The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • PDP crisis: Turaki-led PDP accuses INEC of bias

    PDP crisis: Turaki-led PDP accuses INEC of bias

    …says commission working with those who wants to kill party 

    The Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of bias in the cup crisis rocking the party.

    Reacting to a letter from the party explaining why it would not recognise the leadership of the faction, National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong accused the electoral umpire of working closely with those who wants to kill the party.

    Comrade Ememobong alleged that the commission failed to, or refuse file documents that were in their possession and within their knowledge, obviously to aid those who are bent on killing the PDP and truncating democracy.  

    He reminded the Commission of the recent supreme court judgement in the case of Social Democratic Party which provides that the Commission has no business in the internal affairs of political party, including their leadership.

    The statement read, “The leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party reiterates that in law and fact, there is no faction in the Peoples Democratic Party. This reiteration is necessary in the light of the INEC letter explaining their inability to recognise and upload the data of our legitimately elected leadership at the convention in Ibadan due to judgements of the Federal High Court.

    “The said judgements have been appealed and an application for the stay of execution filed against the judgements, and very soon the Court of Appeal will hear and give judgement in the matters. 

    “While that is being awaited, it is needful to state that INEC monitored and participated in the National Executive Committee meetings where the convention date and venue were unanimously agreed and was also in receipt of the notice of the convention- a fact the Commission has unconscionably suppressed in court in several cases. 

    “Furthermore, the primaries in Ekiti and Osun were duly monitored by INEC, with communication emanating from the Turaki-led NWC. While we appreciate the monumental pressure that INEC has come under (after all he who pays the piper dictates the tune), we remind them that their constitutional responsibility is primarily to Nigerians and in the defence and protection of democracy.

    “While INEC claims to be neutral and is awaiting the Judgement of the court on the matter, we hope that they are minded by the judgements of the Supreme Court, especially in the SDP case, being the latest delivered last week, barring INEC from interfering in the internal leadership affairs of political parties.  

    “The truth remains that there is no faction in the PDP as all the legitimate organs and the administrative structure of the Party are under the control of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki SAN. In the past one month the Board of Trustees, Governors Forum, State Chairmen, Senate and House of Representatives Caucuses, former Governors and Ministers and many other notable stakeholder groups have all met with and acknowledged the leadership of the current National Working Committee, led by Turaki SAN. INEC must remember that democracy is hinged on majority rule, so the committee of friends of Wike and Anyanwu cannot be validly referred to as a faction of the PDP.

    “Finally, having held a meeting with the Commission last week, and our correspondence, thereafter, further explaining relevant issues relating to the current situation, we should ordinarily not respond to this letter, except to point out the hypocrisy and consistent bias that has completely coloured the action of the electoral umpire. 

    “INEC has continuously shown bias in this matter, even in the court, where they failed or refused to file documents that were in their possession and within their knowledge, obviously to aid those who are bent on killing the PDP and truncating democracy.  

    “If INEC under the leadership of Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN knew the matter was in court, what was the rationale for the contrived meeting of Friday last week? Except to paint a false perception of faction to justify their actions and inactions.

    “We therefore urge all Nigerians, particularly, our members to remain calm, resolute and continue to support the rebirth and renaissance moves of the party, as we reposition the party for electoral success in the coming elections.”

  • NIN becomes automatic tax ID for Nigerians — FIRS

    NIN becomes automatic tax ID for Nigerians — FIRS

    The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has clarified that the National Identification Number (NIN) issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has automatically become the Tax Identification Number (Tax ID) for Nigerians under the new tax framework.

    The clarification was made in a public sensitisation video on the new tax laws, which was circulated online. 

    In the video, the FIRS explained that the reform is aimed at simplifying tax administration and addressing public concerns surrounding the requirement of Tax ID for certain financial and economic transactions.

    According to the Service, registered businesses will also not be required to obtain a separate Tax ID, as their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration number now automatically serves that purpose under the new tax system.

