The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Rivers women protest two-year blackout

    Rivers women protest two-year blackout

    • Appeal to govts, oil firms to save their souls

    Hundreds of women from Kula, an oil bearing community in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State, at the weekend protested the alleged blackout in their communities, which has lasted for two years.

    They said the development has led to lack of water supply and created huge business and economic losses to the residents in the coastal/Ireland community.

    The women, who protested from the community to the Jetty and security checkpoints in the community, carried placards with various inscriptions that captured their grievances, and lamented that the protracted absence of electricity has resulted in severe scarcity of water.

    They said the situation has brought untold hardship and sanitation issues to them, making life unbearable for the people.

    Read Also: Tinubu unveils new security, economic blueprint to harness Nigeria’s marine wealth

    The women said the lack of basic amenities has affected public health, the well-being of the populace, as well as their economy, especially small-scale businesses, hinting that it has spiked cost of living, and forcing many households to rely on contaminated water from reptile-infested wells for their consumption, with its attendant health implications.

     “We’re angry, we do not have light, no water, we’re suffering. It is light that makes everything happen. When there is no light, life becomes difficult and meaningless, because every other business will cripple as well.

    “We’re appealing to the Federal Government to intervene in this situation, and save us. Because there is no light, mosquitoes are feasting on us. We don’t sleep at night because of mosquitoes.” they lamented.

    The women noted that the community has the highest number of oil wells and that it is an error for such a community to lack the basic amenities.

    They said the situation has created untold hardship, hunger and starvation in the community, insisting that their means of livelihood, small scale businesses have crumbled, and that it has become very hard for them to feed their families, describing it as a nightmare.

    “Due to too many mosquito bites, women and children are always sick of malaria. There is an incessant outbreak of cholera because we’re consuming, drinking bad water from rivers where we defecate. That is the only option available to us, but if there is light, we can pump  healthy/clean water for our daily needs, while our businesses thrive.”

    They appealed to governments at all levels,  Renaissance,  Belemaoil and Newcross oil firms to come to their aid, and save them from the “pitiable” situation.

  • Reps get petition seeking review of changes to realtors’ CAC records

    Reps get petition seeking review of changes to realtors’ CAC records

    The House of Representatives has received a petition seeking a review of changes made to the records of Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

    The petition, submitted on behalf of the two companies, raised concerns over alterations to their filings at the CAC, calling for the National Assembly to examine the circumstances surrounding the changes.

    It was presented during plenary by Muktar Tolani Shagaya, who represents Ilorin West Federal Constituency of Kwara State. The session was presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, granted leave for the petition to be laid before the House.

    According to the petitioners, the disputed changes relate to shareholding structure, directorship and the status of certain corporate filings. They contended that the amendments were made while ownership and control issues involving the companies were already before the courts and subject to review by relevant authorities.

    The matter is connected to a long-running dispute over interests in the River Park Estate, a major real estate development in Abuja, involving competing claims among investors and associated entities.

    In a statement referenced in the petition, Kojo Ansah Mensah, chief executive, Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited, said the companies had earlier written to regulatory and law enforcement authorities over the dispute, adding that they requested  no changes be made to their records pending the outcome of ongoing processes.

    Read Also: Tinubu unveils new security, economic blueprint to harness Nigeria’s marine wealth

    He maintained that the companies were not given fair hearing before the disputed filings were effected.

    The petitioners also alleged that following the changes at the CAC, individuals recognised as directors in the updated records took steps to notify banks and other institutions of a change in control of the companies. They argued that these actions have disrupted operations and worsened the dispute.

    Separately, Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited has issued statements distancing itself from claims by individuals it said were not authorised to speak or act on its behalf. The company insisted that its current directors and shareholding structure were as reflected in earlier filings and internal resolutions, adding that any contrary claims were the subject of ongoing legal processes.

    The companies have since written to the National Assembly and Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, requesting intervention and clarification on the role of the CAC in disputes that were before the courts.

  • Police detain mortician for alleged organ harvesting

    Police detain mortician for alleged organ harvesting

    Edo State Police Command has detained a mortician (names withheld) for allegedly harvesting organs of a body deposited at the Aigbe mortuary on Akugbe Street in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area.

    The mortuary was vandalised when a family raised the alarm that certain organs were missing from the body of their late father.

