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  • Top 10 Nigerian News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. Tinubu Orders ICPC Probe into Alleged PFIPC Activities

    President Bola Tinubu has directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the activities of the alleged Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) and all connected persons across the country within 30 days. The directive follows growing public concern over the operations of the controversial organisation, which has been accused of falsely presenting itself as a government agency.

    The investigation comes after the arrest of the father of the alleged Director-General and a family associate in Ogbomoso, Oyo State. While the Senate has distanced the Presidency from the activities of the group, the directive is being viewed as part of the administration’s commitment to strengthening accountability and tackling impersonation of government institutions. The outcome of the probe is expected to shape public confidence in ongoing anti-corruption efforts.

    2. Senate Rejects Calls to Nationalise MTN, DStv Over Xenophobic Attacks

    The Senate has rejected calls for the Federal Government to nationalise South African-owned companies such as MTN and DStv in response to renewed xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa. Instead, lawmakers condemned the attacks and urged the Federal Government to pursue stronger diplomatic engagement to protect Nigerian citizens and their investments abroad.

    The decision comes as Nigeria continues the evacuation of its citizens, with another batch of returnees expected from South Africa. Lawmakers noted that while the attacks deserve firm action, businesses employing thousands of Nigerians should not become casualties of diplomatic disputes. Efforts are also ongoing to document abandoned properties for possible compensation claims.

    3. Senate Questions North-West Development Commission Over N943 Million Spending

    The Senate has queried the North-West Development Commission over the payment of N943 million in board allowances and delays in appointing key officials. During an oversight session, lawmakers demanded explanations over the expenditure, insisting that public funds must be managed responsibly to achieve the commission’s development objectives.

    The scrutiny reflects the National Assembly’s renewed focus on accountability within regional development commissions. Senators stressed that efficient leadership and prudent financial management are critical to addressing insecurity, poverty and infrastructure deficits across the North-West.

    4. IPMAN Says Direct Dangote Supply Will Reduce Petrol Prices

    The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) says direct fuel supply from the Dangote Refinery will lead to lower petrol prices across the country. The association expressed optimism that the arrangement would reduce distribution costs and improve product availability nationwide.

    Industry stakeholders believe the move could reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products while easing transportation costs and inflationary pressure. Nigerians are now looking forward to further announcements on implementation timelines and expected retail prices.

    5. Airtel Cuts Diesel Consumption by 9.1 Million Litres

    Airtel Nigeria has announced a reduction of 9.1 million litres in diesel consumption as part of its transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources for powering telecommunications infrastructure. The company said the initiative is helping to lower operational costs while reducing its environmental impact.

    The development comes at a time when telecom operators continue to battle rising energy costs caused by unstable electricity supply. Industry observers believe the shift could encourage wider adoption of renewable energy solutions across Nigeria’s technology and telecommunications sectors.

    6. El-Rufai’s Wife Appeals to Tinubu for Fair Treatment

    Hajiya Asiya El-Rufai, wife of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure her husband receives fair treatment amid ongoing political developments and investigations involving some of his associates. She recalled El-Rufai’s role in supporting Tinubu’s emergence during the 2023 presidential election.

    Her remarks have added another layer to the political conversations within the ruling APC, where debates over loyalty, reconciliation and internal disagreements continue ahead of the 2027 elections. Political observers say the appeal reflects growing concerns over divisions within the party.

    7. Sanwo-Olu, Umahi Dismiss Claims Coastal Highway Caused Lagos Flooding

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister of Works Dave Umahi have rejected claims that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project contributed to the recent flooding experienced in parts of Lagos. Both officials attributed the flooding to heavy rainfall and long-standing drainage challenges rather than the ongoing road construction.

    The clarification follows widespread debates on social media over the environmental impact of the project. Government officials maintained that the highway remains a strategic infrastructure project and assured residents that flood mitigation measures would continue alongside construction activities.

    8. Troops Repel Terrorist Ambush in Borno

    Nigerian troops have successfully repelled a terrorist ambush after an improvised explosive device detonated along a road in Borno State. The military said its personnel responded swiftly, preventing further attacks and sustaining ongoing operations against insurgent groups operating in the North-East.

    Security experts say the incident highlights the continued threat posed by Boko Haram and ISWAP despite recent gains by the armed forces. Military authorities have assured residents that operations will continue until terrorist activities are significantly degraded.

