FEATURES
Human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, on Friday, launched a scathing criticism against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, describing him as a “serial betrayer.”
He also controversially remarked that Nigerian singer Portable is “better” than Wike in terms of loyalty.
Addressing journalists during a press conference in Abuja, Adeyanju accused Wike of betraying key political allies, including former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Rivers State governors Peter Odili and Rotimi Amaechi.
Wike, who was recently appointed as FCT Minister by President Tinubu, has faced scrutiny over his political maneuvers and alliances, particularly after switching allegiance from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to support Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.
According to Adeyanju, “Wike has never worked anywhere; from a motor garage tout he became a local government Chairman and he has been betraying people.
“The only difference between Wike and Portable is that Portable does not betray people who have helped him but Wike betrays everyone who has helped him. Wike betrayed Goodluck Jonathan, he betrayed the wife, betrayed Rotimi Amaechi, he betrayed Peter Odili and those who helped him.
“Is it Tinubu that he would not betray? Even Tinubu is not that dull, he’s politically savvy and knows. He’s just using the long spoon to deal with him, there is nothing you will do with Wike that you will be safe.”
The activist lawyer also accused the minister of deceiving and sabotaging the former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
“Typical Wike, just like he deceived Peter Obi, Obi kept going to him but he went behind his back to sabotage him,” he added.
This comes after Wike called out Adeyanju for criticising his demolitions in the nation’s capital.
Speaking with newsmen on Wednesday, Wike stated that Adeyanju was jobless, hence his reason for becoming an activist.
The former Rivers Governor claimed that Adeyanju came to him begging for the role of Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), but he turned him down.
Emotions ran high as the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, was laid to rest at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja, on Friday.
The ceremony brought together family, colleagues, and dignitaries to bid a final farewell to the late army chief.
The grief-stricken family members and colleagues struggled to contain their tears.
Even the nose mask worn by his widow, Mariya, couldn’t conceal the steady stream of tears that dropped from her eyes.
The procession began at precisely 3:00 p.m. when Lagbaja’s remains arrived at the cemetery.
President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, each took turns laying wreaths at the grave.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Defence Staff, Musa, assured Nigerians that Lagbaja’s death would inspire the military to defeat the nation’s enemies wherever they may be.
Musa stated that the military took solace in the fact that the late army chief lived a purposeful life, urging the troops to honour his memory by committing themselves to the ideals he stood for.
Musa said, “We will not leave you alone. We know your loss is immeasurable, but please take solace in knowing that he lived a life of purpose and left behind a legacy that will never fade. To my fellow officers and men, let us use this moment to recommit ourselves to the ideas for which General Labaja stood for.
“Let us ensure that his sacrifice and service continue to guide our steps as we defend this great nation. We are going to use his passing away to resolve further to defeat all enemies of the state, wherever they are, whether within or outside. As we lower him today into the embrace of the earth, let us raise our voices in prayer and gratitude for a life well lived. “
Reflecting on Lagbaja’s tenure, Musa noted that he took bold and decisive actions against terrorists, bandits, and other threats.
He said, “His tenure was marked by decisive actions against insurgency, banditry, and other threats to our nation’s peace. His efforts significantly enhanced the operational readiness and the morale of the Nigerian Army. But beyond his professional achievement, General Labaja was a man of profound faith, kindness, and humility.
“His commitment to safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty and ensuring the security of our citizens was unwavering. From his early days as a young officer to his ascension to the esteemed office of the Chief of Army Staff, General Lagbaja consistently demonstrated a rare blend of intellect, bravery, and humanity. He understood the complexities of modern warfare and the need for innovation in our strategies.
“Yet, he never lost sight of the human element, the men and women who serve under the flag and the citizens whose freedom they defend.
In his remarks, the Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru, said Lagbaja embodied the core values of soldiering and served Nigeria without reservation for over 30 years.
Badaru said the late army chief was not only courageous but also an inspiring leader who lived from the front, exemplifying his tedious dedication to the service of the nation.
At the event, Tinubu conferred a posthumous national honour, Commander of the Federal Republic, on Lagbaja.
Tinubu said the conferment was to appreciate Lagbaja’s service to the nation.
The President described Lagbaja as one of his best appointees.
He said, “Lagabaja was a true soldier, a general and officer who symbolised the best of his profession and whose commitment to the nation he loved was singular and undiluted.
“He was more than I could have hoped for. He was one of my best appointments. Lieutenant General Lagbaja embodied the finest ideas of a patriot and a soldier. He had an abiding faith in the capability and readiness of our armed forces to save and keep us”.
Tinubu described Lagbaja as a trusted advisor, adding that he was a man of prudent action who cared about the nation and the men who served under him.
