The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Police gun down suspected kidnap kingpin in Delta, recover AK-47, other firearms

    Police gun down suspected kidnap kingpin in Delta, recover AK-47, other firearms

    The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the death of a suspected kidnapping kingpin, Liberty Kunu, following a fierce gun battle with police operatives during a recovery operation that also led to the seizure of an AK-47 rifle and other firearms.

    The Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, revealed this during a press briefing at the Command’s headquarters in Asaba yesterday.

    The CP said sequel to a series of complaints bordering on kidnapping, abduction, and other violent crimes linked to one Liberty Kunu, popularly known as Commander Liberty or Double Agent, and his gang, he directed the Divisional Police Officer, Sapele, to deploy all available operatives to unravel the group’s activities.

    CP Adesola said on January 17, 2026, the Command received a report on the abduction of three persons (names withheld) at Boyo Road Junction, Sapele.

    He said while being taken to a bush location, one of the victims escaped and reported at a nearby police station, noting that the remaining two victims were dispossessed of valuables worth ₦9 million.

    READ ALSO: Tunji Olaopa, critical reforms and the Trump challenge (2)

    The CP said preliminary investigation revealed that the crime was carried out by a syndicate led by Liberty Kunu, who operated under the guise of a security volunteer group (SOS).

    He said: “Acting swiftly on this intelligence, operatives of the CP–Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), in collaboration with officers of Sapele Division, arrested Liberty Kunu and members of his gang, including Twale Golly (33), Michael Kunu (25), Israel Ugwu (30), Ogaga Power (43), and Mercy Kunu (28).

    “During the operation, five pump-action guns, one Beretta pistol, and other criminal accoutrements were recovered.

    “Further investigation revealed that Liberty Kunu was a member of the Aye Confraternity and was also in possession of an AK-47 rifle.

    “Upon confrontation, he confessed and, at about 2335 hours on 28 January 2026, led CP-SAT operatives to his hideout in Ibada-Elume community.

    “At the location, one AK-47 rifle and one locally fabricated revolver were recovered from the forest.”

    However, CP Adesola said while the team was retreating and had reached the Ibada-Elume Express Road, they were ambushed by armed hoodlums suspected to be members of the gang, who attempted to rescue the suspect.

    He said a fierce gun battle ensued for over ten (10) minutes and the attackers were overpowered and had to flee with bullet wounds, while the police operational vehicle was riddled with bullets.

    He further said: “During the exchange, Liberty Kunu and some police operatives sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to the hospital. Liberty Kunu was confirmed dead on arrival, and his remains were deposited at the General Hospital, Sapele.

    “Other arrested members of the gang remain in custody as investigations continue.”

  • Four beheaded in renewed Ebonyi boundary clash

    Four beheaded in renewed Ebonyi boundary clash

    • Killings barbaric, disregard for human life, says Governor Nwifuru

    Four persons have been killed in Okporojo-Oso Edda in Edda Local Government Area in a renewed boundary dispute between the community and neighboring Amasiri in Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

    Several houses were also razed by the assailants during the attack which took place on Thursday night.

    The two communities have been at war for decades over land with many lives lost and property worth billions of naira destroyed.

    Efforts have been made by previous administrations in the state as well as the present government to end the war but to no avail.

    Sources in the area alleged that the assailants in the latest attack came from the Amasiri axis.

    A video recording of the aftermath of the attack showing the bodies of the  dead victims without their heads lying in the pool of their own blood have since gone viral on social media.

    In the video, many houses set ablaze by the assailants were still burning.

    Sources in the community alleged that the heads of the victims were taken away while two persons remained missing.

    READ ALSO: Tunji Olaopa, critical reforms and the Trump challenge (2)

    The incident has thrown the community into mourning and renewed concerns over the persistent failure to permanently resolve the decades-old land dispute between the two neighbouring communities.

    The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Internal Security, Etta Uka Ude, confirmed the incident in an interview in Abakaliki, the state capital, yesterday.

    He said he received reports of the killings by the evening of the incident, describing the act as “barbaric, unlawful and totally unacceptable.”

    According to the commissioner, the location where the killings occurred is not even the exact area under dispute, making the attack more disturbing.

    “By 5 pm yesterday, I was informed that some hoodlums went into one of the villages and massacred almost four persons. I was trying to understand the actual problem, because the land dispute area is far away from the town,” he said.

    Mr Ude explained that upon receiving the report, the state government moved swiftly to prevent escalation.

    He said he immediately contacted the chairmen of the affected local government areas, the Commissioner of Police, the Deputy Governor, and the Army, including the Women Battalion Commander, who had just resumed duty.

    “Everybody was on hand to make sure the situation did not escalate further. Unfortunately, before the arrival of security agencies, the damage had already been done,” he stated.

    The commissioner noted that although calm had been largely restored with the deployment of tactical police teams and military personnel, the government has ordered for investigation and possible arrest of the perpetrators for prosecution.

    “Nobody is greater than the government. Those involved must be fished out and prosecuted so we can know the root cause of this problem. Whoever is involved must be brought to book. We are not encouraging violence in any form,” he stressed.

