The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Youth leaders laud Dr. Mustapha for transforming Nigeria’s energy sector

    Youth leaders laud Dr. Mustapha for transforming Nigeria’s energy sector

    Nigeria’s youth leaders have commended Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha for his exceptional leadership and commitment to transforming the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) in line with President Bola Tinubu’s “Hope Agenda,” marking two years since his appointment as Director-General.

    In a statement signed by Oladele John Nihi, Vice President West Africa of the Pan-African Youth Union, the leaders described Dr. Mustapha’s appointment as a “significant milestone” in Nigeria’s pursuit of energy sustainability and development, highlighting his leadership skills, extensive experience, and dedication to national progress.

    “Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha is a shining example of a Nigerian youth making a positive impact in governance, and we are thrilled to see his expertise being leveraged for the nation’s benefit at the Energy Commission of Nigeria,” Nihi said. “We pass a vote of confidence on Dr. Mustapha and commend President Tinubu for his visionary choice as DG.”

    Under Dr. Mustapha’s leadership, the ECN has made notable strides in promoting energy sustainability, innovation, and development. His efforts to drive reforms and harness the talents of Nigerian youths have been pivotal in advancing the nation’s energy sector.

    The Pan-African Youth Union, representing youths across West Africa, also praised Dr. Mustapha’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youths and advancing energy development within the country and the region. “We urge all stakeholders to continue supporting Dr. Mustapha in his efforts to drive energy transformation in Nigeria,” Nihi added.

    Dr. Mustapha’s leadership reflects President Tinubu’s broader commitment to youth empowerment and national development, with expectations of continued progress and innovation from the Energy Commission under his guidance.

  • Foundation amplifies autism awareness through music concert 

    Foundation amplifies autism awareness through music concert 

    The Ferdinand Effah Music Heritage Foundation (FEMHF) has called for urgent national attention to the growing needs of vulnerable autistic individuals and their families, warning that low awareness, stigma and limited access to support services continue to expose many Nigerians living with autism to neglect and social exclusion.

    The foundation said autism awareness remains imperative as thousands of families struggle in silence with inadequate healthcare options, high treatment costs, poor understanding of the condition and the absence of inclusive policies, stressing that without deliberate public engagement, autistic individuals risk being left behind in national development conversations.

    Against this backdrop, FEMHF, in a statement on Tuesday by its President and Trustee, Stanley Effah, announced the deployment of music as a creative advocacy tool, unveiling an annual concert initiative designed to use the unifying power of music to drive autism awareness, promote acceptance and mobilise practical support for autistic individuals and their caregivers across Nigeria.

    The Foundation said the 2026 concert, themed ‘Harmony for Autism’ was conceived in response to the growing challenges faced by autistic individuals and their caregivers, including social stigma, limited access to specialised services, financial strain and inadequate public awareness.

    Effah stressed that music provides a powerful and inclusive medium to bridge these gaps, adding, “Music, like positive memories, is a universal language that brings people together. 

    “It has the power to connect communities, humanise lived experiences and give visibility to autistic individuals and families whose needs are often overlooked by society and policymakers.”

    Under the programme, he said FEMHF will host annual live concerts featuring leading Nigerian music artists, its in-house ensemble Ferdy’s Band, as well as autistic individuals and groups who have demonstrated talent in music and live performance. 

    The concerts, according to the Foundation, are expected to create a safe and inclusive space where autistic individuals and their families can engage directly with the wider public, share their experiences, and challenge misconceptions about autism.

    The Foundation explained that showcasing the abilities of autistic individuals is central to the initiative, “These concerts are not just about entertainment. 

    “They are about celebrating talent, reinforcing dignity and reminding society that autistic individuals have abilities, aspirations and contributions that deserve recognition and support,” Effah added.

    Beyond awareness, the concerts will also function as a structured fundraising platform, FEMHF affirmed, noting that proceeds will be channelled towards supporting autistic children and young adults from less privileged families who are unable to afford essential therapies, medical interventions and specialised education.

    The Foundation disclosed that funds raised will also be invested in long-term skills acquisition and development programmes aimed at empowering autistic individuals for self-reliance and sustainable livelihoods.

    Read Also: Music producer earns industry recognition for technical skill, global reach

    According to FEMHF, planned programmes will cover training in music, arts and crafts, fashion design, tailoring, modelling and sports. 

    These initiatives will be implemented through existing platforms such as Ferdy’s Band and the foundation’s Fashion House, as well as a proposed Marathon and Sporting Centre, Effah explained.

    Recognising the central role of caregivers, the Foundation said part of the proceeds will be dedicated to scholarships and training support for caregivers and professionals working in autism care, with the goal of strengthening Nigeria’s autism support workforce.

