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Reps Order Jos, Kano DisCos to Refund N112bn to Govt — 60-Day Deadline Issued in Power Sector Debt Probe

By
Saladin Babagana
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The House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts has directed the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC) and the Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) to refund a combined N112.7 billion to the Federal Government within the next two months, as part of its ongoing investigation into over N2.6 trillion debts owed by power firms to the Federation Account.

The directive was issued during a public hearing on Wednesday in Abuja, chaired by Rep. Bamidele Salam, following a review of findings from the 2021 report of the Auditor-General of the Federation and documents submitted by the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading (NBET) Plc.

According to NBET’s records, Jos DisCo’s total indebtedness stood at N161.7 billion as of September 2020, but the company claimed to have reduced it to N72 billion by May 2025. NBET, however, maintained that the reconciled figure was N98.7 billion, leaving a disputed balance of N26.7 billion.

After deliberation, the committee ruled that the N72 billion admitted by the company must be remitted into the Federation Account within 60 days, while both parties were given 21 days to reconcile the disputed figure and report back.

“These are public funds, and the government urgently requires them to discharge its responsibilities. The era of impunity and disregard for financial obligations in the power sector is over,” Rep. Salam declared.

Similarly, the committee ordered KEDCO to remit N40.7 billion, representing half of its verified N81.5 billion debt, within 30 days.

NBET’s data initially pegged KEDCO’s debt at N211.7 billion, later revised to N85.8 billion after reconciliation. KEDCO Managing Director, Engr. Hussani Sadiq, confirmed that N81.5 billion was verified, with another N4.3 billion still under review.

Lawmakers mandated the company to provide evidence of payment within the stipulated timeframe and submit a reconciliation report on the remaining balance within 21 days.

The committee reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring financial discipline in the power sector, warning that defaulting DisCos would face sanctions for non-compliance.

NMA Declares Nnamdi Kanu Medically Fit, Says Ailment Not Life-Threatening

By
Gladys Phillip
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— Court Grants IPOB Leader Six Days to Open Defence, Approves Private Meeting with Lawyers

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has declared that the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is medically fit to stand trial, dismissing claims that he is suffering from a life-threatening illness.

The finding was contained in a medical report submitted to the Federal High Court in Abuja by a panel of doctors constituted by the NMA President, following a directive from Justice James Omotosho, who ordered an independent medical assessment amid conflicting health reports from the prosecution and defence teams.

According to the report, presented to the court on October 13 by the prosecution led by Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), Kanu’s condition was found to be “not life-threatening,” and he was deemed fit to continue standing trial.

Ruling on Thursday, Justice Omotosho said he was satisfied with the findings of the NMA’s medical panel and, having received no objection from either party, directed that the trial proceed.

The court subsequently granted six consecutive days from October 23 for Kanu to open and close his defence in the ongoing terrorism case.

Additionally, Justice Omotosho approved an oral application by defence counsel Kanu Agabi (SAN) for a private consultation between the IPOB leader and his legal team, outside the Department of State Services (DSS) facility.

Agabi had expressed concerns that discussions with his client could be tapped or recorded by the DSS.

In response, the court ruled that the private meeting be held within the courtroom between 9 a.m. and 12 noon on October 22, with only Kanu and his lawyers present.

The trial is expected to resume the following day, October 23, when Kanu will begin his defence.

Forensic Science Nabs Counterfeiters in Kwara — Three Jailed Without Option of Fine

By
Ola Akinola
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0

— EFCC, NSCDC collaboration cracks fake currency network through digital analysis

A landmark judgment in Ilorin has showcased the power of forensic investigation and inter-agency collaboration, as the Federal High Court convicted three men for currency counterfeiting after scientific analysis confirmed the Naira notes in their possession to be fake.

Presiding Judge, Justice Abimbola Awogboro, sentenced Olaitan Dina (46), an aluminium fabricator; Opeyemi Jeremiah, a bakery worker; and Adebayo Mayowa Abiola, a trader from Ekiti State, to jail terms ranging from 15 to 18 months, without the option of fine, for violating the Counterfeit Currency (Special Provisions) Act of 1983.

The convicts were arrested in July by operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and later handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for detailed investigation.

EFCC investigators discovered that all the seized ₦1,000 notes bore identical serial numbers a forensic red flag. The notes were sent to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja for digital texture and serial-number analysis, confirming them as counterfeit.

Testifying before the court, EFCC detective Abdulhakeem Sani Umar said the investigation deployed advanced forensic mapping techniques that conclusively linked the fake notes to a single illegal source.

During prosecution, EFCC counsel Aliyu Adebayo presented the fake notes and the defendants’ confessional statements as exhibits, urging the court to convict them.

