
FEATURES
To Address Inadequate Housing, Lawmaker Wants Forfeited 753 Duplexes, Apartments Allocated to Military
AFOLABILawmaker representing Tambuwal/Kebbe Federal Constituency of Sokoto State, Rep Abdussamad Dasuki, has called for the allocation of a massive Abuja estate forfeited because it was tied to corruption to the Military to address the housing needs of its personnel.
On December 2, 2024, Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie ordered the final forfeiture of an expansive estate spanning 150,500 square meters and comprising 753 duplexes and other apartments, located on Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja.
The forfeiture of the estate is the largest single asset the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has recovered since it was set up in 2003.
In a statement issued on Wednesday to mark Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Dasuki, who is also the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Shipping Services, said the National Assembly must urgently work with the Executive in ensuring that these forfeited massive estate was allocated to the military to address the housing needs of military personnel.
“Doing so is a moral obligation we owe our heroes in active service”, he said, noting that, “At this time that the 2025 budget is undergoing legislative input is an auspicious time to do so, even if it requires invoking the Doctrine of Necessity.”
He said an amended Appropriation Bill for funding of the completion of the housing units to make them habitable for military personnel could be sent by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly.
While noting that the forfeiture is indeed a milestone in the fight against the hydra-headed problem of corruption, Dasuki said another milestone can be recorded in the use this forfeited estate is put to by the Federal Government.
Dasuki said a major area where the wellbeing of military personnel and their families can be enhanced was in the area of housing. “We must ensure that those who keep us safe and their families have a decent place to lay their heads every night,” he said.
According to him, adequate and decent housing is a critical need of the military, and lack of it often leads to stress, low morale, and physical and emotional strain that could undermine the capacity of the military to carry out its duties effectively.
“We must be eternally grateful to those men and women who laid down their lives to keep us safe, secure and united as an indivisible nation. We must continually honour their ultimate sacrifice not only by paying glowing tributes to their memories, but also by ensuring that the noble cause they died for is not in vain.
“As the nation honours its fallen heroes, we must not fail to cater for the welfare of those in active service. Those who have taken up the noble task to keep our nation safe and secure, and to defend our territorial integrity. While it is of great importance to provide them with the armaments to do so, we must also prioritize their welfare and those of their families.
“By prioritizing the welfare of the Armed Forces and their families, national security will be strengthened, operational readiness and effectiveness of the military will be enhanced, and our commitment to the well-being of those who keep us safe will be indubitable.
“We will also be showing clearly to these gallant men and women that bear arms in our defence that we are indeed grateful for their service to the nation,” the lawmaker said.
He said addressing the housing needs of the military requires a concerted effort from the National Assembly and the Executive through strategic policy formulation, budgetary allocation and legislative reforms.
“But these is an urgent issue, and there is a low hanging fruit that can be plucked to address, significantly, a chunk of this housing needs of our military, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory”, he said.
Dasuki called on the National Assembly to urgently work with the Executive in ensuring that this forfeited massive estate is allocated to the military to address the housing needs of military personnel.
“Doing so is a moral obligation we owe our heroes in active service… We must not allow this opportunity to slip by. It is the right thing to do for those who keep us safe,” he said.
Internet personality, Vincent Otse Martins, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has accused a former Pastor of Dunamis International Christian Center, Abraham Daniel, of attempting to blackmail founder of the Church, Pastor Paul Enenche, for financial gain.
The accusation comes on the heels of Daniel’s recent deten for alleged criminal defamation against Pastor Enenche, who heads the prominent church, reputed to be one of the largest congregations in the world.
Narrating his personal encounter with the ex-pastor who had attempted to use emotional appeal to solicit financial gains from him before going publicly to produce video to defame Enenche, VDM said the ex-pastor has the capacity to go to any length to obtain financial gain.
VDM noted that he met the ex-cleric while trying to seek justice over an allegation relating to the ex-pastor’s daughter but the case was frustrated given the fact that ex-pastor and his divorced wife could not agree.
VDM noted that his experience with the cleric and allegations from the divorced wife confirmed that Pastor Paul Eneche must have gone through a lot in the hand of the ex-cleric.
Daniel, who identifies as an atheist, ignited controversy on social media by claiming that Pastor Enenche fakes miracles and orchestrates staged religious events at his church.
Daniel’s allegations, however, have been allegedly made without any substantiated evidence, leading many to question their validity and prompting a wave of backlash that culminated in Daniel facing legal repercussions.
VDM took to his social media platforms to share his troubling experiences with Daniel, highlighting revelations that suggested the ex-pastor may have ulterior motives in his attacks against Enenche and the Dunamis Church.
According to VDM in a virap video, evidence in the form of private messages illustrated that Daniel has a history of manipulation and financial exploitation. He also alleged that Daniel has a tumultuous personal life, including abandoning his family and reportedly assaulting his wife and children.
