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  • EFCC Raises Alarm Over Cybercrime Surge, Says 6 in 10 Nigerian Students Involved in Fraud

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has raised fresh concerns over the growing involvement of Nigerian university students in cybercrime, with its Chairman, Olanipekun Olukoyede, warning that the trend has reached alarming levels across campuses.

    Olukoyede said investigations by the commission suggest that as many as six out of every 10 students in Nigerian universities are engaged in internet fraud, commonly referred to as “Yahoo Yahoo”. He described the situation as deeply troubling for the country’s education system and future workforce.

    EFCC Boss Speaks at Pro-Chancellors Conference in Kano

    The EFCC chairman made the disclosure at the 8th Biennial Conference of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities in Nigeria, held in Kano. The event focused on “Unlocking the Potentials of Artificial Intelligence: University Governance, Internationalization and Rankings”.

    He told participants that findings from recent field operations and investigations show a widening pattern of cybercrime involvement among undergraduates. According to him, many of those arrested in recent operations were still students at various institutions.

    Olukoyede said the development reflects a broader breakdown in discipline and oversight within parts of the higher education system.

    “Disturbing Situation” as Students Allegedly Compromise System

    Describing the trend as a “sad development,” the EFCC boss said some students involved in cybercrime have gone as far as compromising academic structures. He alleged that in some cases, lecturers were placed on payrolls by fraud networks operating within campuses.

    He also pointed to a major operation in Lagos where 792 suspects linked to a transnational cybercrime syndicate were arrested. According to him, a significant number of those arrested were university students.

    Olukoyede said the operation, supported by artificial intelligence tools, exposed the scale and sophistication of cybercrime networks operating within and outside Nigeria.

    Rise of “Yahoo Plus” and Deepening Concerns

    The EFCC chairman also warned about the growing trend of “Yahoo Plus,” where internet fraud is allegedly combined with fetish practices. He said the development highlights the evolving nature of cybercrime and its increasing complexity among young people.

    He urged university authorities and governing councils to take urgent action to address the situation, including tighter institutional controls and stronger collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

    Call for AI-Driven Governance in Universities

    Olukoyede called on pro-chancellors to adopt artificial intelligence-driven systems to improve transparency, accountability, and financial management in universities. He noted that many institutions still rely on manual processes, making them vulnerable to fraud.

    He listed areas where AI could be deployed, including payroll management, procurement monitoring, fraud detection, and academic integrity systems. According to him, such tools can help identify suspicious transactions and irregular payments in real time.

    “A university that lacks financial accountability cannot credibly train future professionals. The integrity of our universities is a matter of national security,” he said.

    Technology, Security and Institutional Weaknesses

    The EFCC chairman stressed that while artificial intelligence can improve governance, it must work alongside human oversight and comply with existing laws such as data protection and procurement regulations. He also called for stronger investment in digital infrastructure, including broadband and cloud systems, to support modern governance tools.

    Olukoyede added that the EFCC has already deployed AI in areas such as digital forensics and financial tracking during investigations. However, he emphasised the need for broader capacity building in cybersecurity, machine learning, and digital governance across institutions.

    Rising Cybercrime Trend Sparks Fresh National Concern

    The EFCC warning adds to growing concerns about youth involvement in cybercrime and its impact on Nigeria’s education system and global reputation. While enforcement actions continue, officials say stronger institutional reforms and technology-driven oversight may be necessary to address the scale of the challenge.

    Authorities are expected to deepen collaboration between universities, regulatory bodies, and anti-corruption agencies as pressure mounts to curb the rising trend of internet fraud among students.

  • NYSC Confirms Probe Into Death of Corps Member Killed During Abuja Military Operation

    The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has confirmed that an investigation has been opened into the death of Corps Member Abdulsamad Jamiu (NS/25A/2904), who was killed during a military operation at Shagari Estate, Dei-Dei in Abuja. The incident, linked to a clash between troops and armed robbers, has triggered conflicting accounts from the Army and the deceased’s family.