    It was gathered that the body was taken away by the family for burial and it was while lying in-state that the missing organs were discovered.

    Family sources said the stomach of the body was found filled with cellophane after the internal organs had been removed.

    The source said: “The family observed a strong smell from the body and it was while spraying perfume on the body that they discovered that some organs were harvested.

    Read Also: Tinubu unveils new security, economic blueprint to harness Nigeria’s marine wealth

    “All the burial arrangements were scattered and the body was returned to the mortuary.

    “Other people who had bodies at the mortuary rushed to take them to another mortuary.”

    The source said the family returned the body to the mortuary for explanation and a mob vented their anger on the mortuary.

    A viral video showed the body with an opening on the chest region and several cellophane taken out of it.

    Edo Police Command spokesman, Eno Ikoedem, said the mortician was taken in after a distress call was received.

    Ikoedem said an investigation had started.

  • TikTok Peller hospitalised after crashing car during ‘disturbing’ livestream 

    TikTok Peller hospitalised after crashing car during ‘disturbing’ livestream 

    TikTok influencer and livestreamer Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, has been hospitalised following an incident in which he crashed his newly acquired Mercedes-Benz during an emotional livestream.

    The incident occurred on Sunday along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos during an Instagram live session titled “RIP Peller.”

    In the widely circulated video, Peller appeared visibly distressed while driving alone and was seen engaging in what appeared to be a heated phone conversation, reportedly with his girlfriend and fellow content creator, Jarvis, amid reports of a possible breakup.

    During the livestream, Peller was seen crying and appearing agitated as he made several troubling remarks, including statements suggesting he might cause an accident and expressions of fear and emotional distress.

    He repeatedly voiced concerns about being mocked publicly if the relationship ended and, at one point, stated that he intended to harm himself without putting others at risk.

    “I will use this car and have an accident right now,” and later, “I’m scared. I’m scared.

    “If you break up with me, people will be mocking me, they will be mocking me, they will be mocking me, they will be, they will be mocking me, they will not… Thank you, I’m going to kill myself.”

    Moments later, footage showed him veering off the road and colliding with a barrier, resulting in significant damage to the luxury vehicle.

    Bystanders quickly assisted him at the scene, and he was rushed to a hospital.

    While reports confirm he was rescued and received medical attention, details on the severity of his injuries remain unconfirmed.

    The couple’s relationship has been turbulent, with previous public arguments, allegations, and reconciliations playing out online. Leaked chats suggesting another breakup have fueled speculation that this latest dispute triggered the incident.

    Social media reactions have been mixed as many expressed genuine concern for Peller’s well-being and mental health, while others questioned if the dramatic event was exaggerated or staged for attention, given his history of viral content.

    Calls have emerged for authorities, including the Federal Road Safety Corps, to investigate due to the potential risks to public safety.

    No official statements have been released by Peller, Jarvis, or relevant authorities.

  • Aiyedatiwa lauds AAUA’s role in human capital development as 5,799 graduate

    Aiyedatiwa lauds AAUA’s role in human capital development as 5,799 graduate

    Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has commended Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), for its significant contributions to intellectual growth and human capital development within the state and beyond.

    The governor, who is the visitor to the university, made the commendation at the institution’s 14th Convocation Ceremony held at the weekend, where a total of 5,799 students graduated.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, Governor Aiyedatiwa praised the management for successfully steering the university through challenging times and pledged that his administration would look into its funding challenges.

    He charged the graduands to be good ambassadors of the university and Ondo State, urging them to uphold the values of integrity, discipline, and service.

    In his address, the pro-chancellor and chairman of the Governing Council, Dr Tunji Abayomi, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to sustaining and elevating the institution’s status within the global academic community.

    Dr Abayomi said AAUA possesses the capacity to become Nigeria’s leading citadel of knowledge and research, and among the best globally, if adequately funded. 

    He therefore made a case for an annual subvention of ₦12 billion to enable the university realise its lofty aspirations.

    He noted that the council had provided quality oversight and worked closely with the Senate to introduce innovative strategies aimed at ensuring continuous growth and holistic development.

    “Our aspiration to place the university on the global map demands the cooperation and support of all stakeholders. We have recommitted ourselves to the vision of our founding fathers in pursuit of academic excellence,” Abayomi said. 

    In his address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige said the university had recorded tremendous progress under his five-year stewardship, maintaining its status as a leading centre of research and learning.

