Category: News

The socio-political organization, (YDV), has commended President for his inclusive security strategies, while calling for urgent, intensified efforts to address rising insecurity in Kwara State and the broader South West region.

Commendation for Inclusive Security Dialogue
YDV lauded the President’s willingness to engage stakeholders domestically and internationally to tackle Nigeria’s security challenges. The organization highlighted recent cooperation with international military partners, including the reported deployment of around 200 United States troops to assist in combating security breaches nationwide.

While praising the open-door policy and collaboration, YDV stressed that tangible results on the ground remain limited and urged the administration to translate consultations into decisive action.

Kwara State: A Security Flashpoint
Expressing deep concern over worsening security in Kwara State, YDV noted that bandits and terrorist groups are increasingly using the state as a staging ground for attacks into other South West states such as Ekiti, Ondo, and Oyo. The organization called on President Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief, to immediately redeploy military resources and prioritize the stabilization of the Kwara corridor.

“If the Kwara corridor is not secured, the entire Yoruba homeland remains vulnerable to penetration and occupation by these criminal elements,” YDV stated.

Economic Praise and Cabinet Coordination
YDV congratulated the President on recent positive ratings from the World Bank and other international financial institutions, noting that Nigeria’s improving economy reflects the administration’s bold reforms. The organization urged that these macroeconomic gains be translated into tangible relief for ordinary Nigerians to ensure inclusive recovery.

Call for Massive Youth Recruitment
While acknowledging the recent approval for 20,000 new police officers, YDV deemed this number insufficient. The group urged President Tinubu to fulfill his campaign promise by recruiting at least 500,000 able-bodied youths into various security outfits. They emphasized that such a move would both strengthen national defense and address youth unemployment and restiveness.

Funding and Equipping Local Vigilantes and Amotekun
YDV also called for greater federal support for local security networks, including the South West’s Amotekun, urging funding for modern firearms, advanced surveillance tools, and drones. They further recommended the provision of technical expertise for intelligence gathering to enable local operatives to secure their communities effectively.

Integration of Traditional Warfare Methods
Finally, YDV advocated for the institutionalization of traditional warfare tactics alongside modern military strategies. They suggested convening a conference of proven traditional warriors to demonstrate and integrate their methods with contemporary security operations, creating a holistic defense approach.

The organization concluded by reiterating the Yoruba nation’s readiness to support the federal government in all constructive initiatives aimed at safeguarding citizens and securing communities.

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

The has accused former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, of personally dragging the media organisation and its Kaduna correspondent to court for almost six years over a 2015 report on his asset declaration.

The case stemmed from a July 2, 2015, publication titled “El-Rufai Declares N90 Billion, Owns 40 Mansions in Abuja”, which alleged that El-Rufai declared assets worth N90 billion, including 40 properties in Abuja.

The defunct newspaper’s correspondent expressed dismay over the court proceedings, noting that while multiple Kaduna-based journalists had investigated the asset declaration, most national media reportedly ignored or misrepresented the case, with some allegedly “bought over” or refusing to cover the trial.

Interestingly, El-Rufai reportedly waived his immunity as Executive Governor to personally file the suit at the State High Court 2 in Kaduna, seeking N55 million in damages for alleged defamation of character and reputation. He personally appeared in court before Justice Mario Mohammed and was also summoned to testify.

During proceedings, El-Rufai admitted he had yet to calculate the total value of his assets. Evidence tendered in court, including issues of PowerSteering News Magazine showing photographs of some of his Abuja mansions, was rejected by the former governor on the basis that the magazine had “never merited his table” since he assumed office.

The Union Newspapers maintained that its report, which surprised Kaduna residents, accurately reflected documents obtained from the Abuja headquarters of the . George David, Director of the Kaduna State Office of the Bureau, declined to comment on specifics, stating that asset declarations by public officials are not required to be made public, and any further details could only be sought from the national headquarters in Abuja.

Efforts to obtain a comment from Governor El-Rufai’s Media Adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, confirmed that the governor had declared his assets but did not provide further details.

