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FG Links Bauchi Governor to $9.7m Terrorism Financing Case

By
Ola Akinola
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Abuja – The Federal Government has implicated Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, in a $9.7 million terrorism financing case involving the state’s Commissioner for Finance, Yakubu Adamu, and three other officials.

On Wednesday, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Adamu alongside Balarabe Abdullahi Ilelah, Aminu Mohammed Bose, and Kabiru Yahaya Mohammed before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja. The defendants face charges of conspiracy, conversion of public funds, and terrorism financing under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Justice Nwite ordered the defendants to be remanded at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Kuje pending the next hearing scheduled for January 5. All four pleaded not guilty to the charges.

EFCC counsel, Samuel Chime, requested a trial date to present witnesses and evidence, while defence lawyer Gordy Uche (SAN) applied for bail, arguing that Adamu’s detention had disrupted salary payments for over 60,000 Bauchi State workers. The EFCC confirmed receipt of the bail applications but filed a joint counter-affidavit opposing them.

According to the prosecution, Adamu and the other defendants allegedly conspired between January and May 2024 to provide $2.3 million to Bello Bodejo and his associates, with approvals purportedly granted by Governor Mohammed. The EFCC further alleged that $500,000 and $6.9 million were delivered in cash through a Bureau de Change operator, in violation of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

One of the charges specifically accused Adamu, the Accountant-General of Bauchi State (now at large), and other civil servants of knowingly providing funds to finance terrorism, citing approvals from Governor Mohammed.

Reacting to the development, Governor Mohammed described the case as a political witch-hunt. Speaking in Bauchi after receiving a Safety Ambassador Award from the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON), he said:

“I am just waking up to an accusation that I am being linked to terrorism as a governor and as the head of the opposition. My commissioner has been kept incarcerated and has not been released by the EFCC. Even with my immunity as a governor, my name was mentioned in a motion in a court of law in Nigeria. God is wonderful.”

The governor accused the APC-led federal government of using the EFCC and the courts to intimidate opposition leaders, warning that such actions could provoke resistance. He also criticised the government’s performance, alleging that despite huge revenues, Bauchi State had seen little improvement in infrastructure and basic services.

Mohammed vowed not to succumb to pressure to defect from the PDP, insisting that his refusal to join the ruling party should not make him a target. He further alleged that members of his family and government officials were being arrested and detained without evidence, describing the situation as “unacceptable.

e in a democracy.”

Adeboye Calls for Total Obedience, Warns of Remarkable 2026 Ahead of Divine Turnaround

By
Toyin Adebayo
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REDEMPTION CITY — The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has charged Christians to embrace total obedience to God, declaring that a single divine intervention can rewrite a destiny “in one night” for those who fully align with His will.

The revered cleric delivered the message during the 2025 Cross Over Service at the Redemption City along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, focusing on the timeless sovereignty of God over human calendars and destinies.

Preaching from Revelation 1:8, where God declares Himself the Alpha and Omega, Pastor Adeboye emphasized that God operates outside the confines of time as humans measure it.

“God does not work by calendar years but by days,” he stated. “The Scripture teaches us to ‘number our days,’ not our years.”

Referencing Hebrews 13:8, he reminded the congregation that Jesus Christ remains unchanged “yesterday, today, and forever,” and that God has already ordained the beginning and end of every life, as illustrated in Jeremiah 1:4–5.

Provision Precedes Creation

Drawing from Genesis, Pastor Adeboye explained that God made full provision for humanity even before creating man, describing Him as the “all-sufficient” and “more-than-enough” God. He echoed the assurance in Jeremiah 29:11 that God’s plans for His people are of peace and a hopeful future.

The pastor issued a sobering warning against spiritual pretense, asking the faithful, “For how long do you think you can deceive God by pretending that your obedience is complete?”

He assured that God is willing to radically rearrange lives and circumstances for those who yield wholly to divine purpose, citing the overnight transformation of Abraham and Sarah’s destinies in Genesis 17.

Prophetic Alert for 2025

Looking ahead, Pastor Adeboye reiterated a earlier prophetic warning that 2025 would be a remarkable year marked by significant global events, including floods and fire outbreaks. He urged believers to remain spiritually vigilant and prayerful.

The service concluded with guided prayers, as worshippers were led to seek revelation about missed opportunities in 2025, discern divine lessons, and pray for the grace to seize every opening in 2026.

