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December 11, 2025

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Lagos Police Clarify Viral Video, Arrest 13 Over Assault on Officer

The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed claims circulating online that an officer was caught stealing in a viral video, describing the narrative as false and misleading.

The video, which spread widely on Wednesday, showed a police officer with a swollen face and a bleeding nose, surrounded by angry members of the public shouting “ole” (thief).

In a statement on Thursday, Lagos police spokesperson Abimbola Adebisi explained that the incident actually occurred while the officer, attached to the Lagos State Taskforce, was enforcing a ban on illegal parking along Brown Street, Oshodi. The confrontation began when the officer stopped a motorist attempting to park illegally.

According to Adebisi, the situation escalated quickly, during which the officer accidentally discharged his firearm, causing debris to strike nearby bystanders. The angry crowd then attacked the officer, resulting in serious injuries.

“The motorist reacted violently, which led to a heated confrontation. During this, the Inspector accidentally discharged his firearm, and debris from the impact affected some passersby,” Adebisi said.

Also Read: EFCC Set to Charge Former Minister, Chris Ngige, Following Arrest in Abuja

The police spokesperson confirmed that the officer has faced disciplinary measures for his actions, in line with standard police procedures. Meanwhile, 13 individuals involved in the attack on the officer have been arrested and are currently in police custody. They are:

* Dele Oriade, 39, male

* Adekunle Olalere, 40, male

* Mudashiru Olamilekan, 28, male

* Anayo Achusie, 34, male

* Joshua Enwonyin, 24, male

* Okoro Okechukwu, 26, male

* Rilwan Lateef, 32, male

* Damilare Odebode, 22, male

* Haruna Aleshi, 25, female

* Sodiq Omoniyi, 26, male

* Chukwudi Patience, 25, female

* Godstime Okafor, 26, female

* Chinedu Divine, 29, male

The suspects are expected to face prosecution following the conclusion of ongoing investigations.

News, Politics, Trending

Nigerian Govt Gives Update On Whereabout Of Detained NAF Officers, Plane After Illegal Burkina Faso Landing

Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, has confirmed that Nigerian troops aboard the C-130 military aircraft that made an emergency landing in Burkina Faso remain in the West African country.

Tuggar made the disclosure on Thursday during a joint press briefing at the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja, alongside his Beninese counterpart, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari.

According to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the C-130 was on a ferry mission to Portugal when it experienced a technical malfunction.

The aircraft was compelled to make a precautionary landing at Bobo-Dioulasso airport in Burkina Faso, following standard aviation safety protocols. NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame emphasized that the move was purely safety-driven and fully compliant with international aviation regulations.

However, the Confederation of Sahel States (AES)—a regional bloc comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—accused Nigeria of violating Burkinabe airspace.

The AES described the emergency landing as an “unfriendly act in defiance of international law” and authorized member states to neutralize any unauthorized aircraft in their airspace.

Responding to questions on the status of the Nigerian soldiers, Tuggar confirmed they remain in Burkina Faso, noting that diplomatic discussions are underway to resolve the situation swiftly. He stressed that the incident is being handled “carefully and professionally” through official channels.

Beninese Foreign Minister Olushegun Bakari clarified that the emergency landing had no connection with Nigeria’s military assistance in preventing a recent coup attempt in Benin.

Tuggar reinforced this explanation, reiterating that the aircraft’s diversion was solely due to technical difficulties.

Also Read: Fraud Alert: CDCFIB Denies Issuing Recruitment Update Shared on Social Media

“Absolutely, the plane was on its way to Portugal when it encountered a technical problem, necessitating an emergency landing,” Tuggar said. “This is in accordance with ICAO regulations and international law. Any aircraft facing a technical issue lands at the nearest airport. It could happen to any country at any time—a Burkinabe plane might land in Nigeria tomorrow under similar circumstances.”

News, Politics, Trending

Ex-INEC Chairman, Fani-Kayode, Omokri Cleared as Nigerian Senate Approves Ambassadorial Appointments

The Nigerian Senate on Thursday screened and confirmed a new batch of ambassadorial nominees, including several high-profile former public officials.

Reports indicate that the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been approved for an ambassadorial role, alongside other notable figures such as former Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and ex-Abia State Governor Victor Okezie Ikpeazu.

The nominees appeared before the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, which conducted the screenings in batches of five. Others who successfully cleared the process include former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode, former Interior Minister Abdulrahman Dambazau, ex-special adviser on new media to former President Goodluck Jonathan Reno Omokri, as well as former presidential aide Senator Ita Enang and Senator Grace Bent.