    “The well-being of autistic individuals is closely tied to the capacity and resilience of their caregivers. Supporting families and building professional capacity is essential to improving outcomes and quality of life,” the Foundation noted.

    Preparations for the annual concerts will include stage production, development of autism awareness materials, volunteer mobilisation and public sensitisation activities such as road walks and community information sessions.

    The inaugural concert, according to the organizers, is scheduled for April 2026 and calls on corporate organizations, development partners and members of the public to support the initiative through sponsorship, partnerships and volunteer engagement.

    The foundation also disclosed collaborations with the Ike Foundation for Autism on autism awareness road walks, and with Glory Wellness Regenerative Center to support access to stem cell treatment for autistic children from disadvantaged families.

    Emphasising the broader impact of the initiative, FEMHF said sustained awareness and charitable engagement are critical to ensuring that autistic individuals are not left behind.

    “Raising awareness is the first step toward inclusion and development. With consistent support, autistic individuals can reach their full potential and live fulfilling, dignified lives alongside their families,” Effah emphasised.

  • Oyo suspends Chief over alleged illegal mining

    Oyo suspends Chief over alleged illegal mining

    The Oyo State Government has suspended the Sobaloju of Ofiki, Chief Jacob Adefabi Sobaloju, for allegedly violating the State’s Executive Order 001/2023, which governs mining activities and for encouraging trespassing on government gazetted assets.

    It noted that the decision was taken to protect the interest of Oyo State and its people.

    Chief Sobaloju, according to a letter by the Director, Chieftaincy Matters in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Olajire A.M., was accused of violating the order as well as allegedly issuing consent letters to mining companies without proper authorisation, permitting mining activities in state government’s reserved forest and facilitating unauthorised mining operations.

    The letter indicated that Chief Sobaloju has been suspended from the palace of the Onito of Ito effective from Monday, January 5, 2026, pending the outcome of investigation into the allegations, adding that his suspension is a precautionary measure to ensure the integrity of the investigation.

    The letter, entitled “Re: Complaint against Chief Sobaloju of Ofiki for violation of State Exectuive Order, Forest Reserve Regulations and encouraging trespassing of government gazetted assets,” reads in part: “I am directed to refer to the above subject and inform you that you have been accused of violating the State Executive Order 001/2023, which governs mining activities in Oyo State, and of encouraging trespassing on government gazetted assets.

    Read Also: Mining marshals arrest five suspects for illegal mining, impersonation in Abuja

    “The allegations include issuing consent letters to mining companies without proper authorisation, permitting mining activities in state government Reserves Forest, and facilitating unauthorised mining operations.”

    It directed the embattled Chief to refrain from all activities related to mining and issuance of consent letters to miners, refrain from interfering with the investigation into the allegations against him and to make himself available for questioning as required by the investigating team.

  • Kidnappers kill victim in Edo

    Kidnappers kill victim in Edo

    Abu Momoh, one of the two brothers abducted last weekend in Auchi, headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area, has been killed by their abductors.

    The late Abu was kidnapped alongside his brother, Ibrahim, a medical doctor, on January 2 at their residence on City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, Edo North.

    Their father, Tahir Momoh, who confirmed the killing of his son, said the corpse was discovered in the early hours of yesterday.

    He has been buried, the father said.

    Momoh said: “It is true that he was killed. He is the younger of the two brothers and he has been buried. The elder brother is still with the kidnappers.

    “This is a very sad day for us and we hope that his elder will be released to us.”

    Checks showed that Abu was killed by Orley River, Down City Pride Road, Igbira Camp.

    A community source said he was shot dead while trying to escape.

    Read Also: Ondo police arrest ‘fleeing motorcycle thieves’ in Edo, recover stolen bike

    “I was told that he attempted an escape and he was shot by the kidnappers,” the source claimed.

    One of the leaders of Auchi community, who gave his name as Abdul, urged the police to be diligent in their investigation, adding that many persons have been abducted within the vicinity.

    The source said: “I think it’s time the police beam a searchlight on the community in Auchi as the number of kidnapping around that area is alarming.

    “The problem is these boys don’t want to work but are looking for easy money. The earlier their criminal activities are halted, the better for Auchi and other communities around that area.

    “The government should also take action so that the people can see that they are important.”

  • Death toll in Niger market attack rises to 50

    Death toll in Niger market attack rises to 50

    • Yobe boat accident: Deaths hit 29    
    • Speaker Abbas, Akpoti-Uduaghan condemn attacks

    Death toll from the attack on Kasuwan Daji Market in Niger State, which claimed at least 42 persons and left several others abducted has hit 50.

