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N1.5 Billion Diversion: Governor Nwifuru To Punish SSG

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Prof Grace Umezuruike

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, on Sunday, July 20, 2025, vowed to visit the full weight of the law on the Secretary to the State Government, SSG,  Prof Grace Umezuruike, should she  be found wanting in an  alleged diversion of state’s funds.

This is just as he affirmed his readiness to further reshuffle the cabinet, should the need  arises.

The Source reports that some Concerned Ebonyians led by one Nwoba Chika ,a social critic, had recently forwarded a formal petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFFC , accusing the SSG of diverting the sum of N 1.5 billion meant for the purchase of  rice and other essential items for some categories of citizens during the 2024 Christmas celebration.

According to the petitioners, the SSG, rather than utilizing the funds for the Christmas palliatives, diverted the money into a private account.

Already, the EFCC is said to have secured a temporary order at a Federal High Court in Uyo Akwa Ibom State, for the said funds to be forfeited.

However, while reacting to the development on Sunday, Governor Nwifuru assured that the State Government will take appropriate actions once the final court judgment is out.

At a Church Service in Abakaliki, the State capital, the Governor informed he is monitoring the situation, particularly the Court process, and will not hesitate to wield the big stick.

“I received the news of a publication which was already before the Federal High Court Uyo about our Secretary to the State Government.

She is presumed innocent until investigation proves otherwise. I am a lawyer, and I know it is imperative to establish the facts before judgment to avoid setting wrong precedents”,

Governor Nwifuru stated .

The Governor, who recently effected some changes within his cabinet said he was dissatisfied and disappointed with the  performances of some of the appointees .

He expressed regret that some of them failed woefully to deliver on the administration’s mandate.

“We are worried that the vision statement as contained in our people’s charter of needs has not been satisfactorily realized which accounted for the minor reshuffle we did.

Our mission and vision are explicit, and that was why the people voted for us. However, we are still assessing them (appointees) and we shall do the needful if the need arises, Governor Nwifuru stated.

Katsina Gov. Discharged from Hospital, Under Observation, Reveals How He Survived Accident

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Governor Dikko Radda Accident

By Adesina Soyooye

Katsina State Governor, Dr Dikko Radda, whose vehicle was involved in a head-on collusion with a Golf car on Sunday, has thanked Allah for surviving what could have been worse than it turned out to be.

Discharged from the hospital where he and two others were rushed to after the incident, Governor Dikko  said he was now home and under observation to make sure everything is okay with him.

The Governor’s vehicle was involved in a head-on collision with a Golf car, Sunday evening on the Daura-Katsina road.

At the time of the accident, the Governor, who was  together with his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Abdulkadir Mamman-Nasir, and one other, was rushed, along with his company, to the Federal Medical Center, Daura, and later taken to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina where they were finally treated.

Mr Ibrahim Kaula-Mohammed, the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, in a statement on Monday said  that Radda  expresses his gratitude to the people of the State for their concerns and fervent prayers.

He said that the Governor,  in a short live video, said he was at his residence after undergoing preliminary observations.

The statement reads:

“Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim. Dear brothers and sisters of Katsina State and beyond, we are deeply grateful for all your prayers and concerns.

“By the will of Allah, we were tested with a car accident—but Alhamdulillah, we came out safe and unharmed.”

The Governor who said he was in good health assured that being under observation “ is just to make sure that everything is fine, and by His Grace, I am doing well.

“I’m pleased to confirm that I remain in good health and high spirits.

“Once again, thank you for your heartfelt prayers.”

In an earlier statement on Sunday, Kaula-Mohammed had informed:

“We are pleased to confirm that the governor is in good health and stable condition, with no serious injuries sustained.

“Radda remains in high spirits and expresses his gratitude to Almighty Allah for His protection, as well as Katsina citizens and well-wishers for their prayers and concerns.”

Recall that Governor Radda wept openly during the funeral of late President, Muhammadu Buhari, who was not only from his State, but with whom he had a very close family relationship with.

Presidency: IBB’s Son, Muhammed, Accepted Appointment As BOA Chairman

By
Ayodele Oni
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IBB Son and Bola Tinubu

By Ayodele Oni

Muhammed Babangida, son of former Military President, Gen Ibrahim Babangida, has officially accepted his appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), expressing deep gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the trust placed in him.

This contradicts the news circulating Online that he turned down the offer.

A statement signed by Dada Olusegun, Special Assistant to President Bola  Tinubu on Social Media, and released on Monday, dismissed as false and malicious the reports circulating online story that Babangida jnr,  rejected the appointment.

He described such claims as a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and tarnish the image of the Tinubu administration.

“We wish to clarify that Muhammed gratefully accepts the appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture, as announced by the Federal Government, and extends his sincere appreciation to President Tinubu for the trust and confidence placed in him,” the statement read in part.

