Category Archives: Featured

Yahaya Bello’s passport not with us – FCT Court

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The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja has clarified that it does not have custody of the international passport of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, amid an ongoing money laundering case involving the ex-governor.

Justice Maryanne Anenih, presiding over the matter, made the clarification during Thursday’s proceedings in the N110 billion fraud case filed against Bello by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The court was expected to rule on an application by Bello seeking the release of his international passport to enable him to travel for medical treatment. However, Justice Anenih declared the application incompetent, stressing that the travel document was not in the custody of the FCT High Court, but rather with the Federal High Court in Abuja.

“The international passport cannot be in two places at the same time,” she said, dismissing the notion that the document could be retrieved from the FCT court.

Read Also: Yahaya Bello in court as judge frowns at rowdy supporters

The judge noted that the bail conditions issued to Bello required him to submit his international passport or swear an affidavit if the passport was in the possession of another court. Bello had deposed an affidavit stating that the travel document was currently with the Deputy Registrar of the Federal High Court, where he faces a separate criminal charge.

The court also pointed out that although earlier court records seemed to show the passport was to be deposited with the registry of the FCT High Court, a review confirmed that it was never submitted to the court.

Justice Anenih emphasized that, had the passport been in the FCT court’s custody, the application might have been granted after due consideration.

Background: Yahaya Bello, along with Umar Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu, was arraigned on November 27, 2024, on a 16-count charge bordering on alleged misappropriation of public funds and property fraud totalling ₦110 billion.

The defence counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, had urged the court to grant Bello’s request based on medical grounds, arguing that his client needed to travel for urgent health care. Daudu supported the application with a 22-paragraph affidavit deposed by the former governor.

However, the EFCC filed a counter-affidavit, urging the court to reject the application on the grounds that Bello is facing serious criminal charges and might jump bail if allowed to travel.

Following Thursday’s proceedings, Justice Anenih adjourned the trial to October 8, 2025, for continuation.

BREAKING: Chelsea make history with 3-0 Club World Cup Triumph over PSG

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Chelsea have etched their name into football history after defeating Paris Saint-Germain 3–0 in the final of the first-ever expanded FIFA Club World Cup, capping a remarkable season in which they overcame the reigning UEFA Champions League winners on the grandest global stage.

In front of a packed crowd at MetLife Stadium, Chelsea delivered a dominant first-half performance that stunned the French champions.

Cole Palmer opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, calmly slotting home after a sweeping move.

Read Also: Chelsea beat Brighton & Hove Albion

The 22-year-old midfielder added a second just seven minutes later with a precise finish into the bottom corner.

João Pedro put the contest beyond doubt before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to make it 3–0.

PSG, who lifted their first Champions League title earlier this year with a commanding 5–0 win over Inter Milan, were outplayed in all departments.

With the win, Chelsea become the first English club to claim the rebranded Club World Cup and the first to defeat the current Champions League holders in the final, an achievement that will resonate across continents and underscore the Premier League’s continued dominance on the global stage.

The Club World Cup, contested by 32 teams, carried a record prize fund, and Chelsea are likely to receive as much as $125 million for their victory tonight..

Tinubu Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honour of Buhari

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President Bola Tinubu has directed that all national flags be flown at half-staff to honour the late former president, Muhammadu Buhari.

Flying a flag at half-staff is a symbolic gesture of mourning and respect, traditionally observed following the death of prominent national figures or during periods of national sorrow. The lowered flag signifies solemn remembrance and, in some interpretations, leaves space above for an “invisible flag of death.”

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu expressed his condolences to the former first lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari.

Read Also: 23 things to know about late former President Muhammadu Buhari  

“President Tinubu has spoken with Mrs Aishat Buhari, the former President’s widow, and offered his deep condolences,” the statement read.

The President has also directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany Buhari’s remains back to Nigeria for burial.

Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in London, was twice elected as Nigeria’s president, first in 2015 and again in 2019. He previously served as military Head of State between January 1984 and August 1985.

