The planned hearing of a suit the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed for the forfeiture of 57 properties linked to a former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, was stalled yesterday before a Federal High Court in Abuja.
On January 6, Justice Emeka Nwite had issued an order for the interim forfeiture of the landed property said to be located in Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and Kaduna states.
Justice Nwite had granted the order while ruling on an ex parte motion by the EFCC, which was moved by its lawyer, Ekele Iheanacho (SAN).
In the ruling, Justice Nwite also directed the publication of the interim order of forfeiture in any national daily for any person(s) or body (ies) who might have an interest in the property to appear before the court and show cause within 14 days of the publication, why a final order of forfeiture to the Federal Government should not be made.
The judge had adjourned till yesterday for the EFCC to report compliance, but the case was not listed on the court’s cause list for yesterday.
At the commencement of the court’s sitting yesterday, Jibrin Okutepa (SAN), who led a team of lawyers for the EFCC, told the court that the case was adjourned till yesterday to enable the EFCC to report compliance with the earlier court orders.
Okutepa said when he enquired from the court’s registrar why the case was not listed, he was told it was a vacation case.
The counsel urged the court to hear the case since it was listed for hearing yesterday.
Justice Nwite told Okutepa that it is the court’s tradition to return to the Chief Judge all cases heard during the court’s vacation at the end of the vacation period for the CJ to reassign such cases.
The judge added: “I think you will have to pursue this administratively so that you can bring this (case) to his (CJ’s) notice to fast-track the process.”
He said the EFCC would be informed when the CJ reassigns the case to his court.
No fewer than 2,000 young Nigerian entrepreneurs are expected to benefit from a large-scale industrial and skills development programme scheduled to hold at the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan, Oyo State, from March 17 to 21, 2026.
The initiative comes as stakeholders intensify efforts to revive local manufacturing and stem youth migration by equipping young people with practical, industry-relevant skills.
The weeklong programme, which will attract over 5,000 participants from across the country, is designed to equip young Nigerians with practical production, leadership and regulatory skills required to build sustainable businesses and strengthen the nation’s industrial base.
Organisers said the initiative is aimed at redirecting youth energy from consumption-driven ventures to local production and value creation.
The programme received a boost with the sponsorship of the registration fees of 2,000 participants by WellaFitta Resources Limited, a move expected to widen access for young entrepreneurs who might otherwise be excluded due to financial constraints.
A representative of the company, Pharm. (Mrs.) Jooda, said the intervention aligns with efforts to promote productive youth engagement and deepen local manufacturing capacity, particularly within Nigeria’s healthcare and allied sectors.
Industry leaders and business experts expected at the event include Prof. Martins Emeje, Director-General of the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency; Dr. Fidelis Ayebae, Chairman of Fidson Healthcare Plc; Abimbola Balogun, Co-founder and Executive Director of So Fresh; and Taofik Odukoya, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Vanguard Pharmacy Limited.
Others are Abimbola Adebakin of Advantage Health Africa, Yinka Afonja of ACE Mall, Gbenga Adesina, and Pharm. Abiodun Ajibade, FPSN, the project lead and chief convener.
Ajibade, who also leads GleanForte Academy Limited, said the initiative complements government efforts to diversify the economy and increase youth participation in the productive sector.
He noted that while Nigerian youths have gained international recognition in information technology and entertainment, manufacturing and industrial production remain critical for long-term economic stability.
According to him, gaps in entrepreneurial confidence and practical business skills have contributed to poor decision-making among many young people, including the growing preference for migration.
He added that the programme is structured to trigger a shift in mindset, encouraging participants to see opportunities in local production rather than dependence on imported goods.
A major feature of the event will be an industrial exhibition showcasing over 2,000 locally manufactured products, including household items, beauty and wellness products, renewable energy solutions and indigenous crafts.
Organisers said the exhibition will provide market visibility for local producers and create opportunities for direct engagement with industry players and consumers.
Participants will also undergo specialised clinics on regulatory compliance, including product registration processes with relevant agencies, a key requirement for meeting international standards and accessing export markets.
Organisers said logistics and security arrangements have been finalised ahead of the event, with participants and exhibitors expected from all parts of the country. Registration and exhibition bookings are ongoing.
Former presidential aide and political commentator, Reno Omokri, has accused the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, of leaving a trail of divisions and internal crises across political parties he has been associated with.
In a post yesterday on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Omokri alleged that Obi’s political journey has been marked by factionalism and infighting.