    Also, the number of deaths from the Saturday’s boat accident in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State, has risen from 25 earlier announced by the state government, to 29.

    Both the Speaker, House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan condemned the attack and mourned the dead.

    Executive Secretary, Yobe State’s Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), Dr Mohammad Goje, in a statement yesterday, said four more bodies were recovered from the river, adding that search and rescue would continue as between eight and 10 passengers were still missing.

    Goje said13 passengers who were injured had been treated and discharged from a local hospital.

    The executive secretary said preliminary reports indicated that overloading and structural defect were among the major causes of the accident.

    He said following the incident, Governor Mai Mala Buni directed YOSEMA to liaise with relevant Federal Government agencies on safety measures in water transportation.

    He said through such collaboration, policing of water transportation would become possible and the use of life jackets could be enforced.

    “Once this is achieved, you can ensure that those that will board a canoe must wear life jackets, and that should be institutionalised,” he said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ill-fated boat, which took off from Adiyani in neighbouring Jigawa, capsized on Yobe River in Garbi town about 7:48 pm on Saturday.

    Over 50 passengers mainly farmers and traders were believed to be on board when the incident occurred in the area, which is over 230 km from Damaturu, the state capital.

    In a statement yesterday, the Speaker asked the security and intelligence agencies to carry out to the letter the order by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the manhunt of the perpetrators.

    Read Also: Bashiru to Wike: you lack locus to dabble into APC affairs

    While describing the attack as gruesome, Abbas urged the security forces to show results as they followed the presidential order.

    The Speaker, who commended President Tinubu for providing the needed leadership at critical times said the House is ever ready to provide legislative interventions where necessary.

    Abbas commiserated with the families of those killed by the attackers while praying to God to heal those who were injured. He sent condolences to the people and the government of Niger State over the attack, in a condolence message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi.

    “This unfortunate incident has left us all in deep mourning, robbing families of their loved ones and communities of their vibrant members.

    “I pray for the repose of the souls of the departed. May Allah also grant quick recovery to the injured and fortify the survivors with strength during this trying time,” the Speaker lamented.

    The Speaker further assured that the House stands in solidarity with Yobe and will continue to support measures aimed at preventing such avoidable tragedies anywhere in the country.

    Also, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has condemned the attack on Kasuwan Daji Market in Niger State.

    In a statement yesterday, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the attack as an incident that underscored the security challenge in communities.

    She mourned those killed in the assault and said the victims.

    The senator expressed sympathy with those affected by the loss of lives, abductions and destruction of property.

    She also expressed concern over the burning of the market and the impact of the violence on livelihoods.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan urged security agencies to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators.

    She appealed to the Federal Government to strengthen security measures, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities, and adopt proactive strategies aimed at preventing similar incidents.

  • Troops kill 25 terrorists, rescue hostages across theatres says Army

    Troops kill 25 terrorists, rescue hostages across theatres says Army

    • Criminal kingpin John Ngata’s associate arrested in Taraba

    Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised at least 25 terrorists, rescuing kidnapped victims, and recovering arms and ammunition in the last 24 hours.

    This is contained in a summary of operations made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) by a military source in Abuja yesterday.

    The source said the successes were recorded under the Joint Task Force Northeast, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Operation Fansan Yamma, Operation Whirl Stroke, and Operation Delta Safe.

    In the Northeast, he said the troops of 73 Battalion (Mechanised), supported by Hybrid Forces and the Civilian Joint Task Force, ambushed a known terrorist crossing point in Sojiri, Konduga Local Government Area of Borno, on January 4.

    According to him, the troops killed five of the terrorists, recovered one AK-47 rifle, and rescued three hostages.

    He confirmed an air strike on an ISWAP/JAS enclave at Garin Mallam Idrissa, east of Garin Abu Ayuba, in Nduva, Borno State.

    According to him, 18 terrorists were killed, including a high-value terrorist commander identified as Munzir, also known as Baa Yanziy.

    He added that nine terrorist motorcycles were destroyed during the strike, degrading the terrorists’ capability.

    The source said the troops of 27 Task Force Brigade, working with Hybrid Forces, ambushed terrorists on the Meleri–Ngirbua axis in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe about 5:30 a.m. on January 4.

    “During the encounter, troops neutralised two terrorists and recovered one AK-47 rifle, with exploitation of the area still in progress.

    “In the Northcentral, troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) recorded a major breakthrough with the recovery of a large cache of arms in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba’’ and arrest of an associate of a criminal kingpin, John Ngata, in Takum, Taraba.

