Friday, January 9, 2026
Home Blog Page 5

ADC Faults Tinubu’s NNPC Debt Write-Off, Says Move Breaches Constitution

By
Saladin Babagana
-
0

 

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of the cancellation of legacy debts owed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) to the Federation Account, describing the action as a violation of Section 162 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The party warned that the decision is not only unconstitutional but also financially damaging to states and local governments that depend on statutory allocations from the Federation Account.

In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the ADC’s Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the President approved the removal of substantial NNPC liabilities from public accounts without legislative approval, contrary to constitutional provisions.

According to the party, official documents presented to the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) showed that the President authorised the cancellation of approximately $1.42 billion and N5.57 trillion in legacy debts owed by NNPC Ltd after a reconciliation of records with regulators. The directive, it said, covers outstanding liabilities accumulated up to December 31, 2024, including obligations arising from production sharing contracts, domestic supply obligations, royalty receivables and other legacy balances.

The ADC alleged that nearly 96 per cent of the dollar-denominated debts and 88 per cent of the naira-denominated debts were written off through an executive directive, without parliamentary approval or clear constitutional authority.

“This so-called justification of ‘reconciliation’ cannot lawfully override constitutional requirements for revenue sharing,” the party said. “The action effectively removes long-standing liabilities from public accounts, but at the cost of shrinking the revenue base constitutionally distributable to states and local governments.”

The party stressed that under Section 162 of the Constitution, all revenues due to the Federation, including oil sector receipts and related obligations, must be paid into the Federation Account for distribution among the three tiers of government.

“The Federation Account is not subject to executive discretion. No President has the unilateral authority to cancel constitutionally due revenues, and any cancellation that reduces funds due to states and local governments without legislative backing is unconstitutional,” the statement added.

The ADC further accused President Tinubu of repeatedly breaching the Constitution and criticised the National Assembly for what it described as silence in the face of a serious constitutional violation.

“We have said it before and we will say it again: President Tinubu has repeatedly violated the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. More troubling is the apparent collusion or wilful surrender by the National Assembly,” the party said, adding that such actions ordinarily should warrant impeachment proceedings.

“As a nation governed by laws and not by men, no President can override what the Constitution protects. The Federation Account belongs to all tiers of government and cannot be subjected to the discretion of the Federal Executive,” the ADC concluded.

30 Feared in Captivity as Kogi Community Mourns Fresh Bandit Attacks, Appeals to FG

By
Udehi Alambo
-
0

 

The Ayetoro-Kiri community in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State has been thrown into deep grief and despair following persistent bandit attacks, alleged official negligence and worsening insecurity in Bunu land.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the community’s spokesperson, Mr. David Amupitan, and made available to journalists on Saturday in Lokoja.

According to the statement, scores of residents were abducted by bandits, and despite painful ransom payments raised through communal contributions, only seven victims were released. Of those freed, three reportedly died on arrival, while four others are currently battling for their lives in critical condition at various medical facilities.

Amupitan added that about 30 residents are still being held in the kidnappers’ den, heightening fears over their safety and survival.

He described the situation as a tragic reflection of the failure of security governance in the area, alleging that authorities at the Kabba-Bunu Local Government Council turned against innocent residents who staged a peaceful protest to draw attention to their plight.

The statement further alleged that officials of the local government council and security agencies, rather than protecting vulnerable communities, responded by tear-gassing and arresting peaceful protesters who were demanding safety, justice and the rescue of their abducted relatives.

“It is both ironic and unacceptable that a government entrusted with the protection of lives and property would criminalise peaceful protest, while allowing bandits to roam freely, killing, kidnapping and terrorising law-abiding citizens,” the statement said.

“Our people are tired of burying loved ones, tired of selling properties and contributing scarce resources to pay ransom, and tired of living under perpetual fear while those in authority remain indifferent.”

The community therefore issued an urgent appeal to the Federal Government, security agencies and relevant authorities to intervene decisively in Ayetoro-Kiri and the entire Bunu district.

Amupitan demanded immediate action to rescue those still in captivity, restore security to the area and hold accountable all officials alleged to have enabled or ignored what he described as a growing humanitarian tragedy.

City Boy Movement Names State, Diaspora Directors to Drive 2027 Election Strategy

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

 

The City Boy Movement has unveiled a new cadre of State and Diaspora Directors as part of a nationwide consolidation and strategic build-up ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

The appointments, ratified by the Director-General of the Movement, Hon. Francis Oluwatosin Shoga, take effect from January 1, 2026, and are designed to strengthen grassroots structures, enhance internal coordination, boost youth mobilisation and promote disciplined political engagement across Nigeria and in the diaspora.