The activist recalled that Obi’s alleged creation of division in parties started from his early days in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
Omokri stated that Obi was politically groomed by the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu but later fell out with the party’s leadership, a development he claimed led to deep internal divisions within APGA.
He also alleged that Obi’s exit from the party was followed by internal disputes.
According to him, Obi caused similar turmoil after moving to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he insisted on contesting against his former political associates, a move he said contributed to internal rifts within the party.
Omokri further claimed that Obi’s defection to the LP ahead of the 2023 general election resulted in the party splitting into two factions, each producing its national leadership and National Executive Committee (NEC).
The commentator noted that Obi joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on December 31, last year, and alleged that tensions have already surfaced within the party, citing comments by the opposition platform’s official spokesperson who reportedly described the Obidient movement as “divisive”.
Omokri also raised questions about Obi’s record as governor of Anambra State between 2006 and 2014, alleging that poverty levels increased during his tenure and claiming that no new public educational institutions were established under his administration.
Besides, the public commentator alluded to past allegations of human rights abuses linked to security operations in Anambra State during Obi’s time in office.
He queried Obi’s ability to handle national security if elected president.
“Having gone through four political parties with the same outcome of division and factionalism, the question is whether the problem lies with the parties or with Peter Obi,” Omokri wrote.
The former acting Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Kayode Oladele, yesterday formally handed over the affairs of the commission to the newly appointed Executive Chairman, Ayo Hulayat Omidiran, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Last Thursday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu swore in Omidiran.
Oladele served as Acting Chairman from July 2, last year, following the exit of the immediate past substantive Executive Chairman, Muheeba Farida Dankaka.
In her acceptance remarks, Omidiran expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve and hailed Oladele for his leadership during his nearly seven-month tenure.
“I accept this responsibility with a profound sense of honour and commitment. I sincerely appreciate Kayode Oladele for his dedication, stability, and efforts in steering the commission over the past almost seven months,” Omidiran said.
She noted that Oladele’s stewardship ensured continuity and institutional balance, applauding the cooperation and professionalism that characterised the transition process.
Assuring commissioners and management of inclusive leadership, the new Executive Chairman reaffirmed her commitment to transparency, fairness, and national cohesion.
“I look forward to working closely with all commissioners and the management team to strengthen the commission and effectively deliver on our constitutional mandate,” said Omidiran, who represented Ayedaade/Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2019.
Following the handover, Omidiran formally submitted the official handover documents to the commission’s Verification Committee for review and documentation.
The executive chairman also announced the constitution of various statutory and ad hoc committees aimed at strengthening internal processes and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the FCC.
The event was attended by the Secretary of the commission, Mohammed Musa, state commissioners, key stakeholders, and members of the media.
The NEPAD Business Group Nigeria (NBGN) has called on the Federal Government to ensure that newly appointed Nigerian ambassadors possess strong knowledge and practical understanding of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The group made the call following the recent screening of ambassadors by the National Assembly, noting that Nigeria’s diplomatic representation must be strategically aligned with AfCFTA objectives at a time when African economies are increasingly focused on intra-African trade, regional value chains, and economic resilience.
According to NBGN, ambassadors are no longer merely political representatives but economic diplomats whose performance should be measured by their ability to promote trade, attract investment, and expand market access for Nigerian businesses.
NBGN noted that AfCFTA represents a $3.4 trillion market of more than 1.4 billion people, presenting Nigeria with significant opportunities to grow exports, attract investment, deepen industrialisation, and create jobs.
However, it warned that these benefits can only be fully realised if Nigeria’s foreign missions are led by ambassadors who are conversant with AfCFTA rules, protocols, trade remedies, non-tariff barrier mechanisms, and regional trade frameworks.
Drawing from outcomes of its 2025 High-Level Business Forum on mobilising Africa’s private sector for AfCFTA, NBGN outlined key roles Nigerian ambassadors should play, including promoting Nigerian products and services across AfCFTA markets, supporting businesses to navigate trade regulations and standards, engaging host countries on trade facilitation and dispute resolution, and working closely with business membership organisations and private sector stakeholders to unlock concrete trade and investment opportunities.
The group further urged the Federal Government to institute structured AfCFTA orientation and capacity-building programmes for newly appointed ambassadors, in collaboration with the AfCFTA Secretariat, AUDA-NEPAD, and private sector stakeholders, to strengthen coherence between Nigeria’s foreign policy and economic development goals.