    Read Also: Court grants EFCC’s request for interim forfeiture of N30.7m linked to alleged fraud in NNPC 

     Acting Media Information Officer, the Headquarters of JTF OPWS, confirmed this in a statement in Makurdi.

    Zubairu stated that he (the associate) was arrested yesterday at a road block.

    He said the suspect later led the troops to John Ngata armoury, where they recovered 13 AK-47 rifles, 39 AK-47 magazines, 690 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, among others.

    He added: “Upon preliminary interrogation, the suspect led the troops to a concealed armoury belonging to the criminal network at Amadu Village in the local government area.

    “Subsequent exploration of the location resulted in the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition, comprising 13 AK-47 rifles, 39 AK-47 magazines, 690 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and quantity four hand grenades.

    “Following the successful recovery, the armoury was professionally destroyed to prevent further use and the troops safely withdrew to base.”

    “In the Southsouth, troops of Operation Delta Safe destroyed three illegal refining sites at Uburum Community, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers, recovering and destroying locally fabricated ovens, drums, jerrycans, and plastic tanks used for crude oil refining.

    “Also, troops arrested a suspected gunrunner at Panapena area, Warri South Local Government Area of Delta, recovering two mobile phones and ₦22,700 from the suspect,” he said.

  • Chris Okafor shuns police invitation

    Chris Okafor shuns police invitation

    Embattled preacher, Pastor Chris Okafor yesterday refused to honour police invitation that mandated him to attend an interview with the Lagos State Deputy Police Commissioner, Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, Yaba.

    Okafor was invited by the Police Command in a letter dated January 3, which directed that he should submit himself for interrogation on or before 10am yesterday.

    But as of 7pm yesterday, detectives at the SCID told The Nation that he was yet to honour the invitation, just as they said his presence was still being awaited till 12am since the police work round the clock.

    “We have not seen him yet but we are still waiting because the police work 24 hours daily. So, for now, we cannot say he dared the police. Let’s wait till the end of today, hopefully, he will come,” said a senior officer.

    Okafor’s issue with the law followed series of allegations of sexual impropriety, abuse of authority, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and alleged murder from multiple women including his daughter, ex-lovers and members of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries he founded.

    It was gathered that the Commissioned of Police (CP) Olohundare Jimoh ordered a probe into the matter as more weighty allegations emerged online against the so-called pastor.

    Okafor’s disgrace started weeks ago after Nollywood actress, Doris Ogalla, with whom he had an unholy relationship called him out over alleged breach of marriage promise.

    The allegatioms with supporting audio-visual “evidences” startled the public, causing an outrage with Nigerians demanding criminal investigation against Okafor.

    Okafor who tied the knot with his new bride, Pearl, on December 16, initially dismissed the allegations as the handiwork of his enemies but later admitted to some and tendered a public apology to his congregants before stepping aside as the senior pastor of the church.

    Among his accusers are his daughter who alleged she was sexuallt assaulted, his Cameroonian ex-wife with whom he allegedly had four children and multiple women in his congestion including three siblings who claimed to have been hypnotised and impregnated by the randy preacher.

    The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed that Jimoh had ordered the SCID to invite the cleric for questioning and also summon the alleged victims.

    Read Also: Bashiru to Wike: you lack locus to dabble into APC affairs

    “The CP has directed the SCID to invite the pastor for investigation, despite the fact that no one has formally come forward to report,” she said.

    Adebisi said the command was probing the allegations of murder against the preacher following presumed evidences seen on social media. For the sexual assault cases, she appealed to victims to come forward and make formal complaints against Okafor, noting that the police cannot build a rape case when there are no victims, complainants.

    Ogalla, who has refused to back down from publicly shaming Okafor, alleged he shared her nude photographs and videos; made her leave her previous marriage, caused the death of her younger brother, along several other accusations.

    The actress shared bedroom photos and screenshots of conversations, as well as videos alleging the pastor sent her $10,000 to retract her claims and accuse a rival pastor of orchestrating the scandal.

    She later demanded N1 billion in damages through a legal notice filed by her lawyers, alleging threats and intimidation following her arrest and detention by the police.

    At the time of this report the police were yet to make an official comment on his refusal to honour lawful invitation.

  • AGF orders reversal of disputed CAC changes in Abuja firms

    AGF orders reversal of disputed CAC changes in Abuja firms

    The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has directed the Registrar-General of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Hussaini Magaji, to reverse changes made to the corporate filings of two Abuja-based firms.

    The directive affects Jonah Capital Nigeria Limited and Houses for Africa Nigeria Limited. It followed a review by the Office of the AGF, which concluded that the alterations were made despite pending court proceedings and notices to the CAC.