    9. Messi Leads Argentina to Comeback Victory Over Egypt

    Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Egypt in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 encounter. The South Americans recovered from an early setback to claim all three points, although the match ended in controversy after Egypt protested a disallowed goal.

    The game attracted strong attention from Nigerian football fans following the impressive performances of African teams at the tournament. Discussions have continued over the use of VAR and officiating decisions as the competition enters its decisive stages.

    10. Nigerian Students Win Gold at International STEM Olympiad

    Three Nigerian students have won gold medals at the International STEM Olympiad held in Rome, delivering another impressive achievement for the country’s young scientists. Their outstanding performance earned praise from education stakeholders and reinforced Nigeria’s growing presence in international academic competitions.

    The success has renewed calls for increased investment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education across the country. Stakeholders believe sustained support for gifted students will help strengthen innovation, research and Nigeria’s future workforce.

  • Tinubu Orders ICPC to Probe Fake Presidential Council, Gives 30-Day Deadline

    President Bola Tinubu has directed the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate the activities of the so-called Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC), describing it as a fictitious body with no legal backing.

    The President ordered the anti-corruption agency to conclude its investigation and submit a comprehensive report within 30 days.

    Tinubu orders comprehensive probe

    According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the PFIPC was never established by the Federal Government and has no basis in law, executive approval or any official government instrument.

    The Presidency said one Adeniyi Adeyemi Matthew falsely presented himself as the Director-General of the council and claimed to be a presidential appointee.

    Forgery, bank accounts under investigation

    President Tinubu directed the ICPC to investigate the alleged forgery of appointment letters and other government documents, as well as claims that the suspect used the false presidential appointment to obtain official recognition, diplomatic support and visa facilitation.

    The investigation will also cover the opening of multiple bank accounts in the names of purported government agencies using allegedly forged documents.

    The President further instructed the commission to investigate the source and movement of funds linked to the alleged scheme and determine whether any public officials, financial institutions, intermediaries or private individuals facilitated the operation.

    MDAs directed to cooperate

    Tinubu also ordered all ministries, departments and agencies of the Federal Government to provide the ICPC with all relevant records and information required to complete the investigation promptly.

    He directed the commission to identify weaknesses in government procedures that may have enabled the alleged fraud and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents.

    According to the statement, the President stressed that the integrity of the Presidency and government institutions must be protected against impersonation, forgery and abuse of official identity.

    He also directed that anyone found culpable should face the full weight of the law.

  • Ex-Science Minister Uche Nnaji Arrested Over Alleged Certificate Forgery

    Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, has been arrested over allegations of certificate forgery after weeks of being declared wanted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.

    According to reports, Nnaji was arrested on Wednesday after arriving from Enugu and is expected to be handed over to the ICPC for interrogation as investigations into the allegations continue.

    Court Had Earlier Ordered His Arrest

    The arrest follows a ruling by the Federal High Court, which granted the ICPC permission to arrest Nnaji and declare him wanted after the commission alleged that he repeatedly failed to honour invitations for questioning.

    The court also authorised the anti-graft agency to publish his wanted status in newspapers, social media and other public platforms pending his arrest.

    ICPC Investigation

    The ICPC is investigating allegations that the former minister submitted forged academic and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificates during his appointment process.

    According to the commission, repeated efforts to secure his appearance for investigative activities were unsuccessful, prompting it to seek judicial approval for his arrest.

    Nnaji had previously denied the allegations and challenged the court order, maintaining that he was not under investigation before filing an appeal against the arrest order.

    The ICPC is yet to issue an official statement on Wednesday’s arrest, while Nnaji’s legal team has not publicly reacted to the latest development.

     

  • ADC Raises Alarm After Aregbesola, Party Leaders Denied Access to El-Rufai at ICPC

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) of obstructing access to former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, after senior party leaders were denied permission to see him at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

    The party also alleged that heavily armed security operatives were deployed around the premises during the visit by its delegation.

    Aregbesola, ADC Leaders Denied Access

    In a statement issued on Friday by the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said its delegation included former Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, and Mallam Salihu Lukman.

    According to the statement, the delegation had visited the ICPC headquarters in Abuja to seek access to El-Rufai but was denied entry despite prior communication with the agency.