“He displayed uncommon valor in the charge of his duty and the administration of the rank and file for he cared about their welfare and that of their families.
“For me, he was a trusted advisor whose formidable intellect and breadth of knowledge served this nation well,” he added.
The emergence of Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, as the National President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has been invalidated by the Court of Appeal.
The ruling of the Appeal Court also affirmed Tajudeen Baruwa as the re-elected NURTW president.
Recalls the Southwest Zone of the NURTW had last week, elected MC Oluomo as the new National President.
The election was conducted during the Quadrennial Delegate Conference held at the union’s Zonal Secretariat in Osogbo, Osun State.
The ally of President Bola Tinubu has since resumed office at the union’s national secretariat in Abuja.
However, Court papers made available by Sahara Reporters on Friday show that the appellate court, in a unanimous judgement delivered on Friday, November 8, affirmed the March 11, 2024 ruling of the National Industrial Court, Abuja, on the re-election of Tajudeen Baruwa as the National President of the NURTW.
The ruling was delivered by the trio of Justice Hamma Akawu Barka, Justice Nnamdi Okwy Dimgba and Justice Asmau Ojuolape Akanbi.
In the Appeal numbered CA/ABJ/CV/293/2024 between Alh. Najeem Usman Yasin, Alh. Tajudeen Badru Agbede, Alh. Aliyu Isa Ore, Kayode Agbeyangi, Alh. Alhasan Haruna 313, Aliyu Tanimu, Alh. Hakeem Adeosun as 1st to 7th Appellants and Tajudeen Ibikunle Baruwa, Bello Adamu, Eugene Eze Job, Danjuma Saidu, Prince Isah Dahiru Uman, Suleiman Adamu, Odion Olaye J.P and Chief Herbert C. Iwuji as the 1st to 8th Respondents, the three Appeal Court judges dismissed the Appellants appeal and awarded a cost of ₦100,000 against them.
The enrolled order of the judgement obtained by the aforementioned platform shows it was signed by Deputy Chief Registrar, Judith M. Jabbe, and read by Justice Hamma Akawu Barka.
The judgement reads, “This is an appeal against the judgment/decision of the National Industrial Court Sitting in Abuja, in Suit No. NICN/ABJ/263/2023 delivered on the 11th March, 2024 by Justice O. O. Oyewumi.
“Upon Reading the Record of Appeal compiled and transmitted before this court together with the respective briefs of argument;
“And After Hearing, O. I. Olorundare, SAN with F.T Sotikare, esq) Jimoh Balogun, Esq O. D. Emole, Esq I. Yunanah Esq) for the Appellants.
“Tolu Babaleye Esq with Adeniyi Adejoke Esq, Maku Oluwatoyin Esq, B. T Ataine Esq for the Respondents; it is hereby ordered that:
“This Appeal is devoid of merit and the same is hereby dismissed.”
Recall as earlier reported by Naija News that Baruwa, who claims the title of National President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), has strongly opposed the inauguration of Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, as the new President of the union.
In a statement issued by his lawyer, Mr. Tolu Babaleye, Baruwa argued that MC Oluomo’s recent inauguration as National President disregards rulings by the National Industrial Court and Court of Appeal, both of which affirmed Baruwa as the union’s legitimate leader.
The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, has dismissed the report making the rounds that it is recruiting, warning potential job seekers against falling victim to scammers.
This is contained in a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide on Friday in Abuja.
Ogungbemide said the clarification became necessary following desperate efforts by alleged fraudsters to scam unsuspecting job seekers.
“The attention of the FRSC has been drawn to a publication by online platforms misinforming the public about ongoing recruitment of personnel into the services of the Corps.
“This medium is to let the public know that the Corps is not recruiting at the moment, nor is there any ongoing arrangement to that effect, “he said.
He quoted the Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, as admonishing applicants seeking to join the services of the Corps, as well as the general public to disregard the fake and misleading publications, adding that recruitment processes in the Corps had always been transparent, credible and made public.
Ogungbemide clarified that such recruitments were usually made public through advertorials and notifications on all available media platforms, including the Corps’ website, social media handles, and the National Traffic Radio.
“The public is by this publication warned to desist from any form of engagement with the purported scammers and purveyors of the misinformation as the Corps will not be liable should anyone fall victim,” he said.
Enoch Adeboye, general overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), says Nigeria’s forex rate would have spiralled out of control but for divine intervention.
The naira currently exchanges for N1,730 to a dollar.
Speaking at the Special Holy Ghost Congress in Abuja, Adeboye said his prayers, alongside those of “his people”, mitigated a free fall of the naira.
