Category Archives: Featured

I take responsibility for Abuja-Kaduna train derailment, says NRC MD

Posted on by
Reply


The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, has taken full responsibility for the Abuja-Kaduna train derailment that occurred on Tuesday.

Opeifa, who spoke on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Wednesday, assured Nigerians that the ongoing investigation into the incident would be transparent.

“Let me say, beyond apologising to Nigeria, I want to say as the managing director and chief executive, I take full responsibility. And in the case of safety, there is no indifference.

“Once it happens, the chief executive must take responsibility. In this case, I am taking responsibility,” Opeifa said. 

Read Also: Tinubu celebrates NDDC boss Ogbuku at 50 ‎

The NRC boss further stressed that while the derailment should not have happened, measures were being put in place to prevent a recurrence.

“I want to assure Nigerians that an incident like this is not expected, is not prayed for, should not be happening, but where it does, it is to bring out the best in us.

“And I assure Nigerians that just as we are doing currently on the Warri-Itakpe, which he (the analyst) also mentioned, we shut down the Warri-Itakpe (route) three weeks ago.

“I ordered the shutdown for safety reasons, and if you see the level of work the men have been doing on the track, cutting it off and replacing it is to make sure things like this don’t happen,” he added.

The derailment occurred on Tuesday along the Kaduna corridor shortly after the train departed Abuja at about 11 a.m. en route to Kaduna.

Passengers described the scene as chaotic, with many scrambling to safety.

US court jails Osun monarch Oba Joseph Oloyede for $4.2m COVID-19 relief fraud

Posted on by
Reply

A United States District Court has sentenced the Apetu of Ipetumodu in Osun State, Oba Joseph Oloyede, to 56 months in prison over a multimillion-dollar COVID-19 relief fund fraud.

The sentence was delivered on Tuesday, August 26, by U.S. District Judge Christopher A. Boyko, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio.

Oloyede, 62, a dual U.S.-Nigerian citizen who lives in Medina, Ohio, was also ordered to pay $4,408,543.38 in restitution, forfeit his Medina home purchased with fraud proceeds, and surrender $96,006.89 seized by investigators. He will serve three years of supervised release after his prison term.

Prosecutors said Oloyede led a conspiracy that exploited emergency loan programs created to assist pandemic-hit businesses.

“From about April 2020 to February 2022, Oloyede and his co-conspirator, Edward Oluwasanmi, conspired to submit fraudulent applications for loans made available through the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA) under the CARES Act,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said.

Read Also: Court remands five over alleged murder

Investigators said the monarch, a tax preparer, operated five businesses and one nonprofit, while Oluwasanmi owned three entities. Using these, they filed falsified applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL).

“Oloyede caused the SBA to approve 38 fraudulent applications, amounting to $4,213,378 in disbursed loans and advances,” prosecutors said.

Authorities added that Oloyede also filed fraudulent applications for some clients, taking 15–20% of their loans as kickbacks without reporting the income to the IRS. The funds were spent on personal items, including land purchases, home construction, and a luxury vehicle.

Oluwasanmi, 62, of Willoughby, Ohio, was sentenced in July to 27 months in prison and ordered to pay more than $1.2 million in restitution.

The investigation was conducted by the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, the FBI Cleveland Division, and IRS-Criminal Investigations, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward D. Brydle and James L. Morford.

No deadline extensions for visa processing, others for 2026 Hajj – NAHCON 

Posted on by
Reply

 The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has appealed to all stakeholders to strictly comply with the timelines set by the Saudi Arabian authorities for the 2026 Hajj operations.

The commission urged the stakeholders to make early preparation as there will be no deadline extensions for visa processing, payments or contractual agreements.

NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, said this in a statement issued by its Principal Information Officer, Malam Shafii Mohammed, in Abuja on Thursday.

Elegushi said this at the Post-Hajj Stakeholders’ meeting with Licensed Tour Operator Companies in Abuja.

The commissioner issued a strong caution to stakeholders to strictly follow the official Saudi Hajj calendar and make early preparations.

“The Saudis have made it very clear — the dates on their calendar will not be extended by even a minute.

“Gone are the days when you could beg for extra weeks to process visas. For 2026, if the portal closes today, it closes today,” Elegushi said.

He reminded stakeholders of the 2025 experience, where many intending pilgrims assumed that Saudi authorities would grant extensions but missed deadlines and consequently lost participation slots.

Elegushi also reflected on the unexpected challenges during Arafat 2025, calling the experience a valuable lesson for the upcoming season.