    The Corps said it is currently engaging relevant security agencies to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. Jamiu, who was serving at Government Junior Secondary School, Bakin Ado in Nasarawa State, died during the operation.

    NYSC Expresses Condolences, Reaffirms Safety Commitment

    In a statement on Tuesday, NYSC management expressed condolences to the family of the deceased, describing the incident as deeply unfortunate. The organisation said it stands with the bereaved family during this difficult period and prayed for the peaceful repose of the corps member.

    It also reaffirmed its commitment to the safety, security, and welfare of corps members nationwide. According to the management, collaboration with security and intelligence agencies will be strengthened to reduce risks and improve protection for serving corps members.

    Army Details Night Operation in Shagari Estate

    The Nigerian Army had earlier provided its account, stating that the incident occurred during a night operation by troops of the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group. The operation was launched after a distress call over an armed robbery attack in Shagari Estate, Dei-Dei area of Abuja.

    According to Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Guards Brigade, Lieutenant Olawuyi Odunola, the troops came under fire from fleeing suspects. The Army said an exchange of gunfire followed, during which the corps member was caught in the crossfire and later died from injuries sustained.

    Family Disputes Army Account, Raises Fresh Allegations

    The family of the deceased has rejected the Army’s explanation, insisting that Jamiu was shot at close range inside his room. In their account, military personnel allegedly fired through the building, with the bullet hitting him in the head and killing him instantly.

    They further stated that the incident was witnessed by his sister, who was in the house at the time, while their parents were away in Okene for a burial ceremony. The conflicting narratives have intensified public concern over the true circumstances of the shooting.

    Investigations Deepen Amid Conflicting Claims

    With the NYSC now formally engaging security agencies, attention has shifted to the outcome of the investigation and possible clarification of events. The disagreement between the Army’s account and the family’s version has left several unanswered questions.

    Authorities are expected to provide clearer findings as pressure mounts for transparency, accountability, and clearer guidelines on civilian safety during security operations in residential areas.

  • ₦1m Salary Means Nothing Without Strong Naira, NLC President Ajaero Warns

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned that a ₦1 million monthly salary will mean little for Nigerian workers if the naira remains weak and inflation continues to rise. NLC President Joe Ajaero made this known on Tuesday in Abuja, stressing that workers are more concerned about the real value of their earnings than the figures on paper. His remarks reflect growing frustration over declining living standards across the country.

    Purchasing Power Drops as Cost of Living Rises

    Ajaero said rising inflation has steadily reduced workers’ purchasing power, making it harder to afford basic needs such as food, transportation, and housing. He explained that the real challenge is not how much workers earn, but how far that income can go in today’s economy.

    “Even if Nigerian workers earn ₦1 million, it will not be meaningful if the naira has no value,” he said. “What we are looking for is a currency that can sustain workers and their families at least to the end of the month.”

    Minimum Wage Negotiations Yet to Begin

    The labour leader clarified that talks on a new national minimum wage have not started, noting that the process follows a legal timeline and cannot be rushed. He dismissed suggestions that negotiations could begin immediately or be influenced by political pressure.

    According to him, discussions will commence at the appropriate time before the current wage structure expires, in line with established procedures. He stressed that due process is necessary to ensure fairness and sustainability in any new agreement.

    Fuel Prices and Inflation Deepen Hardship

    Ajaero linked the worsening economic situation to rising fuel prices, which he said continue to push up transportation costs, food prices, and overall living expenses. He noted that earlier concerns raised by organised labour about global factors affecting local fuel prices have not been adequately addressed.

    “The situation has not improved,” he said, warning that workers are bearing the brunt of policies that leave the economy exposed to external shocks. He called for urgent government intervention to ease the pressure on citizens.

    Pension Concerns and May Day Plans Emerge

    On pension matters, Ajaero expressed concern over the emergence of multiple pension unions, saying it has created confusion within the system. He revealed that the NLC is engaging stakeholders to resolve issues around deductions and remittances.