VDM’s exposé casts doubt on Daniel’s motives, suggesting that his attack on Pastor Enenche may stem from personal grievances rather than genuine concerns.
As of now, Daniel’s lack of evidence to support his claims has left many observers skeptical and concerned about the implications of his accusations in the ongoing discourse surrounding faith and accountability within religious institutions.
As the situation unfolds, many are left wondering about the broader impact of these allegations, not only on Pastor Enenche’s reputation but also on the credibility of public figures who voice dissent against religious leaders
AS Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State presented the staff of office to the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, on Monday, tongues are still wagging why the selection process was so controversial and unnecessarily prolonged.
Though the same scenario played out in 1970 when Prince Lamidi Adeyemi, the successor to Alaafin Gbadegesin Ladigbolu 11 was announced by the defunct Western Region, no one in his wildest imagination thought the road to one of the foremost traditional stools, could be so chaotic, rough and bumpy.
The Alaafin stool was vacant for almost three years after Oba Lamidi Adeyemi joined his ancestors.
The new Alaafin will understand, more than anyone else, that indeed, uneasy lies the head that wears the crown.
Presentation of Instruments of office
Immediately after the approval of the new Alaafin last Friday, the Oyo State Government moved swiftly to present the instrument of office to the new monarch.
The presentation, which took place at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan, was not given much publicity.
Alaafin stool not for sale —Gov Makinde
Apparently alluding to allegations that money exchanged hands among the kingmakers, who did the initial nomination of Prince Gbadegesin and presented same to him, he vowed that he would not sit by and watch the stool of Alaafin commercialized.
The governor went further to say that he would ensure that anyone found culpable of collecting money in the selection process would be prosecuted.
Oyo Mesi will be prosecuted — Makinde
The governor gave the estranged kingmakers an option if they don’t want to be prosecuted.
“Let me also say briefly that those that are still hell-bent on destabilising the traditional institution in Oyo, the government is not letting down. We will prosecute them. The money they collected; they will still be prosecuted except they go to Kabiyesi. If he forgives them, I will also forgive them,” the governor maintained.
“The Alaafin stool is very important not just to Oyo Town or Oyo State but the entire Yoruba race. So, under my watch, I made it very clear that the stool would not be for sale. It is not a stool for us to toy with.
“From today, we have an Alaafin. I congratulate the Alaafin of Oyoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade. I pray that your reign shall bring unity to Yoruba race wherever they may be around the world,” Governor Makinde said.
I met new Alaafin first time on Sunday— Gov Makinde
To further prove that he was very transparent in the whole affair, he explained that he was meeting him (Alaafin) for the first time.
“I met Prince Owoade for the first time in my life yesterday. I never spoke to him in my entire life until yesterday. I did not know his profile or the profile of any of the princes vying for the stool and it was deliberate because I did not want my opinion to influence the process.
“Let me say this clearly; when we came in 2019, we had challenges with the traditional institution in Ibadanland and it has been resolved to everybody’s satisfaction.
“When it was time for us to approve the selection of Okere, some people came to me and said: ‘This is our friend’. They said one person is APC and I said it does not mean anything to me whether you are PDP or APC. Why should my decision be based on political considerations? So, I approved the selection of the Saki kingmakers.
“I always tell people not to kill themselves over politicians, because we see ourselves in the night. We go to each other’s houses. Politics, electioneering is a game. It’s only when you have been elected, then governance becomes a serious business because you will make decisions that will affect millions of people. So, we will not play politics with governance.
“The Alaafin stool became vacant in 2022. We were moving towards the election and people said, you have to approve the appointment of Alaafin, otherwise, Oyo people would not vote for you. I said the people should not vote for me but that I would do what was right and Oyo voted for me massively. Oyo will continue to support me. The coronation would be in four weeks”
I will work for progress of Oyo Town, Nigeria .. Alaafin
While responding after the presentation of the staff of office, the new monarch promised to work relentlessly for the progress of the ancient city.
Process to select new Alaafin tantamount to subjudice —Kingmakers
Meanwhile, some members of Oyo Mesi, who are kingmakers, have distanced themselves from the appointment of the new Alaafin.
Through their counsel, Adekunle Sobaloju, SAN, the kingmakers distanced themselves from the appointment.
Those who opposed the move by the governor are High Chief Yusuf Akínade, Bashorun of Oyo; High Chief Wakeel Akindele, Lagunna of Oyo; High Chief Hamzat Yusuf, Akinniku of Oyo; Chíef Wahab Oyetunji, warrant chief and stand-in for Asipa of Oyo, and Chief Gbadebo Mufutau, warrant chief stand-in for Alapinní of Oyo.