The screening session, however, was not without tension. During Reno Omokri’s introduction, a disagreement erupted between Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North) and Senator Ali Ndume (Borno South). After Omokri’s group had presented themselves, Ndume moved a motion for the nominees to leave, but Oshiomhole and several other senators sought the opportunity to comment further.

Senate Committee Chairman, Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, recognised Oshiomhole to speak, but Ndume insisted that his motion be formally seconded before allowing further interventions. This led to a brief but noticeable clash between the two lawmakers on the floor.

Also Read: Nigeria’s Revenue Claims Contradict Reality — Peter Obi Reacts to Contractors’ Protests

Despite the procedural hiccup, all nominees were ultimately confirmed, marking the next step in the appointment of Nigeria’s diplomatic envoys.

News, Sports, Trending

NFF Unveils New Directives Ahead of AFCON and WAFCON Campaigns

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has unveiled a new set of strategic directives as the nation gears up for an intense period of international football engagements.

The decisions emerged from an Executive Committee meeting held on Wednesday, December 10, at the federation’s Abuja headquarters.

At the forefront of discussions was the Super Eagles’ preparation for the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to take place in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

The committee tasked the NFF Secretariat with putting together a seamless and fully coordinated preparation plan for the senior men’s team. It also urged the players to shake off the disappointment of missing the World Cup ticket, stressing that the AFCON represents “a fresh stage to redefine their identity and showcase their true qualities.”

Focus later shifted to the Super Falcons, who will chase an 11th continental title at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), also in Morocco, from 17 March to 3 April 2026.

The NFF mandated the Secretariat to aggressively pursue top-tier friendly matches for the women’s national team during the February FIFA international window, insisting that only elite-level opposition can adequately equip the squad for WAFCON and the qualification journey toward the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

The Executive Committee also expressed concern over Nigeria’s diminishing performances at youth level. Following what it described as a comprehensive assessment, the body instructed its Technical and Legal departments to develop updated guidelines for football academies nationwide. The new framework is expected to strengthen grassroots structures and align all developmental pathways with FIFA global standards.

On financial accountability, the federation ratified the ongoing process of selecting a new Independent Auditor. The position became open after PriceWaterhouseCoopers concluded the maximum two-term tenure allowed under NFF regulations.

Members also received updates on the FIFA Forward 3.0 infrastructure project in Abuja. They expressed satisfaction with the construction progress on the NFF–FIFA Players’ Hostel and the accompanying training pitches located opposite the Secretariat. The contractor, they noted, appears comfortably on track to meet the 24-month project deadline.

However, deliberations intensified when the issue of refereeing was raised. The Executive Committee lamented the “deep and persistent decline” in officiating quality across the NPFL, NNL, NWFL and NLO. It warned that stronger disciplinary measures are imminent to address poor performance, unprofessional conduct, and alleged match manipulations.

Present at the meeting were: NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, Yusuf Ahmed, Sharif Rabiu Inuwa, Babagana Kalli, Sunday Dele-Ajayi, Aisha Falode, Ganiyu Majekodunmi, Margaret Icheen, Timothy Heman Magaji, George Aluo and Secretary Mohammed Sanusi.

Also Read: Panic in Yenagoa as Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo Suffers Sudden Health Scare

Those absent but formally excused included: First Vice President Felix Anyansi-Agwu, Second Vice President Gbenga Elegbeleye, Nse Udofot Essien and Silas Agara.

News, Trending

Fraud Alert: CDCFIB Denies Issuing Recruitment Update Shared on Social Media

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has disowned a widely circulated recruitment notice making the rounds on social media, warning Nigerians to disregard the fraudulent announcement.

The fake memo, which has been shared across several platforms, appeared with an official-style letterhead and a forged electronic signature of the Board’s Secretary. Dated December 10, 2025, the document falsely claimed that CDCFIB had moved into the next phase of its recruitment exercise.

According to the misleading notice, shortlisted applicants were instructed to visit a bogus website—“recruitment.cdcffib.government.ng”—between December 15 and 19, 2025, to choose their preferred screening centres and dates.

The counterfeit announcement also alleged that physical screening and document verification would take place from December 22 to 26, 2025.

Responding to the misinformation, the Secretary to the Board, Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin, firmly debunked the claims.

In an official statement released on Thursday, December 11, 2025, and signed by A. M. Jibril, he clarified that no such directive or recruitment update was issued.

He condemned the fake publication as the handiwork of “unscrupulous individuals determined to deceive and exploit unsuspecting job seekers.”

Also Read: CAC Issues Fresh Guidelines for Business Name Record Changes

The Board urged applicants and the general public to rely strictly on CDCFIB’s official communication channels for any legitimate updates regarding recruitment processes.

