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November 28, 2025

News, Politics, Trending

Datti Baba-Ahmed Claims He Almost Halted Tinubu’s Inauguration

Former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, Dr. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has revealed that he came close to preventing the inauguration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023.

According to him, some political figures still blame him for comments he made in the tense days leading up to the handover.

Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Baba-Ahmed said the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) “has not recovered” from the warnings he issued at the time. He lamented that Nigerians ignored repeated cautions about the consequences of allowing flawed leadership and compromised processes.

“I nearly stopped the swearing-in of this government. Up till today, some elements are blaming me for it. Ever since a few statements I made, the APC has not recovered,” he said.

Baba-Ahmed stressed that Nigerians must take responsibility for demanding and defending good governance, insisting that waiting for intervention from foreign countries—especially the United States—is a futile path.

“No country will rescue you from what you refuse to fix. Americans will not bomb you into development. Nigerians, wake up,” he warned.

“I Love Nigeria—That Is My Only Motivation”

Reflecting on his personal values, Baba-Ahmed said his political stance is rooted in patriotism and a desire to see Nigeria reach its potential.

“The simple truth is this: I love Nigeria. I want Nigeria to work. That is my guiding principle,” he explained.

He criticised the pattern where leaders motivated by personal ambition or narrow group interests rise to power, saying the nation repeatedly pays the price for such choices.

“Nigeria should never be led by people whose sole obsession is re-election or personal gain,” he added.

A Warning Ahead of 2027

Looking ahead to the next electoral cycle, Baba-Ahmed called on citizens to fiercely reject electoral manipulation.

“Do not allow anybody to rig in 2027. They will do it if you allow them, and to them, you mean nothing. Even the Constitution means nothing—because one individual can decide how he wants it interpreted,” he cautioned.

On Education and Baze University

Shifting to his passion for education, Baba-Ahmed discussed the ethos behind founding Baze University, which he describes as his family’s legacy project.

“Whenever I complain about something, I do something about it. Education is our family legacy,” he said.

He condemned what he described as the rising disregard for standards in establishing new universities across the country.

“Even where there is an education policy, they are abusing it. This government is breaking its own laws. Some institutions are being allowed to start in rented buildings—this is illegal,” he stated.

Baba-Ahmed also accused certain regulatory authorities of trying to undermine Baze University.

Also Read: Okpebholo: Tinubu Must Win Edo in 2027 or I’ll Resign

“They want to fight me, they want to dilute the quality. But I will speak the truth, no matter the consequences,” he insisted.

News, Politics, Trending

Malami Speaks on EFCC Invitation, Reaffirms Commitment to Accountability

Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has confirmed that he has been contacted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and has pledged to honour the agency’s request.

Malami, who served from 2015 to 2023 in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, disclosed the development in a statement shared on his social media handle.

He emphasized that he remains committed to due process and the ideals of transparent governance.

The former minister played a central role in several major legal initiatives during his time in office, ranging from high-stakes asset recovery operations to anti-corruption policy reforms.

His tenure was also marked by involvement in complex arbitration cases, financial crime prosecutions, and major government decisions that regularly drew national attention.

In more recent years, Malami has faced questions regarding issues such as asset declaration and the handling of public funds—claims he has repeatedly rejected. The EFCC has yet to state the purpose of its latest invitation or identify the matters under review.

Also Read: CBN Orders Banks to Withdraw Misleading Adverts, Issues New Compliance Rules

Assuring the public of his willingness to cooperate, Malami wrote on Facebook: “This is to confirm that I have been invited by the EFCC. As a law-abiding and patriotic citizen, I reaffirm my commitment to honour the invitation. I understand the importance of accountability and transparency in public service—principles I have always stood by. In the spirit of openness, I will keep Nigerians informed as events progress.”

Feature, Health, News, Trending

Cannabis in Nigeria: 5 Surprising Benefits You Never Knew

Nigeria has a long, complicated love-hate relationship with Igbo—what most of the world calls cannabis or weed. On the streets, it’s whispered about like a secret ingredient for energy, creativity, and relaxation.

In offices and clinics, it’s still treated like a forbidden fruit, illegal and dangerous. But here’s the spicy truth most people won’t tell you: some doctors and health insiders know that Igbo isn’t just a party plant—it’s a powerful health tool that can change your body and mind in ways prescription drugs can’t.

