Daybreak, Politics, Entertainment, Sport

Author: Abigail David

  • JUST IN: EFCC Transfers Emefiele’s Forfeited 753 Housing Units to Federal Government

    JUST IN: EFCC Transfers Emefiele’s Forfeited 753 Housing Units to Federal Government

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has officially handed over a 753-unit housing estate, forfeited by former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele, to the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.

    EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, conducted the handover on Tuesday at the Ministry’s headquarters in Mabushi, Abuja, presenting the estate to the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Dangiwa.

    Minister Dangiwa praised the EFCC for its unwavering efforts in the fight against corruption and the recovery of public assets. He noted that the handover marks a key moment in the government’s drive to repurpose recovered assets for public benefit.

    “This development represents a milestone in ensuring that recovered assets serve the Nigerian people. The estate recovered from the former CBN Governor is a prime example,” Dangiwa stated.

    He revealed that the Ministry would conduct thorough integrity and structural assessments of the buildings and infrastructure to confirm their safety and suitability for habitation. A comprehensive technical evaluation will also be carried out to determine the cost of completing pending infrastructure such as perimeter fencing, internal roads, drainage, a police post, shopping areas, and recreational facilities.

    According to Dangiwa, the housing units will be offered for sale to the public and for other government needs. The public sale will be done transparently through nationwide advertisements and via the Renewed Hope Portal, where Nigerians can express interest.

    In his remarks, EFCC Chairman Olukoyede said the handover reflects the tangible outcomes of the anti-corruption campaign under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He explained that the estate, located on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja, spans over 150,462 square meters and contains hundreds of housing units.

    Olukoyede emphasized the importance of transparency in handling recovered assets, stressing President Tinubu’s directive to transfer the estate to the Housing Ministry for proper use.

    “It is crucial that Nigerians see how recovered proceeds of crime are utilized, ensuring that looted assets are not looted again,” he stated.

  • UNICAL Expels Student for Alleged Phone Theft

    The University of Calabar has expelled a student from the Department of Public Health over alleged involvement in a phone theft incident.

    According to a statement issued on Monday by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Dr. Chukwuka Icha, the decision followed a thorough investigation by the Senate Students Disciplinary Committee (SSDC), which found the student guilty.

    “The Vice Chancellor has received the report of the Senate Students Disciplinary Committee, which investigated an alleged case of phone theft during the 2023/2024 academic session. Senate has approved the recommendation of the SSDC that you be expelled from the university for phone theft,” the statement read.

    The university has directed key officials—including the Provost of the College of Medical Sciences, the Head of the Department of Medicine and Surgery, and the Chief Security Officer—to implement the expulsion immediately.

    Vice Chancellor Prof. Florence Obi and the university management emphasized their commitment to maintaining discipline and integrity, reiterating a zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct.

    Efforts to reach the expelled student for comment were unsuccessful. Attempts to contact Prof. Obi were also unsuccessful, as her phone lines were unreachable at the time of filing this report.

  • CBN retains 27.50% interest rate again

    CBN retains 27.50% interest rate again

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has once again retained the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) at 27.50%, marking the second consecutive time the rate has been held steady in 2025. The decision was announced by CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, following the 300th meeting of the bank’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC).

    This pause follows a series of six rate hikes in 2024, as the apex bank intensified efforts to combat inflation and stabilize the economy.

    Cardoso said the committee was unanimous in its decision to maintain the current rate, noting that the pause would allow members to better assess short-term economic developments. Other key monetary parameters were also left unchanged: the asymmetric corridor around the MPR at +500/-100 basis points, the Cash Reserve Ratio for Deposit Money Banks at 50.00%, for Merchant Banks at 16.00%, and the Liquidity Ratio at 30.00%.

    The decision was influenced by improvements in macroeconomic indicators. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics showed headline inflation dropped to 23.71% in April 2025 from 24.23% in March. Month-on-month inflation also declined sharply to 1.86% from 3.9%. Food inflation eased to 21.26%, while core inflation dropped to 23.39% from 24.43%.

    Cardoso expressed cautious optimism, citing government efforts to boost food supply and address insecurity in agricultural areas. However, the MPC raised concerns over persistent inflationary pressures stemming from high electricity costs, strong foreign exchange demand, and structural economic challenges.

    The committee welcomed ongoing government reforms aimed at increasing domestic production and reducing forex dependency. It also encouraged continued CBN efforts to strengthen investor confidence in the foreign exchange market.