    Mr Ude also condemned the beheading of victims, describing it as alien to the culture of Ebonyi people.

    “To behead someone and carry the head away is barbaric. Even our customs do not agree with that. It is very bad and very unlawful,” he said.

    While sympathising with the families of the victims, the commissioner urged residents of both communities to remain calm and allow security agencies to do their work, warning against blocking major roads and disrupting public movement.

    Police spokesperson, Joshua Ukandu, said he was with a police team heading to the affected area.

    “I will issue a statement after we have assessed the situation”, he said.

    The Chairman Edda Local Government Area, Chima Ekumamkama also confirmed the incident in a telephone interview yesterday.

    He described it as barbaric, act of wickedness and man inhumanity to man.

    He noted that security personnel had been mobilised to the area following the quick intervention of the Governor.

    “This is sad and disheartening. This is barbaric, how can human beings behave like animals? How can people invade a community, behead people and take the heads away?

     “Are they using it for rituals or what? The perpetrators must be fished out and prosecuted.

    “The situation is unthinkable.

    “In a modern world when we are meant to live together as brothers, people would have the mind to invade and attack a community, beheading them? Again, it’s quite painful.

    My prayer is for God’s quick intervention, so that this thing will stop,” Mr Ekumankama said.

    Killings barbaric, disregard for human life, says Governor Nwifuru

    Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State yesterday condemned the killings, which has cast a shadow on the state government’s efforts to resolve the age-long land dispute.

    In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Monday Uzor, Nwifuru directed security agents to conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances that led to the attack on Oso community.

    The governor described the attack as barbaric and a flagrant disregard for sanctity of human life.

    He said: “I received with shock, news of the recent attack on Oso community which claimed lives and led to destruction of properties.

    “This act of callousness is a direct affront on our commitment to restore peace in our communities, and we cannot tolerate it.

    “The security of lives and property is of utmost importance for us as a government, and no effort will be spared in getting to the roots of this matter.”

    Nwifuru disclosed that he was collaborating with law enforcement agents to arrest the perpetrators.

    “I appeal to the affected community not to engage in reprisals.

    “Law enforcement agents should take swift actions and mobilise fully to the area to forestall re-occurrence or reprisals.

    “My prayers and thoughts are with the families, who lost their loved ones and properties in the unfortunate incident,” he said.

    He assured the families that they would not be left alone and urged communities in the state to always embrace peace and mutual co-existence.

    “No development will thrive in an atmosphere of violence and destruction,” he said in the statement.

  • JAMB denies barring undergraduates from UTME

    JAMB denies barring undergraduates from UTME

    • Warns against Misinformation

    • UTME to hold in 1,000 CBT Centres

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has refuted claims that candidates who have already matriculated or are currently studying in universities are barred from sitting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

    Speaking in Port Harcourt during a monitoring visit for the ongoing registration exercise after attending the second matriculation ceremony of Wigwe University, JAMB Registrar Prof  Is-haq Oloyode described the reports as deliberate misinformation being peddled by fraudsters.

    He said: “There is a lot of misinformation out there. It is completely untrue that candidates who have matriculated or are already in a university cannot take UTME,” Oluyode said.

    “Those spreading this falsehood are not JAMB officials,” he added.

    He disclosed that some individuals had gone as far as impersonating JAMB officials and addressing press conferences in the name of the Board.

    READ ALSO: The Economist: Nigeria’s economy moving from the brink

    “One of the ringleaders behind this misinformation has already been arrested, including the individual who manufactured fake identity cards. They were even purporting to speak as the Registrar of JAMB.”

    Clarifying JAMB’s position, Oloyede stressed that students already admitted into tertiary institutions retain the right to seek a change of course or institution.

    “A student who has matriculated has the right to decide to change his course or university, or even start afresh,” he explained.

    “What we insist on is disclosure. Our data must be accurate, but nobody can take away a candidate’s right to apply again.”

    He noted that over 800,000 candidates were admitted in the previous admission cycle, with some seeking to change their academic paths.

    “If we are not careful, we could assume that 800,000 are already in school and then admit another one million without proper data reconciliation,” Oluyode said.

    “That is why disclosure is important.

    “They (undergraduates) can apply and write JAMB. What you cannot do is run two undergraduate programmes at the same time.”

    On examination malpractice, the JAMB Registrar said the trend was declining but had not yet reached an acceptable level.

    “Malpractice is not increasing; it is coming down,” he said. “As candidates devise new methods, we are also deploying solutions to ensure they fail.”

    Oloyede also warned parents against encouraging dishonest practices.

    “Parents must encourage their children to be honest,” he said. “Some of these young people are only following the footsteps of their parents. Corruption must not be passed from one generation to another.”

    Addressing concerns about JAMB’s preparedness, he explained that challenges experienced in 2025 were due to lapses that had since been corrected.

    “The incidents of 2025 were a matter of negligence—things that should have been done were not done,” he said. “We have learnt our lessons.

    “For instance, claims that albinos will not be registered this year are false. Those loopholes have been blocked.”

    He added that there are currently about 984 Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres nationwide, a number expected to increase to about 1,000, and reiterated that registration would close on 28 February without extension.