Announcing the development, Hon. Shoga said the approvals followed extensive consultations, harmonisation and internal reviews, reflecting the Movement’s commitment to unity, structure and effective leadership at all levels.

According to him, the newly appointed directors are expected to play a pivotal role in positioning the Movement for greater organisational strength and political relevance as preparations intensify for the 2027 polls.

Those approved as Directors include Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao Akala (Oyo), Hon. Dr. Musa Ahmed Mohammed (Nasarawa), Moyosore Adedoyin Ogunlewe (Lagos), Hon. Tiza Isaac Imojime Orya (Benue), Chief Nwaneri Goodluck Chidera (Imo), Hon. Paddy Iyamu (Edo), Hon. Bitrus Laurence Garki (Federal Capital Territory), Mr. David Daser (Plateau), Baba Rauf Abdulrazaq (Kwara), and Hon. Akintunde Abidemi Oludayo (Diaspora).

Others are Sulaiman Saad Ribadu (SAN) (Adamawa), Chief Victor Thompson (Akwa Ibom), Dr. Bala Maijamaa Wunti (Bauchi), Hon. Gorou Karo (Delta), Amb. Ogah Okpanachi Mark (Kogi), Hon. Ayodele Olawande (Ondo), Prince Ayorinde Ejioye (Ekiti), Rt. Hon. Haruna Aliyu (Jigawa), Mutawalle Kachala Barko (Yobe), Hon. Kamarudeen Yusuf (Ogun), Rt. Hon. Babagana Goni Bukar (Borno), and Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata (Kano).

The Movement said appointments for the remaining states and chapters would be announced in due course as the ongoing consolidation process is concluded.

Members of the City Boy Movement nationwide were urged to extend maximum cooperation and support to the newly appointed directors as the organisation deepens its commitment to unity, discipline and purposeful political engagement in line with the Renewed Hope agenda.

No More No-Go Areas in Rivers, We Won’t Repeat Past Mistakes — Wike 

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared that political divisions in Rivers State had been effectively bridged, insisting that there are no longer “no-go areas” as stakeholders unite to move the state forward.

 

Wike made the assertion on Saturday during his thank-you visit to Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, southern Nigeria.

 

Wike commended the people of Okrika for their renewed unity, loyalty and support, describing the moment as a turning point in the state’s political journey.

 

“I believe in you, and that belief will take you places. As the professor said earlier, we used to have some problems, but today everyone is working together. That means there is no longer any no-go area.”

 

The former Rivers governor stressed that the emerging political alignment in the state transcends party lines, describing it as a collective commitment to a shared vision.

 

According to him “We are not talking about party here; we are talking about the Renewed Hope family,. All of us have decided that we are going to work together. There is no discussion about that. That is why we must take decisions. Of course, we will not make the mistake we made last time. We are here to correct that mistake.”

 

Wike also dismissed critics who, according to him, consistently underestimate the political strength of his supporters, saying that total mobilisation, not token support, would be delivered when it matters most.

 

“Some people say, they can only deliver two to ten percent.’ So what is political advantage?” he asked.

 

Wike explained further that, ” We will do all we can to ensure we give the total support required.”

 

In a sharp rebuttal of personal attacks, the FCT minister defended his educational and professional credentials, describing attempts to discredit him as the handiwork of political opponents who lack electoral value.

 

“Someone once said the Minister of the FCT is semi-illiterate, yet that same person dropped out of university. I went to university, studied Law, went to Law School, returned, and today I am a Life Bencher. I have the fourth highest national honour, the CON”, he

 

He added that political relevance is determined at the polls, not through name-calling.

 

“That same man does not know how to win elections. He contested and failed. sabotaged the party and it lost at the tribunal. But I contested and won twice,” he said.

 

Wike further recalled his record in public office, insisting that his achievements as chairman, Minister, governor and now FCT minister remain verifiable.

 

“In politics, when people cannot do what you are doing, they start calling you all kinds of names. I am not worried. Anybody can go and check the records”, he added

 

Addressing allegations that he masterminds political and legal troubles for opponents, Wike dismissed the claims as diversionary tactics.

 

“The bauchi state governor said I was the one masterminding things. He forgot that in 2016, he refused the EFCC and was prosecuted. Was that also me?” he asked,

 

Explaining the purpose of his visit, Wike described it as an endorsement of the people who stood by him through difficult times.