Read Also: NAHCON announces fare for 2025 hajj

“What happened in 2025 has given us insight and direction. We must learn from it, plan better, and work faster.

“The Saudi system has changed, and we must adapt quickly,” he said.

Speaking on the financial preparations, Prince Aliu AbdulRazaq, NAHCON’s Commissioner for Policy, Personnel Management and Finance (PPMF), briefed participants on refunds, pending complaints and payment processes.

AbdulRazaq urged licensed tour operators to make timely payments for all Hajj-related obligations, noting that Saudi authorities will not grant extensions for contractual agreements or visa processing in 2026.

The Chairman/CEO of NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, expressed appreciation to the state pilgrims’ welfare boards, private tour operators and service providers for their immense contributions to the success of the 2025 Hajj operations.

Usman also acknowledged the support of the Federal Government, which enabled Nigerian pilgrims to perform Hajj with dignity, comfort and peace of mind.

“The commission is committed to collaboration, fairness and transparency. But the same time, we expect total compliance from all stakeholders as we work together to improve service delivery and meet global best practices.”

Similarly, Commissioner Planning, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services (PRSILS), Prof. Abubakar Yagawal commended tour operators on their successful outing and conduct during the 2025 Hajj. P

Yagawal also called for continued cooperation with the commission by all stakeholders, and urged intending pilgrims to ensure early payment and preparations for an improved 2026 Hajj experience.

(NAN)

I didn’t bully or kill Mohbad – Naira Marley 

Posted on by
Reply

Nigerian singer Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley, has released a new video addressing the controversies surrounding the death of his former signee, Ilerioluwa Aloba, better known as Mohbad.

Mohbad died on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27, sparking nationwide outrage and speculations about the circumstances of his death.

In February 2024, a Yaba Magistrate’s Court cleared Naira Marley, music promoter Sam Larry (Samson Balogun), and others of any involvement in the tragedy. Instead, the court held auxiliary nurse Feyisayo Ogedengbe liable for administering an injection without a doctor’s prescription, describing her actions as unlawful and negligent.

Speaking in a YouTube video released on Wednesday, Naira Marley insisted he never bullied or harmed Mohbad, stressing that their relationship was often misrepresented.

According to him, Mohbad began using a substance called Ice in 2020, but he only advised him against it. He also showed evidence that Mohbad chose his own manager and confirmed that their business agreement was a 50-50 split, with all expenses covered by Marlian Music.

The ‘Soapy’ crooner also dismissed rumours that Mohbad was too scared to visit hospitals, sharing screenshots of past medical visits.

Read Also: FULL LIST: 34 Prominent Nigerians who died in 2023

Naira Marley recalled the NDLEA raid of February 2022, during which Mohbad went live on Instagram under duress and accused him and others of plotting against him. He claimed Mohbad later apologised, alongside his parents and girlfriend, for the incident.

He further revealed that Mohbad once attempted suicide in March 2022, leading him and the singer’s parents to seek medical help.

On financial disputes, Marley alleged that Mohbad withdrew $72,000 from a DSP partner in December 2022 without approval, forcing the label to withhold some of his royalty payments. He added that their communication ended after the incident.

The Marlian Music boss maintained that he was in Amsterdam on the day Mohbad died and expressed disappointment that those who were with the late singer in his final hours were not held accountable.

“I have never sent anyone to bully Mohbad. I did not kill Mohbad,” Naira Marley said firmly.

He also criticised the police for detaining him for two months in Panti, Lagos, when he voluntarily returned to Nigeria to clear his name.

Concluding, Naira Marley said Marlian Music is ready to hand over Mohbad’s royalties to his family or whoever the court designates as the rightful beneficiary.

Ogun APC suspends Gbenga Daniel, one other

Posted on by
Reply

The All Progressives Congress Working Committee in Ogun has affirmed the suspension of  Sen. Gbenga Daniel and  Kunle Folarin, by their respective wards for alleged anti-party activities.

This is contained in a statement by Nuberu Olufemi,  the Director of Publicity, Ogun APC in Abeokuta.

According to the statement, the State Chairman of the party, Yemi Sanusi, chaired the meeting held on Tuesday, with 16 members present.

It stated that  the meeting considered the reports of the Disciplinary Committees investigating allegations of misconduct and anti-party activities against the two members in Ward IV Ward VI of Sagamu Local Government, respectively.