    Nigeria’s external reserves rose by 2.85% to $38.90 billion as of May 16, 2025, up from $37.82 billion at the end of March, providing 7.6 months of import cover. The CBN governor also noted a narrowing gap between official and parallel market forex rates and called on fiscal authorities to ramp up foreign exchange earnings, particularly from oil and non-oil exports.

    In terms of growth, Nigeria’s real GDP rose to 3.84% in Q4 2024, up from 3.46% in the previous quarter, driven largely by services and growth in both oil and non-oil sectors.

    However, Cardoso flagged the recent decline in global crude oil prices—caused by increased output from non-OPEC countries and uncertainties surrounding U.S. trade policy—as a potential threat to government revenue and budget execution.

    The MPC also praised the relative stability in the banking sector and emphasized the need for continued strong regulatory oversight amid ongoing recapitalisation efforts.

    “The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to policies aimed at anchoring inflation expectations and easing exchange rate pressures,” Cardoso concluded.

    The next MPC meeting is scheduled for July 21–22, 2025.

  • Stray Bullet Kills WASSCE Candidate in Ibadan

    Stray Bullet Kills WASSCE Candidate in Ibadan

    A tragic incident occurred in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Tuesday, as a stray bullet allegedly killed a student on his way to sit for the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) organized by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

    The incident took place along the Gbagi Market Road in the Egbeda Local Government Area. According to eyewitness reports, a police officer opened fire while pursuing a suspect, and a stray bullet struck the student, who was on a motorcycle with his father and twin brother en route to the examination centre.

    “He was riding with his father and twin brother when the bullet hit him. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival,” said a witness identified as Ajani.

    Another source confirmed the victim was heading to the exam centre when the tragedy occurred.

    Following the incident, angry youths carried the student’s body to the Oyo State Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, demanding justice and calling on Governor Seyi Makinde to take swift action.

    The body of the deceased has been deposited at the Adeoyo Hospital mortuary.

    As of the time of this report, the police or state authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.

  • 2025 UTME Controversy: South East Lawmakers Demand JAMB Boss Oloyede’s Resignation, Exam Cancellation

    2025 UTME Controversy: South East Lawmakers Demand JAMB Boss Oloyede’s Resignation, Exam Cancellation

    The South East Caucus in the House of Representatives has called for the resignation of the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, following widespread technical failures during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

    In a strongly worded statement issued Monday, the caucus, led by Hon. Igariwey Enwo, condemned what it described as a “catastrophic institutional failure” after nearly 380,000 candidates were directed to retake the exam due to technical glitches. The lawmakers stressed that all five states in the South East were among the worst affected.

    “On May 14, 2025, Prof. Oloyede admitted that about 379,997 candidates would have to retake the UTME due to score distortions caused by technical issues. As representatives of the South East, we are alarmed by the scale of this failure and its disproportionate impact on our region,” the statement read.

    The caucus criticized JAMB’s handling of the situation, describing it as chaotic and insensitive. They cited inadequate communication, rushed rescheduling, and clashes with ongoing WAEC examinations as major concerns. Many students reportedly received less than 48 hours’ notice to resit the exam, with some rescheduled sessions conflicting with their WAEC papers.

    “These failures have caused needless trauma for students and their families. JAMB’s response has been inadequate and reactive, not proactive or student-centered,” the lawmakers said.

    They called for:

    • Immediate cancellation of the 2025 UTME;
    • A new examination date to be set after the conclusion of WAEC and NECO exams;
    • Suspension of officials responsible for JAMB’s digital and logistics operations;
    • And the resignation of Prof. Oloyede to allow for an independent investigation and restore credibility to the examination body.

    While acknowledging Oloyede’s openness in admitting the system malfunction, the lawmakers insisted that true accountability requires more than an apology.

    “The integrity of the UTME has been compromised, and the public’s trust in JAMB has been severely eroded. The only responsible course of action is for the Registrar to step down,” the statement added.

    Citing Section 18(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which mandates the government to provide equal and adequate educational opportunities, the caucus argued that this constitutional right was effectively denied to thousands of affected candidates.

    The South East Caucus concluded by urging the federal government to treat the crisis as a national emergency and ensure that all Nigerian students, regardless of region, are given a fair and equitable chance in their academic pursuits.

  • Anti-Tinubu coalition: Peter Obi disagrees with Atiku’s camp over VP slot

    Anti-Tinubu coalition: Peter Obi disagrees with Atiku’s camp over VP slot

    Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has dismissed reports suggesting he has accepted to run as vice president to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 elections.

    Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Monday, Obi emphasized that any coalition discussions he’s involved in are not about political positions but about confronting Nigeria’s worsening social and economic conditions.

    “I’m in a coalition against hunger, poverty, and ill health — not for positions,” Obi said while donating N10 million each to an Anglican Church school and hospital project in Kubwa. “We should be talking about educating our children and improving healthcare, not power-sharing.”

    The former Anambra State governor expressed frustration over persistent corruption, which he said continues to deprive the country of resources needed for development. He advocated stronger support for faith-based institutions delivering basic education and healthcare, saying they are vital for national growth.

    Obidient Movement Denies VP Deal

    Reacting to media reports, the Obidient Movement, a support group for Obi, also denied any political pact with Atiku.

    In a statement issued by its Director of Strategic Communications, Nana Kazaure, the group described the publication as false and misleading.

    “There is no truth whatsoever to claims that Peter Obi has agreed to run as Atiku’s vice in a proposed coalition,” Kazaure said. “Our focus is not on power for its own sake, but on delivering real change for Nigerians.”

    Kazaure stressed that any updates about Obi’s political moves would come directly from him, urging Nigerians and the media to avoid speculative reporting.

    Atiku Camp: Coalition Talks Ongoing, Details Yet to Be Finalized

    Meanwhile, Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, confirmed that discussions are underway among key opposition figures — including Obi and Atiku — to form a united front ahead of 2027.

    “Substantial progress has been made,” Ibe said. “But specific details, including any power-sharing arrangements, are still being finalized. Everyone is working hard to build a viable coalition.”

    He added that the leaders are deliberately keeping details confidential until the process is complete.

    ADC Opens Doors for New Entrants

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC), which is being considered as a potential platform for the opposition coalition, is revising its internal rules to welcome new political players.

    Party chairman, Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu, announced that he will step down to allow new leadership and that the party will ease restrictions for newcomers seeking to contest elections.

    “Previously, members had to wait two years before contesting under our banner. That has changed,” he said, signaling the ADC’s readiness to serve as a unifying platform for the coalition.

    As talks continue behind closed doors, the opposition’s goal appears clear: forge a united alliance to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

  • Borno: Boko Haram, ISWAP Kill 90 Farmers in Five Months in Renewed Attacks

    Borno: Boko Haram, ISWAP Kill 90 Farmers in Five Months in Renewed Attacks

    At least 90 farmers and fishermen have been killed in the past five months in two deadly attacks linked to Boko Haram and its splinter group, the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP), in the Lake Chad region of Borno State.

    According to local and security sources, the attacks occurred between January and May 2025, with the most recent taking place on May 15 at Malam Karanti in Kukawa Local Government Area. ISWAP fighters reportedly stormed a bean field, killing over 50 farmers and abducting several others. Survivors said the assailants surrounded them, threatening to execute anyone who tried to flee. Most of the victims were said to have been slaughtered on the spot.

    Prior to the attack, the farmers had reportedly been operating under the protection of an ISWAP commander, Amir Akilu, after agreeing to pay levies. However, the absence of the commander created an opportunity for rival Boko Haram fighters to strike, accusing the farmers of espionage.

    In a similar attack on January 10, 2025, at least 40 farmers were killed at Dumba Island near Baga. The attackers accused them of collaborating with Nigerian troops despite previously granting them permission to farm.

    Corpses Inaccessible for Burial

    Five days after the Malam Karanti massacre, the bodies of the slain farmers remained unrecovered. A relative of two victims, identified as Baana, said attempts by a joint team of soldiers and civilian vigilantes to retrieve the corpses were unsuccessful due to insecurity in the area.

    Zulum Calls for Offensive on Terrorist Strongholds

    In response, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, called on the military to launch operations into the Lake Chad Islands, particularly the Tumbus, which he described as the breeding ground for insurgents. Speaking during an assessment visit by the Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, and Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, Zulum lamented the military’s inaction over the past decade in these areas, warning that porous borders with Chad, Niger, and Cameroon were enabling the influx of foreign fighters.

    CDS Emphasizes Lake Chad Recharging

    The Chief of Defence Staff emphasized the importance of recharging Lake Chad to aid military operations. Gen. Musa explained that restoring water to the lake would remove barriers for naval access and help flush out terrorists. He also highlighted plans for acquiring advanced weaponry and adopting new strategies to end the insurgency.