Pastor Adeboye also encouraged the congregation to pray for the removal of any “Jonah” — obstacles or disobedience — that could hinder progress, and to fully embrace their identity as children of God.

He ended with a firm assurance: God is ready to help every willing believer become all they were destined to be — provided they walk in sincere and complete obedience.

 

—

Oyo Police Bust Grave Tampering Suspect With Human Skull, Fake Soldiers, Rapist in Crime Sweep

By
Grace Itodu
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The Oyo State Police Command has arrested several suspects over alleged grave tampering, possession of a dried human skull, transformer vandalism, impersonation, motorcycle theft and rape in separate operations across the state.

The arrests were announced on Wednesday in a series of press statements signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna.

According to the police, a case of alleged grave tampering was reported in the Itesiwaju Ariyo area of Ibadan in the early hours of December 24, 2025. Residents raised the alarm after spotting a suspicious individual within a residential compound around 1:03 a.m.

Police said a dried human head was later discovered beside a bathroom in the compound, while the grave of a deceased landlady was found to have been tampered with. Although the suspect initially escaped by jumping over a fence, operatives later tracked and arrested him through intelligence-led policing.

The suspect was identified as 30-year-old Hammed Oyeleke. Police confirmed that the exhibit was recovered and that the suspect is cooperating with investigators. CP Haruna subsequently ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Iyaganku, for thorough investigation.

In another incident, the Command arrested two suspects over the alleged vandalisation of a power transformer at Akala Estate, Akobo area of Ibadan. The incident occurred on December 30, 2025, at about 6:30 a.m., when a security guard on patrol spotted a man carrying a bag containing suspected stolen transformer cables and cutting tools.

The suspect, identified as Joshua Israel, was arrested and reportedly confessed to the crime, implicating one Abang Takon, who was later apprehended by operatives of the Akobo Police Division.

Investigations revealed that Takon falsely claimed to be a serving soldier of the Nigerian Army, 2 Division, Odogbo Barracks. Police said he had been dismissed from service and previously prosecuted.

Similarly, another fake soldier was arrested in Ogbomosho over the alleged theft of a motorcycle. Police said the complainant, Adegboyega Sunday, advertised his unregistered Lifan “Phoon Lady” motorcycle for sale on Facebook on December 15, 2025.

The suspect, identified as Lance Corporal Olabamiji Samson (NA: 356241/16), allegedly met the victim dressed in military uniform and rode away with the motorcycle under the guise of testing it. He was later arrested at a restaurant in Ilorin through intelligence-led operations, where he confessed to being a dismissed soldier. The stolen motorcycle and other exhibits were recovered.

In a separate development, police arrested a 22-year-old man, Daniel Ajibola, for allegedly raping a 17-year-old girl in Ibadan. The incident was reported at the Alakia Adelubi Police Division on December 25, 2025, at about 7:00 p.m.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly had unlawful carnal knowledge of the minor after administering an intoxicating drink to her. The victim was taken to a hospital for medical examination, while the suspect was arrested and later confessed to the crime. The case has also been transferred to the SCID for further investigation.

Commending residents for their cooperation, CP Femi Haruna warned that the Command would not tolerate grave desecration, vandalism, impersonation, sexual violence or any other criminal acts in the state.

He urged the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, reaffirming the police’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Oyo State.

Military Nets 4,375 Terror Suspects, Rescues 2,336 Victims, Foils N8.9bn Oil Theft in 2025 — DHQ

By
Ola Akinola
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0

 

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced major operational victories recorded by the Armed Forces of Nigeria in 2025, including the arrest of 4,375 suspected terrorists, the rescue of 2,336 kidnapped victims, and the prevention of oil theft valued at over N8.9 billion.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja during the DHQ’s end-of-year briefing on ongoing military operations across the country.

According to Onoja, the achievements reflect sustained efforts by the Armed Forces to protect lives and property, safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and strengthen national security in the face of terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and oil theft.

“The briefing highlights operational achievements in our sustained effort to secure the nation, while also assessing the evolving threat environment, inter-agency collaboration and the resilience and professionalism of our troops,” he said.

He explained that the Armed Forces continued to combine kinetic and non-kinetic operations to neutralise threats, secure communities and create a safe environment for economic activities to thrive.