    “Earlier today, alongside the National Secretary of our party, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, and the Secretary of the ADC Policy and Manifesto Committee, Mallam Salihu Lukman, we visited the headquarters of the ICPC in Abuja to see Mallam El-Rufai. Despite prior communication and formal requests, we were denied access without any reasonable explanation,” the party said.

    ADC Alleges Intimidation

    The party further claimed the atmosphere around the ICPC office became tense after several truckloads of armed police officers arrived at the premises.

    According to the ADC, the deployment created the impression that authorities were attempting to intimidate opposition figures.

    “It is deeply troubling that a simple request by senior party officials to visit a detained colleague was met, not with professionalism, but with a show of force,” the statement added.

    The party accused state institutions of increasingly being used as tools for political pressure against opposition voices.

    ICPC Responds

    Reacting to the allegation, ICPC spokesperson, J. Okor Odey, said the court order regarding access to El-Rufai only covered family members, lawyers and doctors.

    “Court order for access to the defendant in our custody is for family members, lawyers and doctors,” he said.

    The Commission also questioned the ADC’s standing regarding visitation rights.

    “Within this context, please what is the ADC?” he added.

    Court Had Granted Bail

    El-Rufai is currently under investigation by the anti-corruption agency over allegations yet to be fully disclosed publicly.

    A Federal High Court in Abuja had earlier granted him bail in the sum of ₦100 million with one surety in like sum.

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled that the surety must own property in Maitama or Asokoro and meet other conditions, including proof of federal civil service status and salary records.

    The former governor’s detention has continued to generate political reactions, with opposition figures accusing the government of targeting dissenting voices.

  • El-Rufai’s Family Accuses ICPC Of Blocking Doctor, Denying Food Access In Custody

    The family of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai has accused the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission of violating his constitutional rights by allegedly denying him access to medical care and restricting food deliveries while in custody.

    In a statement released on Saturday, Mohammed Bello described the actions of the anti-graft agency as a serious attack on his father’s basic rights.

    Family Raises Alarm Over Medical Access

    According to Bello, El-Rufai’s personal doctor visited the ICPC office on Friday to discuss the outcome of medical tests recently conducted on the former governor.

    “Our father, Mallam Nasir @elrufai, is still being held by the ICPC. Today, 15 May 2026, we witnessed two distinct yet equally serious attacks on his basic rights,” the statement read.

    “First, his personal doctor visited the ICPC at about 3pm to discuss the results of medical tests recently conducted on our father.

    “Officials at the agency blocked the doctor from seeing him, claiming that written permission from the ICPC chairman was required.”

    Bello argued that the decision directly violated an existing court order granting El-Rufai unrestricted access to his doctors.

    Wife Allegedly Denied Access To Deliver Food

    The family also alleged that El-Rufai’s second wife, Assab Aichatou Djibril, was prevented from delivering his dinner at the detention facility.

    According to Bello, ICPC operatives reportedly informed her that food deliveries were not allowed after 6:30pm.

    “This arbitrary rule is no less offensive than blocking his right to medical care,” he stated.

    He described the development as an assault on the rule of law and a violation of the former governor’s constitutional and human rights.

    “No lawful detention justifies denying medical access or refusing basic family care based on an arbitrary curfew fixed by the ICPC. Shame on them as an institution,” he added.

    El-Rufai’s Wife Speaks Out

    In a separate post shared on X, Assab Aichatou Djibril also accused the agency of ignoring a court directive.

    “Mallam Nasir El-Rufai’s doctor was at the ICPC today, to follow up on medical tests recently taken by his patient,” she wrote.

    “The doctor was prevented from seeing him by operatives who insisted that the doctor must present written approval by their chairman. This is a brazen violation of an explicit court order.”

    She added that she was also denied access when she attempted to deliver dinner to her husband later that evening.

    Background To The Case

    El-Rufai has remained in ICPC custody since February 19 over allegations of financial impropriety during his tenure as governor of Kaduna State between 2015 and 2023.

    In 2024, the Kaduna State House of Assembly indicted the former governor over alleged diversion of N423 billion in public funds and money laundering, while calling for investigations by anti-graft agencies.

    On April 13, 2026, the ICPC arraigned him before the Kaduna High Court on an amended nine-count charge bordering on alleged fraud and abuse of office.

  • Court Clears El-Rufai for Abuja Treatment Under Tight ICPC Watch

    The Federal High Court in Kaduna has granted former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, permission to seek medical treatment in Abuja under strict supervision.