  • Makoko, other demolitions in public interest – Lagos govt

    Makoko, other demolitions in public interest – Lagos govt

    The Lagos State Government has reiterated that ongoing actions in Makoko are driven by the urgent need to protect lives, uphold the rule of law, and advance comprehensive urban renewal initiatives aimed at improving living conditions for residents.

    Addressing recent concerns and public discourse surrounding Makoko on an AIT programme monitored in Lagos, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information & Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, clarified that the current intervention is not a conflict between the rich and the poor, but a necessary step toward ensuring safety, legality, and humane living standards for all Lagosians.

    The Commissioner confirmed that the government has been in continuous engagement with the United Nations (UN) regarding the future of Makoko.

    The UN, he noted, has expressed interest in the renewal strategy for the area and has indicated its willingness to support the initiative. Both parties agree that certain sections of Makoko, particularly areas under high-tension power lines, are unsafe and unsuitable for habitation.

    Omotoso revealed that the Government has committed counterpart funding toward the renewal plan and has held several meetings with international partners, including engagements as recent as this week, to ensure a sustainable and humane redevelopment process.

    READ ALSO: The Economist: Nigeria’s economy moving from the brink

    “This is about urban renewal. It is about better living conditions for our people. Government cannot and will not allow residents to remain in environments that pose imminent danger to their lives,” he noted. He added that no human being should reside under high-tension electricity wires due to severe health and safety risks.

    Speaking further, the Commissioner stressed that experts have warned of potential long-term health hazards, including cancer risks, as well as the possibility of catastrophic consequences should any of the power lines collapse – particularly given the proximity to the Lagoon and the Third Mainland Bridge.

    “This is an emergency waiting to happen. Should such a calamity occur, the same voices questioning government action would ask why preventive measures were not taken,” Omotoso noted. He further maintained that building under high-tension wires and within restricted zones violates established physical planning and environmental laws.

    “In Lagos State, there are clear regulations governing setbacks from waterways and infrastructure corridors. These laws exist to protect lives and ensure orderly development”, he said.

     The Commissioner added that Lagos, being the smallest state in Nigeria by landmass yet home to an estimated 25–30 million residents, must maintain strict adherence to planning regulations to ensure sustainability and livability.

    He averred that compensating or legitimising illegal structures erected in clearly restricted zones would undermine the rule of law and set a dangerous precedent. “We cannot allow a situation where individuals build in unauthorised areas – under power lines, near critical infrastructure, or even on bridges – and expect validation after the fact. A city must be governed by laws”, Omotoso stated

    He recalled previous relocation efforts, including the resettlement of timber operators from Makoko to Agbowa in Ikosi, where new facilities, roads, and housing were provided without controversy. The current intervention, he noted, however, specifically concerns emergency safety risks posed by high-tension installations.

    The Makoko situation, he recalled, has been under review for several years, with ongoing discussions between the government, community representatives, and stakeholders.

    He said, “Engagement with residents has spanned approximately five years, and government officials, including the Local Government  Chairman, have maintained consistent dialogue and outreach”, he noted.

    “We are not abandoning anyone. But first, we must save lives. Livelihood is important, but life itself is paramount”, Omotoso added.

    On protests arising from the demotion exercise, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to democratic principles, including the right to peaceful protest. “People have a constitutional right to protest, and this government will not suppress free speech,” he said.

    He, however, stressed that protests must remain peaceful and must not infringe on the rights of others.

    “Blocking major roads, preventing access to hospitals, workplaces, and other essential services, goes beyond the bounds of lawful protest.

    “Where one person’s rights end, another’s begin. Citizens have the right to protest, but others equally have the right to free movement and access to essential services”, Omotoso stated.

    He maintains that the Makoko intervention is a matter of legality, safety, and humane urban planning – not social or economic exclusion.

    The objective, he noted, remains to transform vulnerable settlements into safer, properly planned communities that reflect the standards of a modern megacity.

    He said, “This is not about displacement for the benefit of the wealthy. It is about what is right, what is legal, and what is safe for human habitation.”

    While reaffirming the government’s resolve to pursue orderly urban development, Omotoso assured that efforts will always be made to ensure that interventions are carried out with responsibility, dialogue, and respect for human dignity.

  • PDP factions dig in as court nullifies Ibadan convention

    PDP factions dig in as court nullifies Ibadan convention

    • We remain in charge of party, Turaki faction boasts

    • It’s victory for democracy – Wike-Anyanwu wing

    The nullification of the  November 2025 Ibadan national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) by the  Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan yesterday seems to have set the stage for a fresh round of acrimony in the party.

     Not only did Justice Uche Agomoh nullify  the convention,he also barred Taminu Turaki (SAN) and others who emerged as National Working Committee (NWC) members at the convention from parading themselves as national officers of the PDP.

     The court similarly declared   the Caretaker Committee led by Abdulrahman Mohammed  and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the only recognised NWC of the PDP pending the conduct of a valid National Convention.

    Turaki and his faction of the party immediately rejected the verdict  and said they were proceeding on appeal

    Turaki claimed that the court turned itself into a charitable organisation by granting relief not sought by the other faction.