It further assured the public that those behind the false reports would be identified and held accountable.

“We also want to assure the public that those spreading these falsehoods will be thoroughly investigated and brought to justice. We remain committed to transparency, accountability, and fostering unity within our nation,” it added.

The statement concluded with a call to Nigerians to remain discerning and to verify information from credible sources.

Muhammed Babangida’s appointment was among several strategic appointments approved by President Tinubu to strengthen leadership across key Government institutions.

Again, Fani-Kayode Marries Another Igbo Beauty

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Fani-Kayode Marries Another Igbo Beauty

By Akinwale Kasali

Femi Fani-Kayode, former Aviation Minister and Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has married another beauty from Igboland.

The former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chieftain entered his third marriage by marrying 29-year Old Adaugo.

The ceremony held recently, marked the traditional marriage between Fani-Kayode and his newly wedded wife.

It was gathered that the former Minister and Adaugo have been dating for over two years.

Adaugo hails from Abia State and runs a thriving interior design business.

She is a devout Pentecostal Christian, a graduate of one of the top private universities in the country and is described by those who know her as a kind, gentle and highly respectful soul that prefers to keeps a low profile and that shies away from publicity.

Fani-Kayode’s first wife, Regina, is a Ghanaian ex-Beauty Queen who lives in Accra where she runs her businesses and is deeply involved in Christian ministry.

She is said to be a strong Evangelical Christian and friends say she has immense influence over FFK who never takes a major decision without her.

Together, they share a daughter.

Despite the distance the two have maintained love, mutual respect and a strong bond grounded in spiritual understanding and a shared history.

His second wife, the ex-beauty Queen Precious Chikwendu, with whom he shares four sons, also remains a prominent figure in his life.

Though officially divorced, their relationship has evolved into one of rare cordiality.

She reportedly enjoys unrestricted access to their sons and remains warmly embraced within his inner circle.

The arrival of Adaugo into the Fani-Kayode family has been received in good spirits, with sources confirming that the environment around the former Minister is one of peace, mutual respect and emotional maturity.

Insiders say that Fani-Kayode has worked intentionally to ensure harmony among his wives, former and present—a rare but commendable approach that has earned him quiet praise from those who know him well

Presidency Accuses UK Conservative Party Leader, Badenoch, Of Spreading Falsehood About Nigeria

By
Ayodele Oni
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Kemi Badenoch

By Ayodele Oni

Presidency has warned United Kingdom, (UK) Business Secretary and leader of Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, to stop misleading the public about Nigeria’s laws and institutions.

Presidential aide, Dada Olusegun, criticised Badenoch over her recent remarks on Nigerian citizenship laws, accusing her of spreading misinformation and maligning her country of origin.

During a CNN interview with Fareed Zakaria on Sunday, Badenoch claimed she could not pass on Nigerian citizenship to her children because she is a woman.

She compared this to the relative ease of acquiring British citizenship, saying:

“It’s virtually impossible, for example, to get Nigerian citizenship.

“I have that citizenship by virtue of my parents. I can’t give it to my children because I’m a woman… Yet loads of Nigerians come to the UK and acquire British citizenship. We need to stop being naive.”

In response, Olusegun took to his X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday, calling her comments untrue and damaging to Nigeria’s image.

“Aunty @KemiBadenoch, why do you continue to lie against your motherland? Why this continuous, dangerous, and desperate attempt to malign Nigeria?”, he wrote.

Citing Section 25(1)(c) of the 1999 Constitution, Olusegun explained that any child born outside Nigeria to either a Nigerian father or mother is automatically a citizen by birth. He emphasised that gender does not limit this right.

Legal experts also backed this position, stating that Nigerian citizenship can be inherited from either parent, provided the parent is a citizen by birth.

Gender distinctions, they noted, are only relevant when it comes to foreign spouses—where Nigerian law allows foreign women married to Nigerian men to apply for citizenship by registration, but not vice versa.

Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Badenoch spent part of her childhood in Lagos before returning to the UK at 16. She is married to a Scottish banker and has three children.

Communal Conflict: Group Deplores Government’s Repressive Tactics

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Action Group Coalition (1)

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

A Coalition of South East  Civil Society Organizations, under the aegis of Action Group on Free Civic Space, AGFCS, on Monday, July 21, 2025, flayed what it called, the continued incarceration and unjust trial of  human rights activist, Emmanuel Acha, over the festering, but bloody Effium/ Ezza communal clashes in Ebonyi State.

This is as it called on Governor Francis Nwifuru to immediately halt all legal processes filed against Acha, including  his trial on trumped-up charges bordering on murder and illegal possession of firearms

The Source reports that Acha, an indigene of Ebonyi State, and Chairman of the Enugu state Chapter of Civil Society Network CSN, has been in detention for the past three months after his arrest in Enugu by Ebonyi State Police personnel.