Justice Awogboro, in her ruling, described currency counterfeiting as “a grave assault on public trust and economic stability”, adding:

“The issue of Naira counterfeiting is a serious crime against the law and society. The court must pass a sentence that will deter others who think the currency is theirs to reproduce.”

Dina was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, while Jeremiah and Abiola each received 15 months, effective from October 15, 2025. All counterfeit notes were ordered forfeited to the Federal Government.

Security analysts hailed the EFCC–NSCDC collaboration as a model of effective law enforcement synergy, noting that forensic units are becoming increasingly crucial in tracing counterfeit money networks nationwide.

Experts warn that the case exposes the economic risks of counterfeit circulation in a cash-driven economy like Nigeria’s, particularly in rural and informal markets where digital payments remain limited.

They emphasize that fake currency not only erodes confidence in the Naira but also distorts prices, discourages legitimate trade, and deepens inflationary pressure.

The Ilorin convictions, observers say, represent a major success in Nigeria’s fight against financial crimes and a reminder that forensic precision remains one of the nation’s strongest weapons in protecting the integrity of its currency.

Confusion Rocks Senate Over Electoral Act Amendment Debate

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

— Akpabio halts plenary, calls for closed-door session as leadership disagrees on next steps

Tension gripped the Senate on Thursday as disagreement among its leadership disrupted deliberations on the amendment of the Electoral Act, which was billed for second reading.

The drama began when the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Lalong, was presenting the lead debate on the amendment bill. Midway through his presentation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio took over from Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, expressing dissatisfaction with Lalong’s presentation and calling for a closed-door session.

“I want to know whether there are certain things that will convince us here of the need to pass this amendment for second reading,” Akpabio said.
“In my opinion, Senator Lalong, you have not touched the nitty-gritty of the reasons for this amendment. For us to proceed, I suggest we go into a closed session so members can understand the specific areas you want to amend. Let’s not be taken by surprise at the public hearing.”

However, rather than proceed into a closed-door meeting, the chamber’s microphones were switched off as the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, led other principal officers to consult privately with the Senate President.

After about ten minutes, Bamidele returned to the floor, stating that the timing was not right for an executive session.

“I believe the time today is not auspicious for us to go into an executive session to discuss this bill,” Bamidele told the chamber. “There is a need for further consultation and for members to understand the general principles of the bill before proceeding to second reading.”

Following his intervention, Bamidele moved a motion to step down further consideration of the bill to another legislative day. The motion was seconded by the Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, effectively ending deliberations on the amendment for the day.

SEC, SMEDAN Partner to Unlock Capital Market Access for 40m SMEs

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

— Agencies move to list 1,000 small businesses, drive Tinubu’s $1tn economy target

In a landmark move to ease funding challenges for small businesses, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance access to long-term financing through the Nigerian capital market.

The partnership aims to open up alternative funding channels for more than 40 million micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide a critical step toward achieving President Bola Tinubu’s $1 trillion economy vision.

Speaking at the MoU signing in Abuja, SEC Director-General, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, said the collaboration would integrate SMEs into the capital market ecosystem and enable them to raise funds sustainably.

“Capital is the bedrock of any company. Today, we have about 40 million SMEs duly registered with SMEDAN, and it is important that as a capital market, we provide a route for them to raise capital for sustainability,” Agama stated.

“We also want to bring them into the pipeline of listed companies where they can democratize wealth, share part of their institutions with Nigerians, and accelerate economic growth.”

Dr. Agama described the agreement as aligning perfectly with the administration’s focus on growth, production, and employment generation.

On his part, SMEDAN Director-General, Mr. Charles Odii, said the MoU would help small businesses overcome the twin hurdles of costly and limited financing by leveraging capital market instruments.

“Capital in this part of the world is very expensive and scarce,” Odii said. “Through this collaboration, we are creating another source of financing for our medium-scale businesses. We have set a target of at least 1,000 SMEs listing on the capital market to galvanize growth, create wealth, and reduce unemployment.”

The agreement will facilitate MSMEs’ access to long-term financing via equity or debt securities under SEC regulations, while also supporting them to meet governance and reporting standards for market participation.

It also provides for capacity building and financial literacy initiatives, with both agencies set to organize training and awareness programmes for SMEs nationwide.

In addition, SEC will support SMEDAN’s five-year strategic policy framework to promote inclusive financing and SME-friendly market reforms, while SMEDAN will identify and prepare qualified enterprises for listing on recognized exchanges.

The MoU further establishes a Joint Working Group (JWG) to oversee implementation and ensure compliance with data protection laws under the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023.

