US Detains Ghana’s Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta on Corruption and Immigration Charges

The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained Ken Ofori-Atta, Ghana’s former finance minister, at a Virginia facility amid ongoing corruption allegations in his home country. Ofori-Atta, who served under former President Nana Akufo-Addo and oversaw controversial tax reforms and IMF negotiations, was declared a fugitive in February 2025 and formally charged in November 2025.

His detention follows a medical stay in the United States for prostate cancer treatment, raising questions about his immigration status while seeking to extend his stay. ICE took him into custody primarily over immigration issues, although Ghanaian authorities seek his extradition in connection with corruption charges.

The news has triggered mixed reactions from the public, with some calling for swift extradition to Ghana, while others highlight the role of ICE in managing overstayed visas and fugitive cases in the US. This high-profile detention underscores the intersection of international law, medical exemptions, and accountability for former public officials.

#KenOforiAtta #USICE #GhanaPolitics #Corruption #ExtraditionNews #InternationalLaw

Rivers APC Rejects Impeachment of Governor Fubara Amid Political Crisis and PDP Pressure

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has formally rejected ongoing impeachment moves against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Ngozi Oduh, warning that such action could destabilize the state and tarnish the party’s image. The impeachment effort, reportedly signed by 26 lawmakers, alleges gross misconduct by the state executive.

In a statement, the Rivers APC acknowledged the legislature’s constitutional independence but stressed that it cannot support removing a governor elected on its platform. The party linked the impeachment threat to internal disputes within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and cautioned against external pressures influencing APC lawmakers.

The APC also addressed claims that the move was related to budgetary issues, highlighting that the ₦1.485 trillion budget for 2025–2026 had been approved and that the governor has constitutional leeway in its execution. The party urged lawmakers to discontinue the impeachment process to preserve governance, democracy, and political stability in Rivers State.

The political tension follows a lingering rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, which continues to polarize the state’s political landscape. APC officials have emphasized that leadership positions are tied to current officeholders, underscoring the party’s commitment to defending its elected executives and maintaining internal cohesion.

This development adds to the ongoing narrative of political turbulence in Nigerian states, highlighting party loyalty, legislative tensions, and the complexities of state governance under partisan pressures.

Delta Police Accused of Extortion and Harassment After SaharaReporters Exposé on New Year’s Eve Arrests

The Delta State Police Command is under scrutiny for alleged harassment, intimidation, and extortion following a SaharaReporters report exposing arbitrary arrests on New Year’s Eve in Asaba. Sources revealed that police operatives arrested over 40 individuals, including churchgoers attending crossover night services, allegedly demanding ₦150,000 to ₦200,000 for bail.

The situation escalated when police reportedly rearrested a worshipper, Benjamin Eboka, after he was initially released, accusing him of leaking information to the media. Eyewitnesses described assaults, tear gas deployment, and wrongful detentions, highlighting claims of deep-rooted corruption within the Delta State Police.

The arrests were reportedly orchestrated by DCP Adejobi Olumuyiwa, Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, with many victims alleging extortion and abuse of power. Affected individuals include members of the Federal Road Safety Corps, traditional rulers, and innocent worshippers, raising concerns about human rights violations.

SaharaReporters’ investigation paints a picture of a pattern of abuse, where officers allegedly label innocent citizens as hoodlums while extorting them and denying due process. Legal experts and victims have called for urgent government intervention and accountability measures within the police command.

This story underscores ongoing issues of police misconduct in Nigeria, highlighting the need for transparent policing, protection of citizens’ rights, and institutional reforms to prevent arbitrary detentions and extortion.

Why AFCON 2025 Bonuses for Super Eagles Players Are Delayed: Tinubu Government Explains

The Nigerian Government has clarified the delay in bonus payments to Super Eagles players participating in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), attributing the issue to bureaucratic processes rather than negligence. Reports had suggested that the players considered boycotting their quarter-final match against Algeria due to unpaid entitlements, sparking national concern.

Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), explained that all players were aware of the payment structure before the tournament and that funds approved for AFCON participation were being processed through the Finance Ministry, the Office of the Accountant General, and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Dikko noted that President Bola Tinubu had approved a special budget for AFCON as far back as November 14, 2025, but stressed that approval does not mean instant disbursement. According to him, AFCON bonuses are structured by tournament progression, not on a per-match basis, and the first phase of funds has already reached the CBN for processing.