It emphasized that any announcement not released through its verified platforms should be treated as false and ignored.

News, Politics, Trending

Shock in Yenagoa as Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo Dies Suddenly After Collapse

Bayelsa State was plunged into deep grief on Thursday after the reported sudden passing of its Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

Earlier in the day, reports emerged that Ewhrudjakpo collapsed in his office at about 1:30 p.m. and was immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Yenagoa. Despite urgent medical efforts, he was confirmed dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.

Ewhrudjakpo, born on September 5, 1965, was 60 years old. Those familiar with his routine described him as an exceptionally dedicated public servant whose demanding workload often left him with little opportunity for rest.

According to Sahara Reporters, the deputy governor was in critical condition as he was transported from Government House to the hospital’s emergency ward. A family source later confirmed that he passed away moments after being admitted.

Following the incident, security personnel sealed off the Federal Medical Centre to control movement around the facility, while senior government officials rushed to the hospital to mourn and assess the situation.

Also Read: Osimhen Crowned GQ Turkey’s 2025 Sportsman of the Year After Stellar Galatasaray Campaign

Attempts to reach his media aide, Mr. Doubara Atasi, were not successful as of the time of filing this report.

Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s death is a major blow to Bayelsa State, where he was regarded as a key figure in political administration and governance.

An official statement from the state government is still being awaited.

Peter Obi Honoured In Georgia After Talks On Energy, Democracy
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Nigeria’s Revenue Claims Contradict Reality — Peter Obi Reacts to Contractors’ Protests

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has raised alarm over reports that local contractors across the country are still owed significant amounts for projects already completed, despite the Federal Government’s claims of strong revenue performance.

In a statement shared on 𝕏 on Thursday, Obi questioned why contractors continue to protest over unpaid bills when President Bola Tinubu recently announced that Nigeria had “met and surpassed” its annual revenue targets.

Obi noted that many of the affected contractors are small- and medium-scale businesses whose survival depends heavily on timely payments for government projects.

According to him, these companies sustain local economies and employ thousands of Nigerians, making delayed payments particularly damaging.

The Labour Party chieftain expressed worry over the growing number of demonstrations in Abuja and other cities, where contractors have taken to the streets demanding settlements for work already delivered.

“Most of these contractors are ordinary Nigerians running small and medium businesses,” Obi said. “They have executed essential public projects with the expectation that government would uphold its contractual responsibilities.”

He argued that the situation contradicts the Federal Government’s boast of record revenue. Obi stressed that a country claiming increased earnings should not simultaneously leave contractors unpaid, especially when such funds could stimulate growth in education, healthcare, and poverty-reduction initiatives.

“A responsible government cannot parade revenue achievements while thousands of contractors remain owed,” he said, adding that the issue exposes deeper concerns surrounding transparency and financial accountability within the public sector.

Obi warned that the impact of unpaid contracts extends far beyond the contractors themselves. He emphasized that business closures, job losses, and household hardship are inevitable when government fails to honour financial obligations.

Also Read: I Never Avoided Lawmakers — Governor Fubara Breaks Silence

“We cannot build a strong economy on mismanaged public funds and neglected responsibilities,” he said. “If revenue has truly improved, it should reflect in prompt payments, stronger MSMEs, and reduced borrowing.”

He concluded that fulfilling contractual obligations is not merely administrative—it is a measure of leadership integrity. “A nation cannot rise when its government fails to meet basic commitments. True leadership requires discipline, transparency, and policies that support the people,” Obi said.

News, Politics, Trending

Panic in Yenagoa as Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo Suffers Sudden Health Scare

Tension swept through Yenagoa on Thursday after Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, reportedly collapsed in his office and was urgently taken to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in the state capital.

According to eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred at about 1:30 p.m., triggering a rapid response from his aides and security team, who immediately transported him to the hospital’s emergency ward for treatment.

Although the state government has yet to release an official statement, insiders within Government House suggest that the deputy governor’s sudden health crisis may be connected to a heart-related complication.

A source who spoke to newsmen described Ewhrudjakpo as someone with an intense work ethic, hinting that stress may have played a role. “He barely slows down. He really needs to take time off to rest,” the source said.

Medical personnel at FMC have since stabilised the deputy governor, who is now being monitored in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Security operatives have sealed off parts of the hospital, limiting movement and access as a precautionary measure.

Several senior government functionaries were spotted at the hospital, reflecting growing concern within the state’s leadership.

