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Category: Breaking News

  • EFCC Arrests Tunde Ayeni Over Alleged ₦36.5bn, $30m Fraud

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested businessman and former Skye Bank chairman, Tunde Ayeni, over alleged financial misconduct involving ₦36.5 billion and $30 million.

    Arrest in Abuja

    Ayeni was reportedly picked up in Abuja on Thursday and is currently in EFCC custody as investigations continue into the matter.

    Sources familiar with the case said the arrest is linked to an ongoing probe into alleged financial dealings connected to Polaris Bank Plc.

    Probe focuses on fund diversion

    According to the report, the anti-graft agency is investigating the alleged diversion and misappropriation of funds said to have been obtained through companies linked to the former bank chairman.

    The funds are suspected to have been moved through a network of corporate entities allegedly associated with him.

    Investigation ongoing

    While details of the case remain limited, sources indicated that the EFCC is examining the flow of funds and the roles played by the entities involved.

    The development adds to ongoing scrutiny of financial activities within Nigeria’s banking sector, as authorities continue efforts to tackle economic crimes.

    The case is already gaining traction in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as Nigerians await further updates from the EFCC.

     

  • Native Doctor Collapses in Court as Trial Over Alleged Illegal Practices Is Halted

    There was mild drama at a court in Nnewi, Anambra State, on Friday after a popular native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, also known as Mmuo Mmili Afulu Anya, reportedly collapsed during proceedings, forcing the suspension of his arraignment.

    Court session abruptly stopped

    The incident occurred as the defendant was being prepared to take his plea, prompting court officials to immediately halt proceedings after he was declared medically unfit to continue.

    Court sources said the situation created tension in the courtroom as attention quickly shifted from the arraignment to his health condition.

    Dispute over his condition

    However, the development took another turn after counsel to the defendant insisted that his client was actually fit to stand trial.

    The lawyer alleged that the accused may have been pretending to be ill in order to delay proceedings, though no medical confirmation was immediately made public.

    Case adjourned to June 2026

    Following the disruption, the court adjourned the matter to June 3, 2026, for continuation of hearing and further legal action.

    The defendant, popularly known as Aka Mmuo, was arrested on Thursday, March 12, 2026, over alleged involvement in illegal practices.

    His arrest followed a wider crackdown in Anambra State targeting traditionalists and native doctors suspected of preparing charms for individuals involved in criminal activities.

    The case has continued to draw attention as it moves through the justice system, featuring in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as the next court date approaches.

     

  • FG Raises Civil Servants’ Allowances, Approves New Retirement Benefits

    The Federal Government has approved an upward review of allowances and welfare packages for civil servants, alongside a new retirement benefit structure aimed at improving earnings and post-service support.

    Approval announced in Abuja

    The decision was disclosed on Friday in Abuja by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, during a briefing following approvals by the Federal Executive Council.

    She said the changes apply to workers under both the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure and the Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure, affecting a wide range of federal employees.

    According to her, the revised peculiar allowances now cut across all grade levels, leading to improved pay for both junior and senior officers.

    Tour and operational allowances reviewed

    The Federal Government also approved increases in several allowances, including duty tour allowance, estacode, and book allowance.

    Walson-Jack explained that a number of provisions in the Public Service Rules had been updated to reflect current economic realities and improve staff welfare.

    She added that civil servants attending approved training programmes will now receive full duty tour allowance, even when such programmes are held within their duty location.

    New retirement benefit introduced

    A key part of the reform is the introduction of a new exit package for workers under the Contributory Pension Scheme.

    From January 1, 2026, retiring civil servants will receive a lump sum equivalent to their full annual earnings, in addition to their pension entitlements.

    Walson-Jack said the measure is designed to ensure stronger financial security for workers after retirement.

    Employee compensation scheme activated

    The government also announced the full implementation of the Employee Compensation Scheme, which provides support for workers who suffer injuries or die in active service.

    The development is expected to reshape conversations around public sector welfare as it gains attention.

     

  • Court Bars Police, FRSC from Fining Motorists Over Third-Party Insurance Violations

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has restrained the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) from imposing fines on motorists for violating the Third Party Motor Vehicle Insurance Act.

    The ruling, delivered on Friday by Justice Hauwa Yilwa, followed a suit filed by activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju against the Inspector-General of Police, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and the FRSC.

    Court draws line between enforcement and punishment

    In her judgment, the court held that while the police and FRSC have the authority to enforce compliance with motor insurance laws, they lack the power to impose fines without court backing.