    Speaking ahead of Workers’ Day, he said any protest would be limited to states yet to fully implement the approved minimum wage. He added that while many states have complied, gaps remain, particularly in local government and education sectors.

    Call for Stronger Economic Policies

    Ajaero reiterated the NLC’s commitment to pushing for policies that improve workers’ welfare and stabilise the economy. He also acknowledged recent federal government steps, including the review of peculiar allowances and the approval of a 100 per cent duty tour allowance for civil servants.

    He expressed hope that these measures would be effectively implemented, noting that lasting relief for workers depends on stronger economic policies and a more stable currency.

  • Osun Government Deposes Ipetumodu Monarch Oba Oloyede, Declares Stool Vacant After US Fraud Conviction

    The Osun State Government has officially deposed the Apetumodu of Ipetumodu in Ife North Local Government Area, Oba Gbenga Joseph Oloyede, with immediate effect.

    The decision was announced on Monday following approval by the State Executive Council.

    Government Cites Law and Conviction

    In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, the government said the action followed due consultation and legal review.

    It stated that the monarch’s conviction in the United States for COVID-19-related fraud influenced the decision.

    “Oba Oloyede… was removed in line with state laws governing traditional institutions,” the statement read.

    Staff of Office Withdrawn, Stool Declared Vacant

    The state government also announced the withdrawal of the monarch’s staff of office and other instruments of authority.

    This effectively declared the throne of Apetumodu of Ipetumodu vacant.

    It added that security agencies have been directed to maintain peace in the community while stakeholders are urged to remain calm.

    Legal Troubles in the United States

    Oba Oloyede, a dual citizen of Nigeria and the United States, was sentenced in August 2025 to four years in prison for leading a COVID-19 loan fraud scheme.

    U.S. authorities said he exploited emergency loan programmes meant for struggling businesses, leading to millions of dollars in losses.

    He was also ordered to forfeit property and pay over $4.4 million in restitution.

    Succession Tensions in Ipetumodu

    The development has deepened tensions in Ipetumodu, with different ruling houses divided over the future of the stool.

    Some stakeholders had earlier called on the state government to declare the throne vacant and begin the process of selecting a new monarch.

    The government, however, said it will communicate the next steps in line with customary and legal procedures.

  • Aisha Achimugu Denies $13m Found in Home, Speaks on Wealth Amid EFCC Case

    Lagos-based socialite and business executive, Aisha Achimugu, has denied reports that $13 million was discovered in her residence, describing the claim as misleading.

    She spoke amid ongoing scrutiny over her finances and legal battle with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    ‘I’m Not a Bank’

    In an interview on Monday, Achimugu said only $50,000 and ₦13 million, which she claimed belonged to her mother, were found during a raid on her home.

    “I don’t know where Nigerians got the impression that I had 13 million dollars in my house. I’m not a bank,” she said.

    She added that her house was searched, but the widely circulated figure is inaccurate.

    Distances Wealth from Political Ties

    Achimugu also dismissed claims linking her wealth to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

    According to her, she has been running businesses since 2001 and built her fortune through legitimate ventures.

    She said her company successfully participated in oil block bidding rounds between 2022 and 2024 through a transparent process.

    Explains Foreign Currency Possession

    On the presence of foreign currency, she said it was kept for practical reasons, noting that her children study abroad.

    “It is important to have some foreign currency available for emergencies,” she said.

    She declined to speak extensively on the EFCC case, citing ongoing legal proceedings.

    Addresses Birthday Controversy, EFCC Invitation

    Achimugu also defended her high-profile birthday celebration in Grenada, saying it had been planned for years and was not funded with any disputed funds.

    She explained that her delayed response to EFCC’s invitation was due to her being out of the country, adding that her movements may have been misinterpreted.