“President Tinubu has ordered flags at half-staff as a mark of respect for the departed leader,” the statement added.

Former President Buhari dies at 82

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Former President Muhammadu Buhari is dead.

He was 82.

The sad news of his demise was announced on X, in a statement by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, on Sunday afternoon.

According to him, Buhari died on Sunday at a hospital in the United Kingdom, where he had been receiving medical treatment.

He wrote: “INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAIHIRRAJIUUN.

Read Also: 23 things to know about late former President Muhammadu Buhari  

The family of the former president has announced the passing on of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, this afternoon in a clinic in London.

May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin.”

Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s military ruler between 1983 and 1985 before returning as a democratically elected president in 2015, was 82 years old.

He was widely known for his anti-corruption stance and efforts to tackle insurgency during his tenure.

More details shortly…

Olubadan’s passing, a huge national loss — Tinubu ‎

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President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep shock over the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, describing it as a huge national loss.

‎The revered king died early Monday, just two days after his 90th birthday and days before the anniversary of his coronation.

‎Oba Olakulehin was crowned the 43rd Olubadan on July 12, 2024.

‎In a condolence message signed by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu paid tribute to the Oba’s impactful reign.

‎The President  extended heartfelt sympathy  to the royal family, the government, and the people of Oyo State and Ibadanland.

‎Tinubu described Oba Olakulehin as a symbol of wisdom, continuity, peace, and enduring statesmanship.

‎The President commended the king’s remarkable life, dedicated to public service, leadership, and national development.

‎He praised the Oba as an accomplished military officer, peace advocate, and moral guide in Nigerian society.

‎“Oba Owolabi Olakulehin was not only a custodian of Ibadan’s rich history and culture but also a man of intellect and principle.

‎”His contributions extended beyond the palace into education, governance, the military and national development.

‎“His passing is a significant loss to Ibadanland and the nation,” Tinubu stated.

‎The President noted with sorrow,  that the death came just before the traditional ruler’s coronation anniversary.

‎”Just last week, I received an invitation from the late Olubadan to his 90th birthday and first coronation anniversary celebrations.

‎”Shockingly, his death came days before the anniversary. He will be remembered for upholding the honour and prestige of his highly revered stool,” the President stated.

Read Also: Late Olubadan: We are celebrating, not mourning – Son

‎Tinubu hailed the Oba’s legacy of bridging tradition and modernity with grace and wisdom, while being a stabilising influence and moral authority across Yorubaland.

‎The President prayed for the peaceful repose of the king’s soul and urged Ibadan residents to find strength in his legacy.

‎The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Oba Olakulehin was born on July 5, 1935, in Okugbaja village, now in Ona-Ara Local Government Area of Oyo state.

‎He began his education in Ibadan, trained as a teacher, and later attended Yaba Technical Institute.

‎He joined the Western Region Government as a clerk before earning OND and HND in Building at Yaba College of Technology.

‎In 1970, he was commissioned into the Nigerian Army and served diligently across the country.

‎He retired in 1979 after a distinguished 20-year military career and ventured into business.

‎Olakulehin also served as a federal legislator before ascending Ibadan’s traditional leadership hierarchy.

(NAN)

JUST IN: Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin dies

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The 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has joined his ancestors.

Oba Olakulehin passed away on Monday, July 7.

He was 90.

Read Also: Who becomes the next Olubadan?

A former Oyo Commissioner of Information Toye Arulogun confirmed the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, stating that an official statement will be released shortly.

Olakulehin died exactly one year after he ascended the throne.

The demise of Oba Olakulehin is coming barely two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.

President Tinubu charges Army to defeat terrorism, insurgency

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President Bola Tinubu on Sunday in Kaduna charged the Nigerian Army to defeat terrorism and insurgency.

Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, made the call at the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2025, marking the Army’s 162nd year anniversary.

The theme for this years’ celebration is ‘Developing the Soldier First Concept: Imperative for Nigerian Army’s Transformation Drive:.

Tinubu said that the theme reflected not just strategy but humanity.