Onoja revealed that within the year, troops—working alongside other security agencies—neutralised several notorious terrorist and bandit commanders, including Aminu Kanawa, Dan Bokolo, Bello Buba, Dan Inna, Halilu Sabubu, Abu Dan Shehu Jabbi, Dogo Bashiru Yellow, Abba Allai (aka Amirul Khalid of Alafa), Amir Abu Fatimah, Kingpin Auta, Abdul Jamilu, Salisu, Malla Jidda, Talha, Mallam Umar, Abu Yazeed, Kabiru Bebe, Maiwada, Mai Dada and Nwachi Eze (aka Onowu).

Others neutralised, he said, include bandit kingpins known by pseudonyms such as Dosso, Suleiman, Jagaban and Danja.

In addition to the 4,375 arrests, Onoja disclosed that 1,616 terrorists and their family members surrendered to troops during the year, while 2,336 abducted persons were successfully rescued across various theatres of operation.

On the fight against oil theft, the DHQ said troops of Operation DELTA SAFE foiled crude oil theft estimated at N8,918,647,206.00. This included the recovery of 16,623,542 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,255,674 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), 407,734 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK), and 1,508,823 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Over 503 illegal refining sites were also discovered and destroyed.

General Onoja noted that intelligence reports indicate terrorists are attempting to relocate into some communities due to sustained military pressure on their strongholds. He assured that Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets are actively tracking such movements.

“The purported influx of armed herders into some communities is being taken seriously. Several movements have been identified and are being closely monitored,” he said, urging communities to remain calm, vigilant and cooperative with security agencies.

He encouraged citizens to promptly report suspicious activities, stressing that the Armed Forces, in collaboration with other security agencies, have intensified proactive measures to prevent fleeing terrorists from infiltrating or destabilising any community.

Onoja said the successes recorded in 2025 are a testament to the determination, bravery and professionalism of Nigerian troops, despite the risks, hardships and long periods away from their families.

He added that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) has assured personnel that their welfare remains a top priority, while pledging that the Armed Forces and other security stakeholders will intensify efforts against terrorism and other crimes in 2026.

On Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Onoja said the CDS paid tribute to fallen heroes and veterans who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation.

“On behalf of the CDS and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria, I wish our gallant troops, defence correspondents and their families a peaceful and prosperous New Year. God bless the Armed Forces of Nigeria. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

No Fake Laws, Only Due Process — Budget Office Defends Tax Reform Acts

By
Roland Edet
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0

 

The Budget Office of the Federation has firmly defended the integrity of Nigeria’s newly enacted Tax Reform Acts, dismissing allegations of post-passage alterations as unverified speculation and warning that such claims pose a serious threat to democratic governance and public trust.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its Director-General, Mr. Tanimu Yakubu, the Office responded to concerns raised by the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives, stressing that any alteration of a law after debate, passage, authentication and presidential assent—outside due process—would undermine the core principles of the Republic.

“A nation cannot be governed by insinuation or sustained on circulating documents of uncertain origin,” the statement said, cautioning that the careless amplification of unverified claims erodes public confidence that is often difficult to rebuild.

While welcoming the National Assembly’s decision to investigate the matter, the Budget Office insisted that institutional inquiry, rather than conjecture or speculation, remains the appropriate path in a democracy.

The Office affirmed the right of Nigerians and the business community to access authoritative versions of the law, clarifying that legal authenticity derives from certified legislative records and official publications—not informal or viral documents in circulation.

It also highlighted the importance of the separation of powers, warning that unsubstantiated claims of “fake laws” risk damaging confidence in democratic institutions, even as it acknowledged legislative oversight as a constitutional responsibility.

From a fiscal perspective, the agency noted that legal certainty is fundamental to revenue projections, macroeconomic stability, budget credibility and investor confidence—key pillars as Nigeria pursues reforms aimed at reducing borrowing, controlling inflation and limiting the impact of indirect taxes on vulnerable citizens.

To strengthen public trust, the Budget Office proposed practical measures, including the publication of verified legal texts in a single repository, the issuance of Certified True Copies, clear explanations of any discrepancies, and the alignment of subsidiary regulations with authenticated laws.

It rejected calls for the suspension of the tax reforms, arguing that caution should not translate into policy paralysis.