The AGFCS, at a media  briefing in Aba on Monday, addressed by its team leader, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, alleged that Acha was, in April, arrested and subsequently transfered from Enugu to Abakaliki Custodial Centre, allegedly, on the directives of Governor Nwifuru.

“According to his family and close associates, his arrest was orchestrated in obvious retaliation to a civil suit he filed in December 2024, challenging Government’s actions in relation to the protracted Effuim/Ezza land dispute in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi.state.

“This land conflict which escalated into inter-communal violence in 2021, has drawn multiple State interventions including the 2023 ceasefire agreement, the 2024 Bishop Michael N Okoro Peace Committee, and the 2025 amnesty and deradicalization programme.

“While we commend these peace measures ,we strongly condemn the use of state power ,and police machineries to punish dissenting voices under the guise of conflict resolution”, the Coalition stated.

The group expressed deep concern over the ongoing clampdown on civic space and human rights in Ebonyi state particularly “the  unjust arrest , inhumane treatment ,and politically motivated prosecution of Acha.”

According to AGFCS, the plight of Acha, who is currently facing trumped charges in court, including murder allegation, does not only reflect a dangerous regression in the country’s democratic values, but, also, demonstrates the length to which state state and non-state actors can go to silence lawful dissent.

The Coalition regretted that the Ebonyi State Government rather than engaging with dissenting voices in the communal conflicts, has chosen coercion and repression.

“Detaining Acha for over three months now without bail, and also arraigning him on trumped-up charges, which include allegations of illegal firearms possession and murder, is to say the least repressive and unjust.

“Curiously, he has been arraigned before a judge allegedly from a rival community involved in the Effium/Ezza communal conflict– a development that raises serious questions and concern about judicial impartiality

” Upon his arrest , Emmanuel Acha was subjected to physical assault ,and psychological torment, allegedly, in the hands of Police officers, one of whom is of Ezza descent.

“No incriminating materials were found on him or at his home ,and his arrest was not based on any judicial warrant.

“These actions contravene Sections 34,35, and 39 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees the right to dignity, personal liberty, and freedom of expression.

“He has now spent over three months in detention without adequate medical care, and in violation of due process. This is a clear case of political persecution disguised as criminal prosecution”, AGFCS stated.

Accordingly, the group called on the Ebonyi State Governor, and other relevant authorities to take immediate steps to grant unconditional freedom to the human rights activist.

“We also call for accountability for all  public officials, and police personnel who have abused their powers and violated the rights of Emmanuel Acha.

“Government should also withdraw  all politically motivated charges and ensure that any proceedings follow due process ,as well as pass the impartiality test.

“The Ebonyi State Government should, as a matter of urgent necessity, invite independent mediators, civil society organizations and international observers to monitor the implementation of the Ebonyi state White Paper on the Effium/Ezza communal conflict- ,as part of an inclusive, and just peace process”, the group noted.

Kano JSC Demotes Registrar For Forgery, Clerk For Absenteeism

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Judiciary and Court

By Ayodele Oni

The Kano State Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has approved the demotion of a Court Registrar, Adamu Salisu, for forgery and falsification of affidavits of service.

Also sanctioned is a Court Clerk demoted from grade level five to four for absenting himself from work.

This is contained in a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Kano State Judiciary, Baba Jibo-Ibrahim in Kano.

He explained that the decision was part of the resolutions reached at the JSC’s 84th meeting.

Jibo-Ibrahim stated after deliberations, the commission demoted Salisu from Grade Level 13 to Grade Level 12 and removed him from his position as Registrar in charge of High Court No. 13.

“He was also issued a strong warning to desist from any further unethical conduct or influencing others to commit similar acts, failing which stricter sanctions including criminal prosecution will be taken against him,” he added

The action, he said, was taken in line with the JSC’s mandate to uphold integrity and discipline within the judicial arm of government.

“Salisu forged the signature of a bailiff and unlawfully signed documents as a Commissioner for Oaths. He admitted guilt and was found liable for gross misconduct,” he said.

He also said that Yusuf Ayuba, a Clerical Assistant attached to High Court No. 8, Miller Road, was investigated by the Judiciary Public Complaints Committee (JPCC) and found to have absented himself from his duty post without justification for four months.

“The commission demoted him from Grade Level 5 to Grade Level 4 as punishment for gross misconduct,” Jibo-brahim stated.

He added that the sanctions were intended to serve as a deterrent to other staff and curb absenteeism within the judiciary staff.

“The commission reiterates its non- tolerance policy on misconduct and reaffirms its commitment to enforcing discipline, accountability and professional ethics across all cadres of the judiciary.”