     But the Abdulrahman Mohammed faction hailed the judgement as  victory for democracy and a reaffirmation of the long-standing position that legitimacy can only be derived from strict compliance with the constitution of the party, extant laws, and valid court orders as against seeking self-help through impersonation or unlawful assertions of authority.

    READ ALSO: The Economist: Nigeria’s economy moving from the brink

    The Turaki faction had filed suit Number FHC/IB/CS/121/2025,to  seek recognition of the convention held in Ibadan on November 15, 2025, and validation of the NWC that emerged at the convention

    However, Justice Agomoh, held that the convention was conducted in flagrant disobedience of two judgments of the same court, adding that returning to seek judicial approval for actions taken in defiance of court orders was an exercise in futility.

     He  described the suit as a brazen attempt by the  applicants  to legitimize illegalities done in violation of subsisting court orders.

     He declared that  he would not allow that or sit on appeal over those judgments.

     Consequently, he set aside all decisions taken at the convention.

    He said:”I hold that the caretaker committee is the only lawful governing body of PDP that INEC should recognize and relate with.

    “This suit is a brazen attempt of the applicant  to legitimize its illegalities done in violation of subsisting court orders. I cannot allow that or sit on appeal over those judgments.

    “The application fails and is dismissed.”

     Reacting to the judgment, counsel to the PDP Caretaker Committee, Chief Ferdinand Oshioke Orbih, (SAN) called it a boost for Nigeria’s democracy.

    He said the judgment affirmed that the rule of law must prevail over political expediency, stressing that all actions and structures arising from the convention had been completely nullified.

    Orbih added that the court’s decision underscored the inevitability of the caretaker committee taking charge of the party’s affairs until a valid convention is conducted in line with the law.

    Turaki faction: No cause for alarm; we remain in charge of PDP

    National Publicity Secretary of the Turaki faction, Comrade Ini Ememobong insisted that they remain the only legal leadership of the party despite the judgement.

    He said the faction had  briefed its lawyers on the development  and would await the decision of the appellate court.

    It asked its supporters to remain resolute in the efforts  to rebuild the PDP.

    His words: “We are aware of the judgment of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, delivered this morning, which essentially declined to grant the order of mandamus sought on the ground that doing so would, in the court’s view, amount to sitting on appeal over judgments of courts of coordinate jurisdiction.

    “We have accordingly briefed our lawyers to immediately file an appeal and to take all further legal steps necessary to advance our arguments and firmly protect our position on this matter.

     “Notwithstanding this judgment, the Kabiru Turaki–led Peoples Democratic Party, which emerged from the Ibadan Convention, remains legally intact and unshaken, as we await the authoritative pronouncement of the appellate courts.

    “We therefore urge our members to remain resolute and committed as there is absolutely no cause for alarm. The REBIRTH movement remains firmly on course.”

    Courts are not charitable institutions, should not grant reliefs not sought by litigants, says Turaki

    Turaki said separately yesterday that the  Federal High Court that adjudicated on the case turned itself into a charitable organisation by granting relief not sought in by the other faction.

     He told reporters in Abuja that courts are not charitable organisations and are not supposed to   grant reliefs not sought and when such reliefs are sought, must be proven beyond reasonable doubt.

    He said :”For clarity, we approached the court seeking an order of mandamus to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise the National Convention and to facilitate official party communications with the Commission.

    “In the course of the proceedings, some former members of our party, who had either been expelled or had resigned, applied to be joined in the matter and were so joined by order of the court. They filed processes urging the court not to grant our prayers.

     “However, it is important to note, respectfully, that the court went beyond the reliefs sought and granted orders that were neither prayed for nor canvassed by any of the parties before it.

    “More importantly, the judgment is materially inconsistent with existing orders and previous judgments of courts of coordinate jurisdiction, all of which are already subjects of appeal before the Court of Appeal.

    “Consequently, we have filed a notice of appeal as well as a motion for stay of execution of the judgment, and we are determined to pursue this matter diligently and logically, in accordance with the law.

    “For the benefit of members of the press, this is our notice of appeal. And this is our application for stay of execution of the same judgment delivered this morning (displaying the documents). As you can see, we have already appealed and applied for a stay.

     “Until that application is heard and determined one way or the other, the judgment is in abeyance.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, this judgment is only one among several decisions of the Federal High Court on this same subject matter. The core issues arising from them are already before the Court of Appeal. In that sense, this particular judgment is, technically speaking, academic, pending the authoritative pronouncement of the appellate court.

    “Let me assure all members of our great party that, notwithstanding this judgment, the National Working Committee produced by the Convention remains legally intact, firmly in place, and fully committed to the ongoing rebirth of the People’s Democratic Party.

    “I therefore urge all our members and supporters across the country to remain calm and resolute. There is absolutely no cause for alarm. The rebirth movement is steadily on course.

     “This judgment represents nothing more than the navigation of one judicial bend along our journey. The destination remains clear, and as history has consistently shown, it is the final outcome that ultimately matters.”