    “The Tax ID unifies all TINs previously issued by FIRS and state internal revenue services into a single identifier,” the Service said. “For individuals, your NIN automatically serves as your Tax ID, while for registered companies, your CAC RC number is used. You do not need a physical card, the Tax ID is a unique number linked directly into your identity.”

    This declaration comes amid widespread public concern over provisions in the tax laws suggesting that Tax ID would be mandatory for bank account ownership. 

    The FIRS explained that the requirement is rooted in the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA), which is scheduled to come into force from January 2026.

    The agency noted, however, that the use of Tax ID for transactions is not a new development. It stated that the requirement has existed since the Finance Act of 2019 and has only been strengthened under the NTAA to improve efficiency and compliance.

    The FIRS noted that the new Tax ID system is designed to simplify identification, eliminate duplication, close loopholes that enable tax evasion and promote fairness by ensuring that individuals and businesses earning taxable income contribute appropriately.

    With the new arrangement, all Nigerians who have been issued a NIN are now deemed to automatically possess a Tax ID and can be brought into the tax net, provided they earn income that is subject to tax. 

    This development effectively addresses fears that millions of Nigerians would be required to undergo another round of registration to obtain a Tax ID from 2026 in order to access banking services.

    Data released by the National Identity Management Commission show that as of October 2025, about 123.9 million Nigerians have been issued the National Identification Number, a development that significantly expands the country’s capacity to streamline tax administration and improve compliance under the evolving tax system.

  • Ladoja felicitates Christians on Christmas celebration 

    Ladoja felicitates Christians on Christmas celebration 

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has congratulated Christians all over the world on the celebration of 2025 Christmas 

    The congratulatory message was contained in a statement issued and signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Solomon Ayoade

    The statement reads, “I join Christians globally to celebrate this year’s Christmas to show my appreciation to God for sparing my life to be enthroned as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland as well as endowing me with wisdom, sound health and making my reign peaceful.

    “I charge Christians to emulate Jesus Christ who is the Prince of Peace, who taught us to love one another irrespective of the differences in tribe, religion, colour and language as He was born to save the entire mankind.

    “Nigeria as a nation is facing several challenges ranging from insecurity, economic hardship, disunity, unemployment to insufficient infrastructural amenities which should make us to engage in fervent prayers to heal our land and leaders.”

    The monarch called on all security operatives to intensify their efforts in ensuring the security of life and property; particularly during this yelitude festival.

    The first class traditional ruler enjoined us all to celebrate the Christmas with modesty by eating and drinking responsibly. 

  • First Lady urges peaceful coexistence, says unity is key to Nigeria’s prosperity

    First Lady urges peaceful coexistence, says unity is key to Nigeria’s prosperity

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Tuesday admonished Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence and unity as the surest pathway to national prosperity, declaring that harmony among citizens attracts divine blessings and strengthens nation-building.

    Speaking in Kaduna at the annual distribution of food items to the Christian Northern Nigeria Political Forum (CNNPF) for the Christmas and New Year celebrations, the First Lady drew from the Holy Bible, noting that when people live together in unity, God commands His blessings. 

    In a statement issued by her Senior Special Assistant on Media, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country despite prevailing global and local challenges.

    “Let us all stay and make Nigeria great again. Good things are already happening in this country,” she said, stressing that peace and harmony remain indispensable to sustainable development. 

    According to her, true nation-building is only possible where citizens see one another as brothers and sisters, regardless of religious or ethnic differences.

    Commending Kaduna State for its strides in promoting interfaith harmony, Senator Tinubu praised the administration of Uba Sani, urging other states to emulate the example. 

    She thanked the governor and his wife, Hajia Hafsat Uba Sani, for their hospitality and for demonstrating that peaceful coexistence across religious and ethnic lines is achievable.