“The success of AfCFTA will not be determined solely by policies agreed at the continental level, but by how effectively countries deploy their institutions and representatives to implement them,” NBGN said, adding that Nigeria’s ambassadors must be equipped to serve as frontline drivers of intra-African trade, investment promotion, and private sector competitiveness.
NBGN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government through policy advisory services, private sector engagement, and evidence-based advocacy to ensure Nigeria plays a leading role in AfCFTA implementation and Africa’s broader economic transformation.
Members of the Osugbo Society in Ijebu-Ode have called on Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun to reconstitute the Council of Afobajes (kingmakers).
According to them, a reconstituted council will guarantee transparency and credibility in the selection of a new Awujale of Ijebu-Ode.
They made the call yesterday during the society’s first meeting of 2026 in Ijebu-Ode, where members expressed displeasure over the involvement of individuals in the selection process without proper background checks.
Speaking at the meeting, the Oluwo Osugbo of Ijebu-Ode, Oluwo Omobolanle Bakare, condemned the exclusion of the Osugbo Society from the selection process, despite its position as third in the traditional hierarchy, as stipulated in the 1957 Constitution.
According to him, allegations of financial inducement among kingmakers would not have arisen if members of the council had been painstakingly appointed.
“I want the government to investigate and verify the conduct of those who will serve as kingmakers. They should not appoint just anybody, but people with integrity.”
The Oluwo further appealed to the governor to recognise the Osugbo Society as part of the Council of Afobajes, noting that the 1957 constitution clearly stipulates that the Oluwo of Ijebu-Ode is a member of the council.
He said: “In the 1957 constitution, the Osugbo was placed in the third class. We have written to the governor this morning to consider us as part of the Afobajes.
“The constitution already recognises the Oluwo of Ijebu-Ode as part and parcel of the council, but some people do not like it. That was why we protested,” he explained.
He hailed the government for suspending the selection process, stating that rising agitations from different quarters could have disrupted peace in the town.
“I see the governor’s action as a good one because without it, everything would have turned upside down,” he said.
The Oluwo also queried the large number of individuals reportedly shortlisted, describing it as unwieldy
“I cannot understand how 95 people were presented for the Awujale selection. They should have picked two, three, or four candidates and presented them to Ifa. Once the Osugbo is not involved, the process is incomplete. Without the Osugbo, there is no Council of Afobajes,” he added.
The Otu-Erelu Osugbo of Ijebu-Ode and Iyalorisa-General of Akile Ijebu, Mrs. Osoteku Alawiye, commended the governor for dissolving the committee earlier saddled with the responsibility of selecting a new monarch.
She urged the governor to constitute a fresh set of kingmakers that would include all relevant traditional institutions, including the Osugbo Society, in order to ensure an inclusive, credible, and crisis-free selection process.
Chief Alawiye described Ijebu-Ode as a town of great historical importance, stressing that the selection of its monarch must strictly follow due process and traditional rites to guarantee peace and progress in the land.
Super Eagles captain Wilfred Onyinye Ndidi has announced the heartbreaking death of his father, Sunday Ndidi who tragically passed away after being hit by a car in the town of Umunede, near Agbor, Delta State.
The midfielder’s club, Besiktas announced his death through a message on their X account sending shockwaves through the Nigerian football community.
“It is with great sadness that we have learned of the tragic death of Sunday Ndidi, the beloved father of our player Wilfred Ndidi, in a fatal traffic accident,” the club said in statement. “We offer our deepest condolences to the deceased and extend our sympathies to our player Wilfred Ndidi, his family, and loved ones.”
The midfielder equally shared the devastating news in an emotional tribute on Instagram , expressing deep pain, disbelief, and sorrow over the loss of a man he described as a pillar in his life and career.
In a heartfelt message, Ndidi reflected on their bond, unfinished conversations, and cherished memories, recalling how he once dedicated his first national team goal celebration to his late father.
He wrote: “You call me this morning with excitement in your voice but deep down na goodbye you dey tell me… What about things we talked about, so we no go talk again, na only memories? Even when I score my first-ever national team goal, I do that Papilo dance for you, but you just go like that.”
The tribute has since drawn an outpouring of condolences from teammates, fans, and football stakeholders including the chieftains of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), offering prayers and support during this difficult time.
Reacting to the death of the deceased, the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade urged the entire sports family to put the Ndidi family in their prayers in this difficult time.