    Responding to questions on pending appeals, Turaki said “there are actually more than two matters pending. There is the judgment of Justice Omotosho, another judgment, and a further judgment delivered by Justice Abdulmalik. In all these cases, the party was sued and we are defending those actions. We appealed against the orders made against the party in those cases.

    “However, in the matter decided this morning in Ibadan, we were the ones who approached the court seeking an order of mandamus, as I have explained. Some parties applied to be joined and were joined, but there was no counterclaim and no other prayers before the court. Yet the court went beyond the issues placed before it and granted reliefs that were not claimed.

     “It is a fundamental principle of law that courts are not charitable institutions. They do not grant reliefs not sought by litigants. Even when a relief is sought, it must be proved before it can be granted. We have therefore appealed.

    “I am concerned that the appeals have not yet been heard? No, I am not concerned as a lawyer. There are established processes that must be completed before an appeal is ripe for hearing. Parties must file their briefs within stipulated timelines, and replies may also be necessary.”

    Ibadan FHC judgement in abeyance pending appeal court decision, says PDP BoT

     The Board of Trustees of the Tanimu Turaki led PDP said it was shocking that a court that refused to grant an order of mandamus went beyond its boundaries to issue orders that were not prayed for by parties in the case.

    Chairman of the BoT and former Senate President, Senator Adolphus Wabara said in a statement last night that the judgement of the court was in abeyance pending the determination of the appeal filed by the party.

    The statement reads: “The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been made aware of the judgment of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, regarding the National Convention of our great Party held on November 15 and 16, 2025 in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital.

     “The BoT notes that the judgment is technically of no effect and at best, academic as the central and fundamental issues in the matter are already before the Court of Appeal.

     “It is however a matter of concern that the court, in declining the order of mandamus sought by our party on the ground that such would amount to sitting on appeal over the judgments of courts of coordinate jurisdiction, went beyond the boundaries  to grant reliefs that were not prayed by any of the parties in the case.

    “In any case, the BoT notes that our party has already filed an appeal and a Motion for Stay of Execution. This puts the judgment of the Federal High Court, Ibadan in abeyance and retains the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee which was duly elected at the Ibadan Convention legally and firmly on the saddle. 

    “The BoT as the conscience and second highest Organ of the party assures all members of the PDP, our teeming supporters and indeed the general public that the Turaki-led NWC is securely in place and there is no cause for alarm.

     “The Board reaffirms its commitment and support for the Turaki-led NWC in its efforts to stabilize and strengthen the party on the path of victory ahead of the 2027 general elections.”

    It’s victory for democracy, says Abdulrahman faction

    In its own reaction,the Abdulrahman Mohammed faction commended the judiciary for “once again rising to its constitutional responsibility as the impartial arbiter in political and constitutional disputes.”

    Its spokesman, Jungude Haruna Mohammed said the judgement “represents a decisive victory for the rule of law, constitutionalism, and internal party democracy.”

     It added: “It reaffirms the long-standing position of the PDP that legitimacy can only be derived from strict compliance with the Constitution of the Party, Extant Laws, and Valid Court Orders as against seeking for Self-Help through impersonation, or unlawful assertions of authority.

    “The National Caretaker Working Committee therefore congratulates all its members and supporters for their patience, resilience, and unwavering faith in due process throughout this period, and further call on all members to remain calm, law-abiding, and united as we move forward in the spirit of reconciliation, progress, and renewed commitment to the ideals of our great Party.

    “We appeal to all aggrieved members to sheath their swords as this victory belongs to the entire PDP family. Our doors remain open for genuine reconciliation and integration. This will strengthen unity, deepen internal cohesion, and refocus collective efforts toward building a stronger and more formidable PDP.”

    Imo PDP, too

    Similar sentiments were expressed by the Imo State chapter of the party.

    The Publicity Secretary of the PDP in the state , Lancelot Obiaku, said the brains behind the now nullified Ibadan convention “ desecrated the party’s constitution, the Electoral Act, and the country’s constitution.”

    He said:”We are upbeat that the judgment will stabilize and strengthen our party, boost confidence, and pave the way for PDP to thrive as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.”

    It reaffirmed its confidence in the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led committee and its leaders, including Senator Samuel Anyanwu and Senator Mao Ohuabunwa.

  • Dispute over N1.969tr FAAC funds delays January salaries nationwide

    Dispute over N1.969tr FAAC funds delays January salaries nationwide

    • How state Commissioners of Finance rejected amount for sharing

    A disagreement over the sharing of N1.969 trillion by  the three levels of government is stalling the  distribution of federation revenue for the second week running, The Nation gathered yesterday.

    The development has affected the payment of January salary to civil/public servants in parts of the country.

     Government employees  are usually paid  within five days of  the monthly meeting of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) where revenue from the federation account is shared.

    However, this month has been different, as the funds agreed upon at the January 20, 2026 meeting in Abuja have not yet been released to the three tiers of government.

    Sources familiar with the situation attributed the disagreement to the rejection, by Finance  Commissioners  who normally represent the states at the FAAC meeting, of  the amount tabled  for sharing.

    The commissioners ,it was gathered, believed the amount was too small and did not reflect the actual revenue that came in during December 2025.