    The First Lady also used the occasion to call on Nigerians in the creative industry to partner with government in building the nation, noting that their growing global success positions them as key ambassadors of unity and national pride. 

    “Our stars should please come and join us in building this nation. I am available, if they want me to partner with them,” she said.

    In his remarks, Governor Uba Sani described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the First Lady as leaders deeply committed to service, compassion and national unity. 

    He said the First Lady’s philanthropy cuts across religious, ethnic and regional boundaries, reinforcing social cohesion and mutual respect.

    Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, echoed similar sentiments, noting that Kaduna State has enjoyed improved peace due to purposeful leadership, which he said mirrors the example set by the President at the national level.

    Also speaking, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, assured Nigerians that ongoing initiatives of the APC-led Federal Government and APC-controlled states would translate into a better 2026 for citizens.

    The National Coordinator of the CNNPF, Ibrahim Itodo, commended President Tinubu for sustaining national unity and prayed for his successful re-election in 2027. 

    He also appealed to northern governors to adopt Kaduna State’s peace-building strategy to enhance harmony in their states.

    The annual food distribution programme, a collaboration between the Office of the First Lady and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters, Alhaji Ibrahim Masari, benefited over 48,000 people from 19 northern states at this year’s edition.

  • BREAKING: Super Eagles beat Tanzania in first AFCON game

    BREAKING: Super Eagles beat Tanzania in first AFCON game

    The Super Eagles of Nigeria beat the Taifa stars of Tanzania in their first match in Group C of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    The Eagles opened the scoring in the first half with a goal by centre back Semi Ajayi. 

    Tanzania equalised in the second half but Nigeria took back the lead with a goal by Former African player of the Year, Ademola Lookman.

    Eric Chelle’s boys will look to continue the competition in this fashion when they face Tunisia on Saturday, December 27.

  • We won’t effect changes in party leadership pending court cases, INEC tells PDP 

    We won’t effect changes in party leadership pending court cases, INEC tells PDP 

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has informed the Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that it will not effect any change in the party’s national leadership until all court cases challenging the November national convention are fully resolved.

    This decision comes a few days after INEC held a meeting with the two rival factions of the PDP leadership. At the meeting on Friday, December 19, the Commission told both groups that it would await the outcome of the pending court cases before recognising any faction claiming leadership of the party.

    In a letter dated December 22, 2025, and signed by INEC’s Secretary, Dr Rose Oriaran-Anthony, the Commission said it would neither recognise nor upload on its website the list of “national officers” that emerged from the November 15–16, 2025 national convention held in Ibadan.

    INEC explained that accepting or recognising factional executives while the matter remains before the courts would amount to a breach of subsisting judgments which the Commission is bound to respect. It therefore resolved to refrain from taking any action until the judiciary determines the issues.

    The letter, addressed to PDP’s counsel, Akintayo Balogun & Co, stated that the party’s leadership dispute is sub judice, adding that INEC cannot take any administrative step that could pre-empt the outcome of the ongoing legal processes.

    The Commission stressed that it would not update its records to reflect any change in the PDP’s national leadership pending the final determination of all court cases challenging the convention.

    “In the light of the above pending suits, your request is prejudiced and cannot be acceded to until the determination of the pending appeals,” the letter reads.

    “In the circumstances, and in obedience to the rule of law and subsisting court orders, the commission is unable to accede to the demand to recognise or update the list of the national officers said to have emerged from the PDP National convention of 15th- 16th November 2025.”

  • NCTC boss: Coups in Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso worsen security in Nigeria

    NCTC boss: Coups in Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso worsen security in Nigeria

    The Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser, Major General Garba Laka, has said insecurity in Nigeria worsened following the military coups in Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali.

    Laka made the disclosure while responding to questions from journalists during the end-of-year media parley with Defence Correspondents on Tuesday.

    According to him, the Sahel region, particularly Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali, has witnessed heightened instability and increased extremist activities, developments which have the potential to negatively impact Nigeria’s security situation.