The cleric linked the currency’s depreciation to Nigeria’s over-reliance on fuel imports despite being an oil producing nation.
He criticised monies spent on “non-functional refineries”, describing them as a strain on federal coffers and a drain on the economy.
“When you quote me, quote me accurately. We need help — divine help — not human help. If we want restoration, we must first admit something is missing,” Adeboye said.
“Before our president came in, everybody knew that the reason we were having financial problems is the fact that a lot of money was being spent to import petrol.
“How can we be importing petrol when we have this resource in abundance here?
“We spent billions of naira on our refineries, and yet they didn’t work. So, we had to keep on importing fuel,” he added.
Adeboye said the removal of subsidies initially inspired hope but provoked backlash from those profiting from the status quo.
He alleged that the cabal struck back by creating instability — a scenario that worsened the country’s economic woes and accelerated the naira’s depreciation.
“They created problems, and suddenly, the naira began to decline rapidly,” Adeboye added.
“I called on my people to pray, and many joined in. Because the way the naira was declining, if God had not intervened, by now, $1 would be about N10,000.
“But God stepped in, showing us that we need prayers.”
Nigeria has been grappling with its worst economic crisis in decades since Tinubu ended the petrol subsidy regime and floated the nation’s currency in his first weeks on the saddle.
In August, Nigerians took to the streets to protest against hunger and ballooning inflation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for a peaceful and transparent governorship election in Ondo State, emphasizing the need for the process to genuinely reflect the will of the people.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu urged political stakeholders, candidates, and the electorate to uphold peace and civility throughout the electoral process.
He highlighted the importance of fulfilling civic responsibilities without intimidation or fear before, during, or after the election.
The President reminded all candidates that the mandate to govern comes from the people, stressing that this privilege must be respected and safeguarded.
Commitment to Credible Elections
The President’s statement partly read: “President Tinubu anticipates a democratic process in the state that will genuinely reflect the people’s will and power to freely choose their leaders.
“He commends the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its diligent preparations, particularly the timely distribution of sensitive materials across all 18 local government areas in the state.
“The President also acknowledges the deployment of security personnel to maintain law and order and appreciates the assurances from the Inspector-General of Police and the Chief of Defence Staff that their personnel will act professionally, adhering to the provisions of the Electoral Act to ensure a credible process.”
Strengthening Democracy
President Tinubu underscored the importance of a free and fair election in consolidating Nigeria’s 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance. He called on all stakeholders to prioritize the nation’s democratic values and allow the people’s voices to be heard.
“It is in the best interest of all Nigerians to ensure a free and fair election and consolidate our over 25 years of democratic governance,” the statement concluded.
With heightened security measures and INEC’s assurances, all eyes are on Ondo State to deliver an election that will set an example for transparency and respect for the rule of law.
A gas cylinder explosion at a filling station in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State has caused damage to six vehicles, according to the state police command.
The police spokesman in the state, Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, disclosed this in a statement issued in Katsina on Friday.
He explained that on Friday, a loud explosion was heard by police operatives attached to Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters prompting the Divisional Police Officer to lead a team to the scene in collaboration with military personnel.
“Upon arrival, operatives found a truck loaded with gas cylinders engulfed in flames at Tamal filling station, along Kagadama-Magamar Jibia Road.
“The joint team swiftly deployed preventive measures to protect lives and minimise property damage, successfully quenching the fire.
“Six motor vehicles were significantly affected by the fire incident, but fortunately, no life was lost,” he said.
According to him, the state Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Abubakar-Musa, has directed a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion.
Sadiq-Aliyu explained that further developments will be communicated as the investigation proceeds.
NAN
The immediate past Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa has reacted to his arrest and probe.
According to him, he knows the people behind his probe by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Okowa made this known during a solidarity visit by the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, led by Maj.-Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (retd.), the Orodje of Okpe, to his residence in Asaba.
The ex-governor stressed that he is not afraid of the probe.
Recall that the EFCC is probing Okowa, who was a two-term governor, over an alleged diversion of the sum of N1.3 trillion.
The ex-vice presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, during the 2023 general elections, described the allegations made against him as malicious and politically motivated, adding that some individuals were attempting to distort facts to serve their interests.
Okowa, who dismissed the accusations of misappropriating money, stated that he welcomed the agency’s investigation and saw no need to block its efforts.
“In politics, there are many things one must face, but it’s unfortunate when baseless accusations are presented to the media.
“To claim that someone could misappropriate such an amount implies that they would need to take N16 to N20 billion monthly for 96 months.
“This is not just unreasonable; it’s a deliberate attempt to mislead.