    “The states felt the money brought forward did not match what was realised in December. That is why they did not agree to the distribution,” one of the sources said.

    READ ALSO: Tunji Olaopa, critical reforms and the Trump challenge (2)

    A fresh meeting of the  FAAC has been scheduled for Monday to break the deadlock,the source said.

    “It is possible that the amount will be adjusted to meet the expectations of the state governments,” he added.

      At the January meeting, the  FAAC had tabled  N1.969 trillion for sharing  from a total revenue of N2.585 trillion recorded in December 2025 . The meeting was chaired by the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite.

    A breakdown of the revenue shows that N846.5 billion came from Value Added Tax, N1.631 trillion from other statutory sources, and N38.1 billion from the Electronic Money Transfer Levy.

    The  Federal Government was expected to receive N653.5 billion while the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory were to share N706.4 billion and  the 774 local government councils N513.2 billion.

    Oil-producing states were also set to receive N96 billion as their 13 percent derivation from oil revenue.

     The delay is said to have sparked  anxiety in many states, as most of them depend heavily on the monthly FAAC allocation to run their governments.

     About 31 states rely on this money for at least 80 percent of their monthly spending, including the payment of workers’ salaries and the funding of basic projects.

    One state official, who asked not to be named, said: “without this allocation, it becomes very difficult to meet our obligations, especially salary payments and essential services.”

    FAAC is made up of representatives of  key government and revenue agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Finance, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, the Nigeria Customs Service, the Federal Inland Revenue Service, state Commissioners of Finance, and representatives of local governments.

    As workers across the country wait for their January pay, attention is now on the next FAAC meeting, where it is hoped that the parties involved will reach an agreement and allow the long-delayed funds to be released.

  • Stakeholders fault NAFDAC’s sachet alcohol ban

    Stakeholders fault NAFDAC’s sachet alcohol ban

    Stakeholders across Nigeria’s food, beverage, distribution and informal retail sectors have expressed concern over the enforcement of a ban on alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and containers below 200 millilitres by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

    The concerns were outlined in a statement signed by the National President of the union, Jimoh Oyibo, following a recent press release by the Director-General of NAFDAC on the policy.

    While acknowledging the shared objective of protecting children, adolescents and vulnerable groups from the harmful use of alcohol, the stakeholders described the enforcement approach as disproportionate, economically disruptive and inconsistent with broader public health realities.

    They noted that public health challenges require balanced, evidence-based and enforceable solutions, rather than blanket prohibitions that fail to address underlying causes.

    According to the statement, underage alcohol consumption is primarily linked to weak enforcement of age restrictions, limited parental supervision and insufficient public education, rather than packaging size.

    READ ALSO: Tunji Olaopa, critical reforms and the Trump challenge (2)

    The stakeholders argued that global public health evidence shows that behavioural regulation, education-driven interventions and strict age-verification enforcement are more effective than outright product bans.

    The union also challenged NAFDAC’s claim that no alcohol-producing companies were shut down as a result of the policy.

    It cited reported and documented instances of manufacturers’ depots being sealed during enforcement operations in areas such as Enugu and Abakaliki. Some of these depots, the stakeholders said, have remained inaccessible since January 20, 2026, despite housing products not covered by the ban.

    According to the union, repeated representations made by affected businesses have not resulted in restored access, leading to disruptions in distribution and threatening workers’ livelihoods. The group said it has compiled records of the enforcement actions for engagement with relevant authorities.

    The stakeholders warned that the ban could have severe economic and social consequences, particularly for indigenous distillers, blenders and distributors.

    For many local operators, sachet and sub-200ml packaging forms the core of their business model, designed to serve low-income consumers, informal retail outlets and rural markets where affordability determines demand.

    They explained that production lines are dedicated to sachet and small-format packaging, while distribution networks are optimised for high-volume, low-unit sales. Transitioning to larger pack sizes, they said, would be financially unattainable for many small and medium-scale operators, resulting in what they described as an economic shutdown, even if factories are not formally closed.

    The stakeholders also warned that the policy could tilt the market in favour of larger multinational companies capable of absorbing retooling costs, while smaller indigenous producers are forced out, raising concerns about unfair competition and market concentration.

    In its official response, NAFDAC said the enforcement of the ban is driven by public health concerns, particularly the need to curb alcohol abuse among minors and vulnerable populations.

    The agency maintained that it did not shut down any alcohol-producing factories, clarifying that the policy targets only alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and containers below 200ml, which it described as easily accessible and prone to abuse.

    NAFDAC stated that manufacturers and distributors were given prior notice and adequate time to comply and added that enforcement actions were carried out in line with existing regulations. The agency also said it remains open to engagement with stakeholders but stressed that public health considerations must take precedence.

    Despite NAFDAC’s position, the union called on the National Assembly, Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC, industry stakeholders and civil society organisations to engage in open and evidence-based dialogue to protect public health without destroying livelihoods.

    “Public health and economic survival are not mutually exclusive,” the statement concluded.