“Where clarification is required, it must be provided; where correction is required, it must be effected; where investigation is required, it must proceed,” the statement said.

Describing taxation as a democratic covenant built on transparency and trust, the Budget Office called on all stakeholders to protect national institutions and resist the spread of unauthenticated information.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to fiscal transparency, institutional integrity and reform-driven economic prosperity.

Oba of Benin Disowns Attack on Pedro Obaseki, Warns Youths Against Jungle Justice

By
Shehu Danladi
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0

 

The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Ewuare II, has distanced himself from the youths who attacked and publicly humiliated a former Managing Director of Daar Communications, Dr. Pedro Obaseki, declaring that the incident was never authorised by the palace.

Dr. Obaseki, a cousin of former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, was reportedly attacked on Sunday by suspected thugs at Uwa Primary School, where he had gone to play football. He was beaten, stripped naked and forced to walk through parts of Benin City after being accused of being an “Oghionba” (enemy of the Oba).

In a statement signed by the Secretary to the Benin Traditional Council (BTC), Mr. Frank Irabor, the revered monarch condemned the incident and cautioned against the spread of unverified information on social media.

“The Benin Traditional Council uses this medium to inform the general public that the unfortunate incident in which Pedro Obaseki was manhandled was not authorised by the Oba of Benin,” the statement said. “It cannot be authorised because it is not in the character of our revered monarch to do so. The Oba of Benin is a peace-loving father to all.”

The Oba further warned youths against taking the law into their own hands under any guise, stressing that acts of jungle justice are unacceptable regardless of the level of provocation.

The statement urged individuals to always respect the rule of law and allow appropriate security agencies to handle disputes and allegations, noting that unlawful actions only undermine peace and order in society.

Hardship Deepens as 2026 Beckons, David Mark Warns, Calls for Urgent National Rescue

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

 

National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has warned that Nigeria’s economic hardship could worsen in 2026 unless urgent corrective measures are taken, describing 2025 as a year of intense suffering for millions of citizens.

Speaking in Abuja on New Year’s Eve to usher in 2026, the former Senate President said the outgoing year severely tested the endurance of Nigerians, as rising living costs and economic strain eroded hope across the country.

“The year 2025 was, without doubt, a difficult year for the majority of Nigerians,” Mark said. “The renewed hope that the government promised has yielded more misery and widespread hardship, as citizens battled with an ever-rising cost of living. Food, basic drugs and transportation were priced beyond the reach of most people due to misguided policies that have condemned more Nigerians to multidimensional poverty.”

Mark accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government of preparing policies that could further aggravate the situation, warning that proposed tax measures would only compound the suffering of already overburdened citizens.

“Rather than offer hope in the new year, the APC government has decided to impose stringent taxes that will deepen the misery of Nigerians. These taxes will not renew hope; they will renew hopelessness,” he said.

Beyond economic concerns, Mark said 2025 marked a critical turning point in Nigeria’s political evolution, particularly for opposition forces determined to halt what he described as a dangerous drift toward a one-party state.

He recalled the formation of a coalition of opposition parties under the ADC on July 2, 2025, describing it as a necessary step to safeguard democracy. “Our coalition was born out of necessity—to arrest Nigeria’s gradual descent into an authoritarian one-party state and to rescue our country from a government that behaves more like an army of occupation than one elected by the people,” he said.

The ADC chairman stressed that the success of the coalition would depend on patriotism, sacrifice and a commitment to national interest above personal ambition. According to him, the response from Nigerians since the announcement of the coalition has been encouraging, with growing public engagement nationwide.

Acknowledging widespread scepticism due to years of unfulfilled promises, Mark urged Nigerians not to surrender to cynicism or political apathy. “We do not claim to be perfect, but do not doubt our sense of duty and our commitment to be on the right side of history,” he said.

Looking ahead, Mark said history would judge whether Nigerians chose despair or collective action at this critical moment. He warned that withdrawal from civic responsibility would only empower those who thrive on public apathy.

“Fellow Nigerians, we know you are tired, and you have every reason to be,” he said. “But you cannot afford to give up now. This country belongs to all of us. If we rise together—not with violence but with vision, not with anger but with courage—then 2026 can be the year we begin to take our country back.”