From pain relief that rivals the strongest painkillers to mental health support that fights anxiety and depression, Igbo is quietly transforming lives across Nigeria. The problem? Most of these benefits are never mentioned publicly.

Official reports, medical boards, and government campaigns focus on “the dangers,” but the truth is lurking in plain sight—hidden in patient stories, lab research, and whispers in doctor’s offices.

In this article, we’re going to lift the curtain and reveal five shocking health benefits of Igbo that are being kept under wraps.

Some might make you question everything you thought you knew about weed, while others might have you reaching for your local dispensary (or at least reconsidering your stance on the plant).

Buckle up—it’s going to be a wild, high ride.

Here are five health benefits of Igbo you probably didn’t know.

1. Pain Relief That Rivals Prescription Drugs

Many Nigerians struggle with chronic pain from conditions like arthritis, migraines, or sickle cell disease.

Studies worldwide suggest that cannabis compounds, particularly CBD and THC, can alleviate pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

Some doctors are quietly recommending Igbo-based treatments to manage pain without the heavy side effects of opioids or NSAIDs. The relief is real, and in some cases, life-changing.

2. Boosting Mental Health Naturally

Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are increasingly common in Nigeria, but access to psychiatric care is limited. Research shows that certain cannabis compounds can reduce anxiety and improve mood.

Doctors in the know sometimes suggest controlled use of Igbo as a supplement to therapy, not a replacement—something mainstream medical practice rarely admits publicly.

3. Improving Appetite And Digestion

Patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy often lose appetite and weight. Cannabis has been documented to stimulate appetite, ease nausea, and improve digestion.

Some Nigerian doctors are quietly using this knowledge to help patients regain strength faster, without having to rely solely on pharmaceutical interventions.

4. Neuroprotective Properties

Emerging research indicates that cannabinoids in Igbo may help protect brain cells and improve cognitive function in conditions like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.

While still controversial, some forward-thinking practitioners in Nigeria are exploring these effects to slow disease progression and improve quality of life.

5. Anti-Inflammatory And Immune Support

Chronic inflammation underlies many illnesses, from diabetes to autoimmune disorders.

Certain compounds in cannabis are known to reduce inflammation and support the immune system.

Some doctors quietly incorporate Igbo into treatment plans for patients with inflammatory conditions, achieving results that conventional medication alone sometimes cannot match.

The Hidden Truth

Cannabis remains illegal and stigmatized in Nigeria, so many doctors cannot openly prescribe it.

Also Read: Police Escort Withdrawal: PDP’s Samuel Anyanwu Seeks Protection for Key Leaders

Yet the science—and the personal testimonies—cannot be ignored.

Igbo is not a magic bullet, but it’s increasingly clear that this controversial plant may offer real, medically relevant benefits when used responsibly.

Whether you call it Igbo, weed, or cannabis, one thing is certain: the conversation around its potential is long overdue.

Business, News, Technology, Trending

CBN Orders Banks to Withdraw Misleading Adverts, Issues New Compliance Rules

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has instructed all banks, payment service banks and other regulated financial institutions to immediately halt any advertisement or promotional campaign that violates transparency or consumer-protection rules.

The directive, contained in a circular released on Thursday and signed by Olubunmi Ayodele-Oni of the CBN’s Compliance Department, followed a sweeping industry review conducted by the apex bank.

According to the CBN, the review—guided by the Consumer Protection Regulations (2019) and the Advertising Guidelines for Deposit-Taking Institutions (2000)—uncovered widespread breaches in how financial products are marketed to the public.

The regulator said many institutions were found publishing misleading content, including exaggerated product claims, poorly disclosed risk warnings, unclear or obscured information, and promotional messages tied to unaudited financial reports.

The CBN warned that such practices distort market competition, mislead customers, and damage public trust in the financial system. It stressed that every advert—whether online, broadcast, or offline—must be factual, balanced, transparent and easy for consumers to understand.

Ban on Comparative Claims and Chance-Based Promotions

The circular also placed a firm ban on marketing materials that include comparative claims, superlative statements, or messages that could be interpreted as de-marketing rivals. In addition, institutions were prohibited from running promotional schemes dependent on chance—such as lotteries, prize draws, lucky dips and similar engagement formats. The CBN said these tactics can pressure consumers into financial decisions without fully understanding the associated risks.