 

“I came to say thank you. This is my endorsement. I know you will never abandon me”, he stated.

 

He warned against overreliance on money and political noise, stressing that consistency, organisation and leadership remain the keys to success.

 

The minister praised the people of Okrika for reclaiming their local council and urged leaders to embrace inclusive governance, dialogue and engagement at all levels.

 

“Someone who cannot relate with a council chairman, assembly members or National Assembly members, what kind of leadership is that?” he queried.

 

Wike also expressed appreciation to women in the area for their support and turnout, assuring them of continued engagement.

 

“To our mothers, I thank you for dressing gorgeously and coming out, We will not take your support for granted. We will continue to work with you”, he assured them.

Resident Doctors to Resume Indefinite Strike Jan 12 Over Unimplemented MoU

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

 

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced plans to resume its Total, Indefinite and Complete Strike (TICS 2.0) from January 12, 2026, citing the Federal Government’s failure to implement a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the association.

The decision was reached at NARD’s Emergency National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held on Friday, according to a statement issued on Saturday and signed by the association’s President, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman.

NARD said the renewed industrial action, tagged “No Implementation, No Going Back,” will commence at 12:00 a.m. on January 12, unless the government meets its outstanding obligations. The association also announced plans for nationwide protests, including centre-based demonstrations across hospitals between January 12 and January 16.

The doctors had suspended an earlier indefinite strike on November 29, 2025, after 29 days of action, following the signing of an MoU in which the Federal Government committed to meeting their demands within four weeks. However, NARD said repeated deadlines for implementation had been ignored, leaving the association with no option than to resume the strike.

As part of preparations for the renewed action, the E-NEC directed presidents of NARD’s 91 centres nationwide to convene congress meetings and subsequently address the media. The association said this would result in coordinated press conferences across the country to highlight doctors’ welfare concerns.

NARD said the strike would only be suspended after the full implementation of its minimum demands, which include the payment of promotion and salary arrears, reinstatement of affected resident doctors, full implementation of the professional allowance table with arrears captured in the 2026 budget, resolution of salary delays, and the resumption and timely conclusion of the collective bargaining agreement process.

The association added that the one-week notice period before the strike is intended to allow for internal consultations, media engagement and statutory notifications to relevant security agencies and hospital managements nationwide.

Rivers Ijaw Congress Withdraws Support from Fubara, Backs Wike

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

 

The Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress has announced its withdrawal of support from Governor Siminalayi Fubara and declared allegiance to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, in a move that underscores shifting political alignments in Rivers State.

The decision was made public on Saturday by the Chairman of the Congress, Senator George Sekibo, during Wike’s thank-you visit to Okrika Local Government Area.

Describing the rift between Fubara and Wike as “unfortunate,” Sekibo said the Ijaw people could not be branded as ungrateful, recalling the role Wike played in the emergence of Fubara, an Ijaw son, as governor of the state.

“Please do not look at him and conclude that the Ijaw people are ungrateful,” Sekibo said. “Ijaw people are very grateful. That is why we have withdrawn from him and decided to follow you. You have done so much for the Ijaw people in Rivers.”

He pledged the continued support of the Ijaw people to Wike and affirmed their loyalty to President Bola Tinubu, noting that the group would stand by leaders who had shown consistency and commitment.

Earlier, the Chairman of Okrika Local Government Council, Akuro Tobin, described Wike as his political godfather, saying the minister had facilitated opportunities for many sons and daughters of the area through elective and appointive positions.

Tobin assured Wike of the support of the people of Okrika, including youths and women, adding that they remained firmly aligned with him and the President.

Speaking on behalf of women in the area, the Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and representative of Okrika Constituency, Linda Stewart, commended Wike’s record in promoting women’s participation in governance, describing his support as unprecedented.

In his remarks, Wike thanked the people for their support and urged them to remain steadfast in backing President Tinubu, whom he described as a leader who keeps his word.

He also called on the people to continue to support leaders of integrity and proven character, stressing the importance of trust in public life.

The minister later paid a courtesy visit to the Amanyanabo of Okochiri Kingdom, King Akete Tom, where he praised the monarch for fostering unity and peace in his domain.

Wike disclosed that a decision had been taken concerning the 2027 general elections, noting that details would be communicated at the appropriate time.

He, however, advised traditional rulers to refrain from partisan political engagements, urging them instead to guide their people and intervene when necessary to maintain harmony.

“It will not be business as usual,” Wike said. “Allow us to play our game, and if there is any problem, call us to settle.”