He added that the event was a time for solemn pause, reflection and celebration, honoring the sacrifices of soldiers who had patriotically defended the nation.

He stated that the nation was facing challenges from terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and separatist agitations, which were existential threats that required a united, firm, and uncompromising response.

He also said that the Nigerian Army has been the spine of the nation’s sovereignty since 1863, shaping the course of history and earning its place in the hearts of patriots.

“The Army brought the Nigerian Civil War to a close with the immortal words, ‘no victor, no vanquished’, reminding Nigerians of their shared destiny,”he said.

The president praised the Army’s peacekeeping missions across the continent and around the globe, adding that they had fought for peace and stood for principle.

Tinubu commended the Army’s commitment to placing the soldier at the center of reforms, assuring that his administration stands firmly with them on that path.

The president urged the Army to press on with honour, guided by the constitution and international law, with strength remaining disciplined and courage anchored in justice.

Read Also: APC will welcome Wike – Tinubu

Tinubu extended sympathies to the families of those soldiers that had fallen in the line of duty, assuring that their memories would endure for generations.

The president appreciated all the stakeholders contributing to peace and national security, emphasising that nation-building was the responsibility of every citizen, leader and institution.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the Army’s welfare and operational capacity, investing in modern equipment, intelligence and human capital.

The president appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his leadership and professionalism in steering the institution.

As the nation marks the 162nd anniversary of the Nigerian Army, the president congratulated all officers, soldiers and families, honouring the heroes past and saluting the warriors present.

The president reaffirmed the importance of the Nigerian Army, the Armed Forces, and the existence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

(NAN)

FBI cracks down on fraudster over ₦460m Trump inauguration crypto scam

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The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has filed a civil forfeiture complaint against a Nigerian national, Ehiremen Aigbokhan, accused of stealing over ₦460 million in cryptocurrency intended for the inauguration of President Donald Trump in January 2025.

According to court documents, Aigbokhan allegedly orchestrated a sophisticated Business Email Compromise (BEC) scheme from Lagos, Nigeria. The operation involved creating spoofed email addresses that closely resembled those of officials on the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee.

Investigators said the suspects used a nearly identical email address—substituting a lowercase “L” for an uppercase “I”—to impersonate committee co-chair Steve Witkoff. The deception led a donor to transfer 250,300 USDT.ETH (a cryptocurrency pegged to the U.S. dollar) on December 26, 2024.

Read Also: Trump signs order withdrawing US from UN bodies

Authorities reported that the funds, valued at more than ₦400 million at the time, were quickly dispersed to multiple digital wallets. The FBI, working with cryptocurrency company Tether, froze the accounts on December 31 after identifying suspicious transactions.

Further forensic analysis traced the activity to Lagos, with login records linking the fraudulent wallet to a Binance account registered by Aigbokhan in October 2024. Officials noted the account had no prior deposits before receiving the stolen funds.

In total, U.S. authorities seized 20,017 USDT.ETH from Aigbokhan’s wallet and another 20,336 USDT.ETH from a connected wallet, together worth over ₦60 million.

The U.S. Department of Justice is now seeking court approval to permanently forfeit the digital assets. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Blaylock Jr., who is prosecuting the case, confirmed that Aigbokhan also faces charges related to money laundering and wire fraud.

The FBI has not disclosed whether extradition proceedings have begun but described the case as one of the most significant cybercrimes linked to a U.S. presidential event.

The incident has renewed calls for stricter cybersecurity measures in political fundraising and underscored the growing threat posed by international cybercriminal networks.

Officials urged donors and organizations to verify email communications and carefully check payment details before authorizing large transfers.

ADC, a desperate coalition of failed politicians, says Wike

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has launched a blistering attack on members of the newly formed opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), dismissing the group as lacking credibility or the capacity to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking during a media chat with journalists on Thursday, Wike described the coalition as a “desperate fallback” for political figures who failed to gain control of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“There is no coalition,” he declared. “The opposition has decimated itself. The only party that can, if properly organised, challenge this government is the PDP.”

