Home Blog Page 29

EFCC Arraigns Former AGF Malami Over Alleged N8.7bn Money Laundering

0

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to arraign a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged money laundering running into billions of naira.

Sources within the anti-graft agency disclosed that all arrangements had been concluded for Malami’s appearance before Justice Emeka Nwite, where he is expected to take his plea alongside his co-defendants. As of late Sunday, the commission was said to be fully prepared for the arraignment, subject only to unforeseen developments, with the prosecution team expected to be led by Chief J. S. Okutepa, SAN.

The EFCC filed a 16-count charge against Malami, his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and an associate, Hajia Bashir Asabe, accusing them of conspiracy, money laundering and the unlawful acquisition of properties valued at over ₦8.7 billion. The charge, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/700/2025, alleged that the defendants concealed, disguised, retained and indirectly acquired proceeds of unlawful activities through multiple bank accounts, corporate entities and high-value real estate transactions.

According to the charge sheet, the alleged offences were committed between 2015 and 2025, largely within the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, during Malami’s tenure as the nation’s chief law officer.

The commission alleged that Malami and his son used Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited to conceal over ₦1.6 billion lodged in a Sterling Bank account between 2020 and 2025. They were also accused of retaining ₦600 million as cash collateral for a ₦500 million loan obtained by Rayhaan Hotels Ltd from Sterling Bank Plc, allegedly knowing the funds were proceeds of unlawful activity.

In another count, the EFCC claimed that between November 2022 and October 2025, the defendants indirectly controlled ₦1.36 billion paid through the Union Bank account of Meethaq Hotels Ltd, which it described as illicit in origin.

Several counts relate to the alleged acquisition of luxury properties in Abuja and other locations, which the commission said were intended to disguise the source and beneficial ownership of the funds. These include payments running into hundreds of millions of naira for properties in Maitama, Garki, Jabi, Asokoro and Gwarimpa.

The EFCC further alleged that Malami utilised unlawful proceeds totalling about ₦952 million to acquire multiple properties in Abuja, Kano and Birnin Kebbi between 2018 and 2023, allegedly using proxies and corporate fronts to obscure ownership. Hajia Bashir Asabe, described as an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Ltd, was accused of facilitating several of the property acquisitions and disguising ownership on Malami’s behalf.

The commission said the alleged offences contravened provisions of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. It listed investigators, bank officials, bureau de change operators and company representatives among its proposed witnesses.

NCAA Clarifies: December Airfare Hikes Not Driven by Government Taxes

0

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has refuted claims that recent increases in domestic airfares were caused by government-imposed taxes.

Michael Achimugu, NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, explained in a statement on his X handle on Sunday that the surge in ticket prices was due to market dynamics and high festive travel demand, particularly on high-traffic routes.

“It is market forces. It is Nigerians on Nigerians. This is not the government. December airfares have absolutely nothing to do with taxes. Taxes did not increase in December, and airfares will most likely go down after the second week of January,” Achimugu said.

He dismissed assertions by some airline operators that domestic carriers pay excessive taxes, noting that no airline in Nigeria pays as many as 18 taxes, contrary to claims circulating publicly. “Any domestic airline that says they pay 18 taxes is lying. I invited all domestic airlines and asked them directly about these taxes, and they all admitted they do not pay the figures being bandied around,” he added.

Achimugu also questioned the rationale behind tickets selling for up to ₦500,000 for short flights, pointing out that taxes and jet fuel prices had not increased during the period.

The NCAA’s clarification comes amid comments by Allen Onyema, Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, who stated that Nigerians pay some of the cheapest domestic airfares globally. Onyema noted that airlines retain only about ₦81,000 from a ₦350,000 ticket after taxes and charges, placing significant financial strain on operators.

While NCAA does not regulate fares, the authority emphasized its ongoing engagement with airlines and industry stakeholders to ensure transparency. Achimugu highlighted the support provided by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, and NCAA Director General Capt. Chris Najomo, including policy reforms allowing local airlines access to dry-leased aircraft—a provision not available for decades.

“The kind of support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Director General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, has given to domestic carriers does not justify why the government keeps getting thrown under the bus,” he said.

The NCAA urged the public and media to rely on verified information, stressing that the December airfare hikes reflect seasonal demand rather than government taxation.

Trump Says U.S. and Ukraine ‘Much Closer’ to Peace Deal, Key Issues Remain

0

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy were “getting a lot closer, maybe very close” to a potential agreement to end the war in Ukraine, while acknowledging that several critical issues, including the fate of the Donbas region, remain unresolved.