” On behalf of the Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko and the Nigerian Sports family, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to Wilfred Ndidi and his family for the unfortunate loss,” he said in a statement.“ I know for a fact how close Wilfred Ndidi is to his father and the role the man has played in the success story of his son.” “Wilfred Ndidi has been a patriotic servant for our great country over the years, playing for the Super eagles and also representing Nigeria in good light playing club football in Europe. All these are a product of the kind of upbringing he was given by his parents.”
In the same vein, the Nigeria Football Federation has expressed shock and sadness over the death of the captain of the senior men national football team.
NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi said: “This is very sad. The player just gave his very best to the nation at the Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco where we finished with the bronze medals. He had returned to Turkey with great motivation and high hopes of helping his club to win silverware this season, and also help the Super Eagles reach new heights this year.
“We are really shocked at the moment and cannot say much, but we earnestly pray for the repose of the soul of Mr. Sunday Ndidi and pray that the Almighty God will comfort our team captain, his siblings, relations and indeed all those he has left behind.”
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has described Nigeria International striker Victor Osimhen as a “top-class player” and one his side must be wary of ahead of their final UEFA Champions League group-phase clash against Galatasaray tonight at the Etihad Stadium.
Both teams approach the fixture with high but differing expectations. Manchester City are targeting a win that would secure them an automatic place in the round of 16, while a positive result for the Turkish champions would see Galatasaray advance to the round-of-16 playoffs.
City have recorded four wins, two defeats and a draw in the competition and currently sit 11th on the table with 13 points – the same tally as sixth-placed Paris Saint-Germain but separated by goal difference.
Galatasaray, meanwhile, have posted three wins, three defeats and one draw, leaving them 17th on the standings as they aim to finish Matchday 8 inside the top-24 places.
While both sides boast exciting attacking talent, attention will naturally fall on the strikers. Manchester City parade arguably the deadliest forward in world football in Erling Haaland, while Osimhen is widely regarded as one of the top five strikers in Europe and among the most sought-after.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Guardiola stressed his side’s determination to win while acknowledging the quality within the Galatasaray squad, which includes Osimhen, former City players Leroy Sané and Ilkay Gündogan, and Premier League-experienced midfielders Mario Lemina and Lucas Torreira.
“We will try to win tomorrow. Galatasaray are leading the Turkish league and all their players are exceptional,” Guardiola said.
“The quality they have – Osimhen is a top-class player. They link well with him. Leroy and the wingers are so quick. Gundo and Lemina are experienced players. They are one of the biggest clubs and they always have good players. We have to make an incredible effort with our fans.”
Osimhen who recently registered his 50th goal for Galatasaray during the weekend’s 3-1 league victory over Fatih Karagumruk, has already netted six times in this Champions League campaign.
Aside Osimhen, Guardiola also said he was looking forward to a reunion with Galatasaray midfielder Ilkay Gundogan and winger Leroy Sane, both of whom enjoyed trophy-laden spells at City under the Spanish manager.
“I am grateful to both of them. Incredible contributions and lovely people and I am happy to see them back tomorrow,” he added.
“He (Ilkay Gundogan) was here longer than Leroy but Leroy gave us something unique. He was a special player and had a connection with Kevin (De Bruyne).
“Gundogan was captain in the treble-winning season and a massive character. A big player in the big games. Top.”
The Art Hotel Polo Team has officially unveiled its squad for the 2026 Lagos Polo Season, setting the tone for a competitive campaign at the Lagos Polo International Tournament (LIPT) and the MP Lagos International Polo Tournament.
The unveiling ceremony was held on Monday, January 26, in the presence of players, sponsors, patrons and members of the polo community at the at The Art Hotel, Lagos.
Introducing members of the team, captain Mohammed Sani Dangote, a two-goal player and Group Chief Executive Officer of DANSA Holdings, expressed optimism about the quality and balance of the squad selected for the Open Cup.
“We’re excited to have a strong lineup for the Open Cup this year,” Dangote said. “I’m a two-goal player, we have Segundo Llorente, a five-goal player who has won with us before, Baba Dantata who is a two-goal player and Bautista Panelo, a four-goal player from Argentina who is playing in Nigeria for the first time.”
Dangote added that the team is targeting silverware in the 2026 season.
“It’s going to be an exciting tournament. We believe this year is ours for the taking, and this will be the beginning of many trophies to come,” he said.
Speaking on expectations for the Art Hotel Polo Team and the tournament at large, Dangote, who also captains Lagos Polo Club, highlighted the pedigree and winning mentality within the squad.