Calling for optimism rooted in collective strength, Mark urged Nigerians to approach the new year with faith rather than fear. “Faith in the power of the people, faith in the possibility of something better, and faith that Nigeria’s story is not yet done,” he said.

He concluded by extending New Year wishes to Nigerians and paying tribute to fallen security personnel and victims of violence across the country, praying that 2026 would bring strength, healing and renewed hope to the nation.

2026 Will Bring Renewed Hope, Stronger Institutions — Akpabio Assures Nigerians By Sola

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

 

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, has expressed optimism that 2026 will mark a year of renewed hope and steady national progress, anchored on strong democratic institutions, effective legislation and collective national resolve.

In his New Year message to Nigerians, Akpabio commended citizens for their resilience and patience amid economic and social challenges, while reaffirming the National Assembly’s unwavering commitment to democratic stability, accountability and good governance.

In the message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, the Senate President assured that the Senate would continue to discharge its constitutional responsibilities of lawmaking, representation and oversight in the overall interest of national unity and development.

“As we enter the year 2026, I extend my warm wishes to Nigerians for a peaceful and fulfilling year. I commend the resilience, patience and civic maturity of our people, even in challenging times,” Akpabio said.

He stressed that while the Executive arm implements government policies, the National Assembly remains focused on ensuring that governance outcomes reflect the aspirations of Nigerians through effective legislative backing and robust oversight.

“The Senate and the entire National Assembly will continue to perform their duties with diligence—providing legislative support where necessary, exercising oversight where required, and always acting in the best interest of national unity, economic stability and social justice,” he stated.

Akpabio expressed cautious optimism that ongoing efforts to address insecurity, economic pressures, infrastructure gaps and youth unemployment would yield more tangible results in 2026, emphasising that sustainable progress rests on the strength of institutions rather than individuals.

“Our democracy is stronger when institutions function properly and leaders remain accountable. The National Assembly will continue to work to strengthen these institutions and ensure that public policies are people-centred and forward-looking,” he added.

Looking ahead to increased political activities in the build-up to the 2027 general elections, the Senate President cautioned against divisive politics and what he described as “false messianic narratives,” warning that self-styled saviours often deepen divisions rather than foster national cohesion.

“Democracy thrives on ideas, responsibility and respect for national unity—not inflammatory rhetoric or deception,” he said.

He called on political actors to conduct themselves with restraint and a strong sense of national duty, assuring that the Senate would continue to uphold democratic norms, parliamentary discipline and the rule of law.

Akpabio reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to constructive engagement with the Executive, Judiciary and other stakeholders in the quest for a more united, just and prosperous Nigeria.

He concluded by urging Nigerians to remain engaged, vigilant and hopeful in the year ahead, while supporting democratic institutions for the collective good of the nation.

“On behalf of my family, my constituents, the Senate and the entire National Assembly, I wish all Nigerians a peaceful celebration and a prosperous 2026,” he said.

2027: No Retreat on Rivers Political Course, Says Wike

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that the political decision taken to “restore power to the people of Rivers State” ahead of the 2027 general elections is irreversible.

Wike spoke on Wednesday during a thank-you visit to Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, where he said the resolve of his political camp could not be altered by intimidation or financial inducement.

According to him, the decision includes mobilising support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election and addressing what he described as a leadership failure at the state level.

“We have done it before and we are going to do it again. We are prepared, we have made a decision and we are not going back. Nobody will intimidate us,” Wike said.

The former Rivers State governor warned that greed, ingratitude and the misuse of power often lead to political downfall, adding that some leaders entrusted with authority in the state had been misled by money and influence.

He said his visit to Eleme was to appreciate the people for standing firmly with President Tinubu during difficult political moments, stressing that their support had not been taken for granted.

“In spite of all the challenges, President Tinubu appointed a South-South person as Minister of the FCT. That has never happened before. The level of development we are seeing today has also never happened before now,” Wike said.

Earlier, a member of the Rivers State House of Assembly representing Eleme, Aforji Igwe, described Wike as a fair and principled leader, assuring him of the continued support of the people of Eleme.

Also speaking, Chairman of Eleme Local Government Council, Obarilormate Ollor, praised Wike for infrastructural interventions carried out in the area during his tenure as governor.

Ollor said the people of Eleme were fully aligned with Wike’s political direction, noting that while they were already mobilised for President Tinubu’s re-election, they were awaiting further guidance ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State.

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