    Counsel to the applicant, Marvin Omorogbe, said the ruling clearly limits the role of law enforcement agencies to checks and verification.

    “The police and the road safety may enforce compliance but outrightly lack the powers to impose fines,” he said.

    The court further restrained the agencies and their officers from issuing penalties to motorists over third-party insurance violations.

    Suit challenges police powers

    The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/291/2025, sought judicial clarification on whether law enforcement agencies could enforce and penalise non-compliance with motor vehicle insurance laws.

    Adeyanju, who initiated the suit, argued that such actions by authorities often lead to arbitrary fines and potential abuse.

    Reacting after the judgment, he said the ruling addressed the core concerns raised in the case.

    “The sole reason why we came to court is because we wanted a declaration that the police and FRSC do not have the right to impose fines on Nigerians. And we have succeeded,” he said.

    Defendants plan appeal

    Counsel to the defendants, Victor Okoye, described the ruling as partly favourable and indicated plans to challenge it at the Court of Appeal.

    He argued that the suit was improperly filed and questioned the court’s jurisdiction, noting that the matter should not have been initiated through an originating summons.

    Despite the objections, the court proceeded to deliver its judgment, while also affirming that both the police and FRSC can stop motorists and verify compliance with insurance requirements.

    The ruling is expected to reshape enforcement practices and has already drawn attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • Military Arraigns 36 Officers Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu, Holds Closed-Door Trial in Abuja

    The Nigerian Military on Friday inaugurated a general court-martial to try 36 personnel accused of involvement in an alleged coup plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration, with proceedings held under tight security in Abuja.

    The trial, convened by the Defence Headquarters, took place at the Scorpion Mess in Asokoro, where access was restricted and journalists barred despite prior invitations.

    Tight security as trial begins

    Security operatives denied media access to the venue, while mobile phones were also prohibited during the session.

    The accused officers were transported to the location in an Army Headquarters Garrison bus at about 8:53 a.m.

    The closed-door proceedings reflect the sensitivity of the case as the military moves to address allegations involving personnel across ranks.

    Full list of officers facing trial

    Those arraigned include:

    Brigadier General MA Sadiq; Colonel MA Ma’aji; Lieutenant Colonel IM Hussain; Lieutenant Colonel M Almakura; Lieutenant Colonel P Dangnap; Lieutenant Colonel S Bappah; Lieutenant Colonel AA Hayatu; Lieutenant Colonel SM Gana.

    Others are Wing Commander IU Yusuf; Major MM Jiddah; Major H Yusuf; Major AD Dauda; Major JM Ganaks; Major D Yusuf; Major J Iliyasu; Major MA Usman; Major A Mohammed; Major II Idris.

    Also listed are Squadron Leader SB Adamu; Squadron Leader NG Zuzu; Lieutenant Commander DB Abdullahi; Captain G Binuga; Captain I Bello; Captain AA Yusuf; Captain IU Zubair; Captain ML Muhammad; Lieutenant SS Felix.

    The remaining personnel include Warrant Officer Nasiru Ibrahim; Staff Sergeant Abdul Abdullahi; Sergeant Alhassan Zakari; Sergeant Sanda Usman; Sergeant Abubakar Ibrahim; Corporal Momoh Audu; Corporal Aliyu Ibrahim; Lance Corporal Sambo Danladi; Lance Corporal Nasiru Yushau.

    Military moves to enforce discipline

    The Defence Headquarters is yet to release full details of the allegations, but the trial is expected to address multiple cases linked to the alleged plot.

    The proceedings underline the military’s position on discipline and constitutional order, as developments continue to unfold in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • Wike Waives C-of-O Fees for Nigerian Law School Bwari, Orders One-Week Processing Deadline

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved a waiver on Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) fees for the Nigerian Law School campus in Bwari, Abuja, while also directing the rapid processing of the document within one week.

    Law School raises concerns over infrastructure gaps

    The decision followed an appeal by the Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Dr. Olugbemisola Odusote, during a management meeting with the minister in Abuja, where she highlighted the poor state of infrastructure and long-standing deficits at the institution.

    Wike reportedly expressed surprise that the Law School had operated for years without a formal C of O since its relocation to Bwari, describing the situation as unacceptable for a federal institution of such importance.

    Immediate waiver and strict directive issued

    The FCT Minister directed the Director of Lands, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, to waive all processing fees for the Certificate of Occupancy and ensure that the documentation is completed without delay.