    He said, “We have these countries facing these threats and we think we will see peace in Nigeria? No. 

    “You must have noticed that towards the end of 2023, the security situation was improving, but immediately after the coups in these countries, that was when the situation began to get worse, because these terrorist groups have connections across the Sahel.

    “So Nigeria has to play that leadership role in West Africa and the Sahel to address these threats.”

    According to Laka, while issues such as porous borders and the withdrawal of Sahelian states from the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) may negatively impact the fight against insecurity, recent coups in those countries have significantly contributed to the worsening insecurity in Nigeria.

    “As long as those countries keep on facing this threat, Nigeria will continue facing the brunt,” Laka said.

    “If you look at the whole region, Nigeria is the richest country in West Africa. Nigeria is the only country that you kidnap somebody and ask that 100 million be paid and it will be paid.

    “So these people come into this country to look for means of running their operations across. So as security agencies, we are doing our best. It is a very hard task but we are doing our best and we need the Nigerians to believe in us.”

    The counter-terrorism chief stated that kidnapping in Nigeria has become a complex enterprise involving many people—including cases where individuals kidnap themselves and demand ransom from their own family members—as well as informants, making it difficult to address effectively.

    He added that many kidnappers have been arrested through tracking and other methods, the details of which are not publicly disclosed due to security concerns.

    He, however, noted that a major challenge the centre faces in tracking kidnappers is the use of Point of Sale (POS) operators, as families of kidnap victims often use them to transfer ransom payments, making the kidnappers difficult to trace.

    He said: “You may see that a transfer has been made by a victim to a terrorist. If an account number is provided, you might find out it belongs to a POS operator.

    “Also, the kidnappers give the POS operator’s number, the victim transfers the money to the POS operator, and then the kidnappers collect it from them. We are, however, working on this, doing our best, and we will not relent.”

    He said Nigeria was able to get off the Financial Action Task Force’s grey list through its efforts in tracking ransom payments and recovering funds from terrorists.

    “The NCTC set up a joint investigation committee comprising all security agencies involved in financial oversight—EFCC, NFIU, ICPC,” Laka said.

    “This is how we were able to track and recover the funds, and arrests were also made. Some of this information is not disclosed to the public because it is sensitive security information. But I guarantee you, we have arrested many people based on ransom payments.”

    The NCTC boss stated that the federal government, in collaboration with social media platforms, has blocked numerous accounts belonging to terrorists and violent extremists, helping to curb their indoctrination and recruitment efforts while demonstrating the government’s resolve.

    He said: “We have had so many meetings with these social media houses, TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook and X – though they are in business looking for more subscribers – but we explained to them the effects of certain posts on our national security, and they took them down. 

    “Even the post of these bandits that you see will come on TikTok showing their loot, we took them down, you won’t see that again.”

    The NCTC stated that while terrorist tactics continue to evolve, security agencies are actively countering them as new threats emerge.

    “So we will keep on doing our best, and with Mr. President’s directive, in 2026 we are going to up our game,” Laka said. 

  • Group lauds Tinubu’s intervention in Benue APC crisis

    Group lauds Tinubu’s intervention in Benue APC crisis

    …says Speaker Abbas right man to deliver on lasting peace pact

    The Middle Belt Democratic Agenda has enthusiastically commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive and visionary leadership in addressing the lingering crisis within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State.

    The group described the President’s constitution of a high-powered reconciliation committee as a clear demonstration of his commitment to party unity, internal democracy, and the overall stability of Nigeria’s political landscape.

    In a statement released today and signed by Comrade Samuel Bako, the Middle Belt Democratic Agenda hailed President Tinubu’s choice of Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Speaker of the House of Representatives, as chairman of the Benue APC reconciliation committee.