Speaking at a joint news conference following a meeting at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, both leaders indicated progress on two major points in peace negotiations: security guarantees for Ukraine and the future of eastern Ukraine’s Donbas region, which Russia has sought to capture.

Trump offered cautious optimism, noting that a few “thorny issues” related to territory still need resolution, though he said discussions are “moving in the right direction.” Zelenskiy confirmed that agreement on security guarantees has largely been reached, describing it as a “key milestone in achieving a lasting peace.” Trump added that European nations are expected to “take over a big part” of implementing these guarantees, with U.S. support.

The future of the Donbas region remains unsettled. While Russia insists on controlling the entire region, Ukraine seeks to maintain current lines of control. The U.S. has proposed a compromise, including a potential free economic zone if Ukraine withdraws from the area, although practical details are still unclear.

Trump also highlighted ongoing discussions regarding post-war security arrangements for Ukraine, noting that the agreement would require Ukrainian parliamentary approval or possibly a referendum. “It’s unresolved, but it’s getting a lot closer. That’s a very tough issue,” he said.

Ahead of Zelenskiy’s visit, Trump held a two-hour phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, described as “productive” and “friendly.” Trump reported that Putin pledged support for Ukraine’s reconstruction, including the supply of affordable energy. The Kremlin expressed backing for Trump’s mediation efforts, with Putin’s special envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, posting that “the whole world appreciates President Trump and his team’s peace efforts.”

Negotiations also covered the fate of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, with Trump noting progress on shared control arrangements. The International Atomic Energy Agency reported that local power line repairs have begun following a temporary ceasefire.

The meeting comes after Russian forces launched missile and drone attacks on Kyiv and other regions over the weekend, which Trump interpreted as a reaction to U.S.-facilitated peace efforts. European leaders, participating via phone, emphasized the importance of robust security guarantees and an urgent resolution to the conflict.

While Trump and Zelenskiy did not provide a specific deadline for concluding a peace deal, the U.S. president suggested that clarity on the negotiations would emerge “in a few weeks.”

Obaseki, Rights Groups Condemn Violent Attack on Filmmaker Pedro in Benin

0

Former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has condemned the violent assault and abduction of his cousin, Don Pedro, by armed individuals in Benin City, alleging involvement of the Bini palace.

In a statement, Obaseki said Pedro, a former Managing Director of DAAR Communications and prominent Nollywood filmmaker, was attacked at Uwa Primary School, where he was physically assaulted, intimidated, and tortured before being forcefully taken to the palace.

“His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, the immediate past governor of Edo State, has condemned in the strongest terms the violent attack and abduction of his cousin, Dr. Pedro Obaseki at gun point by armed thugs said to be acting under the instructions of the palace of the Oba of Benin,” the statement read.

The former governor described the incident as a grave violation of human rights and a reckless disregard for the rule of law. He called on security agencies to “immediately investigate this matter thoroughly and transparently, identify those responsible for this barbaric act and ensure they are held accountable in accordance with the law.”

Human rights activist Kola Edokpayi also condemned the assault, which occurred while Pedro was playing football. According to reports, the attackers accused him of making disrespectful remarks against the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II. A viral video circulating online showed Pedro being dragged by the youths and publicly paraded before being taken to the palace.

Rowland Owie, former Chief Whip of the Senate, described the attack as a “despicable and criminal assault” and a violation of Pedro’s fundamental human rights, including personal liberty and freedom from inhuman treatment. He urged the Inspector General of Police to ensure a prompt investigation and prosecution of those responsible.

Pedro himself recounted his ordeal:

“On Saturday, 28th December 2025, at about 11:00–11:30 a.m., while playing football at Uwa Primary School, Igbesanmwan Street, Benin City, I was suddenly attacked by a group of men. The attackers, some of whom were armed and brandishing guns, forcibly abducted and kidnapped me… I was severely beaten, dragged along the streets, and stripped completely naked… From there, I was further dragged around Ring Road and forcibly taken into the Oba’s Palace… While in this condition, I attempted to plead for my life and dignity as the Oba drove past me… Eventually, at about 5:15 p.m., I was released from custody,” he stated.

The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from civil society groups and prominent figures, who called for justice and measures to prevent such incidents in Edo State.

BREAKING: Boxer Anthony Joshua Involved in Fatal Road Accident in Ogun State

0

British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a road accident on Monday in Makun, Ogun State.