That Same Dog Barked, Made You Governor’ — Wike Roars at Fubara 

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

 

 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has lashed out at Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, declaring that the same political forces now being mocked were responsible for his emergence as governor.

Wike spoke on Saturday during his thank-you visit to Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State, where he said political divisions in the state were gradually giving way to unity.

“That same dog barked and helped make you governor,” Wike said, in a sharp response to comments credited to Fubara. “This dog barked when people did not even know who you were. Today, fate has made the same dog bark again. I wish you good luck.”

The former Rivers governor insisted that Rivers politics has moved beyond exclusion, stressing that there are no longer “no-go areas” in the state.

“I believe in you, and that belief will take you places,” he told the crowd. “We used to have problems, but today everybody is working together. That means there is no more no-go area.”

Wike said the new political alignment in the state cuts across party lines, adding that it is driven by collective interest rather than party labels.

“We are not talking about party here; we are talking about the real Hope family,” he said. “All of us have agreed to work together. We will not repeat the mistake of the past.”

Dismissing claims that his political camp lacks electoral strength, Wike said political advantage is about structure and mobilisation, not guesswork.

“Some people say we can only deliver two to ten per cent. So what is political advantage?” he asked. “We will do everything possible to deliver total support.”

The FCT minister also fired back at critics who questioned his educational and political credentials, describing such attacks as cheap blackmail.

“Someone once called me semi-illiterate,” he said. “I studied Law, went to Law School and today I am a Life Bencher with a national honour. Those who cannot win elections resort to insults.”

He recalled his political journey, noting that while some critics failed repeatedly at the polls, he won elections and rose through party leadership, commissioner, governor and now FCT minister.

“When people cannot do what you are doing, they start calling you names,” Wike said. “I am not bothered.”

Explaining the purpose of his visit, Wike said he was in Okrika to thank the people for their support and to reaffirm his bond with them.

“I came to say thank you. This is my endorsement. I know you will not abandon me,” he said.

He warned politicians against relying on money alone to win elections, stressing that leadership and consistency matter.

“Money cannot solve all problems. Shouting about mandate does not automatically give victory,” Wike said.

Wike commended the people of Okrika, especially women, for their support, assuring them that their loyalty would not be taken for granted.

London Mosque to Host Funeral for Anthony Joshua’s Friends Killed in Nigeria Crash

By
Saladin Babagana
-
0

 

The Janaza (Islamic funeral prayer) for Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele, close friends of world boxing champion Anthony Joshua, will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, in London.
The funeral service is scheduled to begin at 10am at the London Central Mosque, located at 146 Park Road, London NW8 7RG.
The remains of Ghami and Ayodele were repatriated to the United Kingdom after they died in a tragic road accident in Nigeria late last year. The fatal crash occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in the Makun area of Ogun State.
The accident involved a Lexus SUV conveying Anthony Joshua, which collided with a stationary truck. Ghami, Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, and Ayodele, his personal trainer, died at the scene, while the boxing star reportedly sustained only minor injuries.
In a statement announcing the funeral, Boxing King Media said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones.”
The London funeral is expected to draw family members, friends, and members of the boxing community, who will gather to pay their final respects to the deceased.

Maduro ‘Captured and Flown Out’ in Dramatic US Military Strike on Venezuela

By
Ola Akinola
-
0

ABEOKUTA / International – In an unprecedented military operation, the United States has launched large-scale strikes against Venezuela and announced the capture of its sitting President, Nicolás Maduro, along with his wife, Cilia Flores.

President Donald Trump announced the operation on his Truth Social platform early Saturday, stating: “The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader… captured and flown out of the Country.” The action marks the most direct U.S. intervention in Latin America since the 1989 invasion of Panama.

According to U.S. officials, the mission to capture Maduro was executed by the elite Delta Force special operations unit.

Charges, Denials, and a National Emergency

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed Maduro and his wife are in U.S. custody and face criminal charges in the Southern District of New York. Maduro has been charged with “Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices”. Bondi stated they would “face the full wrath of American justice on American soil”.

The Venezuelan government denounced the attack as “extremely serious military aggression” and declared a state of national emergency. Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, who would constitutionally assume power in Maduro’s absence, stated the government did not know the President’s whereabouts and demanded “proof of life”.

International Reactions: Condemnation and Concern

The international response has been swift and sharply divided:

· Condemnation: Russia and Iran strongly condemned the strikes, calling them a violation of sovereignty. Cuba denounced the “criminal attack” as “state terrorism”. Colombia deployed forces to its border with Venezuela in preparation for a potential refugee influx.