The kingmakers in a letter signed by their legal representative, Adekunle Sobaloju, SAN said: “We have just been reliably ínformed by our clients that you have just through the Oyo State Commissíoner for Chieftaincy Affairs and Chairmen of Atiba and Oyo East Local Government appointed (i) Chief Odurinde Olusegun Alajagba of Ajagba) (ii) Chief Ganiyu Ajiboye (Alago-Oja of Ago Oja) as warrant kíngmakers to join High Chief Asimiyu Atanda (Agbaakin of Oyo) and High Chief Lamidi Oyewale (Samu of Oyo) to kick-start the process of selecting another candidate to fill the vacant stool of Alaafin of Oyo.
“Proceeding to commence a fresh process for the filling of the vacant stool of Alaafin of Oyo would be subjudice and tantamount to lawlessness and disregard of the superior courts of record an act which your Excellency ought to distance yourself from.
“We, therefore, once more request and urge your Excellency to suspend any plan to kick-start fresh process for the filling of the vacant stool of Alaafin of Oyo during the pendency of a motion for injunction pending appeal in obedience to law and integrity of our courts.”
How selection process turned controversial
After the death of Oba Adeyemi on April 22, 2022, about 198 contenders signified their interest to assume the revered throne.
But, the number was pruned from 65 to 10 by the Oyo Mesi, a council of kingmakers after a rigorous interview and consultation with Ifa Oracle.
After the nomination of Prince Gbadegesin by the estranged kingmakers, there was a row among the kingmakers over the sum of money allegedly offered them.
Vanguard gathered that it was the sharing formula that sowed the seed of discord. It was alleged that two of the kingmakers felt the larger portion of the cake was taken by one of them.
Inundated with complaints and alleged ‘greased palms’, the governor restrained himself from giving approval to the name forwarded to him by the kingmakers.
The governor insisted that due process must be strictly adhered to.
The governor, as reliably gathered instructed the kingmakers to go back to the drawing board by re-consulting Ifa Oracle which the kingmakers rejected.
Ifa Oracle consulted outside Oyo
In what could be termed an unprecedented move, the state government reportedly sought the services of Professor Wande Abimbola, the former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ife and the head of all Ifa oracle diviners to ask Ifa Oracle which of the aspirants he preferred.
Ifa picked Prince Owoade — Prof Abimbola
In a viral video last weekend, Prof Abimbola was heard saying that the Oyo State government contacted him on the divination process.
According to the Ifa diviner, the Oyo State Governor called him to ask Ifa who the right choice would be.
The Professor of Yoruba explained the rigour he went through before picking the new Alaafin.
He said: ”I spent ten days seeking the face of Ifá oracle and Ifá made its choice. Ifá chose Prince Owoade.”
The Ifa representative also alleged that the Oyo kingmakers tried to persuade him to stick to their initial nomination to which he said no.
The matter is in court— Head of Oyo Mesi
When Vanguard called the Head of Oyo Mesi, who is also the Bashorun of Oyo, Chief Yussuf Ayoola, he said he wouldn’t want to comment, the ball is in the governor’s court.
“I don’t want to say anything about it since the matter is in court. The Law is much more powerful than the person who made it. We shall be waiting for the court decision”, he said.
When asked if the ancient town had experienced a delay of this nature before in enthroning a new Alaafin, he answered in affirmative saying “Yes, it has happened before but I can’t remember the time. But, there is a difference between the delay that happened in the past and the delay being experienced now. Then, it was the people of Oyo that caused the delay but now it is the government that is responsible.”
We’re not happy about the delay — Afonja, head of princes
When Vanguard called the head of all princes in Oyo, Chief Afonja, he simply said the matter was now with the kingmakers.
Afonja said: “We are not happy too that it is taking this long. If you have the number of Oyo Mesi, call them and help us appeal to them to do the needful.
“We had a meeting on the issue last week Saturday. We said at the meeting that we don’t like how the selection process is foot dragging. The Oyo people are not happy that a new Alaafin of Oyo has not emerged.”
Prolonged delay is very disturbing —Residents
One of the indigenes of Oyo town, Mr Jayeola(other name withheld) told Vanguard that the selection process will “continue to drag until the state government hands off on the emergence of the new Alaafin. All that it is required to do is just to give approval. But, when the government is saying there’s a petition against the nominated candidate by the Oyo Mesi, it speaks volumes.”
“I think the state government should just give approval to whoever is presented to it and anyone who is aggrieved should go to court. Almost three years now, there’s nobody sitting on the Alaafin stool. This is not good. The people of Oyo have spoken through the Oyo Mesi; let the state government stop stalling the process.”
Another source said: “If I’m asked to say anything about the Alaafin stool, I will say it’s becoming evident who is preventing the installation of our new king.”
Following the establishment of the Police Anti-money Laundering Units to checkmate terrorism Financing, operatives have arrested two suspects involved in counterfeit currencies in Kano and Nasarawa states with a total sum of over N129.54 million in Kano and $160,000 in Nasarawa State.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi made this known while disclosing the establishment of the Police Anti-Money Laundering Units of the Nigeria Police Force, and appointing, a renowned financial expert, CP Hyacinth Azuka Edozie with officers of the rank of Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) to lead the units in all State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs) across the country.