The incident reportedly occurred along a busy stretch of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway when the vehicle carrying the former world heavyweight champion collided with another car under circumstances that remain unclear.

Preliminary reports indicate that Joshua sustained minor injuries, while two other individuals were confirmed dead.

The accident has sparked widespread concern across social media, with fans and well-wishers expressing their support for the boxer.

Authorities are yet to release full details of the collision as investigations into the cause continue.

Wike Dismisses Makinde’s Claim of ‘Holding PDP’ for Tinubu, Blames Oyo Governor’s Ambition for Party Crisis

0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed as false claims by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde that he pledged to “hold” the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election, describing the allegation as a “blatant lie” and politically unfair.

Wike was reacting to comments credited to Makinde during a media interaction, in which the Oyo governor alleged that the FCT minister made the declaration during a private meeting attended by President Tinubu and his Chief of Staff.

Responding during his own media engagement, Wike categorically denied making such a statement.

“That’s the blatant lie,” Wike said.

He questioned the rationale behind the claim, insisting that no meeting was held for such a purpose and that no such declaration was made.

“First of all, you ask yourself, what was that for? What was the purpose of that meeting that would have led me to say, Mr. President, I will hold PDP for you?” he said.

Wike further challenged the credibility of Makinde’s account, stating that the meeting referenced by the Oyo governor did not occur in the manner described.

“There was no such meeting,” he said. “Rather, my humble self, the former governor of Benue State, Ortom, the former governor of Abia State, Ikpeazu, the former governor of Enugu State, Ugwuanyi and Seyi Makinde, we went to see the president.”

According to the FCT minister, the visit involved members of the G5 governors and took place after the general elections to discuss broad political issues, not to negotiate party control or manipulation.

“We went to see the president to discuss. Of course, elections were over,” he said.

Wike added that the presence of the President’s Chief of Staff at the meeting was routine and did not imply a separate or covert political arrangement.

He described Makinde’s allegation as unfair and politically motivated.

“It is completely out of place for anybody to say that in that meeting, I said to Mr. President, I will hold PDP for you,” he said. “That’s very unfair. Very, very unfair.”

The minister went further to accuse Makinde of acting out of frustration and personal ambition, which he said had contributed significantly to the internal crisis within the PDP.

“If you can see in that media chat with Seyi Makinde, you can see frustration,” Wike said.

He also blamed Makinde for legal actions that deepened divisions in the party.

“How did the PDP enter this crisis? It is Seyi Makinde’s ambition,” he said.

Wike explained that party leaders had earlier agreed to allow internal mechanisms resolve disputes but accused Makinde of breaking that consensus.

“We all agreed for the party to move on,” he said. “He refused and went to the Supreme Court. When he went to the Supreme Court, he lost.”

The FCT minister maintained that official party records still recognise Senator Sam Anyanwu as the PDP National Secretary, citing the position of the electoral commission.

“INEC told them, listen, as far as we are concerned, in our system, the Secretary of PDP is Senator Sam Anyanwu,” he said.

The exchange follows Makinde’s recent declaration that he would not support President Tinubu in 2027, citing concerns about the survival of opposition parties and democratic balance. Wike, however, insisted that he never offered to undermine the PDP and described the claims attributed to him as entirely unfounded.

DSS Arrests Suspects Linked to Killing of Neurology Professor in Cross River

0

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have arrested suspected members of a kidnap ring linked to the killing of a Professor of Neurology, Ekanem Philip Ephraim, nearly two years after her abduction and murder in Cross River State.

A security source confirmed that the suspects were apprehended on December 27 at a medical facility in the state while allegedly planning to kidnap another senior medical professional.

The source identified the alleged gang leader as 24-year-old Patrick Essien Etim, alongside his accomplice, Bassey Antiha Asuquo, 40.

According to the source, the DSS had been tracking the syndicate since July 2023, when Professor Ephraim was abducted from her private clinic after gunmen reportedly posed as patients.

Investigations revealed that the suspects confessed to the crime, admitting that they killed the professor after collecting multiple ransom payments from her family.

“It has been two years of torment for her loved ones, not knowing what happened to the Professor. I believe that, with this arrest, her family and loved ones will be able to finally have some peace and the much-needed closure that they deserve,” the source said.

“This huge breakthrough underscores the commitment of the DSS in reverting to covertness in its operations and restoring public safety across the country.”

The source further disclosed that the suspects also admitted to kidnapping other victims and vandalising electricity cables. Another suspect, identified as Isaac Ekpeyong, was also arrested in connection with the operations of the gang.