“You can expect us to fight to the finish. We have serial winners on this team,” he said. “Segundo has won titles at club level and with Argentina across the world. Baba Dantata has more trophies and MVP awards than many people his age, and Bautista Panelo is also a serial winner.”
He further explained the structure of the Lagos Polo International Tournament, noting that the team will compete in the Open Cup, a 10-goal to 12-goal category designed to blend local and international talent.
“The Open Cup encourages quality and balance. If you don’t have foreign professionals in that category, you have little chance of winning,” Dangote said. “We believe we have the right combination of experience, talent and attitude.”
Returning Argentine international Segundo Fernandez Llorente, a five-goal handicap player, expressed his excitement about playing again in Nigeria and stressed the importance of respect for all opponents.
“It’s great to be back in Lagos,” Llorente said. “Every team in the Open Cup is strong, so we have to respect them all. Our focus is to play each game seriously and perform as a unit.”
First-time Nigeria visitor Bautista Panelo, a four-goal Argentine player, shared his impressions of Nigerian polo and what fans should expect from him.
“Nigerian polo is very physical and competitive,” Panelo said. “I’m a committed player, very competitive, and I like to play attacking polo from midfield while helping my teammates perform better.”
Panelo also praised the hospitality and playing conditions in Lagos.
“This is my first time in Africa, and I’m enjoying Nigeria so far. The people are kind, the training sessions have been enjoyable, and the horses feel comfortable on the field,” he added.
Two-goal player Ahmad Baba Dantata described the experience of playing alongside seasoned international professionals as invaluable.
“The experience and knowledge they bring to the team is massive,” Dantata said. “Even outside training and matches, the conversations alone are a big takeaway. We’ll give everything to make sure we win this year.”
Chairman of The Art Hotel, Habib Oniru, reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to polo, describing the partnership as a strong synergy between sport and lifestyle.
“Polo represents teamwork, strong mind-set and entertainment, which aligns with our brand,” Oniru said. “This is our fifth year supporting polo, and we believe in building long-term relationships with the club.”
Oniru added that the partnership has helped strengthen brand visibility and engagement.
“Polo is a prestigious sport and fits perfectly with our hospitality offering. We’re looking forward to a fascinating and electrifying 2026 season,” he said.
With a blend of international stars and experienced local players, the Art Hotel Polo Team will be aiming to make a strong impact in the Open Cup category as the 2026 Lagos Polo Season gets underway.
The final matchday of the Champions League group phase takes place tonight with qualification and seeding still undecided. Some of Europe’s leading clubs face must-win fixtures to secure direct passage or play-off places to the Round of 16. All matches kick off at 9:00 p.m. live on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv.
PSG host Newcastle United in one of the night’s most decisive fixtures, with both sides level on 13 points inside the top eight. Newcastle arrive in strong form after a convincing win over PSV, while PSG will look to recover from defeat in Lisbon. A loss could see either side fall into the play-off places. The match will air on SS Football (DStv Ch. 205, GOtv Ch. 61).
Chelsea travel to Napoli knowing victory guarantees their place in the Round of 16. Chelsea currently sit eighth and have shown renewed confidence under Liam Rosenior, while Napoli, positioned outside the qualification places, must win to keep their campaign alive. Coverage is live on SS Football Plus HD (DStv Ch. 202).
Man City return to the Etihad under pressure after slipping out of the top eight following defeat in Norway. Pep Guardiola’s side need a strong response against Galatasaray to revive their automatic qualification hopes, while the visitors remain difficult to break down. The match will be shown on SS Variety (DStv Ch. 210).
Barcelona face Copenhagen needing three points and favourable results elsewhere to climb into the top eight. After an impressive away win in Prague, Hansi Flick’s side will expect to deliver at home against a Copenhagen team fighting to stay alive in the competition. Live coverage is on SS Action (DStv Ch. 206, GOtv Ch. 66).
Real Madrid travel to Benfica in a clash with contrasting objectives. Madrid are chasing top seeding after a dominant win over Monaco, while Benfica must win to avoid elimination. The fixture airs on SS La Liga (DStv Ch. 204, GOtv Ch. 62).
Tottenham visit Eintracht Frankfurt aiming to finish high in the league standings. Frankfurt are already eliminated, while Spurs could climb as high as third with a win. Coverage is live on SS Africa 1 (DStv Ch. 207, GOtv Ch. 63).
Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan meet in Germany with play-off seeding at stake. The match will air on SS GrandStand (DStv Ch. 201). Both sides are positioned to advance but will be keen to finish between ninth and 16th to secure a home second leg in February.