The NSC chairman assured that daily allowances and initial payments had been made, and the situation was being misrepresented in media reports. He emphasized that the Super Eagles were fully informed about the timing and structure of bonus payments.

This explanation comes amid heightened public interest in player welfare and government accountability, highlighting the need for transparent and timely disbursement of funds for national sports teams representing Nigeria on the continental stage.

How Were an Elderly Woman and Her Granddaughter Freed by Bandits in Southern Kaduna After a Ransom Payment?

In a dramatic turn of events in Southern Kaduna, an elderly woman, Mrs. Averik Arak, and her granddaughter were released by bandits after their family paid an undisclosed ransom. The victims had been abducted earlier this week in Arak village, Sanga Local Government Area, following a violent attack in which Mrs. Arak’s son, Kefas Habila Averik, and another resident were killed.

The release occurred on Wednesday night, after negotiations between the family and the abductors. The victims were immediately taken to an undisclosed hospital for medical examinations, and they are reportedly in stable condition.

A family member, Racheal Averik, confirmed the ordeal on social media, expressing deep gratitude for the prayers and support received during the challenging period. She revealed that the abduction occurred just 48 hours after her mother’s son was killed, and that the elderly woman, already in mourning, was particularly vulnerable when the bandits struck.

This incident highlights the growing security challenges in Southern Kaduna, where banditry, kidnappings, and violent attacks have become increasingly frequent. Local authorities and security agencies continue to face pressure to protect vulnerable communities and prevent similar tragedies.

The Kaduna kidnapping saga underscores the human cost of insecurity, showing how families are forced to pay ransoms while mourning lost loved ones, and raises urgent questions about government measures to tackle banditry and protect civilians in Nigeria’s most affected regions.

Why Is the ADC Inaugurating Zonal Congress Committees, Why Is It Rejecting Any Alliance With Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, and Jonathan, and What Does This Signal for Nigeria’s 2027 Politics?

A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has moved to strengthen its internal structure by inaugurating Zonal Congress Committees across three geopolitical zones, while firmly rejecting widespread speculation that the party is aligning with major political figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rabiu Kwankwaso, and Goodluck Jonathan.

In a communique signed by the party’s National Chairman, Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, the ADC said the exercise was part of efforts to entrench internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution ahead of future elections.

According to the statement, the South-West Zonal Congress Committee was inaugurated in Ekiti State on January 7, 2026, with Hon. Bala Sani named Chairman and Hon. Kyauta Yakubu heading the Appeal Committee. The ceremony was conducted by the National Chairman himself.

In the South-East, a similar inauguration took place in Enugu State on the same date. Barrister Adamu Ado Dauda was appointed Chairman of the Congress Committee, while Mrs. Iyabo Salami Alibi was named head of the Appeal Committee. The event was presided over by the Secretary of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT), Chief Rufus Ekenmi.

Earlier, on January 5, 2026, the party inaugurated its North-Central Zonal Congress Committee, appointing Hon. Lolo Ehirudu as Chairman of the Congress Committee and Hon. Sa’ad Aboki as head of the Appeal Committee.

Beyond organisational matters, the ADC used the occasion to directly address growing rumours of a possible political alliance with prominent national figures. The party categorically dismissed claims linking it to Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former President Goodluck Jonathan.

“The National Leadership reiterates its unwavering commitment to the principles of internal democracy, transparency, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution,” the communique stated, urging members and the public to “disregard and ignore” all reports of external political alignments. The party stressed that its focus remains on building “a strong, independent, and ideologically driven platform.”

The ADC also emphasised that only duly registered and financially up-to-date members would be eligible to vote or contest in its congresses and internal elections, reinforcing its claim of commitment to internal order and party discipline.

By distancing itself from Nigeria’s most recognisable political heavyweights, the party appears determined to project itself as an independent alternative within the country’s democratic space—one that is not defined by elite coalitions or personality-driven politics.