    The Benue APC has been embroiled in factional disputes, primarily between supporters of Governor Hyacinth Alia and those aligned with Senator George Akume, leading to parallel structures, legal tussles, and public disruptions that have weakened the party’s cohesion and grassroots mobilization.

    Comrade Samuel Bako, in a series of pointed remarks, praised President Tinubu as a “strategic statesman” who consistently prioritises reconciliation over division.

    “President Tinubu’s intervention in Benue is yet another proof of his deep love for the APC and his determination to ensure that no state is left behind in the journey toward national progress,” he said.

    “His proactive approach to resolving intra-party conflicts shows rare political maturity and foresight.”

    He further described the President as “a unifier par excellence,” adding: “By appointing credible and respected figures to lead this committee, President Tinubu has once again shown that he values competence, integrity, and inclusivity.

    “This move will not only heal wounds in Benue APC but will also strengthen the party nationally as we approach future elections.”

    Turning to Speaker Abbas, Comrade Bako called him “the perfect bridge-builder for such a delicate assignment.”

    “Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen has proven time and again that he is a man of fairness, wisdom, and impartiality. His track record in Bauchi, where he successfully brought warring factions together, speaks volumes,” he stated.

    “We have absolute confidence that under his leadership, Benue APC will emerge stronger and more united than ever.

    Bako emphasized the Speaker’s unique qualities: “Speaker Abbas is a leader who listens to all sides. His appointment is a masterstroke by Mr. President, and we are convinced that he will deliver a lasting peace pact that will serve as a model for other states.”

    The group also commended the composition of the committee, which includes Governor Mai Mala Buni, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, former Speaker Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, and other high-caliber members, describing it as “a dream team of reconciliators.”

    Bako urged all APC stakeholders in Benue to extend full cooperation to the committee, stressing that “unity is our greatest strength.”

    “President Tinubu and Speaker Abbas have given Benue APC a golden opportunity for renewal. We pray for the success of this noble effort and reaffirm our support for the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Bako concluded.

  • 2027: Tinubu is irreplaceable, says Aiyedatiwa

    2027: Tinubu is irreplaceable, says Aiyedatiwa

    …receives PDP, SDP decampees into APC

    …warns party members over “infighting”

    …SSG, Fasoranti, others hail Gov on developmental projects in Akure

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has reiterated his strong support for President Bola Tinubu, describing the president as “irreplaceable” ahead of the 2027 general election.

    The governor spoke on Tuesday in Akure at the grand finale of his ‘Thank-You Tour’ to the 18 local government areas of the state, declaring that the people of Ondo State were solidly behind President Tinubu due to the ongoing developmental projects across the state.

    He said many of the achievements recorded by his administration were made possible by increased federal allocations under President Tinubu.

    “As you can see, there are ongoing projects across the state. All these achievements are a result of the increment in allocations to states from the federal level under our amiable President, Bola Tinubu.

    “In Ondo State, we are witnessing giant developmental projects, particularly road construction. So, we are solidly behind the President. Let me tell you clearly that President Bola Tinubu cannot be replaced in 2027. He has done well and earned the support of our people,” he said. 

    He, however, cautioned members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) against internal rancour as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gather momentum.

    He warned that “infighting” could weaken the party, stressing that party supremacy would determine those who would fly the APC’s flag in future elections, adding that the party remained one and indivisible.

    The governor further disclosed that the APC had strengthened its base in Ondo State with the defection of key members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

    Earlier, Adekanmbi Oluwatuyi from Akure; Chief Falusi of the PDP from Akoko North-East; and Chief Kora Adebisi of the SDP from Akoko North-West announced their defection to the APC.

    Others include Hon. Yusuf Lateef, who joined alongside former 2016 local government officials, councillors, supervisors, and advisers, as well as Ijanusi Olawale and his supporters from Akoko South-East.

    Welcoming the defectors, Aiyedatiwa commended them for joining the progressive fold and urged them to work collectively for the success of President Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

    The governor also thanked residents of Akure South Local Government for their loyalty to the APC, recalling that the council recorded the highest number of votes among the 18 local governments in the November 16 governorship election.