The Force PRO said, “On December 8, 2024, at Gwale, Kano, operatives, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended Nura Ibrahim and discovered counterfeit currency, which included the sum of N129,542,823,000 in counterfeit currencies.
“A, breakdown showed 3,366,000 in Counterfeit US Dollars, 51,970 in Counterfeit CFA francs, and 1,443,000 in counterfeit Naira.
“Similarly, on January 13, 2025, the Force arrested 53-year-old Ephraim Barde in New Karu, Nasarawa State, with counterfeit U.S. dollar notes totalling $160,000.
He explained the initiative by IGP Egbetokun to establish terrorism Financing units, “is a strategic move to strengthen the Police’s role in national security, specifically in combating financial crimes.
‘It is also critical in countering the sophisticated methods used by terrorist organizations and other criminal entities to finance their activities.
“The establishment underscores the Force’s commitment to safeguarding national security by preventing and detecting illicit financial activities that could undermine the country’s stability.
“It also enhances the operational capacity of law enforcement agencies, especially the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) in furtherance of its global oversight functions, to address various security threats.
“As a testament to the zeal to curb financial crimes and boost national security, the Police recently made significant arrests in Kano and Nasarawa States.
“On December 8, 2024, at Gwale, Kano, operatives, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended Nura Ibrahim and discovered counterfeit currency, which included the sum of N129,542,823,000 in counterfeit currencies, with a breakdown of 3,366,000 in Counterfeit US Dollars, 51,970 in Counterfeit CFA franc, and 1,443,000 in counterfeit Naira.
“The arrest led to further arrests of accomplices Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi.
“Similarly, on January 13, 2025, the Force arrested 53-year-old Ephraim Barde in New Karu, Nasarawa State, with counterfeit U.S. dollar notes totalling $160,000.
“Following the arrest, further investigations are underway to determine the full scope of Barde’s involvement and identify any accomplices.
“The Police are committed to preventing further threats to the nation’s financial system.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its efforts to combat financial crimes and ensure a secure economic environment to promote national security for the safety of all Nigerians and residents.
“The establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Units is a vital step in this mission.
“The IGP calls on all citizens to play an active role in national security by reporting suspicious activities related to counterfeit currency and financial crimes.”
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, met with the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Sharing details of the meeting, President Tinubu described the bilateral meeting as crucial to strengthening and expanding the relationship between Nigeria and the UAE.
According to the Nigerian leader, the discussions between the two leaders focused on key areas of mutual interest and exploring opportunities to deepen economic ties, and foster innovation.
Naija News reports Tinubu, who shared the details of the discussion on his X account, expressed confidence that the relationship between Nigeria and UAE will flourish and benefit the two nations.
“This evening, I joined His Highness, the President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for a crucial bilateral meeting to strengthen and expand the growing relationship between Nigeria and the UAE.
“Our discussions focused on key areas of mutual interest and exploring opportunities to deepen our economic ties, foster innovation, and enhance collaborative efforts that will benefit Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates.
“The UAE has proven to be a vital partner for Nigeria, and this bilateral meeting highlights our shared commitment to advancing strategic partnerships that promote sustainable development, trade and investments, regional stability, and prosperity for all.
“The Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) was an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to global sustainability efforts, and I extend my congratulations on the remarkable success of this year’s ADSW and Zayed Sustainability Prize.
“We will keep building the groundwork for a future marked by cooperation, mutual respect, and shared progress between Nigeria and the UAE. I am confident that this relationship will continue to flourish, benefiting our nations and the global community,” the Nigerian leader shared.
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has inaugurated the Police Anti-Money Laundering Units within the Nigeria Police Force.
Naija News understands that this strategic move includes the appointment of a seasoned financial expert, CP Hyacinth Azuka Edozie, alongside Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) to oversee operations in all State Criminal Investigation Departments (SCIDs) across the nation.
According to a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Wednesday, 15th January 2025, the initiative aims to fortify the Police’s capacity in safeguarding national security, particularly in tackling financial crimes.
The units will play a pivotal role in dismantling the complex mechanisms employed by terrorist organizations and other criminal entities to fund their operations.
This development reaffirms the Force’s dedication to combating illicit financial activities that threaten Nigeria’s stability.
It also aligns with efforts to enhance collaboration with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), further empowering the country to address global and domestic security challenges effectively.
The Police have already demonstrated their commitment through recent operations in Kano and Nasarawa States. On December 8, 2024, in Gwale, Kano State, officers acting on credible intelligence apprehended Nura Ibrahim with counterfeit currency amounting to ₦129,542,823,000.
The seizure included ₦1,443,000 in counterfeit Naira, $3,366,000 in fake U.S. dollars, and CFA 51,970 in counterfeit CFA franc. This breakthrough led to the arrest of two accomplices, Muhammed Muntari and Usman Abdullahi.
