around the world, calling on citizens to embrace hope, unity, and a renewed commitment to the nation’s shared destiny.

In his 2025 Christmas goodwill message, Dr. Jonathan reflected on the profound significance of Christmas as the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and God’s enduring promise of redemption and peace, urging citizens to draw strength from faith, hope, and unity amid ongoing national challenges.

“Christmas is a season that reminds us of the power of faith, humility, and selfless service, and of the enduring light that shines even in times of uncertainty,” he said.

Acknowledging the economic and social difficulties confronting many Nigerians, the former President urged citizens not to surrender to despair but to remain hopeful and resilient.

“The history of faith teaches us that hope is most powerful when it is tested. Just as the birth of Christ brought a new dawn to a world in search of direction, our collective faith and resilience will see us triumph over our present trials,” Dr. Jonathan stated.

He further emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and national cohesion, describing them as Nigeria’s greatest strengths.

“Our shared humanity and our willingness to live with compassion, mutual respect, and responsibility toward one another remain the foundation of a stronger nation,” he noted, calling on Nigerians to use the Christmas season to promote understanding and goodwill.

Dr. Jonathan concluded by wishing all Nigerians a season filled with peace, joy, and hope.

“Merry Christmas, and may the New Year bring renewed blessings to our nation,” he said.

Ikechukwu Eze

Special Adviser to H.E. Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

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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Abubakar Malami
Mr Abubakar Malami, SAN

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

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