    The approval covers dental and eye care and was confirmed on Wednesday by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

    Court grants supervised medical access

    According to ICPC spokesperson J. Okor Odey, the court directed the commission to escort El-Rufai to approved medical facilities whenever necessary.

    The facilities listed include Mile Dental Clinic and Skipper Eye-Q Hospital in Abuja, with instructions that he be returned to custody immediately after treatment.

    Application follows bail variation request

    El-Rufai’s legal team had approached the court seeking a variation of his bail conditions to allow access to medical care.

    The prosecution opposed the request, but the court granted it after hearing arguments from both sides.

    Background to ongoing trial

    The former governor was arraigned on March 24 alongside Joel Adoga on charges bordering on alleged fraud and money laundering.

    Both defendants pleaded not guilty, and the court later granted El-Rufai bail in the sum of ₦200 million with two sureties.

    Fresh bail moves face opposition

    In a related development, the ICPC has opposed a separate bail application filed by El-Rufai at the Kaduna State High Court.

    The matter was adjourned to May 13 for hearing, while the federal court has also fixed May 7 for further proceedings on the case.

  • El-Rufai Freed on Compassionate Grounds as Mother Dies in Cairo

    The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has released former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai from custody on compassionate grounds, hours after the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, in Cairo, Egypt, on Friday.

    An aide to the former governor confirmed that the release was approved to allow him to participate in the burial arrangements for his late mother. The ICPC had not issued an official statement on the terms of the temporary release as of the time of this report.

    Son’s reaction

    His son, Bashir El-Rufai, confirmed the development in a post on X, expressing relief while sharply criticising the anti-corruption agency. “My beloved, great legend of a father is being released from his unlawful and illegal detention at the hands of one of the most corrupt agencies in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which is a lame excuse for a pathetic institution. Thank you all for all the support. Our family shall never forget these times. We have overcome, as the El-Rufais,” he wrote.

    Death of Hajiya Umma

    Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, said to be approximately 100 years old, died on Friday after a period of illness in Cairo, Egypt. Her death came barely a week after the passing of her daughter-in-law, Safiya Ali Rufai, making Friday’s loss a second bereavement for the El-Rufai family within days.

    Her death was announced by her grandson and member of the House of Representatives, Bello El-Rufai, who described her as a matriarch whose life was devoted to faith and family, and called on Nigerians to pray for the family. The family finds strength in her long and fulfilled life. Similar condolences came from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and other political figures across party lines.

    El-Rufai’s legal battles

    Friday’s temporary release does not resolve the extensive legal proceedings El-Rufai is currently facing across multiple courts in Nigeria.

    The ICPC has accused El-Rufai of unlawfully receiving approximately ₦579 million in severance allowances on two separate occasions, in September 2020 and January 2023, far above the legally entitled sum of approximately ₦20 million. He was formally arraigned alongside co-defendant Joel Adoga at the Federal High Court in Kaduna on March 24, on charges of alleged conversion and possession of public property, as well as money laundering. He pleaded not guilty.

    The court adjourned ruling on his bail application to March 31, 2026. The ICPC has also filed a separate case against him at the Kaduna State High Court involving another defendant, Amadu Sule.

    In a third legal front, the Department of State Services has filed a three-count charge against El-Rufai at the Federal High Court in Abuja, centred on allegations that he unlawfully intercepted phone communications belonging to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, in violation of the Cybercrimes Act. His arraignment in that matter is scheduled for April 23, 2026.

    El-Rufai’s counter-suits

    El-Rufai has filed counter-suits challenging the authorities’ actions. In one suit, he is seeking ₦1 billion in damages against the ICPC and other agencies over a February 19 raid on his Abuja residence, which he claims was unlawful, and is asking the court to invalidate the search warrant and restrain the use of any evidence obtained. In a separate action against the DSS, he is seeking ₦2 billion in damages and has asked the court to dismiss the wiretapping charges as unconstitutional harassment.

    How the detention began

    El-Rufai’s current legal saga began on February 16, 2026, when he was initially detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over an alleged ₦423 billion misappropriation. He was subsequently transferred to ICPC custody on February 18, where he has remained until today’s temporary release.

    El-Rufai is expected to return to ICPC custody following the completion of his mother’s burial rites, with the Federal High Court in Kaduna due to rule on his substantive bail application on March 31. RNN.NG will continue to follow all developments in his case.