In another operation on January 13, 2025, the Police arrested 53-year-old Ephraim Barde in New Karu, Nasarawa State, with $160,000 in counterfeit U.S. dollar notes. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of Barde’s activities and identify his associates.
The establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Units underscores the Nigeria Police Force’s determination to protect the nation’s financial system and promote a secure economic environment.
These efforts are critical for ensuring national security and safeguarding the welfare of all Nigerians and residents.
The Inspector-General urged citizens to actively participate in combating financial crimes by reporting any suspicious activities involving counterfeit currency or related offenses.
A 27-year-old Nigerian woman, Patricia Masithela, tragically lost her life after being mauled by a pack of starving dogs in Latina, Italy.
The incident occurred late Monday night while Patricia was visiting a male acquaintance at his abandoned villa in the Lazio region, according to Mirror UK.
Her screams filled the night, alerting neighbours to the savage attack.
Patricia, who had recently moved to Lazio from Nigeria, reportedly visited the house unaware that her friend was not at home.
She was discovered critically injured, lying in a pool of blood with deep wounds across her body after the attack.
The police, however, intervened, “shooting two of the dogs to allow emergency responders to access the scene, while the rest of the pack fled after the gunfire.”
Emergency medics provided immediate treatment and rushed Patricia to Santa Maria Goretti Hospital, but despite their efforts, she succumbed to her severe injuries and blood loss.
She succumbed to severe bite wounds and excessive blood loss, despite their efforts to save her.
Patricia, a devoted mother to a five-year-old daughter, has left her family and friends in unimaginable grief, Mirror UK reports.
It was gathered that investigations into the incident are ongoing as local authorities work to determine how the reportedly starving dogs came to be in the area.
The incident has, however, sparked discussions about stray animals and public safety, with residents calling for stricter measures to prevent such devastating incidents.
The Organised Private Sector has expressed worry over the continued hike in the inflation rate in Nigeria, stressing that this will further raise the cost of production, raw materials, logistics, and machinery, among others.
On Wednesday the National Bureau of Statistics reported that Nigeria’s inflation rate rose to 34.80 per cent in December 2024, reflecting a slight increase from the 34.60 per cent recorded in November.
According to the latest Consumer Price Index report, the marginal rise of 0.20 per cent was attributed to heightened demand for goods and services during the festive season.
On a year-on-year basis, the December inflation rate marked a significant increase of 5.87 percentage points compared to 28.92 per cent in December 2023.
This highlights a continued upward trajectory in consumer prices, driven by economic challenges such as currency depreciation, high energy costs, and persistent supply chain disruptions.
According to the NBS report, the average inflation rate for the 12 months ending December 2024 stood at 33.24 per cent, up from 24.66 per cent recorded during the same period in 2023.
The report read, “In December 2024, the headline inflation rate was 34.80 per cent relative to the November 2024 headline inflation rate of 34.60 per cent.
“Looking at the movement, the December 2024 headline inflation rate showed a marginal increase of 0.20 per cent compared to the November 2024 Headline inflation rate. This was due to December festive period increases in demand for goods and services.
“On a year-on-year basis, the headline inflation rate was 5.87 per cent higher than the rate recorded in December 2023 (28.92 per cent). This shows that the headline inflation rate (year-on-year basis) increased in December 2024 compared to the same month in the preceding year (i.e., December 2023).”
The rise reflects sustained pressures on the cost of living throughout the year, affecting both urban and rural areas.
The report highlighted that food and non-alcoholic beverages accounted for the largest share of the inflationary pressure, contributing 18.02 per cent to the overall figure.
Other key contributors included housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels, which added 5.82 per cent, and transport, which contributed 2.26 per cent.
Smaller contributions were noted from sectors such as health and communication, which accounted for 1.05 per cent and 0.24 per cent, respectively.
Urban inflation was higher than rural inflation during the period under review.
The urban inflation rate for December 2024 stood at 37.29 per cent on a year-on-year basis, representing a rise of 6.30 percentage points from 31.00 per cent recorded in December 2023.
On a month-on-month basis, urban inflation dropped slightly to 2.56 per cent from 2.77 per cent in November.
Rural inflation, on the other hand, rose to 32.47 per cent year-on-year, 5.37 percentage points higher than the 27.10 per cent recorded in December 2023.
However, the month-on-month rural inflation rate also experienced a marginal decline, dropping to 2.32 per cent from November’s 2.51 per cent.
The report further revealed that food inflation continued to surge, reaching 39.84 per cent on a year-on-year basis in December 2024, compared to 33.93 per cent in December 2023.
The rise was attributed to increases in the prices of staples such as yams, rice, maize, and dried fish.
Despite this, food inflation on a month-on-month basis eased slightly to 2.66 per cent from 2.98 per cent in November, driven by price reductions in items like local beer, soft drinks, and tubers.