As speculation continues over emerging alliances ahead of future elections, observers are asking: Why is the ADC rejecting any association with established political figures? Is the party positioning itself as a third-force movement, or is this a strategic move to consolidate its base before engaging in broader negotiations? And could this internal reorganisation reshape opposition politics in Nigeria ahead of 2027?

The ADC insists its direction is clear: no external alliances, strict internal democracy, and a people-centred political platform—a stance that may test both its independence and its appeal in Nigeria’s highly competitive political landscape.

Why Was a Woman’s Home Burnt for Worshipping Osun in Kwara, Why Were Suspects Freed, and Has Religious Extremism Now Replaced Justice in Ilorin?

A disturbing case of alleged religious persecution has emerged from Ilorin, Kwara State, where a traditional worshipper, Mrs. T.A. Olorisha, says her home was deliberately set ablaze because of her faith, while suspects arrested over the incident were later released by the police. The traumatised woman has now issued a desperate plea for help, warning that she may take her own life if justice is not served.

According to Olorisha, she had lived peacefully for years in the Isalẹ Koko area of Ilorin until community members allegedly targeted her over her devotion to Osun, a deity in Yoruba traditional religion. In an emotional video, she recounted how she was summoned to a meeting weeks before the incident, where nine men reportedly told her that an Islamic cleric (“Alfa”) had declared that traditional worshippers were no longer welcome in the community.

She said she challenged the claim and demanded to meet the cleric face-to-face, insisting she had done nothing wrong. Instead, the men allegedly threatened her, warning that she should either comply or face consequences. Olorisha recalled that one man openly asked what would happen if her house was burnt, while a police officer present advised restraint and later warned the men against causing trouble.

However, while Olorisha travelled to her hometown to attend a traditional festival, her house was allegedly set on fire on January 1, 2026. The blaze destroyed all her belongings, including livestock, leaving her homeless and destitute. She says she has since been moving around in a single piece of clothing, struggling to survive.

Her anguish deepened when she learned that suspects initially arrested over the arson had been released, raising fears of intimidation and impunity. In a tearful appeal, she called on Nigerians—especially traditional worshippers—to intervene on her behalf, saying she has nowhere else to turn. She warned that continued abandonment and injustice could push her to suicide.

SaharaReporters previously reported that three men were arrested in connection with the attack, and the Kwara State Police Command acknowledged awareness of the case. Yet the alleged release of suspects has intensified public concern about whether law enforcement is willing—or able—to confront religious extremism.

The incident has drawn strong condemnation from Omoyele Sowore, human rights activist and publisher of SaharaReporters, who described the attack as part of a broader pattern of religious intolerance in Ilorin. He warned that extremists must be stopped immediately and reminded authorities that no individual or group has the right to impose religious beliefs on others. Sowore referenced a similar 2023 case involving traditional religion activist Tani Olohun, arguing that repeated failures to enforce the law embolden mobs and radical elements.

This case has now become a national test of Nigeria’s commitment to religious freedom, constitutional rights, and the rule of law. Why was a woman’s home allegedly destroyed for her beliefs? Why were suspects reportedly freed? And how long will religious intolerance be allowed to override justice in a democratic society?

For many Nigerians, Olorisha’s plea is not just about one victim—it is about whether the state can still protect citizens from persecution based on faith, or whether silence and inaction will continue to empower extremism.

Why Is Bayelsa Government House Budgeting ₦1.2 Billion for Foreign Trips, ₦500 Million for VIP Hosting, and ₦100 Million for Christmas Decorations in 2026 While Hospitals Remain Underfunded?

Fresh scrutiny has been placed on the Bayelsa State Government following revelations from the 2026 budget estimates showing massive allocations for luxury and administrative spending at the Government House, even as critical public institutions, particularly the healthcare sector, remain severely underfunded.

A review of the budget by SaharaReporters indicates that ₦100 million has been earmarked for Christmas decorations at the Government House alone. In addition, ₦500 million is allocated for hosting VIPs throughout the year, while an even more staggering ₦1.2 billion is budgeted for international travel by the Governor’s office in 2026.

These figures have triggered public debate over priorities, especially in a state facing infrastructure gaps, rising cost of living, and fragile healthcare services.