Union Newspapers also highlighted irregularities in court proceedings, noting that Court 2 continued sessions even during judicial vacation periods to accommodate the case personally filed by El-Rufai.

The media house concluded that despite years of legal challenges, it continues to uphold investigative reporting and faces ongoing scrutiny in cases involving public office holders.

This case underscores the tensions between media freedom and public office holders’ responses to investigative reporting on asset declarations in Nigeria.

By Jabiru Hassan

The (FERMA) has submitted a proposed budget of ₦229.999 billion for the 2026 fiscal year, aimed at strengthening road maintenance operations and improving national connectivity. The appropriation includes ₦191 billion for capital expenditure, ₦5 billion for personnel costs, and ₦33 billion for overhead expenses.

The budget proposal was presented during the 2025 Appropriation Act performance review and 2026 budget defense before the Joint Senate and House Committees on FERMA.

Presenting the proposal, the Minister of State for Works and Supervising Minister of FERMA, Hon. Bello Goronyo, Esq., highlighted that while FERMA has the technical expertise to execute its mandate effectively, insufficient funding remains a key constraint. He noted that the 2026 allocations are strategically distributed across all states, reflecting FERMA’s commitment to equitable and impactful road maintenance nationwide.

“It is envisaged that, with your support, the implementation of the 2025 five percent fossil fuel surcharge, as provided under Section 159 of the New Task Force Act, will include FERMA in the distribution template. This aligns with global best practices and will enable the Agency to more effectively fulfill its mandate,” Hon. Goronyo stated.

He commended the Committees for their oversight and partnership, describing legislative support as crucial for unlocking FERMA’s operational capacity. “With your approval, we can accelerate critical road interventions nationwide and ensure that Nigeria’s roads become true engines for economic growth and national unity,” he added.

The Managing Director/CEO of FERMA, Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, reiterated the Agency’s funding challenges and highlighted key achievements in 2025, including:

• 200.82 km of roads maintained
• 31,574.29 square metres of potholes patched
• 1,655.89 km of roads made motorable
• 10,311 metres of drainage constructed
• 19 washouts reinstated
• 3 bridges maintained
• 4,013 streetlight poles installed

Engr. Agbasi noted ongoing challenges, including inadequate budgetary releases, distressed and aged pavements, road abuse, climate-related emergencies, and security concerns in certain regions. He emphasized the importance of aligning national budget cycles with procurement timelines to ensure road projects are executed during the dry season for better efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Sen. Sahabi Yau, Chairman of the Senate Committee on FERMA, and Hon. Engr. Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House Committee on FERMA, alongside other committee members, commended the Agency’s visible efforts in maintaining federal roads. Hon. Oseni urged FERMA to continue improving project delivery standards and ensure value for money, while Sen. Yau encouraged sustained performance and efficiency in response to legislative feedback.

The proposed 2026 budget reflects FERMA’s strategic focus on improving federal road infrastructure, enhancing national connectivity, and supporting economic growth through a safer and more resilient road network.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has commended the (APC) for the peaceful and hitch-free conduct of its ward congresses across the state.

Diri, who described himself as the APC leader in Bayelsa, gave the commendation after participating in the congress at his hometown, Sampou/Kalama Ward 6 in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area.

He congratulated party delegates for electing new ward executives through consensus and voice vote affirmation, describing the exercise as a demonstration of unity, internal democracy and political maturity.

“Politics should not disunite us. Rather, it should bring us together because the goal is to bring development to our communities, local government, and the state,” the governor said.

Diri expressed optimism that the party’s national leadership would be satisfied with the conduct of the exercise in Bayelsa, noting that reports from across the state indicated that the congresses were largely peaceful and free of major incidents.

He also projected a similar outcome for the forthcoming local government congresses and the subsequent state congress, stating that the party’s structure would be further strengthened ahead of future elections.

The governor thanked the APC National Executive Committee, the state caretaker committee led by Dr. Dennis Otiotio, party stakeholders, the (INEC) and security agencies for their roles in ensuring a smooth process.