    He expressed gratitude for the mandate given to him and his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, describing the support as decisive to the party’s victory.

    Earlier, the APC Vice Chairman in the state, Atili Ikoto Agabra, said the party had no room for “joiners or partners,” noting that relevance within the APC would be determined strictly by commitment and contributions.

    He urged the new members to demonstrate loyalty through active participation in party activities at all level.

    The Secretary to the State Government and indigene of Akure land, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti lauded the governor for what he described as unprecedented infrastructural development in Akure, the state capital.

    Similarly, the APC Chairman in Akure South Local Government, Mr Fesobi Akinmolayan, praised the governor for the ongoing road projects and other developments across the area.

  • Lagos records 11,127 emergency incidents, 15m calls in 11 months — LSCCC

    Lagos records 11,127 emergency incidents, 15m calls in 11 months — LSCCC

    The Lagos State Command and Control Center (LSCCC) says it recorded a total of 11,127 emergency incidents between January and November this year, while receiving over 15 million calls through its emergency toll-free line.

    The General Manager of the LSCCC, Femi Giwa, disclosed this during a press briefing on the activities of the centre in the outgoing year.

    Giwa described the LSCCC as the agency mandated to coordinate emergency and disaster response across the state, ensuring the efficient deployment, tracking and demobilisation of resources for effective incident management.

    According to him, the centre serves as the hub for real-time monitoring, communication and dispatch of emergency services across Lagos, handling incidents ranging from medical emergencies and road accidents to fire outbreaks, security-related cases and other emergencies during the period under review.

    He added that a breakdown of the data showed medical emergencies accounted for the highest number of reported cases, with 2,192 incidents recorded within the period.

    “This was closely followed by road accidents, comprising broken-down vehicles and fallen or broken containers, with a total of 2,188 incidents.

    Fire-related incidents, including fire outbreaks and vehicle fires, were recorded 1,922 times, while civil disturbances, such as fights and riots, accounted for 732 incidents

    Robbery-related incidents, including household theft, were recorded 410 times, while infrastructure-related incidents, such as PHCN pole sparks and pipeline vandalism, were recorded 334 times.

    In addition, the Centre recorded 57 cases of building collapse, 323 incidents of violence against persons, and 40 cases of domestic violence during the period under review”, he added.

    He assured Lagosians of aggressive sensitization and awareness campaigns over emergency management in the coming year with warnings against hoax and nuisance calls which recorded over ten million this year.

    “We will continue to do our best as Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu has graciously approved many project to bring the Command and Control Center to global standards, you can see the many renovations going on at the center, this is to make the place more conducive to serve the people of Lagos more efficiently and effectively.”

    The General Manager urged residents to celebrate in modesty, avoid actions that can trigger emergency and be safety conscious at times, noting that the Sanwo-olu’s administration has invested hugely to ensure safety of lives and property in Lagos.

    An analysis of incidents by Local Government Areas showed that Alimosho Local Government Area recorded the highest number of emergency incidents, with 1,507 cases, closely followed by Eti-Osa Local Government Area with 1,283 incidents. Ikeja Local Government Area recorded 1,169 incidents ranking third.

    Other LGAs recorded the following numbers of incidents: Oshodi-Isolo with 908, Kosofe with 874, Ikorodu with 711, Surulere with 519, and Lagos Island with 495 incidents.

    Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area recorded 482 incidents, Lagos Mainland recorded 457, Ibeju-Lekki had 447, Agege recorded 379, Mushin recorded 341, Ojo had 289, Shomolu recorded 274, and Ifako-Ijaiye recorded 269 incidents.

    Badagry Local Government Area recorded 237 incidents, Apapa had 189, Epe recorded 159, while Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area recorded the lowest number of incidents, with 146 cases during the period under review.