  • Tinubu’s misstep: Sadists live up to character

    Tinubu’s misstep: Sadists live up to character

    The moment the news filtered in that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had stumbled during an excursion with President Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey while on an official visit to the European country, my instincts told me that his detractors would celebrate the incident as if they had just won the jackpot in a multi-billion dollar lottery. And they did not disappoint as they lived up to expectation in extraordinary manner.

    By Thursday morning, the social media space had been taken over with caricatures of the President in inflated mockery of a fleeting incident, no thanks to Artificial Intelligence (AI); the latest tool of mischief foisted on us by technology. Some members of a particular tribe, whose daily preoccupation is to pray for President Tinubu’s downfall so their son could become president, took the mischief further, as they were decked in a ceremonial uniform apparently sewn in anticipation of Wednesday’s incident, dancing hysterically to the sound of Ekwe.

    Some others pre-occupied themselves with taunts on the social media, completely oblivious of the strategic importance of the President’s mission to a country that is not only capable of enhancing our economic fortunes but also positioned to offer a clue for an end to the security misfortune our country has been grappling with for close to two decades, having at various times been accused of aiding its purveyors.

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    To be sure, it was not the first time the President would have such an experience. He had stumbled while climbing the boarding stairs of an aircraft during his campaign tour as the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the build-up to the 2023 elections. And as it is customary, his detractors had made a show of the minor incident in the social media, slanting the story to give the impression that he was too weak and fragile for the office he sought. His admirers were, however, quick to counter the narrative, saying that governance is not a job for the feet but one for the head (brain).

     Any fair observer would know that the misstep that caused Tinubu to stumble had nothing to do with lack of fitness. According to his spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President simply lost his balance after stepping on a metal object while walking alongside his host. “This is not a big deal except for those who want to make mischief out of a fleeting incident. It was a mere stumble, thank God, not a fall,” he said. What is more, the President continued his engagement as scheduled.

    But how did we get to this point? When did we become a people that glory in the misfortune of others? Who, for crying out loud, is immune to stumbling or even falling? One of the earliest life lessons I learnt is that a man’s greatness is not determined by how many times he falls but how many times he rises after falling.

    What happened to the President in Ankara can happen to even the fittest of athletes. After all, sporting history is replete with cases of agile athletes who stumbled in their tracks and even fell. Lost on Tinubu’s detractors is the fact that the moment he was sworn into office as President, he seized to represent himself, his family or friends and acquaintances alone. He is the symbol of national authority; the face and image of Nigeria and the representative of every citizen, including those who did not vote for him during the 2023 polls.

    It, therefore amounts to self-ridicule on the part of those who chose to taunt him when he stumbled. Mercifully, he is not a weakling who would melt under the weight of such theatrics, much unlike a known presidential aspirant reputed for melting twice on national television, once over the criticisms directed at him by supporters of his political opponents, and once after losing the 2023 election.

    On his part, Tinubu is a leader who has not only developed a thick skin to the coarse invectives often hauled at him by his detractors but has also learnt to take even destructive criticisms with equanimity. “I have stopped visiting the social media. They abuse the hell out of me,” he once declared in a light-hearted manner. Chances are, therefore, that he might not even have seen the caricatures of him in the social media after the Turkey incident. But even if he did, one can rest assured that he is not losing sleep over it. His mission in Turkey is far too serious to be distracted by such inanities.

  • LIRS extends deadline for filing of annual returns to February 7

    LIRS extends deadline for filing of annual returns to February 7

    The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has extended the deadline for filing of employers’ annual tax returns by one week, from February 1 to February 7, 2026.

    In a statement issued on Friday, and signed by Head, Corporate Communications, LIRS Monsurat Amasa-Oyelude, on behalf of the

    Executive Chairman of LIRS, Dr. Ayodele Subair, explained that the statutory deadline for filing of employers’ annual tax returns is January 31, every year.

    He noted that the extension is intended to provide employers with additional time to complete and submit accurate tax returns.

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    Subair stated that employers must give priority to the timely filing of their annual returns, noting that compliance should be embedded as a routine business practice.

    He also reiterated that electronic filing through the LIRS eTax platform remains the only approved method for submitting annual returns, as manual filings have been completely phased out. Employers are therefore required to file their returns exclusively through the LIRS eTax portal:  https://etax.lirs.net.

    Describing the platform as secure, user-friendly, and accessible 24/7, Subair advised employers to ensure that the TaxID (Tax Identification Number) of all employees is correctly captured in their submissions.

  • Rivers, Wike’s Renewed Hope family clash over alleged denial of venue

    Rivers, Wike’s Renewed Hope family clash over alleged denial of venue

    • We did no such thing, stadium under construction, says the govt

    Rivers State Government and the Renewed Hope Ambassadors (RHA), led by the Minister of Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Chief Nyesom Wike, have disagreed over the group’s claim that the government refused to approve the Yakubu Gowon Stadium located in Port Harcourt for the RHA’s inauguration in the state.

     The RHA, which is the main campaign movement for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second term, alleged that the denial of the Governor Siminalayi Fubara-led government forced it to hold its inauguration at the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic on Friday.