In Sampou/Kalama Ward 6, supervised by the State Congress Election Committee chaired by Chief Frank Omare, Mr. Shedrach Fetuga emerged as ward chairman alongside other elected executives.

In his acceptance speech, Fetuga expressed appreciation to party members for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to work toward strengthening the party’s base and securing victories in upcoming elections, including the 2027 governorship race.

The congress was observed by the State Congress Screening Committee Chairman, Hon. Oghene Egoh, as well as an INEC representative, Engr. Prince Erasmus.

Diri’s remarks come as the APC prepares for higher-level congresses aimed at consolidating its internal structure and positioning the party for future electoral contests in Bayelsa State.

By Francis Wilfred

The Executive Chairman of the (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has urged students across Nigeria to reject internet fraud and other social vices, stressing the need for digital integrity and cultural reorientation among youths.

Olukoyede gave the charge on Wednesday at a conference themed “Cybercrimes, Drugs and Other Social Vices” held at the main campus of the .

Represented by the Head of Enlightenment and Re-Orientation Unit of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE II) Aisha Muhammad, the EFCC chairman encouraged students to channel their creativity and talents into productive ventures rather than criminal activities.

“I implore you to use your creative talents like fashion design, music and art to impact society positively,” he said.

Olukoyede emphasised that the Commission remains committed to youth engagement through initiatives such as Integrity Clubs and Zero Tolerance Clubs established in secondary and tertiary institutions to promote anti-corruption values and ethical conduct.

“Be ambassadors of Nigeria, represent your families and your country with integrity, and shun cybercrime, drug abuse and cultism,” he charged.

Delivering a keynote address at the National Student Leadership Conference, Executive Director of the (CISLAC)/, Awwal Ibrahim Rafsanjani, underscored the nexus between integrity and national development.

Rafsanjani described corruption as a major impediment to Nigeria’s progress, noting that it fuels social vices such as cybercrime, drug abuse and cultism.

The organiser of the festival, Tayo Folorunsho, highlighted the importance of youth-focused initiatives, stating that such engagements are critical in moulding responsible citizens and promoting a safer financial environment.

The event brought together students from across the Federal Capital Territory for discussions on integrity, discipline and civic responsibility aimed at building a more accountable society. Cultural activities, including music and dance performances, also featured at the conference.

The EFCC has continued to intensify its public enlightenment campaigns as part of broader efforts to curb financial crimes and promote ethical values among young Nigerians.

By Francis Wilfred

The Executive Chairman of the (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has called for stronger inter-agency collaboration as a critical strategy in tackling corruption and financial crimes in Nigeria.

Olukoyede made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the EFCC and the (CCB). The CCB delegation was led by its Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Usman Bello.

According to a statement issued by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, Olukoyede described corruption as a major driver of poverty, hunger, malnutrition, poor infrastructure and underdevelopment in the country.

“All of us are key players in the anti-corruption fight. Everybody will agree with us that one of the major problems behind poverty, hunger, malnutrition, lack of infrastructure and generally lack of development in Nigeria is financial crimes and corruption,” he said.

He stressed that meaningful progress can only be achieved through synergy rather than rivalry among anti-corruption agencies.

“There is no doubting the fact that we need to collaborate and synergise. We must not compete. We must collaborate and work with sincerity of purpose,” he added, noting that President Bola Tinubu has encouraged heads of agencies to work collectively in serving the nation.

Olukoyede expressed satisfaction over the formalisation of cooperation through the MoU, noting that both agencies have historically shared intelligence, technical support and administrative collaboration. He urged that the agreement be operationalised to further strengthen institutional ties.

Addressing the CCB Chairman, Olukoyede emphasised the statutory powers vested in the bureau, including asset freezing, confiscation, investigation and prosecution. He encouraged Bello to remain resolute in the discharge of his duties.

“You can’t be doing this kind of work and expect everyone to fall in love with you, unless you are not doing it well. Be ready to be called names and criticised. What is important is that we make an impact,” he said.