Both agencies plan to host a three-day National SME Conference to engage stakeholders, promote capital market opportunities, and strengthen the financing ecosystem for small businesses across Nigeria.

Senate in Turmoil Over Electoral Act Amendment, Confirms Amupitan as INEC Chairman

By
Roland Edet
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Confusion rocked the Senate on Thursday as deliberations on the amendment of the Electoral Act 2022 degenerated into disarray, even as lawmakers confirmed Professor Josh Amupitan as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Amupitan’s confirmation followed his screening by the Senate after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu forwarded his nomination to the upper chamber for approval.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, while congratulating the new INEC boss, commended his colleagues for their thorough screening process, saying it reflected the aspirations of Nigerians for credible elections.

“I wish Professor Amupitan well and pray that his service will improve our electoral process, ensure transparency, and guarantee that every vote counts,” Akpabio said. “All hands must be on deck for Nigeria to have a better image in future elections.”

He expressed optimism that Amupitan’s leadership would bring needed reforms to the commission, especially at the local government level, where the “winner-takes-all” culture has been a recurring concern.

However, tension erupted shortly after when the Senate turned to the Electoral Act amendment bill for second reading. The Senate President interrupted the presentation by the Chairman of the Committee on Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Lalong, saying he had not sufficiently explained the essence of the proposed amendments.

“I think we should go into a closed session,” Akpabio suggested. “Senator Lalong, you’ve not touched the nitty-gritty of why this bill should pass second reading. We need clarity before proceeding to public hearing.”

The move threw the chamber into confusion as microphones were turned off and the Senate leadership, led by Majority Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, huddled briefly with Akpabio.

When the session resumed, Bamidele announced that the bill would be stepped down to allow for further consultations and deeper understanding of its general principles.

“I believe today is not auspicious for an executive session on this bill,” he said. “There’s a need for more consultation and clarity before we can proceed.”

His motion to defer further consideration of the bill was seconded by Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro, bringing the heated debate to an abrupt end.

No Inmate Freed Yet — Presidential Clemency Still Under Review, Says AGF Fagbemi

By
Shehu Danladi
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0

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that no inmate has been released under the ongoing exercise of the President’s prerogative of mercy, as the process is still at the review stage.

Fagbemi explained that the clemency exercise, recently approved by the Council of State, has not reached final implementation, as all names and recommendations are currently undergoing standard administrative and legal scrutiny.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the AGF said: “The last stage of the exercise, after approval by the Council of State, is the issuance of the instrument for implementation concerning each beneficiary. This affords an opportunity for a final look at the list for remedial purposes, if any, before forwarding it to the Controller-General of Corrections for necessary action.”

He emphasized that the verification process is part of due process designed to guarantee transparency and prevent errors. “This is a standard protocol reflecting the government’s commitment to diligence and fairness,” Fagbemi noted.

Appreciating public vigilance and feedback, the Minister said Nigerians’ interest in justice strengthens institutional integrity. “There is no delay in the process; it is simply following the law to the letter to ensure that only those duly qualified benefit from the President’s mercy,” he stated.

Fagbemi assured that once all legal and procedural checks are concluded, the public will be duly informed. “The rule of law does not rust it ensures fairness,” he added.

Unbranded Drugs Are Safe, Cost-Effective — NHIA Assures Nigerians

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) has assured Nigerians that all medicines dispensed under the national health insurance scheme whether branded or unbranded are safe, effective, and of high quality.

Director, Formal Sector Department of NHIA, Pharmacist Nuhu Ajodi, gave the assurance on Thursday in Abuja during a sensitization workshop for self-paying government agencies.

Ajodi explained that the Authority adheres strictly to international best practices in social health insurance, which prioritize the use of unbranded (generic) drugs to make treatment more affordable without compromising quality.

“In social health insurance, we use unbranded drugs because they are cost-effective. But that does not mean they are fake,” Ajodi said. “As a pharmacist, I can assure Nigerians that unbranded drugs are of the same quality and efficacy as branded ones. What matters is that they are sourced through accredited and regulated facilities.”

He noted that all health facilities under the NHIA are accredited and routinely monitored to ensure compliance with pharmaceutical and service delivery standards. “No professional in an accredited facility will buy from unauthorized sources. Enrollees should rest assured they are receiving safe, tested, and effective medicines,” he added.

Ajodi said the workshop was organized to deepen understanding of mandatory health insurance and strengthen trust among stakeholders. “Following the presidential directive making health insurance compulsory, we must engage stakeholders to explain what it means and how it drives universal health coverage for all Nigerians,” he stated.