    Court Ruling Adds Twist

    In March, a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the final forfeiture of $13 million linked to Achimugu and her company to the Federal Government.

    The court ruled that the funds were proceeds of unlawful activities, while the EFCC maintained they were traced through suspicious transactions tied to oil block deals.

    Achimugu and her firm have, however, continued to deny any wrongdoing.

  • ‘I Knew My Son Was Gone’ — Slain Corps Member’s Mother Recounts Final Moments

    Habiba Abubakar, mother of Abdulsamad Jamiu, the National Youth Service Corps member allegedly killed by soldiers in Dei-Dei, Abuja, has recounted the moment she realised her son was dead.

    Her account comes days after the incident that has sparked widespread reactions.

    Call That Sparked Fear

    Speaking in an interview, the grieving mother said she was away for a burial when a neighbour called to alert her about gunshots in her area.

    “I travelled on Thursday… only for me to receive a call… She said she’s hearing gunshots. Fear gripped me,” she said.

    She added that repeated attempts to reach her children failed, heightening her anxiety.

    Family Tries to Withhold Truth

    According to her, when she eventually reached her husband, he initially withheld the full details of what had happened.

    “He said, ‘Soldier carried Abdulsamad.’ I said, how? For what? He said they want to interrogate him,” she recalled.

    She said her phone was later taken from her as she cried, further deepening her suspicion that something had gone wrong.

    “That was when I knew that my son is not alive again,” she said.

    Allegations of How Killing Happened

    Abubakar alleged that soldiers entered their compound by scaling the fence and went straight to her son’s room.

    “They shot him through the door. They shot the door two times,” she said.

    She further claimed that after the incident, soldiers directed vigilantes to clean the blood using items taken from her kitchen.

    “They entered my kitchen… took bucket and gave the vigilante to mop the blood,” she said.

    Grief, Questions, and Demand for Answers

    The mother, visibly emotional, questioned why her son was targeted, insisting he was inside his room when the soldiers arrived.

    “Who did he offend? I want to know,” she said repeatedly.

    The incident has continued to raise concerns, with calls for a thorough and independent investigation.

     

  • Nigerian Students in Russia Cry Out Over Unpaid Stipends, Seek Tinubu’s Intervention

    Nigerian students studying in Russia under a bilateral education agreement have raised concerns over their welfare, accusing the government of neglect.

    The affected students, mostly in medicine and engineering programmes, said they have not received stipends since September 2024.

    Hardship Forces Menial Jobs

    According to them, the delay has pushed many into financial distress, forcing them to take up low-paying jobs to survive.

    Some students said they now work on construction sites and other menial roles to meet basic needs.

    “We’re now forced into abject poverty… doing menial jobs like working in construction sites just to survive,” one student said.

    Appeal to Tinubu

    The students have called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene by releasing their allowances and improving support systems.

    “We were last paid in September 2024, and till date we haven’t received a dime from the government,” the student added.

    They described the situation as difficult and urged authorities to address their plight before it worsens.

    Concerns Over Bilateral Programme

    The development has raised fresh questions about the management of Nigeria’s bilateral education agreements and student welfare abroad.

    Many of the affected students say they remain committed to their studies but need urgent financial support to continue.

  • Dangote Commits N550m to FUTO Hostel Project After Funding Remark

    President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has pledged N550 million for the construction of student hostels at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), to ease accommodation pressure.

    He made the announcement during a visit to the institution, stressing his commitment to supporting education infrastructure.

    Funding Remark Draws Attention

    Dangote revealed he had attempted to seek additional support from his daughter but was unsuccessful.

    “I have been trying to beg Zuweirah to give me some money, but she said she has already spent N1 trillion in the foundation,” he said.

    Despite this, he confirmed the project would go ahead.

    “But notwithstanding, we are going to build a hostel here at the cost of N550 million,” he added.

    Relief for Students

    The planned hostel is expected to address the growing shortage of accommodation at FUTO, where demand has continued to exceed available spaces.