    The decision was conveyed in a letter signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF), M. B. Abubakar, on behalf of the AGF.

    In the same review, the AGF discontinued criminal proceedings earlier initiated by the Nigeria Police Force against several individuals linked to the firms. The AGF ruled that the investigation files submitted by the police did not establish a basis for criminal prosecution, leading to the withdrawal of the charges.

    Read Also: Court grants EFCC’s request for interim forfeiture of N30.7m linked to alleged fraud in NNPC 

    According to the DPPF, the decision was reached after examining reports from the IGP Monitoring Unit and an earlier Special Investigation Panel (SIP). The AGF affirmed the findings of the SIP, describing its report as thorough and impartial.

    The AGF noted that disputes arising from ownership and management of the estate linked to the firms were commercial and contractual and fell outside the scope of criminal prosecution. He cautioned law enforcement agencies against exceeding their statutory powers in civil matters.

    On the CAC filings, the AGF ordered that the ownership and shareholding structure of the affected companies be restored to their position before the disputed changes were made.

    The AGF further directed the Nigeria Police Force to investigate separate allegations of property damage and intimidation within the estate and submit a report. The police were also instructed to maintain peace and ensure residents are not subjected to harassment.

    The matter has attracted diplomatic and administrative attention, with separate reviews initiated by authorities in the Federal Capital Territory to address tensions within the estate.

  • Ex-Lagos director jailed 29 months for N48.9m bank theft

    Ex-Lagos director jailed 29 months for N48.9m bank theft

    An Ikeja Special Offences and Domestic Violence Court yesterday sentenced a former Lagos State Education Director, Olawale Faleti, to two years and five months’ imprisonment for stealing N48.9 million from Access Bank.

    Justice Rahman Oshodi convicted Faleti, 64, on five counts of stealing, after finding him guilty of charges brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    Delivering judgment, Oshodi held that Faleti’s actions were calculated, noting he made repeated withdrawals in spite of knowing he lacked authorisation.

    The judge said the convict showed no genuine remorse and failed to fully accept responsibility for his criminal conduct.

    He said: “Financial institutions are the lifeblood of our economy and public confidence in them must be maintained.

    “Those who seek to defraud or steal from financial institutions must know they will face severe consequences.

    “Taking all circumstances into account, including aggravating and mitigating factors, a custodial sentence is necessary and appropriate.

    “I apply a 20 per cent discount from the three-year maximum sentence, recognising your status as a first-time offender and minimal restitution efforts.”

    The court sentenced Faleti to two years and five months’ imprisonment on each of the five counts.

    Oshodi ordered that the sentences should run concurrently.

    “You are, therefore, sentenced to two years and five months’ imprisonment,” the judge said.

    He added that Faleti’s biometric details would be registered in the Lagos State Judiciary offenders’ database.

    Read Also: Bashiru to Wike: you lack locus to dabble into APC affairs

    After deducting N3 million already restituted, the court ordered Faleti to pay an additional N45.9 million to Access Bank Plc.

    The judge directed Access Bank to notify the court upon full restitution by the convict.

    The court ordered that Faleti’s sentence begin on Jan. 5 and that his name be entered in the Lagos State Offenders’ Registry.

    Earlier, EFCC counsel, Mr Ahmed Dambuwa, told the court that Faleti dishonestly converted N48.9 million belonging to Access Bank.

    Dambuwa said Faleti had access to an Access Bank credit card permitting withdrawals of not less than N43,000 per transaction.

    He said Faleti exploited unauthorised access caused by a system glitch to withdraw about N48 million during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

    One charge stated that between July 2 and July 10, 2020, Faleti converted N12.6 million, property of Access Bank Plc, for personal use.

    Another charge said that between May 22 and July 1, 2020, Faleti converted N6.9 million belonging to Access Bank Plc.

    The EFCC said the offences contravened Section 287(1)(a) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

  • Gunmen abduct four travellers in Kwara

    Gunmen abduct four travellers in Kwara

    No fewer than four travellers have been abducted in Kwara State.

    The incident happened in the early hours of yesterday on the Isanlu–Isin–Omu Aran Road in the state..

    Read Also: Court grants EFCC’s request for interim forfeiture of N30.7m linked to alleged fraud in NNPC 

    A source said the attackers who operated freely on the road, ambushed motorists on the highway. The route connects communities in Kwara South to Ilorin, the state capital.

    “Bandits are still present in the area and are targeting travellers heading towards Ilorin,” the source said.

    As of the time of filing this report, the state Police Command had not confirmed the attack.