Mandatory Pre-Release Notification to CBN

In a major shift, the regulator mandated that all institutions must now submit an advert-notification filing before launching any marketing campaign. Though not an approval process, the notification must include:

* Planned duration of the advert

* Full creative materials intended for publication

* Defined target audience segments

* Geographic coverage

* Documented evidence of product approval from the CBN’s product-approval committee

* Confirmations from internal legal and compliance units validating marketing clearance

The apex bank clarified that the CBN will not pre-approve adverts but will use the notification filings for oversight, risk-communication alignment and governance monitoring.

Strict Compliance Attestation Required

Financial institutions are also required to submit a compliance attestation letter, jointly signed by the Managing Director/CEO, Executive Compliance Officer and Chief Compliance Officer.

Also Read: Police Escort Withdrawal: PDP’s Samuel Anyanwu Seeks Protection for Key Leaders

The letter must confirm that the institution’s advertising practices comply with national consumer-protection standards, internal controls and regulatory guidelines.

Sanctions Begin 2026

The CBN cautioned that sanctions for violations will take effect from January 2026, adding that a comprehensive industry audit—covering communication practices and compliance levels—will begin the same month.

Penalties, it noted, will be enforced under the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act (2020) and aligned with the CBN’s sanctioning framework.

Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding consumers, the apex bank said it would continue to promote fairness, responsibility and transparent communication in Nigeria’s financial sector.

News, Politics, Trending

Okpebholo: Tinubu Must Win Edo in 2027 or I’ll Resign

Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, has thrown down a dramatic political challenge, boldly declaring that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will secure Edo State in the 2027 presidential election—or he will step aside as governor.

Speaking during an interview with veteran broadcaster Babajide Otitoju, Okpebholo asserted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly consolidated its grip on Edo, crediting ongoing projects and renewed governance efforts since the party assumed leadership in the state.

According to him, the state’s political direction is already clear: “There is no opposition here in Edo. Everybody is for Asiwaju in this state.”

A video clip from the interview, circulating widely online, has generated mixed responses from citizens and political observers.

The conversation comes shortly after Okpebholo’s administration announced a new wave of infrastructure initiatives across the state.

The governor maintained that Tinubu’s influence in Edo remains unmatched—surpassing even his own.

“Tinubu is more popular than me in Edo State,” he said.

He added emphatically: “If he doesn’t win the presidential election in Edo in 2027, I will resign.”

Reiterating the pledge, Okpebholo claimed that residents are fully aware of the president’s impact on recent state developments.

“Edo people know what I’m doing is because of Asiwaju’s impact… You will see the result that will come from here. There’s no opposition in Edo.”

He went on to challenge perceived rivals in the state’s political landscape, dismissing the support base of former governor Godwin Obaseki.

“Who are Obaseki’s people? Let him come here. Is Oshiomhole not on the streets here?”

The governor continued in a fiery tone, insisting that Obaseki would face rejection if he attempted to return to the political arena in the state.

Also Read: Nigerian Star Candy Bleakz Robbed of ₦10m Gold in SA Assault

“His record cannot bring him back here… When children pray for me, no child on the street will pray for Obaseki. No mother on the street will pray for him.”

Okpebholo’s emphatic declarations have intensified political conversations in Edo as the state edges closer to the 2027 election cycle.

Entertainment, Music, News, Trending

Nigerian Star Candy Bleakz Robbed of ₦10m Gold in SA Assault

Nigerian music star Akiode Blessing Mariam, widely known as Candy Bleakz, has been left traumatized after a violent encounter in South Africa that resulted in injuries and the loss of her valuables.

The 26-year-old rapper took to Instagram on Thursday, posting disturbing clips that showed her visibly shaken, with blood around her lips as she struggled to recount the terrifying moment.

According to her, the attack occurred just outside her residence after she stepped out briefly to grab a cup of coffee.

Candy Bleakz said she was suddenly confronted by a group of unidentified men who assaulted her before fleeing with her gold jewellery, which she estimated to be worth around ₦10 million.

In a later update shared via Snapchat, the Chocolate City artist appeared in severe discomfort while tending to the bruises left by the assault.

In one of the videos, she questioned a police officer allegedly present during the incident, expressing disbelief and frustration: “Officer, why did you let them rob me like this? Why? You were there… you let them go.”

The news has sparked concern across the entertainment industry, with fans, colleagues, and fellow artistes reaching out to offer support as she recovers emotionally and physically.