Read Also: Akpabio not hospitalised, hale and hearty in London – Gbenga Daniel

” Ward IV, Sagamu local government, set up a disciplinary committee on the alleged misconduct bordering on anti-party activities committed by Daniel.

“Similarly, Ward VI set up a disciplinary committee on the allegations of gross misconduct and anti-party activities allegedly committed by  Folarin.

“They wrote to the members under investigation, inviting them to the disciplinary meetings at which they were to be heard and allowed to present evidence in their defense or request pardon from the party.

” However, both members failed to respond to the invitations extended to them in writing, failed to provide a written defence, and also failed to attend the disciplinary meetings at which they were to be given the opportunity to defend themselves.

” In view of their deliberate and unexplained absences, the committees deliberated as scheduled, heard from the available witnesses, considered the available documentary evidence, and deliberated on the allegations,” It stated

The party added that upon due consideration, the committees suspended the members indefinitely, pending further investigation and the outcome of the committees’ inquiry.

It explained that copies of the letters of indefinite suspension had been sent to the state chairman for consideration and approval of the State Working Committee.

“The SWC has ratified the suspensions. The meeting demonstrates the party’s commitment to maintaining discipline and upholding its constitution,” it stated.

(NAN)

Tinubu celebrates NDDC boss Ogbuku at 50 ‎

Posted on by
Reply

President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to Dr Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), on his 50th birthday on Tuesday.

‎
‎The congratulatory message is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Monday in Abuja.

‎
‎ Ogbuku is a former executive member of the Ijaw Youth Council and a leader in the Niger Delta.

Read Also: Tinubu has been fair to all regions – Umahi

He had also served as Chief of Staff to former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva and Senior Special Assistant to former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege.
‎
‎
‎The President noted the NDDC’s efforts under Ogbuku in infrastructure development and interventions in health, agriculture, and environmental remediation.
‎
‎
‎Tinubu prayed for Ogbuku’s continued good health, wisdom, and many more years of impactful service to the nation.

‎
‎He extends his best wishes for a joyous and memorable celebration.

(NAN) 

My journey to Olubadan throne bumpy, filled with trials – Oba Ladoja 

Posted on by
Reply

 Olubadan designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has described his journey to the throne of Olubadan of Ibadanland as bumpy and filled with trials.

Ladoja said this while addressing hundreds of Ibadan residents that besieged his Bodija residence on Monday evening to welcome him.

He recalled his over three-decade journey through the Ibadan traditional chieftaincy, hierarchy, which uniquely requires aspirants to climb 36 carefully arranged steps, beginning from Jagun Balogun.

The former governor of Oyo State said that many of those who started the journey with him when he became Jagun Balogun were no longer alive.

Ladoja recalled that several prominent figures were present when he became Jagun, including MKO Abiola, Lamidi Adedibu, Dejo Raimi, Adebayo Alao-Akala, and Oba Lateef Adebimpe.

Others are Jimoh Alliu and popular actress, Orisabunmi, all of whom he said have since passed away, leaving him to continue the journey alone.

“It has been a journey of patience, perseverance, and the grace of God,” the Olubadan designate said.

According to him, he became Jagun Balogun of Ibadanland on Oct 1, 1993, shortly before his election as a Senator representing Oyo South in the National Assembly.

Read Also: JUST IN: Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin dies

“From there, I steadily rose through the ranks of the Balogun line, a process that has taken me more than 31 years before emerging as the Olubadan designate,” he said.

Ladoja explained further that “while the system is structured and predictable, the timing of ascension is never in the hands of any man, but only God decides”.

He also paid tribute to his predecessor, late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, whom he described as a leader who upheld tradition with dignity.

The Olubadan designate said that he received the news of the demise of Oba Olakulehin with shock, saying he never imagined destiny would call him to the throne so soon.

He commiserated with the family of the late Olakulehin, the entire Olubadan Advisory Council, and the Ibadan indigenes.

Ladoja further expressed gratitude to the Olubadan Advisory Council, which officially nominated him as the next Olubadan, assuring that his relationship with the council would progress.

“I’m fully back and will commence engaging with relevant government and traditional authorities including the state governor, Oluwo and Araba of Ibadanland, as well as others, to determine how to go about the process of coronation,” he said.

The former  governor appealed to Ibadan sons and daughters at home/ abroad, and all Ibadan residents to uphold him in their prayers for God’s guidance.

“I seek your prayers for God’s wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to guide me in the discharge of this sacred duty as the new Olubadan.