· Calls for Restraint: The European Union, while stating Maduro “lacks legitimacy,” called for respect for international law and restraint. Spain, Chile, and others echoed calls for peaceful dialogue and de-escalation.

· Support: Argentina’s President Javier Milei celebrated the news, posting “liberty advances”. Some members of the Venezuelan diaspora in Miami also celebrated.

· Non-involvement: The United Kingdom’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the UK was “not involved in any way” in the operation.

The Path to a Dramatic Escalation

The dramatic events follow months of intensifying U.S. pressure on Maduro’s government. Since mid-2025, the U.S. has built up a large naval presence in the Caribbean, seized Venezuelan oil tankers, and conducted strikes on boats allegedly involved in drug trafficking. The U.S. has long accused Maduro of leading a criminal narco-trafficking organization, which he denies.

Trump had previously refused to rule out war with Venezuela and stated Maduro’s “days are numbered”. The operation comes just two days after Maduro publicly offered U.S. cooperation on fighting drug trafficking.

Unanswered Questions and Future Uncertainty

The situation remains fluid with many critical questions unresolved:

· Location and Trial: Maduro and his wife’s exact location is unknown, as are the full details of the legal proceedings they will face.

· Casualties: The extent of damage and potential casualties from the strikes on Caracas and other areas is not yet clear.

· Leadership in Venezuela: It is uncertain who will now govern Venezuela. Key figures to watch include Vice President Delcy Rodríguez and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López. The opposition, led by María Corina Machado, may see this as a pivotal moment.

· Legal Justification: The Trump administration has not detailed the legal authority for the strike. Some U.S. lawmakers, like Democratic Senator Ruben Gallego, have called the action “illegal”, while others seek constitutional justification.

A news conference by President Trump is scheduled for later today (11:00 a.m. ET at Mar-a-Lago), where more details are expected.

Key Figures in the Crisis

· Nicolás Maduro: President of Venezuela since 2013. Indicted by U.S. courts on narco-terrorism charges. U.S. offered a $50M bounty for his capture.

· Donald Trump: U.S. President. Announced the military operation and Maduro’s capture.

· Delcy Rodríguez: Venezuelan Vice President. Demanded proof of life for Maduro; is constitutional successor.

· Marco Rubio: U.S. Secretary of State. Key architect of hardline Venezuela policy.

· Vladimir Padrino López: Venezuelan Defense Minister. Ordered full military deployment and vowed “wall of resistance”.

What’s Next?

· Immediate: Await official confirmation of Maduro’s status and location, along with casualty reports from Venezuela.

· Short-term: Watch for Venezuela’s constitutional succession process and potential U.S. plans for political transition.

· Long-term: Monitor responses from global powers like China and Russia, and potential U.N. Security Council action.

Driver in Fatal Crash Involving Boxer Joshua Arraigned in Court

By
Ola Akinola
-
0

Two of Champion’s Associates Killed in Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Accident

The driver of the Lexus Sports Utility Vehicle involved in the fatal road accident that claimed the lives of two associates of world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Oluwafemi Joshua, was arraigned in court on Friday.

Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, was brought before the Sagamu Magistrate Court by the Ogun State Police Command, facing charges related to the tragic incident which occurred last week on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

Confirming the arraignment, the State Police Public Relations Officer, Oluseyi Babaseyi, stated that the court has adjourned the case to January 20, 2026, for further proceedings.

The collision, which involved the Lexus SUV driven by the defendant, resulted in the death of two friends of the British-Nigerian boxing icon. While Joshua was not involved in the crash, the incident has cast a pall over the boxing community and his personal circle.

According to official reports from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the defendant is accused of reckless driving and overspeeding, which are believed to be the primary causes of the accident.

The news has sent shockwaves through the sports world, with fans and fellow athletes expressing condolences for the loss of Joshua’s friends. The boxing champion, a unifying figure renowned for his philanthropic efforts in Nigeria, has yet to make a public statement following the court proceedings.

Legal analysts suggest that the charges could carry severe penalties if the defendant is found guilty, given the grave consequences of the accident.

The Ogun State Police Command has assured the public of a thorough investigation and a diligent prosecution to ensure justice is served.

The case continues in January 2026.

1...456...440Page 5 of 440

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Newsfocus is your news, sports,politics, entertainment, music fashion website. We offer you the latest breaking news and videos straight from the sports and entertainment industry across the world.

Contact us: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

© 2020 Focus Media . All Rights Reserved