In his remarks, Bello described the MoU as a significant milestone in the CCB’s anti-corruption mandate, underscoring the importance of partnership and cooperation.

“The agreement formalises our resolve to strengthen integrity, transparency and accountability in public life. The CCB enforces ethical standards through asset declaration, verification and compliance monitoring, while the EFCC leads in the fight against economic and financial crimes,” he stated.

Bello noted that corruption cannot be effectively addressed in isolation and that the partnership would enhance intelligence and information sharing between both agencies.

He disclosed that the CCB maintains a comprehensive database of assets and liabilities declared by public servants, describing it as a valuable intelligence resource already utilised by the EFCC.

Areas of collaboration under the MoU include joint investigations, coordinated asset tracing and recovery, operational support, capacity building and training, technological cooperation, improved case management and unified public enlightenment campaigns.

“As we sign this MoU, let us signal a new era of united and effective action against corruption in Nigeria,” Bello said.

The agreement is expected to deepen institutional cooperation and reinforce Nigeria’s broader anti-corruption framework.

By Francis Wilfred

Former Minister of Power and Steel, Olu Agunloye, on Wednesday faced further scrutiny at the , Apo Division, Abuja, as a prosecution witness told the court that the ex-minister admitted knowing the owner of Sunrise Power Transmission Company Limited prior to his appointment.

Agunloye is being prosecuted by the (EFCC) on an amended seven-count charge bordering on alleged official corruption and fraudulent award of the $6 billion Mambilla Power Project contract to Sunrise Power Transmission Company Limited.

Testifying as the third prosecution witness (PW3), Umar Hussein Babangida informed the court that Agunloye, in an extra-judicial statement to the EFCC, acknowledged that he was aware of Leno Adesanya, the promoter of Sunrise Power Transmission Company Limited, before his appointment as minister.

During cross-examination by defence counsel, Adeola Adedipe, SAN, the witness, an EFCC investigator, read from a May 2023 extra-judicial statement admitted in evidence as Exhibit 3O. According to him, the defendant clarified that although he knew of Adesanya prior to assuming office, they did not formally meet until 2002 when Adesanya allegedly visited the ministry to lobby for the Mambilla Power Project, valued at $6 billion.

The witness also told the court that he did not know the defendant personally, adding that his interactions with Agunloye were strictly in the course of his official duties.

Agunloye has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

After proceedings, Justice Onwuegbuzie adjourned the case until March 11, 12 and 16, 2026, for continuation of hearing.

The court proceedings form part of ongoing efforts by the EFCC to prosecute alleged financial and procurement-related infractions linked to the controversial Mambilla Power Project.

The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.

By Wilfred Francis

The Benin Zonal Directorate of the (EFCC) has arraigned two men, Kelvin Usiholo and Osaigbovo Aikoriogie, before the sitting in Benin City, Edo State, over an alleged N143 million fraud.

The defendants were arraigned on a three-count charge bordering on obtaining money under false pretence and money laundering. The EFCC alleged that the offences involved the sum of N143 million.

According to court documents, Usiholo, who allegedly acted as a lawful attorney for one Eghosa Aikorogie, had through a firm of legal practitioners petitioned the Commission, accusing Osaigbovo Aikorogie of defrauding Eghosa of large sums of money in a purported business transaction.

However, investigations by the anti-graft agency reportedly uncovered that the funds in question were proceeds of fraudulent activities. The Commission further alleged that both the nominal complainant and the defendant were members of a syndicate that specialises in defrauding unsuspecting victims, including foreign nationals.

In a statement issued by the EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, the Commission said that upon conclusion of investigations, the suspects were charged to court on counts of money laundering and obtaining by false pretence.

The defendants pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them in open court.

Following their plea, prosecution counsel, Immaculate Elodi, requested a trial date and urged the court to remand the defendants pending the determination of their bail applications.

Justice Quadri adjourned the matter until February 27, 2026, for the hearing of the bail applications.

The EFCC reiterated its commitment to intensifying efforts to combat financial crimes and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s financial system.

The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.