” It is a huge responsibility, and I pray for divine direction to lead Ibadanland with fairness, peace, and progress,” he stated.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ladoja, who was nominated as the 44th Olubadan by the Olubadan Advisory Council on Aug. 4 following the demise of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7.

He returned to Ibadan on Monday after a long absence from Ibadan. (NAN)

‎

BREAKING: Kayikunmi evicted from Big Brother House

Posted on by
Reply

Big Brother Naija Season 10 housemate, Oluwakayikunmi Ajibade, popularly known as Kayikunmi, has been evicted from the reality TV show.

His shocking exit comes shortly after Otega’s eviction, who was the third housemate to leave the competition.

It will be recalled that fellow contestant, Sabrina, also exited the show earlier in the week due to medical reasons.

Recall that Kayikunmi said he is considering exiting the show voluntarily.

He has been at the centre of controversies in the house, primarily due to his involvement in romantic relationships with female housemates Isabella, Thelma and Mide.

He fell apart with Isabella, who vowed never to speak with him again after he accepted to be Thelma’s guest on Sunday night after she won the Head of House game.

Read Also: BBNaija: Sultana, Koyin plan matching tattoos

Kayikunmi was also involved in a messy fight with his crush, Mide’s love interest Bright Morgan on Monday afternoon.

His day got worse after Thelma lost the Head of House challenge to Victory, leading to both of them (Thelma and Kayikunmi) being kicked out of the HoH Lodge.

Kayikunmi, who seemed overwhelmed by the events, confided in Faith during a conversation on Monday evening that he is contemplating a voluntary exit.

“I want to voluntarily exit,” he said.

Faith urged him to rise up to the challenge in the house instead of cowering.

“Why do you want to voluntarily exit? No you are not a b*tch. You have to ask yourself why do want to voluntarily exit,” Faith stated.

VP Shettima mourns Emir of Zuru

Posted on by
Reply

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has expressed profound grief over the passing of the Emir of Zuru in Kebbi, retired Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sami (Gomo II).

The traditional ruler and a reputable retired military officer died on Saturday night in a London hospital, at the age of 81.

In a condolence message on Sunday in Abuja, Mr Shettima described the death of the royal father as a monumental loss to Nigeria’s traditional institution and military heritage.

Mr Shettima stated that the late highly revered emir was an eminent leader who exemplified the rare combination of military discipline, traditional wisdom, and community service that defined Nigeria’s post-independence leadership generation.

According to him, when the giant Iroko tree falls, the landscape itself is forever altered.

”Today, our traditional and military landscapes look markedly different without Maj.-Gen.Sami’s commanding presence that bridged two critical pillars of our national leadership structure.

Read Also: BREAKING: Emir of Zuru Sani Sami dies at 81

“Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Sami was not just an Emir or a military officer; he was a symbol of how diverse forms of leadership can unite to serve a common purpose – the betterment of one’s people and nation,” Mr Shettima said.

The vice-president recalled that the late emir’s military background brought a unique dimension to traditional governance.

Mr Shettima said the late emir’s strategic thinking and disciplined approach to leadership significantly enhanced the administrative efficiency of the Zuru Emirate.

He said, “On behalf of President Bola Tinubu, myself, and the entire government of Nigeria, I express our deepest condolences to the immediate and extended families of the late Emir, the Zuru Emirate Council, and the entire people of Kebbi.”

While offering prayers for the repose of the departed emir’s soul, Mr Shettima expressed confidence that his legacy would endure in the hearts and minds of those he served.

”I pray Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaus.

”May Allah also grant his family, the Zuru Emirate Council, the government and people of Kebbi State, and indeed the entire nation the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he prayed.

(NAN)

BREAKING: Emir of Zuru Sani Sami dies at 81

Posted on by
Reply

The Emir of Zuru in Kebbi State, Major General Muhammad Sani Sami (Rtd), Gomo II, has passed away at the age of 81.

A palace source confirmed to News Access NG that the first-class monarch and former military governor of Bauchi State died on Sunday in London.

Born on October 24, 1943, in Zuru, Kebbi State, the late emir joined the Nigerian Army on December 10, 1962, and went on to attend several military training courses both within Nigeria and abroad.

Read Also: Emir of Gusau Ibrahim Bello dies at 71

Following the December 31, 1983 coup that brought General Muhammadu Buhari to power, he was appointed as the military governor of Bauchi State, a position he held until August 1985, when General Ibrahim Babangida assumed leadership.

Until his death, General Sani Sami remained a respected traditional ruler and custodian of Zuru Emirate.

Details shortly…