“I am not afraid of any investigation and will not stop the EFCC from carrying out its duties. Unlike others who seek court orders to obstruct investigations, I believe in transparency.
“However, the public deserves accurate information, not fabrications by certain individuals,” he asserted.
Okowa stressed that the allegations were purely political, adding that he confidently addressed all questions posed by the EFCC.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike has spoken about joining the the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.
According to him, he's not afraid of joining the ruling party.
Wike made the statement while explaining reasons for not supporting the candidacy of the former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, during the 2023 presidential election.
He said equity and fairness were found wanting in the PDP, which was why he didn’t support Atiku.
According to him, he had no conversation with President Bola Tinubu before the polls on joining the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC.
“Now at my level, I came out in this country, and I said I was not going to support your (Atiku) presidency because you’re not fair; there’s no justice, no equity as far as PDP was concerned.
“I didn’t hide it, I’m not like them, to come out in the day and say a different thing, I come out in the night I say a different thing. No.
“Nigerians know me, I’ll say something I’ll do, and I’ll do. What I will not do, I will not do. I came out and I said I was not going to support this, and I have no regrets about it.
“The President knows. I never spoke with the President any day, and say look, “I’ll go to APC”, I never told anybody that, and nobody should think that I’m afraid that if I want to join APC, I cannot join APC.
“Who’s that person that I’ll be afraid of? Who is that person in PDP?”
The UK Home Office has revealed an increase in the monthly proof-of-funds requirement for student visa applicants, raising the amount to £1,483 (around N3 million), effective from January 2, 2025.
This adjustment aims to address inflation and reflect the rising cost of living in the UK.
In an official document, the Home Office outlined that the maintenance level will increase from the current £1,334 per month for students in London to £1,483.
For those studying outside London, the requirement will rise from £1,023 to £1,136 (around N2.4 million).
New Financial Requirements for Student Visas
Under the updated regulations, international students must demonstrate they have adequate funds to cover their living expenses throughout their stay in the UK.
According to the Home Office, this change aligns the financial requirements for international students with those for domestic students, ensuring all students can sustain themselves independently during their studies.
What is Proof of Funds?
Proof of funds is a document that confirms an individual has sufficient financial resources to meet future obligations or complete a transaction without relying on external borrowing.
For student visa applicants, proof of funds is a mandatory requirement, providing immigration authorities with assurance that students can financially sustain themselves while studying abroad.
Failure to present valid proof of funds can lead to visa rejection, jeopardizing study plans.
Acceptable sources of proof of funds include:
- Personal savings
- Family sponsorship
- Scholarships
- Educational loans
Impact on Nigerian Students
Nigerian students represent a substantial proportion of the UK’s international student population. In the 2022/2023 academic year, 53,790 Nigerian students were enrolled in UK universities, accounting for 6.5% of the international student body.
This placed Nigeria behind only China and India in the ranking of international student populations.
However, the increased proof-of-funds requirement is expected to reduce the number of Nigerian students pursuing education in the UK. With the Naira’s persistent depreciation against the pound, many Nigerian families may find it increasingly challenging to meet tuition fees and living expenses under the new rules.
The adjustment underscores the importance of financial preparedness for prospective international students and the need for targeted support systems to enable access to global education opportunities despite economic challenges.
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Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in Ondo State, Bamidele Akingboye, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to go after politicians who brought money into the state for vote-buying.
Bamidele Akingboye, who raised the alarm while speaking with journalists, called on the EFCC to storm hotels in Ijako area of the state to ensure the alleged vote-buying monies are seized.
The SDP candidate said he decided to play by the rules set by the Independence National Electoral Commission (INEC) and expects other candidates and their parties should obey the rules.
“If the EFCC Chairman did not tell us where the money that they brought into Ondo State, Ghana Must Go ( a bag), that they were carrying everywhere inside.
“We see a lot of money that they are discharging. If they want to do their job, they should go and bust all the hotels in Ijako tonight, they will see a lot of money there. Where did they get those cash from?
“I decided to abide by INEC rules and regulations. If you love me, vote for me. If you don’t love me, if you want to collect money, collect money. But I will not go against INEC regulation, because it is there that if they find you spending money to buy vote is against the law,” Akingboye said.
Speaking on his chances of winning the Saturday governorship election, Akingboye explained that he has been in the race for 24 years because of his desire to liberate his people.
He noted that the Sun in the Sunshine State has not been shining because of bad government. He promised to revive the Ondo‘s economy and deliver the citizens.
“My chances are that I’m the only candidate that Ondo State requires for now, that is one. I’m the only candidate that Ondo State needs. Ondo State is bankrupt already.