     The Rivers State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Desmond Akawor, while addressing the mammoth crowd that attended the event, first accused the government of denying the group access to the Yakubu Gowon Stadium.

     Wike reinforced the allegation and dared Fubara to lock up the stadium again and see what would happen.

     The minister said the organisers had applied to use the stadium for the event, but that the governor refused to approve it.

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     He threatened that they would force themselves into the facility if the governor repeated a similar action.

     He said:  “We had called (applied) to the state government for the General Gowon Yakubu Stadium. They refused us. Let me say next time they do this, if you don’t approve it, we will break it by force. So the coordinator of the state wrote again to the state government and chose a day to inaugurate the ward level; I want to say it for everybody to hear. Enough is enough.

     “We are all from Rivers State; nobody can deny us the facilities of the state. If you don’t agree to give us, we will do the needful. And we will take it by force. Heaven will never fall. Even when heaven falls, everywhere will be at peace.”

     A former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was inaugurated as the Coordinator for Rivers West; the Executive Director, Finance, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Boma Iyaye, Rivers East;  While the Executive Director, Projects of the South-South Development Commission, Chief Marcus Nle-Eji, would coordinate Rivers South-East.

     Wike said Rivers was the first state to inaugurate the Renewed Hope Ambassadors’ coordinators, adding that other states would follow in no distant time.

     He said: “Let me thank the coordinator of the state of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors for what you and your members at the local government level have done and the senatorial districts led Boma Iyaye (Rivers East Senatorial District), Marcus Nle-Eji (Rivers South-East) and Felic Obuah (Rivers West) for thus massive mobilization that you have done today, by inaugurating the coordinators of Renewed Hope Agenda in Rivers State.

     “This is the first in this country. We challenge any state to come and do the same thing we have done. I know after today, each state is coming to inaugurate their state chapters. Rivers State will always lead the way.”

    Wike, “Support is not by mouth. You have shown commitment. You don’t have your governor with you, yet you said you’re supporting Mr President and you will do everything humanly possible to return Mr President by special grace in 2027.”

     He referred to the N600billion left in the state coffers by the immediate past Administrator of the State, Ibok Ete-Ibas, but said the people under the Renewed Hope Family, with their little resources, would deliver President Tinubu in 2027

     He said: “Look at the vehicles there, you don’t need N600billion. You don’t need it. All you need is commitment, and you have shown it. What you have done today, let me remind you, will bring a lot of envy, will bring a lot of hatred. Don’t mind that. Be committed and continue to support Mr President.”

     He urged the people to support the candidates who emerged in the last APC primary elections ahead of the state constituency poll.

     He said, “It has never happened in any state. No matter what we are doing, we have led the way as usual. Let me thank Mr President for supporting the Joint Coalition to produce the candidate for the February 2026 state constituency election.

     “Mr President has given the Joint Coalition to make sure in Khana Constituency 2 we support Mrs Burabari Loloo. In Ahoada State Constituency 2, we support Napoleon Okadikpe.

     “These are the candidates of the joint coalition. Anywhere you are, these are the candidates you will support for the February 2026 election.”

     He recalled that when he visited the various local government areas on a thank-you visit, he told them politics would start in January.

     “Now the time has come, and we have started the politics. Everybody go home, whether you’re in PDP, APC, or you don’t belong to any political party, but remember the Joint Coalition. Go and vote for our two candidates in the February constituency election 2026,” he said.

     He added: “We are not quarrelling with anybody except those who are quarrelling themselves. We are here, we will never disappoint you, and we will tell you the truth. We have not completed this journey. We must go and make sure this is ward-by-ward, unit-by-unit, and we will take a date to make sure we inaugurate them.

     “I have told the leadership of the party. Nobody should be intimidated. We are here to support you. The members of the elders’ council have agreed to make a greater commitment to ensure each ward gets a bus to make sure they campaign for the realisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

     Reacting to the allegations, the Rivers State Government described them as false and misleading, explaining that the Yakubu Gowon Stadium was currently undergoing reconstruction and was unsafe for public use.

     The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, who inspected the facility, said the allegation had no basis.

     Sirawoo, who toured the stadium alongside the Commissioner for Sports, Christopher Green, under the guidance of the site engineer, said the level of ongoing reconstruction made it impossible for any group to use the facility at this time.

     He advised political leaders in the state to place the interest of Rivers State above political ambitions, noting that there is life after politics.

     He added that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remained committed and was at the forefront of efforts to ensure the re-election of President Tinubu.

     Also, the Commissioner for Sports, who also served as the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of the state, Christopher Green, said his office did not receive any formal request for the use of the stadium.

     Green described the allegation as baseless, noting that even the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic, where the inauguration was eventually held, is a Rivers State Government–owned facility.

     The site engineer, Michael Ebitenye, who led government officials on the inspection tour, said the stadium was currently in a delicate condition, warning that heavy human traffic could damage underground pipes beneath the pitch.

     He also spoke of the serious safety hazards in the VIP sections and other areas under reconstruction.

     He stressed that the contracting firm, Monimichelle, remained committed to the safety of lives and property and would not permit the use of facilities undergoing renovation for any event, regardless of political affiliation.