Core inflation, which excludes volatile agricultural produce and energy, stood at 29.28 per cent year-on-year in December, up from 23.06 per cent in December 2023.
The NBS noted that the sharpest price increases were observed in transport fares, meals at local restaurants, and personal grooming services.
OPS reacts
The National Vice President of the Nigerian Association of Small-Scale Industrialists, Segun Kuti-George, said the continuous upward trend in the inflation rate means that the cost of production would be going higher.
He said, “The cost of raw materials, logistics, machinery, and other important inputs of manufacturing will be going up. This means that the prices at which such products will be sold will become higher. People’s ability to pay for those goods, especially the locally manufactured ones, will be reduced, leading to higher inventory. And it’s a vicious cycle.
“The danger there also is that if the cost of imported goods is cheaper than those that are made locally, people will tend to buy the imported products. And that may mean more business closures. It is, however, ironic.”
“Let me observe that despite the continuous hike in interest rates, which is supposed to fight inflation, inflation still keeps going up. What that means is that the Nigerian economy is defying economic theories.”
On his part, the National President of the Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria, Dr Femi Egbesola, said the rising inflation has negatively impacted the private sector and the economy as a whole.
He said, “This is because inflation has led to a loss of consumers purchasing power, increased production costs, and a reduction in profitability. Inflation has made our businesses less attractive for investors and by extension, the economy.
“It has also led to reduced exports as it has made our exports less competitive in the international market. On the economy, it has reduced our economic growth, Increased unemployment, and led to a fall in our national income, ultimately leading to increased poverty.
“Rising Inflation has eroded the value of our savings and investment in the private sector and the economy. It has significantly increased the cost of governance.”
The Director-General of the Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Olusola Obadimu, said the hike in inflation in December will be difficult to contain, especially given the cost-push inflation type.
“It will be difficult to contain inflation given the present realities as what we’re experiencing arises from cost-push effects,” Obadimu stated.
He observed Nigeria’s inflation continued to rise despite the Central Bank of Nigeria’s repeated monetary policy rate hike, explaining it was never going to effectively cushion inflationary pressures.
The NACCIMA DG submitted, “Continual increment in MPR rates wouldn’t work in this situation. It can only work in a demand-pull inflation environment where prices are going up as a result of excess demand over supply and you then increase rates to tame consumption. That is not our case here.”
Obadimu explained inflation thrives with any cost input actions in the economy, using the manufacturing sector – which has repeatedly lamented bearing the brunt of inflation – as an example.
He stressed, “For Manufacturers, ex-factory prices are rising as a result of rising costs of inputs/ factors of production. Interestingly, capital accessible through loans is also an input cost. “So, an increase in interest rates for accessible capital will automatically further propel rising costs of products and services.”
NACCIMA urged inflation-lowering policy directions to focus on addressing input costs so prices would come down.
He explained the steps to achieve such input cost reduction, including increasing local business competitiveness and imbibing fiscal discipline, especially in the public sector.
“We need to make our businesses competitive, particularly in our quest to drive exports of value-added non-oil products and services,” the NACCIMA DG declared. “We need to also control our consumption taste for foreign goods and exhibit greater fiscal discipline, particularly as it concerns the cost of governance.”
He also encouraged paying more attention to infrastructure to ensure increased ease of doing business and fostering an environment that encourages startup ideas and business growth.
“That’s where more employment will come from and that’s where more tax revenue will come from,” Obadimu added
The Director of the Centre for Promotion of Private Enterprise, Dr Muda Yusuf noted that while the increase in December headline inflation was marginal at 0.2 per cent compared to November’s figures, the inflationary trend is still troubling.
However, Yusuf observed the inflation outlook for 2025 promises tends to be positive due to “Sustained moderation in exchange rate volatility, improvements in foreign reserves, the prospects of easing geopolitical tensions with the inception of a (second Donald) Trump presidency (of the USA) in a few days and a strong base effect, given the high inflationary pressures experienced in 2024.”
The CPPE recommended pausing further monetary policy rate hikes, reducing public sector debt, and fixation on revenue generation of ministries, departments, and agencies, to ensure a further moderation in inflationary pressures.
The CPPE director advised, “Pause on monetary policy tightening and interest rate hikes by the CBN to reduce business operating costs and reduce fiscal risks to macroeconomic stability through a reduction in fiscal deficit and deceleration in growth of public debt.
“Excessive pressure on MDAs to boost revenue and increase Internally Generated Revenue has profound inflationary implications.”
Yusuf further denounced what he described as “arbitrary revenue targets for MDAs,” explaining that the “reality is that such pressures are invariably transmitted to investors in the form of higher fees, levies, penalties, import duties, regulatory charges etc (whose) outcomes are in conflict with government aspirations to boost investment, curb inflation and create jobs.”