    Prof. Ige disclosed that out of the 5,799 graduates, 32 earned First Class Honours degrees, stressing that the graduating population comprised 5,251 undergraduates, 526 postgraduates and 22 diploma students.

    He announced automatic employment for the First Class graduates after the completion of their National Youth Service, while urging all graduands to exemplify the values and discipline instilled in them by the institution.

    “Learning is a lifelong journey that requires discipline, perseverance and vision. Carry the spirit and values of Adekunle Ajasin University wherever life leads you. Be ambassadors of integrity, diligence and service,” he said. 

    The Vice-Chancellor highlighted achievements recorded in research, academic expansion, staff and student welfare, infrastructure, sports development and global partnerships.

    He noted that the university expanded its faculties from seven to ten, with the establishment of new faculties of Administration and Management Sciences, Allied Health Sciences and Computing, as well as new departments including French, Food Science, and Library and Information Science.

    Prof. Ige also revealed that nine AAUA scholars were listed in the prestigious Elsevier–Stanford Global Ranking for 2024, describing the feat as a testament to the institution’s growing research influence.

    On infrastructure, he said the university completed new Faculty of Science and Faculty of Social Sciences buildings, renovated several academic facilities and upgraded its Business School in Akure, despite financial constraints.

    As his tenure winds down in the second half of next year, Prof. Ige expressed gratitude to the Visitor, staff, students and unions for their support and cooperation.

    “I bow out with profound gratitude, having together weathered storms, celebrated victories and upheld the vision of our founding fathers,” he said.

    Speaking on behalf of the graduands, the Overall Best Graduating Student, Folake Racheal Omonitan of the Department of Biochemistry, who graduated with a CGPA of 4.79, attributed her success to focus and determination.

    She urged her fellow graduates to face the future with confidence and belief, stressing that nothing is impossible with commitment and perseverance.

  • Tinubu urges united ECOWAS front against coups 

    Tinubu urges united ECOWAS front against coups 

    • … As bloc moves to cut airfares, boost integration
    • …tips Dangote as pioneer Business Council chair 

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to take decisive and collective action against unconstitutional changes of government, warning that the evolving security threats confronting the sub-region demand unity, coordination and a shared sense of responsibility.

    Speaking at the 68th Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS, held at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu said West Africa’s increasingly porous borders make joint action unavoidable, stressing that no single country, regardless of size or capacity, can achieve lasting stability in isolation.

    Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Nigerian leader said the region’s security, prosperity and resilience are collective obligations that require consultation, unity of purpose and coordinated action among member states.

    “The external threats confronting West Africa today demand nothing less than a united front. Terrorism, violent extremism, unconstitutional changes of government, transnational organised crime, cyber insecurity, climate shocks, food insecurity and irregular migration do not respect borders.

    “No single member state, regardless of size, can achieve enduring stability alone. Our security, prosperity and resilience are collective responsibilities. We must sit at the same table, speak with one voice and act with shared resolve”, Tinubu said.

    Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ideals of the ECOWAS community, insisting that fraternity rather than force must define the future of the regional bloc.

    “This is the abiding conviction of President Bola Tinubu, whose actions have consistently shown that our unity is not transactional but foundational. Nigeria remains steadfast in its fidelity to the ideals of ECOWAS and unwavering in its commitment to collective action in defence of our common future”, he said.

    Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority and President of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio, described the summit as a historic crossroads, warning that West Africa is facing some of the gravest security, democratic and economic challenges in its post-independence history.

    “This session is a defining moment for the future of over 400 million West Africans. No border can insulate us from violence or fragmentation. Instability in one member state threatens the entire region”, Bio said, noting that the meeting coincides with the Golden Jubilee of ECOWAS.

    Bio said terrorism, violent extremism, organised crime and communal conflicts, particularly in the Sahel, continue to undermine development, adding that the regional response must be united, uncompromising and holistic, combining security efforts with good governance, education, job creation and community resilience.

    He disclosed that member states are advancing plans to operationalise the ECOWAS Standby Force, including the establishment of a 1,650-person counter-terrorism brigade by the end of 2026, supported by sustainable funding arrangements.

    Condemning recent unconstitutional changes of government in the region, Bio cited developments in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted coup in Benin, stressing that ECOWAS would not compromise on democratic governance.