Professor Ephraim was abducted on July 13, 2023, from her clinic along Atimbo Road in Calabar by gunmen who posed as patients.

Her disappearance triggered widespread protests across the state by medical professionals, with the Nigerian Medical Association declaring an indefinite strike that paralysed health services for over a week, as doctors demanded decisive action to secure her release.

Tax Law ‘Alteration’ Dispute: Reps Minority Caucus Urges FG to Suspend Implementation

0

The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to suspend the implementation of the newly enacted tax reform laws amid growing allegations of alterations to the versions passed by the National Assembly.

The demand follows recent comments by the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, who insisted last week that the January 1, 2026 implementation date for the Nigerian Tax Act and the Nigerian Tax Administration Act remains fixed.

“The plan to commence the new laws on January 1, 2026, will go ahead as planned on schedule because these reforms are designed to provide relief to the Nigerian people,” Oyedele said after a meeting attended by the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacchaeus Adedeji, and the Chairman of the National Tax Policy Implementation Committee, Joseph Tegbe.

He added that, “Bottom 98 per cent of workers will see either no Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax or lower taxes to be paid, small businesses 97 per cent of them will be exempted from Corporate Income Taxes, Value Added Tax (VAT), and Withholding Tax, and large businesses will see a drop in the taxes that they pay.

“The whole idea is to try and promote economic growth, inclusivity, as well as shared prosperity for our people.”

Oyedele, however, said the Federal Government was open to working with the National Assembly over concerns raised about alleged alterations to the laws.

In a statement jointly signed by Minority Leader Rep. O.K. Chinda, Minority Whip Rt. Hon. Ali Isa J.C., Deputy Minority Leader Rt. Hon. Aliyu Madaki, and Deputy Minority Whip Rt. Hon. George Ozodinobi, the caucus urged the government to halt implementation until investigations are concluded.

“…we call on the government to suspend the implementation of the tax laws until investigations are concluded and there is clarity and certainty of the law to be implemented,” the statement said.

The lawmakers also insisted that Nigerians and the business community are entitled to copies of the authentic laws “they are expected to obey,” assuring that the caucus would ensure any alleged illegalities in the gazetted versions are addressed in the national interest.

“We have noted with great consternation and an overwhelming sense of disappointment the current storm brewing over the Tax Reform laws that were duly passed by the National Assembly and properly signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” the caucus stated.

“Ordinarily, the controversy will have been dismissed as needless, but the gravity of the cause of the controversy is an issue of great concern to all Nigerians, especially since it borders on the accusations of unlawful alterations to the laws as passed by both Chambers of the National Assembly and subsequently signed by the President.”

The caucus referenced a motion raised during a recent plenary, which led to the inauguration of a high-powered House committee to investigate claims that the tax laws were “fraudulently altered, gazetted and the altered copy circulated to the public.”

“As such, we want to assure Nigerians that the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives, will stand with the entire House to see that the circumstances surrounding this illegality is exposed and the culprits brought to book in the interest of justice for all Nigerians,” the statement added.

The lawmakers further called on Nigerians to disregard any version of the tax laws lacking the signatures of the Clerk to the National Assembly and the President, warning that “any attempt to foist fake laws on Nigerians is an attack on the independence and constitutional role of the National Assembly.”

The controversy intensified after a member of the House, Abdussamad Dasuki, raised concerns over discrepancies between the tax laws debated and passed by lawmakers and the versions later gazetted and circulated.

“Before you can say there is a difference between what was gazetted and what was passed, we have what has not been gazetted. We don’t have what was passed,” Dasuki said.

“The official harmonised bills certified by the clerk, which the National Assembly sent to the President, we don’t have a copy to compare. Only the lawmakers can say authoritatively what we sent.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier signed four tax reform bills into law, described by the Federal Government as the most far-reaching overhaul of Nigeria’s tax system in decades.

The laws—the Nigeria Tax Act, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act—are all scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, despite ongoing disputes over their final content.

2027 Elections: APC Membership Does Not Assure Second Term, Wike Warns Politicians

0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has cautioned politicians against assuming that joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) or publicly declaring loyalty to President Bola Tinubu automatically guarantees a second-term ticket.

Wike issued the warning on Tuesday while addressing supporters during a political engagement in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, as part of his ongoing consultations across the state.

The minister, who was received by the Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area, Chidi Lloyd, alongside traditional ruler Sergeant Awuse and other party leaders, used the occasion to restate his long-held views on political loyalty, relevance, and structured agreements.