“We are just there, down there, and we are supposed to there (up). And I’ve told everybody who cares to know, my 24 years of service in Ondo State, trying to become the governor of Ondo State is not just a joke.
“I’m here to serve my people. I’m here to deliver my people, and I’m here to take Ondo’s sun that is on the floor to shine again,” he added.
The Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has accused politicians, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank of contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economic woes.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, Ndume warned that their actions are pushing the country toward a crisis similar to Venezuela’s.
The senator’s remarks reflect his criticism of external economic policies and domestic political mismanagement, which he believes have combined to worsen the country’s economic challenges.
He emphasized the need for a more self-reliant and locally driven approach to economic reforms, urging leaders to prioritize the interests of Nigerians over external pressures.
He said, “I think so. But you can go ahead, I am here. But let me tell you, this problem that we have in this country is self inflicted. Look at it deeply.
“And you know, the World Bank and the IMF have hands in it. They don’t need to be here for us. My fear is that they are deliberately driving us towards Venezuela. Venezuela has the world largest oil reserve with less population, I think, is about 30 million people. And yet, even now, people are dying.”
Ndume, when told that it wasn’t the IMF that did that, noting that there were internal politics, said, “Now you are saying, you know when we allow ourselves to be managed by somebody that doesn’t know the environment or the condition we are operating, then you are getting it wrong.”
The Nigerian Police Force has identified and detained officers allegedly involved in the extortion of N2.3m from one Nwosu Ndubuisi.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Zone 7 Police Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP M.B. Abdulkadir, on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday.
Abdulkadir added that the N2 3m has been recovered and returned to the victim.
He stated, “Further to the earlier statement issued on the alleged extortion of one Mr. Ndubuisi Nwosu by some officers of Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja, investigation was carried out, the officers allegedly involved in the extortion have been identified and detained, while disciplinary proceedings have commenced against them.
“The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in Charge of Zone 7 Headquarters, Abuja, AIG Benneth C. Igweh, reassures the general public that in line with the transparency and accountability policy of the present Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, the zone will update members of the public on the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings against the defaulters.
“He further affirms that the Zone 7 headquarters remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the rule of law, public safety, security and its mandate of protecting lives and properties.”
The incident came to light after Harrison Gwamnishu, an X user with the handle #HarrisonBbi18, revealed that officers allegedly extorted N2.3m from Ndubuisi.
According to the report, the officers forced Ndubuisi to sell his laptop at Banex Plaza in Abuja to pay for his bail.
Following this revelation, Igweh ordered an investigation into the allegations.
Ondo Decide 2024: I Was Offered ₦100 Million To Collapse My Party Structure – LP Youth Leader Alleges
AFOLABI
The Labour Party (LP) youth leader in Ondo State, Hon. Samuel Boniface, has alleged that certain politicians tried to sway him with a ₦100 million offer to collapse the LP structure into the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the upcoming election.
In an interview with DAILY POST, Boniface claimed he turned down the substantial offer from prominent PDP figures, stating that he was committed to his principles and would not betray his party.
He said: “As the state youth leader of the Labour Party, three weeks ago, some PDP stakeholders contacted me, asking me to collapse the Labour Party structure into their party. They asked me to name any amount from ₦100 million, but I declined because I have a goal. I have my own future. I can’t sell my conscience like that.
“I also told them that I will never betray my followers and my party. When I contested for the House of Reps in 2023, they did the same thing, but I told them that I’d rather lose the election than sell my conscience.
“They are doing everything possible to buy the structure. They are ready to offer any amount. But I strongly believe that if we stand our ground, they won’t succeed. Everyone is tired of both APC and PDP.”
Supporting LP Chairperson Remilekun Ojo, Boniface rejected recent media statements claiming that candidate Olusola Ebiseni had been disqualified by the Appeal Court.
He said, “The reports we are seeing on social media are big lies. It is so disappointing because the court had already struck out the case, and the party settled the matter out of court.”
Boniface revealed that the party plans to take legal action against media outlets that circulated the disqualification rumors.
He said, “We have decided to sue some newspapers that reported our candidate is no longer on the list. If you check the INEC portal, you will see our candidate there, so who removed him?
“With the election just two days away, such reports coming out now are disruptive, so we are suing the paper.
“Why would they claim that our candidate was removed from the race? They don’t have any evidence to support that.”
He further clarified that Festus Olorunfemi, who initially raised concerns, had formally stepped down for Ebiseni and received compensation of ₦5 million from Ebiseni and an additional ₦2 million from the National Chairman, with records and receipts to prove these transactions.
Boniface assured supporters, “I can assure you that everything is very much intact. We are not distracted by this misleading news.”