The spending plan appears even more controversial when placed beside Bayelsa’s health-sector allocations. Budget performance documents reveal that between January and September 2025, ₦401 million was spent on international medical trips, yet only ₦5.5 million was allocated to capital expenditure for the state-owned Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital (NDUTH) within the same period.

A similar pattern was recorded in previous years. In 2024, the state reportedly spent ₦306 million on foreign medical treatment between January and September, while just ₦71 million went into capital projects at NDUTH, despite a total annual budget of ₦780 million for the hospital. In 2023 alone, Bayelsa reportedly spent ₦872.8 million on overseas medical care, reinforcing concerns that public funds are being channelled abroad instead of strengthening local health infrastructure.

Critics argue that the 2026 allocations for foreign travel, VIP hospitality, and festive décor reflect a continued culture of elite comfort over public welfare. They say the government’s financial choices raise serious questions about governance priorities in a state where public hospitals struggle with outdated equipment, limited facilities, and underfunding.

The controversy also revives earlier national debates on medical tourism by public officials. In 2022, lawmakers at the federal level attempted to amend the National Health Act 2014 with a bill proposing a ₦500 million fine or seven years’ imprisonment for public officers who fund overseas medical treatment with public resources. Although the bill failed after intense debate, its intent was clear: to force leaders to invest in Nigeria’s healthcare system rather than abandoning it.

With Bayelsa’s 2026 budget now in focus, many citizens are asking whether the state government is prioritising public service or political comfort. Should billions be spent on foreign trips, VIP entertainment, and decorations while hospitals lack basic equipment and capital funding? And at what point does official spending become a symbol of misplaced priorities?

As economic pressures mount and calls for fiscal responsibility grow louder, the Bayelsa budget has become a test case for accountability, transparency, and the true meaning of governance in a democracy.

Why Are Nigerian Nurses Being Forced to Do Cleaners’ Jobs? Are Hospital CMDs Exploiting Strikes to Intimidate Health Workers Across the Country?

A growing controversy is shaking Nigeria’s healthcare sector after the Elegant Nurses Forum accused hospital managements across the country of forcing nurses to perform cleaning and other menial duties, a practice the group describes as unethical, unlawful, and professionally degrading.

In a press statement signed by Nurse Thomas Abiodun Olamide, the forum said it had received multiple complaints from health institutions nationwide, alleging that some Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) are exploiting the ongoing strike by hospital cleaners under the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) to compel nurses to take over sanitation work.

According to the forum, this practice violates professional ethics, international best practices, and the legal framework governing nursing in Nigeria. It warned that compelling nurses to abandon clinical responsibilities for cleaning duties not only demeans the profession but also endangers patient safety and healthcare quality.

The group disclosed that over ten days ago, nurses at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Makurdi, Benue State, formally complained of threats and coercion to assume cleaners’ duties. Similar complaints were later received from the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, Ogun State, along with reports from other tertiary and secondary health facilities nationwide.

The forum expressed particular concern over the leadership at OOUTH, alleging a persistent pattern of intimidation and harassment of nurses by the hospital’s CMD. According to the statement, nurses were reportedly threatened with job loss, with allegations that political connections were being used to exert pressure. The forum described this as a gross abuse of office, questioning the competence, temperament, and ethical standing of such leadership.

It further alleged that political interference rather than merit has influenced some CMD appointments, warning that hospitals were being transformed into “tools of oppression” instead of institutions dedicated to patient-centred care.

Emphasising the professional role of nurses, the forum stated that nurses are trained healthcare practitioners whose duties include patient care, disease prevention, health promotion, and clinical management—not sanitation. Forcing them into menial tasks, it said, devalues their expertise, undermines healthcare delivery, and weakens the entire system.

In its demands, the Elegant Nurses Forum called for:

Immediate cessation of all intimidation, threats, and coercion of nurses into non-nursing duties;

Clear directives from federal and state health ministries prohibiting the assignment of cleaning or other unrelated tasks to nurses;

Independent investigations and disciplinary action against erring CMDs and administrators;

Protection of nurses from victimisation and harassment; and

Transparent, merit-based appointments to hospital leadership positions free from political interference.


The forum vowed it would not remain silent while nurses are treated as expendable labour and stripped of their professional identity. “Healthcare leadership must be about service, competence, and accountability—not intimidation, arrogance, and abuse of power,” the statement concluded.