Addressing the gathering, Wike stressed that the Ikwerre ethnic nationality must remain visible and influential in Nigeria’s political landscape, warning against complacency and political marginalisation.

He said political relevance is achieved through strategic positioning and consistency, not by aligning with winning platforms after electoral victories have already been secured.

The former Rivers State governor cautioned that merely professing support for President Tinubu, particularly after the 2023 general elections, should not be misconstrued as a guaranteed route to re-election.

Wike insisted that politics must be guided by clearly defined agreements, adding that promises made must be honoured, and noting that loyalty without structure or commitment carries no guarantees.

Earlier, the Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area reaffirmed the council’s support for President Tinubu and Wike, declaring that the local government remained firmly aligned with their political direction.

From Emohua, the minister proceeded to Isiokpo in Ikwerre Local Government Area, where he delivered a similar message. There, the Chairman of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency and former council chairman, Samuel Nwanosike, pledged the area’s continued support for Wike, dismissing claims that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could gain a foothold in the council.

Political observers note that Wike’s engagements across Ikwerre land signal a calculated effort to consolidate his political base, while his remarks point to emerging realignments and possible tensions ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle in Rivers State.

Trump Moves to Halt Killings of Christians in Nigeria — US Congressman Riley Moore

0

United States President Donald Trump is focused on ending what has been described as the slaughter of Christians in Nigeria, according to US Congressman Riley Moore.

Moore, a member of the United States House of Representatives, said recent airstrikes on terrorist enclaves in Nigeria were aimed at stopping attacks against Christian communities and were carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian government.

“We did this in coordination with the Nigerian government, which is very important to point out. This isn’t the United States unilaterally doing this, we are doing this in coordination with the Nigerian government to help secure their country and end the slaughter of Christians in Nigeria,” he said in a post on X.

The United States launched airstrikes on Christmas Day against two terrorist hideouts in the Bauni forest in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Moore said the operation was in response to repeated attacks on Christians during the Christmas season over the past two years, adding that President Trump decided to confront the terrorists directly.

Attaching a clip from an interview, the lawmaker stated that the airstrikes were intended to “end the slaughter of Christians in Nigeria.”

“So, quite a bit different, the President is totally focused on this. He made that very clear in this attack and and this is a very good first step to addressing this issue,” he said.

Moore further remarked: “Obviously, President Trump has finally stood up to this and I do want to point out something very important: the last two Christmases, there has been a massacre of Christians in Nigeria.

“The tables have absolutely turned this year. The Islamic terrorists in Nigeria were the ones receiving that type of present this year,” he added.

The US congressman also claimed that critics of the airstrikes were “playing to their Islamic radical base that they now have to appease for whatever reason.”

Nigerian Universities Urged to Prepare for World Public Relations Forum 2026

Universities and other tertiary institutions across Nigeria have been encouraged to begin early preparations for the 2026 World Public Relations Forum (WPRF), as the nation positions itself to become the first in West Africa to host public relations professionals from over 100 countries.

The President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Dr Ike Neliaku, made the call during the 5th National Conference of Public Relations Professionals in Tertiary Institutions held at Bayero University, Kano (BUK).

Dr Neliaku said hosting the global event offers Nigeria a rare opportunity to demonstrate professional excellence and showcase the country’s expanding capacity in strategic communication, reputation management and institutional storytelling.

“This is an important project. Nigerian institutions must be ready to highlight their strengths and engage with international partners,” he said.

Chairman of PR Professionals in Tertiary Institutions, Mr Peter Oyeneye, urged participants to take advantage of the gathering to build networks and exchange new ideas. He cited the late Professor Dora Akunyili as a prime example of how effective public relations can strengthen national credibility and public trust.

A lecturer in BUK’s Department of Mass Communication, Dr Muhammad Auwal Haruna, explained that the theme of the conference was informed by the institutional and existential challenges confronting Nigeria’s tertiary institutions. He called on communicators to promote positive narratives that encourage national unity and counter misinformation about the quality of education in the country. He also underscored the increasing role of young people and social media in shaping Nigeria’s global image.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of BUK, Professor Haruna Musa represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Management Services), Professor Aliyu Mu’azu described the conference as both timely and relevant. He noted the university’s improving performance in global rankings, attributing the growth to sustained investment in communication and institutional visibility.

He stressed the need for deeper collaboration between public relations practitioners and tertiary institutions to strengthen institutional reputation and enhance public engagement.