He accused former Senate President David Mark of trying to hijack the PDP leadership before defecting to become interim chairman of the ADC-led coalition.

“David Mark wanted to be chairman of the PDP, and we said no,” Wike said. “When they demanded that the chairmanship return to the North Central, we resisted. Now he has gone to lead a coalition. Let’s see who Nigerians will believe.”

Wike also criticised Ovation publisher Dele Momodu, calling him politically irrelevant.

“Dele Momodu was never my friend. He claimed he ran for president—he didn’t get a single vote—and now he’s in this coalition.”

Known for his blunt rhetoric, Wike accused many coalition members of chronic political opportunism, singling out former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for repeatedly switching parties to pursue power.

“Atiku was in the PDP, left for the AC, returned to the PDP, then joined the APC, came back to the PDP—and now he’s with the ADC,” Wike said. “Every time, he jumps ship. They’re just looking for where they can be in charge.”

He questioned their credibility, arguing that their criticisms of government were simply bitterness over personal losses.

Read Also: Wike to pay medical bills of Karu accident victims

“They keep saying Nigerians are angry. Say the truth: you were defeated here. Don’t project your frustration onto the public.”

Wike challenged coalition figures to measure their records against his own achievements in public office.

“If I leave as minister today, I can confidently say, ‘This is what I accomplished.’ Let any of them show what they’ve done.”

He also suggested that former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s involvement in the coalition was driven by disappointment over being sidelined.

“If El-Rufai… if the president hadn’t dumped him, would he be part of any coalition?”

As the 2027 elections draw nearer, Wike insisted that despite internal challenges, the PDP remains the only organised opposition party capable of defeating the APC—provided it stays united.

“Politics is about interests,” he concluded. “Those people tried everything to seize the PDP’s leadership, and we stood firm and said no.”

Why ADC coalition cannot repeat 2013 – Sunday Dare

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The Presidency has dismissed the adoption of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) by the opposition coalition saying they cannot repeat the events that clinched victory for the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the 2015 General Elections.

Special Adviser, Media and Public Communication to President Bola Tinubu, Sunday Dare on Thursday wrote on X that the new coalition, unlike the 2013 APC merger driven by selflessness and national interest, is as an opportunistic alliance led by a politically isolated figure with personal ambition, lacking both a unifying leader and a compelling cause.

He further described the chief promoter of the coalition as a serial election loser, clutching at what he sees as his last shot at the presidency

Dare said, “The promoters of the new coalition like to draw parallels with what the APC achieved in 2013. But let’s be clear: this is not 2013—and this is not the APC.

Read Also: Abure-led LP gives Peter Obi 48 hours to leave party over coalition

“In 2013, the merger that birthed the APC was driven by selflessness, national interest, and strategic discipline. The leaders at the time were willing to set aside personal ambitions for the greater good. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, despite commanding the loyalty of several sitting governors, chose to wait. He bided his time, played the long game, and focused on building a viable political platform. He had never lost an election, and he didn’t have to force his way in.

“Now contrast that with today’s coalition. The chief promoter is a serial election loser, clutching at what he clearly sees as his last shot at the presidency. Unlike Tinubu, he enters the coalition alone—without the backing of his state governor, his region, or any meaningful political structure. His ambition is personal, not patriotic. So also that of his many co-travelers.

“In 2013, the APC had a rallying figure in Muhammadu Buhari—a man seen as a symbol of integrity, and a national unifier with cult-like grassroots appeal. Today, no one in this coalition commands that kind of loyalty or trust. Not one of them could genuinely unite a ward, let alone a country. No one comes close to parading the democratic credentials of President Bola Tinubu.

“Most importantly, the APC coalition emerged to address real grievances: the constitutional denial of power to a region that had been unfairly sidelined and to end the 16 years of ruinous governance by the PDP. It was a coalition grounded in justice and balance.

“This new coalition? It’s purely opportunistic. The presidency already rests with the region rightfully due. And that’s where it will be till 2031. Heads up for Nigerians about ADC – There is no injustice to redress—only avarice ambition to satisfy,” he wrote.