    University communities have long raised concerns over housing challenges affecting students’ welfare and academic performance.

    Expanding Education Support

    Dangote has maintained a strong record of supporting education through his foundation and private initiatives.

    In a related development, he recently committed to constructing a N1.1 billion ultramodern hostel project linked to the University of Ilorin.

    The facility, initiated by the Ilorin Central Jumma’at Mosque, is designed to generate income for the mosque’s upkeep through student accommodation.

    Sustained Philanthropic Drive

    The latest pledge reinforces Dangote’s ongoing investment in education and infrastructure across Nigeria, as institutions continue to seek partnerships to bridge funding gaps.

  • NYSC Member Killed in Abuja as Army, Family Give Conflicting Accounts

    A serving National Youth Service Corps member, Abdulsamad Jamiu, has been killed in Abuja after an incident involving soldiers of the Guards Brigade in Dei-Dei.

    The incident occurred in the early hours of April 25, 2026, at Shagari Estate during a military patrol operation.

    Army Gives Account of Crossfire

    In a statement issued by the Nigerian Army, troops under the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group were responding to reports of a robbery attack when they came under heavy gunfire from fleeing suspects.

    “During the engagement, Jamiu was caught in the crossfire… he sadly succumbed to his injuries,” the statement said.

    The Army described the situation as “volatile,” noting that efforts were made to secure the area and protect residents.

    Investigation Ordered

    Military authorities confirmed that a full investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

    The remains of the deceased have been deposited at Kubwa General Hospital, while condolences were extended to his family and the NYSC community.

    The Guards Brigade also pledged to review operational procedures to improve civilian safety during such missions.

    Family Disputes Military Version

    However, a source close to the family rejected the Army’s explanation, alleging that the corps member was not caught in any exchange of gunfire.

    “The army is not telling the truth… The soldiers came shooting and killed him. This story of crossfire is a lie,” the source said.

    Residents of the estate are reportedly demanding an independent investigation beyond the military’s internal probe.

    Mother Cries Out for Justice

    In an emotional video circulating online, the deceased’s mother called for justice, expressing deep anguish over the loss.

    “Nigeria has happened to me. I need justice… They killed him,” she cried.

    The incident has sparked concern over civilian safety during security operations, with calls growing for accountability as investigations continue.

     

  • NAF Strikes Terrorist Stronghold in Southern Tumbuns, Eliminates Insurgents

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), under Operation Hadin Kai, has destroyed terrorist enclaves in the Southern Tumbuns, eliminating several insurgents during a precision airstrike carried out on April 24, 2026, over Ali Sheriffti.

    The location is described as a known terrorist stronghold, with the operation conducted in the evening hours based on credible intelligence.

    Intelligence-Led Operation

    According to a statement by NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, surveillance missions tracked insurgents moving through concealed routes before they were traced to hidden structures under dense foliage.

    The Air Force then carried out a precision strike after confirming the targets.

    “The operation achieved its objective, destroying the terrorist hideouts and further degrading their operational capability,” the statement said.

    Military Reaffirms Commitment

    The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the force would continue sustained operations to dismantle terrorist networks.

    He stressed that no safe haven would be allowed for extremist groups, adding that operations would intensify to protect citizens.

    Training Boosts Operational Capacity

    In a related development, the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) graduated officers from specialised training programmes focused on air campaign planning and intelligence operations.

    At the ceremony, Air Vice Marshal PN Amadi urged participants to apply their knowledge in strengthening field operations, describing them as key assets in ongoing missions.

    The Commandant of AWDC, Air Vice Marshal Garba Jibia, said the training was designed to improve coordination, intelligence integration, and mission effectiveness in modern warfare.

    Push for Operational Excellence

    The NAF said the training aligns with efforts to strengthen operational capacity and adapt to evolving security threats through improved planning and intelligence-driven strategies.

    The latest strike underscores ongoing military operations targeting insurgent hideouts across conflict-prone regions.