This latest incident adds to a troubling pattern of attacks on Nigerian entertainers in South Africa. Just a few months ago, Mavin Records’ DJ Big N narrowly survived an armed assault in Johannesburg, where six gunmen ambushed him in traffic, shot him in the leg, and took his jewellery.

He later revealed that the bullet came dangerously close to a major artery before he received medical care.

Also Read: Police Escort Withdrawal: PDP’s Samuel Anyanwu Seeks Protection for Key Leaders

Candy Bleakz, celebrated for her bold sound and rising momentum in the music scene, is currently recuperating while authorities are expected to investigate the attack.

News, Politics, Trending

Police Escort Withdrawal: PDP’s Samuel Anyanwu Seeks Protection for Key Leaders

The National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Samuel Anyanwu, has confirmed that the police escorts attached to him have been withdrawn as part of the Federal Government’s sweeping review of VIP security privileges ordered by President Bola Tinubu.

In a phone conversation with newsmen on Thursday, Anyanwu said he was not opposed to the new policy, noting that the police force has long struggled with insufficient manpower.

He argued that redeploying officers from VIP assignments could help strengthen general security nationwide.

“I support the withdrawal,” he said. “The country is clearly short of police personnel, and many officers attached to VIPs were not being properly utilised.”

Despite backing the decision, he urged the Federal Government to apply discretion and structure to the process, stressing that some categories of individuals—such as senior statesmen and top political officeholders—should not be left exposed.

“They need to prioritise,” he emphasized. “The authorities must evaluate the calibre of people, their responsibilities, and their level of exposure to risk. There should also be proper documentation and tracking of the officers being reassigned.”

When asked whether he planned to hire private security operatives as replacements, Anyanwu dismissed the idea, insisting that his political status entitles him to official protection.

“How can I rely on private guards?” he asked. “As a national officer of a major political party and a senator, I am entitled to police escorts.”

Instead, he revealed that he had already approached the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to request personnel, expressing confidence in their training and professionalism.

“I’ve applied to the NSCDC for manpower. In fact, I prefer them—they are well trained,” he said.

Also Read: Abuja Community in Panic After Nighttime Kidnapping of Teenagers

President Tinubu’s directive followed a high-level security strategy meeting with the Service Chiefs in Abuja, signalling a broader overhaul of security deployments. According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the move aims to free up police resources and better address the country’s rising security concerns.

Viral Video Lands TikToker in FCID Custody for Alleging Senator’s Bandit Connections
News, Politics, Trending

APC South-East Vice Chair Warns Police VIP Security Withdrawal Could Heighten Threats

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Vice Chairman for the South-East, Dr. Ijeoma Arodiogbu, has cautioned that the recent move to strip VIPs of police escorts may have unintended and dangerous consequences, particularly for public officials who already face elevated security risks.

Speaking with newsmen on Thursday, Arodiogbu revealed that his own aides had not been affected by the directive, but he insisted that the broader policy could expose high-profile individuals to new threats.

“My security aides were not withdrawn,” he clarified during the phone interview. “But lawmakers in both the House of Representatives and the Senate have already raised concerns because pulling police protection from VIPs could open another chapter of insecurity.”

According to him, politicians and other influential figures remain prime targets for criminal attacks, making the blanket withdrawal of escorts a risky decision.

“VIPs—especially political officeholders—are naturally more vulnerable,” he said. “I doubt the Inspector General of Police will fully carry out such an order. Any security incident involving a high-profile person quickly becomes national news for a reason.”

Arodiogbu, however, backed President Bola Tinubu’s broader reform push, noting that while some VIPs unquestionably require state-provided protection, others clearly do not.

He criticised situations where individuals with no known security exposure move around with large contingents of police officers.

“There must be a clear hierarchy of need,” he argued. “We shouldn’t see traders or businesspeople parading with 10 armed police escorts. Wealth alone shouldn’t qualify anyone for that level of protection.”

The APC chieftain also praised President Tinubu’s recent call for increased recruitment into the police and armed forces, describing it as a timely intervention amid Nigeria’s persistent security challenges.

“We appreciate the President’s commitment to bolstering the police and the military,” he said. “Expanding the number of personnel is essential if we’re going to confront the threats facing the country.”

Also Read: ‘The Convoy That The President Goes About With Is Too Much’ – Ndume

Arodiogbu concluded by emphasising that security resources must be allocated based on genuine vulnerability, not social status or financial influence.

“Protection should be reserved for those with real, identifiable risks—not individuals who simply enjoy moving around with a convoy,” he said.

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