Rather, Yusuf suggested, the government’s revenue targets should be based on empirical studies, the absorptive capacity of the economy and due consideration of the wider economic implications.
“Obsession with revenue would hurt investments, worsen inflationary pressures, aggravate poverty and impede economic growth. There should be a careful balance act between revenue growth aspirations, desire to boost investment and commitment to moderate inflation,” the economist maintained.
How Can You Come Here Without Bra? – Nollywood Actress, Ngozi Ezeonu Blasts Upcoming Actresses
AFOLABIVeteran Nollywood actress, Ngozi Ezeonu, has slammed two upcoming actresses over their choice of outfit for an audition.
The movie star was one of the judges sitting at the audition table when two ladies wearing crop tops and leggings came for the audition.
Ngozi berated the ladies for not wearing bras and the kind of crop top they were wearing.
The thespian added that any day she oversees an audition and any lady shows up dressed like the ladies before her, she would disqualify the person.
Media
Ghana’s newly elected President, John Mahama, has announced plans to probe the $400 million National Cathedral project initiated by his predecessor, Nana Akufo-Addo, describing it as a contentious symbol of fiscal mismanagement.
The ambitious religious landmark, which has been stalled for years, became a major point of criticism during the last election.
Mahama’s National Democratic Congress (NDC) secured a decisive victory in December, as voters punished Akufo-Addo and his New Patriotic Party (NPP) for economic hardship and skyrocketing living costs.
Originally conceived by Akufo-Addo as a tribute to God following his 2016 electoral win, the cathedral was presented as a privately funded venture.
However, revelations that $58 million in public funds were spent on the project, coupled with allegations of financial irregularities, sparked widespread outrage.
In late 2024, Ghana’s Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) recommended an audit into the project, highlighting procurement violations.
According to AFP, President Mahama confirmed at a recent thanksgiving service that his administration would soon launch an investigation.
While not ruling out completing the project, he stressed that any future decisions would emphasize accountability and align with the nation’s priorities.
The cathedral, envisioned to occupy a 23,000-square-metre site in Accra, was designed to include a 5,000-seat auditorium, chapels, a baptistery, a choir school, an art gallery, and versatile spaces.
Yet, three years after construction halted, the site remains an empty pit. Many critics believe the project contributed significantly to Akufo-Addo’s electoral defeat.
“This cathedral represents everything wrong with governance – opaque processes, lack of accountability, and misplaced priorities.
“Investigating this project isn’t just about the money; it’s about restoring public trust in government,” said a campaigner with Crusaders Against Corruption, Emmanuel Wilson Jnr.
The project’s suspension coincides with Ghana’s economic struggles, marked by soaring inflation, unsustainable debt levels, and dependence on a $3 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout to stabilize the economy.
Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson recently informed Parliament that government funding for the cathedral had been halted as part of broader austerity measures.
“The government cannot justify pouring scarce resources into an unfinished project when Ghanaians are struggling to afford basic necessities,” Forson stated.
With contractors abandoning the site due to unpaid bills and at least five board trustees resigning, public confidence in the project has dwindled further.
More...
‘Our House Got Burnt’ – Nollywood Actor, Chidi Mokeme Shares Devastating Fire Incident At His Home In US
AFOLABIVeteran Nollywood actor, Chidi Mokeme, has recounted the experience of a fire incident at his home in the United States of America five years ago.
Naija News reports that the thespian made this known while commiserating with the ongoing Los Angeles wildfire victims.
Chidi said such trauma stays with people forever after coming in contact with fire in its full glory.
He thanked firefighters for their relentless support and prayed for the safety of those still struggling.
He wrote, “OUR HOUSE GOT BURNT ? Coming face to face with fire in its full glory is one of the scariest and most terrifying experiences anyone can ever have. The trauma stays with you forever.
“Exactly 5 years ago, on this day, at this exact time, what started like an ordinary day with bright sunshine and a beautiful weather, quickly became a nightmare. And the eventual loss of everything. The whole world is in agreement that fire is the most destructive force of nature. And that’s why most are afraid to die. The fear of hell.
“Even the Almighty God gives us a clue into this, by choosing, when angered, to use water to destroy the world, but he saved the FIRE for the END. Isn’t fire the main character in hell? So I can only imagine how it must feel, what it must feel like, to be one of the victims of the devastating destruction currently occurring in Los Angeles.
“My heart goes out to everyone out there. Please say a prayer for them. May the souls of the departed rest in peace ?️?
“I say a big thank you to the men and women of the fire service. The fire fighters who put their lives on the line to save ours. The ones who run towards the danger, and run into the scorching flames when everyone else is running in the opposite direction. The ones who, even though might have their own homes and families going through the same thing, are sworn to sacrifice themselves for the good of others. We know that you are giving 1000% of yourselves to contain the fires. We encourage you. Stay strong. Y’all are the real heroes. We salute you ?. God Bless you.”
Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele on Wednesday escaped being attacked when her convoy ran into the procession of students of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY) who were protesting the school fees hike by management of the institution in Abeokuta, the state capital.
Salako-Oyedele’s convoy, which was on its way to 35 Artillery Brigade Alamala, Abeokuta to represent Governor Dapo Abiodun at the reception marking the year 2025 edition of the Armed Forces Remembrance day celebrations ran into the protesting students at the Oke-Ilewo axis of Abeokuta metropolis, close to the State Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
Armed with placards bearing different instructions, the protesting MAPOLY students had trooped to the streets of Abeokuta chanting different “aluta” choruses that decrying the school management’s policy that led to hike in school fees by 150 percent.
The students were also protesting non-release of their Higher National Diploma (HND) final year results, which they claimed denied them from being mobilised for the one year compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) service.
The protest, which entered its 3rd day however, brought vehicular movement to a total halt at the Iwe Irohin axis as students shunned the plea from the Police led by the Metro Area Commander, Zone II.
On sighting the protesting MAPOLY students however, the deputy governor’s convoy hurriedly made a detour to avoid being caught up by the protesters who were advancing towards her convoy from the opposite direction.
Notwithstanding, the protesting students still caught up with Salako-Oyedele’s convoy, compelling her security details to fire several shots into the air to enable them escape with their principal from danger.
Reacting to the shooting, the Special Adviser to Governor Abiodun on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade said the irate MAPOLY students were armed with sticks and other dangerous objects during the protest.
“All efforts to allow the convoy pass proved abortive as immediately the students realised it was the Deputy Governor, they became even more restive and rushed to attack her convoy with the aim of demobilising it, despite her security operatives as well as other police officers on grounds persuading them to stay calm and allow the convoy to pass.
“This informed her convoy’s decision to make an immediate detour to her lodge for the protesting students to pass peacefully before she left for the function she was slated to attend.
“Noteworthy is that there was obstruction of vehicular movement, while some of her security vehicles were damaged and her security operatives were also hurt in the process of maintaining law and order contrary to the news making rounds in the press,” Akinmade said.
But in his reaction, chairman of the National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) in the state, Comrade Adeyanju Francis said there was no confrontational attack on the deputy governor’s convoy.
Adeyanju explained that the students assembled themselves when they saw the convoy of the Deputy Governor, thinking that she was coming to address them on the matter.
He also disclosed that there were six Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), including a deputy commissioner of police in charge of operations present with the students during the peaceful protest.
The House of Representatives has announced the passing of its Deputy Chief Whip, Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, who represented the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State in the House.
She passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, following a brief illness.
The announcement was made by the House Spokesperson, Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr., who described Onanuga’s demise as a profound loss to the National Assembly and the nation at large.
“It is with profound sorrow that the House of Representatives announces the passing of Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, who, until her demise, served as the Deputy Chief Whip of the House, representing the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State. She passed away earlier today, January 15, 2025, after a brief illness,” Rotimi said.
Born on December 2, 1965, Rep. Onanuga was a dedicated public servant and a passionate advocate for her constituents. She first joined the House in 2019 after being elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). During the 9th Assembly, she served as the Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, where she championed policies to empower women and promote social welfare.
Re-elected in 2023, she assumed the role of Deputy Chief Whip in the 10th Assembly. According to Rotimi, she demonstrated exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to legislative discipline, particularly during parliamentary sittings.
Fondly referred to as ‘Ijaya’, Rep. Onanuga, 59, was admired for her intellect, humility, and dedication to excellence. “Her impactful contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape reflected her passion for creating a better society and her tireless dedication to public service,” Rotimi said.
The House extended its condolences to her family, friends, associates, the Government and People of Ogun State – particularly her constituents in the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency – and the entire National Assembly.
“As we mourn the loss of this vibrant and committed lawmaker, whose life was devoted to improving the lives of Nigerians – especially her constituents – her legacy of service and dedication will continue to inspire future generations,” Rotimi added.
“Funeral arrangements will be announced by her family in due course. May her soul rest in perfect peace, and may her legacy continue to inspire generations to come”, the statement concluded.
The Magistrate’s Court No. 70 in Kano State has remanded four persons in prison custody for conspiracy to commit theft.
The accused, Nuhu Auwalu, Yakubu Bala, Emmanuel Luka, and Safianu Abdullahi, allegedly stole 80 aircraft brake units from Azman Airlines at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) in Kano.
According to the charge sheet, the security guard of Azman Airlines conspired with the accused to commit the theft, which was reported by Otaru Bashir, an employee of the airline, on December 11, 2024. The accused, however, denied any the allegations.
During the court session, it was revealed that three brake units were found in Yakubu Bala’s possession during the investigation.
The court, presided over by Justice Faruk Ibrahim Umar, remanded the accused persons in a correctional facility and scheduled the next hearing for February 11, 2025.