Why Abuja Court Rejected  Yahaya Bello’s Request To Travel Abroad For Medicals

By
Ayodele Oni
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Yahaya Bello

By Ayodele Oni

A Federal High Court in Abuja has faulted the medical report submitted by former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello to support his request to travel abroad to see his doctors.

The court, which delivered judgement on Monday, faulted the report and hence rejected the application of Bello, seeking the release of his international passport to enable him to travel overseas for medical care.

Justice Emeka Nwite ruled against the request, stating that the medical report submitted in support of the application lacked credibility as it was not signed by the issuing doctor, rendering it inadmissible.

Bello is currently standing trial on an alleged N80.2 billion fraud brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He had asked the court to permit him to retrieve his passport in order to receive treatment in the United Kingdom.

He had also made a similar request before the FCT High Court in Maitama, where he is facing related charges before Justice Maryanne Anenih.

However, the judge in that case pointed out that the passport was in the custody of the Federal High Court and not available for her court to release, making the application ineffective.

The EFCC opposed Bello’s application, describing it as an abuse of court process due to similar requests being made in two different courts at the same time, potentially leading to conflicting rulings.

Delivering his decision, Justice Nwite disagreed with the EFCC on the issue of abuse of process, noting that both courts had previously granted the defendant bail and were of coordinate jurisdiction.

He also dismissed the argument that Bello’s sureties should have been involved in the motion, pointing out that no law—local or international—requires their inclusion in such an application.

However, the judge ruled that the unsigned medical document submitted by Bello’s legal team could not be considered valid.

The Judge declared that “The unsigned document has no probative value and cannot be relied upon.”

As a result, he concluded that Bello had not presented sufficient grounds to warrant the release of his passport and dismissed the application.

The case has been adjourned to continue on October 7, 10, and November 10 and 11, 2025.

“Wike Will Be Disaster As VP, He Could Slap His Boss” – Amb. Kwande

By
The Source
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Ambassador Yahaya Kwande and Nyesom Wike

By Gideon Njoku

A former Nigerian Ambassador to Switzerland, Yahaya Kwande, has said he is not averse to any Igbo man becoming Vice President to Atiku Abubakar in the event he runs and wins the 2027 Presidential election.

The only person he disclosed he would not be comfortable with is Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

Kwande said this in an interview he granted Trust Television when he was asked about the prospect of Atiku choosing an Igbo running mate against 2027.

He told his interviewer that the only person he would be uncomfortable with is Wike. When asked why, he said the FCT Minister could, one day, go physical with the President, considering his temperament.

Kwande’s words: “An Igbo is a Nigerian. He has a right. But the rest of Nigeria is studying to see how far he gets. As second, number two can’t be number one in activities. He is  deputy.

“The only person I’m afraid of is Wike. To me, Wike, as a Vice President to any President in Nigeria in the future, I believe one day he will start slapping the President with the way he is going.”

For the records, however, Wike has consistently emphasised he is not an Igbo man.

Sowore Leads Retired Police Officers Protest In Abuja

By
Ayodele Oni
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Sowore Lead Police Protest in Abuja

By Ayodele Oni

True to their threat, retired police officers took to the streets of Abuja on Monday in a peaceful protest to draw attention to the poor welfare conditions of serving and retired members of the Nigeria Police Force.

The protest was led by the Convener of the Revolution Now Movement, Omoyele Sowore. He joined the retirees to demand urgent intervention from the Federal Government.

Early report monitored on Channels Television stated that they expressed displeasure over what they described as years of neglect, non-payment of pensions, and poor treatment of officers who had served the nation diligently.

Sowore, speaking during the protest, called on the Government to recognise the sacrifices made by Police Officers and ensure that their welfare was prioritised.

The protesters also warned that if the government failed to respond promptly, they would sustain their action until their demands are met.

In Taraba State, the retirees staged a protest with banners and placards in Jalingo, the State capital.

Among other demands, they called for an exit from the Police Contributory Pension Scheme.

The inscriptions on some of the placards read, ‘We demand total exit from the deadly Police Contributory Pension Scheme,’ Scrap police contribution pension scheme,’ and ‘We need our full gratuity’.

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, had on Sunday directed all Commissioners of Police across the country and in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to provide maximum security for the planned peaceful protest by retired police officers.

Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this in a statement.

He also cautioned against the spread of misinformation surrounding the protests scheduled to be held nationwide on Monday.

“The IGP has ordered that the rights of our retired officers who have chosen to protest must be protected, and the protest should serve as a model of dignified expression of grievance,” the Force spokesman said.

The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) had also advised against the protest.

PCRC stated that “We categorically distance ourselves from, and condemn in its entirety, the proposed protest being reportedly organised by Mr. Omoyele Sowore or any other group purporting to act on behalf of retired police officers.

“As a critical bridge between the Nigeria Police Force and the communities it serves, the PCRC recognises the visible and impactful strides made under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun.”

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