    He further instructed that the C of O must be fully processed and ready within one week, stressing the need to regularise land ownership for government institutions operating in the territory.

    Wike also noted that addressing such gaps was part of ongoing reforms aimed at correcting administrative lapses across the FCT.

    Emergency upgrade for staff housing and facilities

    Beyond the land documentation issue, the minister declared an “emergency” on the construction of staff quarters and related infrastructure within the Law School, citing the need to improve living and learning conditions.

    He confirmed that 10 existing staff quarters are already completed and scheduled for commissioning as part of the President’s third anniversary activities, while also approving the construction of an additional 10 units using existing designs to reduce costs.

    Wike explained that the intervention was aimed at reducing overcrowding and improving staff efficiency within the institution.

    New auditorium and broader education support

    The minister also approved funding for a new auditorium at the campus, questioning delays from the contractor and urging immediate mobilisation to site.

    He said the interventions align with President Bola Tinubu’s broader agenda to strengthen legal education and improve institutional infrastructure across the country.

    Wike reiterated the government’s commitment, stating, “Anything we can do to help our children, we are willing to do that. The staff quarters must be treated as an emergency project to ensure rapid delivery.”

    The development adds to ongoing updates in latest Nigerian news and continues to feature in breaking news Nigeria today reports across federal infrastructure reforms.

  • NASU Threatens Nationwide Strike Over 40% Allowance Demand, Rejects FG’s 30% Offer

    The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed 30 percent increase in the Consolidated Academic Allowance for its members, warning of a nationwide strike if its demand for 40 percent is not met by May 1.

    Union insists on parity with ASUU

    NASU leaders say the government’s offer falls short, especially after reports that academic staff received a 40 percent increment.

    Speaking at a trade group council meeting held at Lagos State University on Thursday, NASU General Secretary, Peters Adeyemi, insisted that non-academic staff deserve equal treatment.

    “The simple thing is to conclude the agreement and give 40 per cent to non-teaching staff… If anything contrary is done, we will shut down the system,” he said.

    Strike warning as deadline approaches

    Adeyemi warned that failure to meet the union’s demand before the deadline would leave NASU with no choice but to embark on industrial action.

    He stressed that non-academic staff are essential to the functioning of universities and cannot be ignored in welfare negotiations.

    “We respect our academic colleagues, but they cannot operate without us being on duty,” he added.

    Concerns over delayed agreement

    NASU National President, Hassan Makolo, expressed concern over the prolonged renegotiation of the 2009 agreement between the Federal Government and university unions.

    He said workers’ expectations have grown amid worsening economic conditions.

    “Our members are becoming increasingly frustrated because the outcome of the renegotiation is expected to improve their welfare,” Makolo said.

    Wider education sector warning

    NASU Deputy President, Buhari Suleiman, also urged the government to address deeper challenges in the education sector, including poor funding, insecurity, and infrastructure decay.

    He warned that continued neglect could further weaken the system, calling for urgent reforms to stabilise the sector.

    The development adds fresh tension to Nigeria’s education system and is gaining attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as unions continue pressure on government over welfare demands.

  • ‘4-Year Courses Now Run Full Term’ — Education Minister Speaks on Strike-Free Universities Under Tinubu

    Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has said President Bola Tinubu’s promise that four-year courses will run for four years is holding, pointing to the absence of major university strikes since 2023.

    Minister cites stable academic calendar

    Alausa made the remark on Thursday during a panel session tagged “Renewed Hope Conversations” held at the University of Abuja, now Yakubu Gowon University.

    According to him, most federal universities have remained in session since Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023, following the eight-month ASUU strike that ended in October 2022.

    “For students admitted in September 2023, graduation remains on track for 2027 if calendars hold,” he said.

    Billions spent on infrastructure

    The minister outlined ongoing investments in the education sector, noting that ₦160 billion has been spent on hostel construction nationwide.

    He added that ₦100 billion has been approved for additional infrastructure, while ₦50 billion was allocated this year for ICT centre rehabilitation.

    He also referenced ongoing efforts to support innovation and entrepreneurship among students.

    Student support and funding

    Alausa said the government has introduced a student loan scheme to ease financial pressure, insisting that no student should be forced out of school due to lack of funds.

    “This is an administration that has provided a loan fund to make schooling easier,” he said.

    Other ministers speak on continuity

    Also speaking at the event, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, said the administration’s policies are designed to reposition Nigeria and create opportunities for young people.

    She noted that the government is targeting the digital and creative space, including music, film, and content creation, to provide alternatives to traditional employment.