    He commended the swift mobilisation of troops and air assets, led by Nigeria, as a demonstration of the bloc’s resolve, while reaffirming solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau and support for President Patrice Talon and the people of Benin.

    On the economic front, Bio highlighted rising living costs, trade disruptions and shrinking opportunities across the region, describing regional integration as non-negotiable.

    “Economic integration is the bedrock of the ECOWAS vision and the foundation of our collective prosperity,” he said, reaffirming commitments to remove trade barriers, harmonise policies, deepen the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme and advance monetary convergence in line with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    He said the ECOWAS Convergence Council has strengthened fiscal and monetary coordination, with a single regional currency by 2027 identified as a strategic priority.

    “When achieved, a common currency will be transformative, reducing transaction costs, expanding trade and strengthening competitiveness across West Africa,” Bio said.

    In a move aimed at easing mobility and stimulating trade and tourism, Bio announced that from January 1, 2026, ECOWAS will abolish air transport taxes and cut passenger and security charges by 25 per cent.

    “This is leadership that is practical, people-centred and responsive to everyday realities,” he said.

    The summit also marked a renewed push for private-sector-led integration, with President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr Omar Alieu Touray, announcing the launch of the ECOWAS Business Council and naming Nigerian industrialist Alhaji Aliko Dangote as its pioneer chairman.

    “Alhaji Aliko Dangote has graciously accepted to serve as the pioneer chairperson of the ECOWAS Business Council,” Touray said, noting that the council would drive investment and deepen economic integration across the region.

    He described the body as a structured platform for dialogue between governments and private-sector actors, adding that ECOWAS is planning a West African Economic Investment Summit, envisioned as a Davos-style forum to coordinate investment and track regional progress.

    Leaders present at the summit included Presidents Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, José Maria Neves of Cabo Verde, Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, Faure Gnassingbé of Togo, Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire, Adama Barrow of The Gambia and John Mahama of Ghana, alongside representatives of Guinea-Bissau, Benin and Liberia.

  • Osun 2026: Adeleke’s emergence remains valid – Southwest Accord”

    Osun 2026: Adeleke’s emergence remains valid – Southwest Accord”

    • …says no faction in Accord 

    Following the recent adoption of Osun asState Governor, Ademola Adeleke, as the Accord Party governorship candidate ahead of the forthcoming election, South-West stakeholders of the party on Sunday, December 14, endorsed him as the national leader of the party.

    The stakeholders affirmed that Adeleke’s emergence as the party’s candidate remains valid, insisting that there is no faction within the party that can invalidate the decision.

    Speaking after a South-West stakeholders’ meeting held in Ibadan and chaired by the party’s National Vice Chairman, Mogaji Paul Igbinsola, it was disclosed that the two contending factions under the national leadership of Rev’d John Adeniyi and Nduibem Maxwell had both endorsed Governor Adeleke’s candidacy for the 2026 Osun State governorship election.

    The meeting was attended by Accord Party state chairmen across the South-West, including Engr. Raji Waheed (Oyo State), Dr. Oyedamola Babarinde (Ekiti State), Hon. Azeez Abimbola Falaja (Ogun State), Chief (Mrs.) Balogun Titilayo (Ondo State), and Mr. Dolapo Tolulope (Osun State).

    The stakeholders also disowned one Segun Fanibe, stating that he was only a member of the party between 2016 and 2018 and no longer represents the Accord Party.

    Igbinsola said, “We have met, resolved our differences, and agreed to collectively support the candidacy of Ademola Adeleke to fly the ticket of the Accord Party. We have buried the hatchet and united behind his candidacy.

    “Having recognised that this is an emergency decision that required the immediate convening of all stakeholders.

    “As a result of Adeleke defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to Accord, and in line with our party’s constitution, Ademola Adeleke has automatically become our national leader.

    “Today, we have formally endorsed and approved him as the national leader of our party.

    “Furthermore, we hereby disown Segun Fanibe, the former chairman of the Accord Party in Osun State between 2016 and 2018. He has since left the party for the All Progressives Congress and has therefore ceased to be a member of Accord. He is no longer associated with the party in any capacity.

    “All factions within the party, across the South-West zone and at the national level, have unanimously endorsed Ademola Adeleke as our candidate and national leader. He has been fully adopted as the leader of the Accord Party.