The Director urged self-funding government agencies to remit their health insurance premiums promptly, stressing that “without premium, there can be no cover.” He explained that timely payment ensures NHIA can fulfill its obligations to Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and healthcare providers.

Addressing concerns over service interruptions, Ajodi disclosed that NHIA has introduced Service Level Agreements (SLAs) to guarantee uninterrupted care for enrollees. “We don’t want to hear stories of patients being turned away. If a doctor is on strike in a public facility, the enrollee should be referred to a private hospital. No Nigerian should be left unattended,” he said.

Ajodi reaffirmed NHIA’s commitment to expanding coverage, improving service quality, and rebuilding public confidence in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

“Trust is key,” he concluded. “Our goal is simple to ensure every Nigerian, regardless of status, has access to affordable, quality healthcare without financial hardship.”

Offenders to Pay for Demolition as FCTA Pulls Down 11 Duplexes in Dutse

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Developers who flout building regulations in Abuja will now pay the cost of demolishing their illegal structures, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has warned.

The Director, Department of Development Control, Tpl. Mukhtar Galadima, issued the warning on Thursday during the removal of 11 duplexes erected under high-tension lines and beside a stream channel at Garba Duba Street in Dutse District.

Galadima said the FCTA was tired of spending public funds on demolitions triggered by people’s disregard for planning laws. “Henceforth, any offender will bear the cost of mobilization to site. If you ignore stop-work notices, we’ll allow you to waste your money and then bring it down,” he warned.

He explained that the developers had applied for approval but were denied due to safety concerns, yet proceeded to build despite several stop-work notices and official letters.

“They were told clearly that the location was unsafe too close to a high-tension line and stream channel but they defied the law,” Galadima said.

He revealed that the illegal structures were also obstructing a proposed bridge project. “When our engineering department reminded them of the proposed bridge, they still refused to stop, so we had no option but to enforce compliance,” he stated.

While acknowledging that the demolished plots were statutorily allocated, Galadima said the Administration might consider alternative sites for the owners if they make a formal request.

He advised residents to always seek clarification from relevant authorities before embarking on construction, stressing that “a responsible developer must respect the law and ensure safety for all.”

Stop Ranting, Be Responsible Citizens — Wike Blasts Social Media Critics, Tackles Peter Obi

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

…Says Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda Delivering Tangible Results in FCT

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has called on Nigerians to act as responsible citizens by constructively engaging government on issues of public concern rather than resorting to social media criticism for political relevance.

Speaking during the commissioning of the reconstructed Ken Udezue Street in Abuja, Wike said true patriotism lies in supporting development efforts and drawing government attention to neglected areas, not in politicizing every issue online.

“Who is called a good citizen? Not a good man, but a good citizen one who thinks well about the welfare of the country and their community,” Wike stated. “It is the duty of good citizens to call government’s attention to issues, not to go on social media to say, ‘they said they have done this and that.’ Even in 20 years, no government can finish every project.”

Wike revealed that the road reconstruction was initiated after Damian Dodo (SAN) informed him of its poor state. “I called the FCDA to inspect, and once they confirmed it was bad, I ordered immediate repair. Within a week, work started that’s what a responsive government does,” he said, praising Dodo as an example of a patriotic citizen.

The Minister also used the occasion to lambast Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, accusing him of hypocrisy and political grandstanding.

“Some people because of politics castigate government. For instance, Mr. Peter Obi went to a local school in Abuja claiming government has abandoned public education. But Mr. Obi, you were governor of Anambra for eight years. If you had completed your projects, no one would still be talking about development there,” Wike fired.

He further accused Obi of prioritizing personal financial gain over governance. “Instead of developing Anambra, you put the state’s money in a bank you have interest in. How can you claim to love your people? We’ve been in office for just two years, yet our achievements in FCT outweigh your eight years in Anambra,” he said.

Wike also mocked Obi’s approach to politics, saying: “You cannot become President of Nigeria by celebrating birthdays in IDP camps or campaigning on social media. You couldn’t even manage your party is it a country of over 200 million people you want to manage? Enough of the propaganda.”

Commending Lubrik Construction Company for the swift completion of the road, Wike reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He announced new presidential approvals for critical projects, including alternative access roads to the Body of Benchers complex and 600-bed hostel facilities at the Nigerian Law School, Abuja campus, noting that President Tinubu has demonstrated exceptional responsiveness to citizens’ needs.

“Mr. President takes every request seriously. That’s leadership. The Renewed Hope Agenda is about rebuilding trust between citizens and government showing Nigerians that government truly works,” he said.

Wike urged residents to emulate good citizens like Dodo by engaging government constructively and offering solutions rather than criticism. “Every responsible government listens to its people. That’s how we build a city that works for all,” he concluded.

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