    Farmers Caught Between Rival Terror Groups

    Security sources revealed that some farmers had struck agreements with one ISWAP faction, paying levies for access to farmland. However, another group, unaware of the arrangement, attacked them. In some cases, farmers who failed to meet insurgents’ demands were enslaved or forced to serve as couriers and logistics workers.

    Amnesty International Condemns Attack

    Amnesty International condemned the Malam Karanti killings in a statement on its official X handle, labeling the attack as a war crime and calling for thorough investigations. The organization criticized the government’s failure to protect rural communities and urged authorities to hold perpetrators accountable.

    The rights group noted a pattern of killings since 2020, with nearly 250 farmers murdered in similar incidents. Victims were often targeted for refusing to pay illegal levies or cooperating with rival factions. Amnesty warned that without decisive action, civilians in Borno and other conflict-prone regions would remain vulnerable.

    Background: Zabarmari and Continued Violence

    The recent violence echoes the 2020 Zabarmari massacre, where over 40 rice farmers were killed by Boko Haram in Jere LGA. That incident, described by the UN as one of the deadliest against civilians that year, remains a chilling reminder of the threats rural communities face in Nigeria’s northeast.

    As Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to compete for territory and influence, civilian casualties are mounting—underscoring the urgent need for coordinated, aggressive counterterrorism efforts.

  • Kano Censorship Board Suspends 22 Hausa Film Series Over Regulatory Breaches

    Kano Censorship Board Suspends 22 Hausa Film Series Over Regulatory Breaches

    The Kano State Censorship Board has suspended 22 popular Hausa film series for allegedly violating its regulatory guidelines, in a move aimed at enforcing compliance and maintaining professionalism within the Kannywood film industry.

    In a statement released by the board’s Information Officer, Abdullahi Sani Sulaiman, the Executive Secretary, Abba El-Mustapha, ordered the suspension following a management meeting and thorough consultations.

    Among the affected series are Labarina, Dadin Kowa, Manyan Mata, Garwashi, Jamilun Jidda, and Gidan Sarauta. Others include Dakin Amarya, Mashahuri, Wasiyya, Tawakkaltu, Mijina, Wani Zamani, Mallaka, Kudin Ruwa, Boka Ko Malam, Wayasan Gobe, Rana Dubu, Fatake, Shahadar Nabila, Tabarma, Kishiyata, and Rigar Aro.

    The board emphasized its legal mandate to censor all films prior to production, distribution, streaming, or broadcast, both within and outside Kano State. Producers and owners of the suspended series have been instructed to halt all online and television broadcasts and submit their content for censorship approval between May 19 and May 25, 2025, or face legal action.

    This development comes as the Kannywood industry increasingly shifts toward producing serialized content, largely distributed via YouTube and select TV stations, in response to evolving market dynamics and revenue challenges.

  • JUST IN: Actress Jumoke George’s trafficked daughter returns from Mali

    JUST IN: Actress Jumoke George’s trafficked daughter returns from Mali

    Adeola, the daughter of renowned Nollywood actress Jumoke George, has returned safely to Nigeria after being trafficked to Mali and held there for four years.

    The Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, confirmed the development on Monday, announcing that Adeola was successfully received by the commission upon her return.

    Dabiri-Erewa praised actress Bola Adebayo for bringing the story to light and also acknowledged actor Niyi Johnson for his support in the efforts to rescue Adeola.

  • Edo Deputy Speaker Edeko Resigns, APC’s Atu Elected Successor

    Edo Deputy Speaker Edeko Resigns, APC’s Atu Elected Successor

    The Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Maria Edeko, has officially stepped down from her position. Edeko, who represents Esan North-East II, announced her voluntary resignation on Monday, citing the need for justice, fairness, and equity, especially in light of her party—the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—now holding a minority status in the Assembly.

    In her farewell remarks, Edeko expressed gratitude to PDP leaders and members for entrusting her with the responsibility of representing her constituency.

    Her resignation drew heartfelt commendations from fellow lawmakers, who praised her commitment, integrity, and significant contributions to legislative work during her tenure.

    In recognition of her service, Majority Leader Jonathan Aigbokhan (APC, Esan West) moved a motion to grant Edeko all entitlements due to a Deputy Speaker. The motion, seconded by Minority Leader Charity Airobarueghian (PDP, Ovia North-East I), received unanimous support.

    Following Edeko’s resignation, Osamwonyi Atu, the APC lawmaker representing Orhionmwon East, was unanimously elected as the new Deputy Speaker.