    “The goal is to create an enabling environment where creators can monetise their work and protect intellectual property,” she said.

    Government ‘open to all Nigerians’

    Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, told students that the current administration provides opportunities regardless of political connections.

    “Under this government, a ‘son of a nobody’ can become somebody,” he said, citing his own appointment as an example.

    The discussion forms part of broader engagement on education reforms and youth-focused policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda, now trending in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • NYSC Member Beaten to Death by Vigilantes in Benue After ‘Bike Thief’ Suspicion

    A serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ben Agir Une, has been beaten to death by a community vigilante group in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State after he was allegedly mistaken for a motorcycle thief.

    Incident during night patrol

    The killing reportedly occurred late Sunday night between 11 pm and midnight at Mbajor settlement, near the Buruku Local Government Secretariat.

    Une, said to be serving in Gombe State, had returned home on a short break and was weeks away from completing his service year.

    How the attack happened

    Chairman of Buruku LGA, Raymond Aondoakura, confirmed the incident on Thursday, stating that the corps member was apprehended by vigilante members during a patrol.

    He said the group suspected him of being a bike snatcher and attacked him before he could properly identify himself.

    “Before he could explain himself and present his identification card, one of the leaders started beating him,” Aondoakura said.

    The chairman added that the victim was beaten into a coma and later died at a hospital.

    Arrests made, vigilante activities suspended

    Aondoakura confirmed that those involved in the attack have been arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution.

    “We have arrested all of them and handed them to the police for arraignment. We confirmed that the deceased was a serving corps member,” he said.

    He also announced the immediate suspension of vigilante operations in the area, stating that the groups have been disbanded pending proper regulation.

    Victim’s background

    Une was an indigene of Tongov in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area and was expected to complete his NYSC programme next month before the incident.

    Police yet to comment

    As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the development.

    The incident has sparked concern across communities and is trending in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today amid calls for accountability and justice.

     

  • What You Should Know About Taiwo Oyedele, Tinubu’s New Finance Minister

    President Bola Ahmed Tinub has appointed Taiwo Oyedele as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, placing a long-time tax reform advocate at the centre of Nigeria’s economic management.

    The appointment, confirmed in a memo signed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, follows the exit of Wale Edun, with a handover deadline set for April 23.

    Rise from modest beginnings

    Taiwo Oyedele was born in 1975 in Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State, into a modest family background that he has often described as financially strained.

    He has spoken about experiencing poverty early in life, noting that his father’s generosity to others left the household struggling. One story he frequently recounts is how he nearly missed entry into primary school due to age restrictions, gaining admission only after an unusual test alongside his twin sister.

    Those early experiences, he has said, shaped his outlook on public service and economic reform.

    Academic and professional grounding

    Oyedele studied accountancy and finance at Yaba College of Technology before earning a BSc in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University.

    He also attended executive programmes at the London School of Economics, Yale University, Harvard Kennedy School, and the Gordon Institute of Business Science.

    Beyond policy work, he is a professor at Babcock University and has served as a visiting scholar at Lagos Business School.

    Career at PwC and continental influence

    His professional journey began at PwC Nigeria during his NYSC year in 2001.

    From there, he rose through the ranks to become West Africa Tax Leader and eventually Africa Tax Leader, overseeing tax operations across more than 30 countries.

    During this period, he built a reputation for simplifying complex tax systems and advocating for transparency and stronger fiscal governance across African economies.

    Architect of Nigeria’s tax reforms

    Before joining the federal cabinet, Oyedele chaired the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.

    In that role, he led efforts to restructure Nigeria’s tax system, focusing on improving compliance, boosting government revenue, and reducing inefficiencies.

    His work positioned him as one of the key figures behind the country’s recent fiscal reform drive.

    Personal risks and public service

    Oyedele has also spoken openly about the personal cost of pushing reforms.

    He revealed that he received death threats linked to his work, forcing him to relocate his family to a secure location under police protection.

    “My family got a death threat… I had to pack out of my house,” he said, adding that the experience deeply affected his wife and elderly mother.

    Despite the risks, he has maintained that his motivation for public service is impact rather than personal gain.

    New role, rising expectations

    With his elevation from Minister of State for Finance to substantive minister, Oyedele is now expected to lead Nigeria’s economic strategy at a critical time.

    His background in tax policy and fiscal reform is seen as central to ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy, improve revenue generation, and drive long-term growth.

    As his tenure begins, his profile continues to draw attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today, with stakeholders watching how his ideas translate into policy outcomes.