    “In view of this development, any kangaroo primary organized by Fanibe is null and void.”

  • Teenage Network founder selected as Malala fund education champion

    Teenage Network founder selected as Malala fund education champion

    Founder and Executive Director of Teenage Network, Olanike Timipa-Uge, has been selected for the Malala Fund Education Champions Grant, Cohort 8, in recognition of her bold advocacy and leadership in advancing girls’ right to quality, safe and inclusive education in Nigeria.

    Through sustained, evidence-based programming, Olanike’s advocacy led to the formulation of the School Re-Entry Guideline for Adolescent Mothers in Nasarawa State, a landmark policy that affirms the right of young mothers to return to education without discrimination. 

    Her work also led to the development of the Sexual Violence Reporting and Management Framework for Schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), strengthening how schools prevent, report, and respond to cases of school related sexual violence.

    The Education Champions Grant supports grassroots leaders whose work is producing systemic change for girls facing barriers such as early pregnancy, sexual violence, and harmful social norms. 

    Olanike’s selection reflects her ability to translate community realities into policy action that protects girls and keeps them learning.

    As a member of Cohort 8, she will receive multi-year grant support and join a global network of education champions committed to ensuring every girl can access 12years of safe, quality education.

    The recognition places Teenage Network on a global platform, amplifying its work to ensure that no girl is denied education because of violence, stigma, or circumstance.

  • Over 20,000 applicants participate in NAF recruitment exercise nationwide 

    No fewer than 20,000 applicants are participating in the ongoing zonal general aptitude test for the Nigerian Air Force’s 2025 Basic Military Training Course (BMTC) 46 recruitment exercise.

    The exercise is being conducted at 15 designated zonal centres in Sokoto, Minna, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Maiduguri, Yola, Makurdi, Jos, Ilorin, Ipetu-Ijesa, Enugu, Benin, Port Harcourt, and Ikeja.

    Spokesperson of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said in a statement on Sunday that the extensive national spread reflects the NAF’s commitment to inclusiveness, equal opportunity, and a transparent, merit-driven recruitment process that enables qualified Nigerians from all parts of the country to compete fairly.

    He said: “The impressive turnout further underscores the sustained confidence of Nigerian youths in the Nigerian Air Force as a disciplined, professional, and patriotic institution. 

    “It also highlights the NAF’s resolve to attract capable, motivated, and resilient young Nigerians at a time when the nation’s security environment demands enhanced manpower strength to effectively support ongoing internal security operations and national defence efforts.”

    According to Ejodame, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, had reaffirmed that the recruitment process be guided by fairness, integrity, and strict adherence to established standards.

    He said the Air Chief noted the aptitude test was a critical step in building a motivated and mission-ready force, while assuring Nigerians of the NAF’s continued dedication to supporting internal security operations and protecting the lives and property of citizens in line with its constitutional responsibilities.

    “The Nigerian Air Force remains firmly committed to recruiting the best candidates by merit, as the quality of our personnel is fundamental to operational effectiveness and the successful execution of our constitutional mandate,” he said.

  • Edo police detain mortician over alleged organ harvesting

    Edo police detain mortician over alleged organ harvesting

    The Edo State Police Command has detained a mortician, whose identity was withheld, over the alleged harvesting of organs from a corpse deposited at the Aigbe Mortuary on Akugbe Street in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area.

    The mortuary was vandalised after the family of the deceased raised the alarm that some organs were missing from the body of their late father.

    It was gathered that the corpse had already been released to the family for burial, but the alleged discovery was made during the lying-in-state ceremony.

    According to family sources, the stomach of the deceased was found stuffed with cellophane after the internal organs had allegedly been removed.

    According to the source, “The family observed strong smell from the corpse and it was in the process of spraying perfume on the corpse that they discovered that some organs were harvested.

    “All the burial arrangement was scattered and the corpse was returned to the mortuary.

    “Other people who had corpses at the mortuary rushed to take the bodies to another mortuary.”

    The source said the family returned the corpse to the mortuary for explanation and a mob vented their anger on the mortuary.

    A viral video showed the corpse with an opening on the chest region and several cellophane taken out of it.

    Edo Police Command spokesman, Eno Ikoedem, said the mortician was taken in after a distress call was received.

    Ikoedem said investigation has commenced into the incident.