Attempts to get comments from the deputy governor’s media aide, Mr. Doubara Atasi, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

Also Read: Osun Governor Adeleke’s Accord Party Defection Sparks Internal Party Rift

However, a hospital source confirmed that Ewhrudjakpo is receiving comprehensive care and is responding positively to treatment.

This health scare comes amid recent political tension, following Ewhrudjakpo’s decision not to join Governor Douye Diri in defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

News, Politics, Trending

Sultan of Sokoto: Sharia Law Only for Muslims, Calls for Religious Peace

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, has reaffirmed that Sharia law applies exclusively to Muslims and should never be imposed on Christians or followers of other religions in Nigeria.

Speaking on Wednesday at the 2025 triennial meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC), the Sultan emphasized the importance of religious coexistence in the country.

The event, held in Abuja, carried the theme: “Collaboration of Inter-Religious Council with Government to Promote Peace in Nigeria.”

The Sultan highlighted Nigeria’s multi-religious identity, clarifying that the nation has not adopted Islam or Christianity as a state religion. “Nigeria is a diverse country in faith.

Government policies are designed to support all major religions equally,” he said, stressing that Sharia is strictly for Muslims and should not dictate how non-Muslims pray or dress.

In response to recent debates on Sharia’s role in the country, Alhaji Abubakar called for a correct understanding of religious freedom, warning against misrepresenting the practice of faith in Nigeria.

Lawmakers Advocate Stronger Church-Muslim Cooperation for Peace

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, echoed the Sultan’s call for unity, highlighting the critical need for collaboration between NIREC and the federal government to address the nation’s escalating insecurity.

He noted that extremist groups often exploit religious divisions to destabilize Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of challenging stereotypes and correcting false narratives about inter-religious conflict.

“This meeting is a symbol of our collective commitment to peace,” Abbas said, assuring NIREC of legislative support for initiatives aimed at strengthening national cohesion.

Government Warns Against External Pressure, False Narratives

Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), also addressed the gathering, pointing to the country’s ongoing security challenges, which he said have been worsened by political rhetoric and dwindling trust among citizens.

Akume warned against succumbing to external pressures or misleading portrayals of Nigeria’s situation, emphasizing that the nation’s sovereignty and unity are non-negotiable.

He urged religious and traditional leaders to take active roles in promoting peace through community engagement and strategic collaboration.

Faith-Based Organizations as Pillars of National Peace

Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), described Nigeria as being at a pivotal moment, where insecurity threatens social cohesion.

He highlighted the influential role of faith-based organizations in fostering stability and called for enhanced collaboration with government agencies like NIREC to drive dialogue, community mobilization, and reconciliation.

Similarly, Rev. Fr. Cornelius Omonokhua, Executive Secretary of NIREC, emphasized the critical role religious leaders play in combating terrorism and banditry. “Every human life is sacred,” he said, urging leaders to join forces in protecting citizens and fostering a culture of peace.

Also Read: 2026 SSCE Controversy: Senate Demands Answers from Education Ministry and WAEC

Fr. Omonokhua concluded with a call for divine guidance for the nation’s leaders, transformation for offenders, and a broad societal shift toward positive values and ethical reorientation.

News, Politics, Trending

EFCC Set to Charge Former Minister, Chris Ngige, Following Arrest in Abuja

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is expected to formally charge Dr. Chris Ngige, former Minister of Labour and Productivity and ex-Governor of Anambra State, in court today over alleged violations linked to an ongoing investigation.

Ngige was reportedly arrested on Wednesday in what his family described to Vanguard as a “commando-style raid” at his residence on Justice Mohammed Bello Road, Asokoro, Abuja.

Sources said approximately 20 EFCC operatives from the agency’s Wuse II Zonal Office stormed the home and took him into custody immediately, leaving him without the opportunity to change clothes.

“He was taken in his pyjamas,” a family member revealed.

Prior to the arrest, Ngige had been under administrative bail and had been cooperating with the EFCC, including attending previous interrogation sessions. One of the conditions of his bail required him to submit his travel documents.

However, during a planned medical trip to the United States, Ngige reportedly lost his passport in the United Kingdom, forcing him to cancel the trip.

He later obtained emergency travel documents from the Nigerian High Commission in London to return to Abuja. Upon his arrival, Ngige is said to have drafted a letter to notify the EFCC about the passport loss and explain why he had been unable to submit the original document as previously requested. The arrest occurred before he could submit the letter.

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Ngige expressed surprise at the move, insisting that he had not violated any bail conditions and had remained fully cooperative with the EFCC throughout the investigation.

According to reports, the EFCC intends to bring Ngige before a court, where his legal team is expected to request bail on his behalf.

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