As the allegations spread across multiple states, the central question remains: are hospital authorities protecting patient care—or sacrificing professionalism for power?

AFCON Crisis: Will Nigerian Government Pay Super Eagles’ Bonuses Before Friday to Avert Algeria Match Boycott?

Tension has erupted in the Nigerian camp at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after reports emerged that the Super Eagles threatened to boycott their crucial match against Algeria unless outstanding bonuses are paid by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The situation has triggered urgent intervention from the Federal Government, which now says the players will receive their entitlements by Thursday or Friday at the latest.

The crisis was first revealed by sports journalist Adepoju Tobi Samuel, who reported that the players had insisted on the full settlement of their match bonuses before travelling to Marrakech for the next fixture. The report was later corroborated by BBC journalist Olúwashínà Okeleji, who confirmed that both players and coaching staff were still awaiting payment.

“Players and coaching staff of #Nigeria are waiting on #AFCON2025 bonus payments,” Okeleji wrote, sparking widespread concern among fans who feared that administrative lapses could derail Nigeria’s title push.

In response to the growing backlash, the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, issued a statement via her verified X account, assuring Nigerians that the matter was being resolved. According to the minister, the Federal Government, working with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), had addressed the foreign exchange bottlenecks that had delayed payments to the players.

She explained that regulatory and currency conversion hurdles had slowed the disbursement process but confirmed that a fast-track system had now been implemented. “The Federal Government and the CBN have successfully streamlined the foreign exchange processing to ensure our players are rewarded without further delay,” she stated.

Uzoka-Anite further revealed that group-stage bonuses had already been approved and cleared, and that the final stage of payment was underway. “The final transfers to domiciliary accounts are currently in flight. Players can expect these funds to reflect starting today (Thursday) or tomorrow (Friday),” she said.

Beyond resolving the immediate crisis, the minister also announced plans to institutionalise a faster and more transparent payment framework for future tournaments. She noted that the new system would ensure predictable and timely disbursements aligned with international best practices, preventing a repeat of the long-standing bonus disputes that have plagued Nigerian football for years.

The controversy has reignited public debate about athlete welfare, administrative efficiency within the NFF, and the impact of off-field issues on on-field performance. Analysts warn that financial uncertainty at critical moments can distract players and undermine team morale, particularly in high-stakes knockout matches.

Despite the tension, the government maintains that its priority is the team’s success at AFCON. “Our focus remains entirely on supporting the team’s welfare so they can maintain their incredible momentum in the knockout rounds,” Uzoka-Anite said, concluding with an optimistic message: “We move forward with one goal: Bringing the trophy home!”

As Nigeria prepares for the decisive clash against Algeria, all eyes remain on whether the promised payments will arrive in time—and whether the crisis will be resolved without disrupting the Super Eagles’ campaign for continental glory.

Was Ondo Governor’s Security Compromised? Protocol Chiefs Accused of Swapping Convoy Drivers Without Clearance Amid Rising Safety Fears

A serious security controversy has emerged within the Ondo State Government following allegations that top protocol officials authorized a change of drivers in the governor’s convoy without security clearance, a move insiders describe as a dangerous breach of established procedure. The incident has reportedly heightened tension inside Government House and raised concerns about vulnerabilities in the governor’s protective arrangements.

According to multiple security sources, the Chief of Protocol (CoP), Mr. Olasanya Abayomi, and the Director of Protocol (DoP), Barr. Asonja George, allegedly ordered the replacement of convoy drivers without informing the Chief Security Officer (CSO) or the Aide-de-Camp (ADC)—the two officers legally responsible for coordinating the governor’s personal security.

Security experts within the government described the action as a “grave breach of protocol,” stressing that no driver attached to the governor’s convoy should be changed without clearance from the CSO and ADC. One senior official told SaharaReporters that bypassing this chain of command constitutes a serious security violation, especially at a time of heightened national security concerns.

The development is said to have unsettled junior officers and deepened mistrust among senior officials, with insiders warning that internal lapses of this nature could weaken confidence in the state’s security architecture. Some officials expressed fears that overlapping authority between protocol and security units could create confusion and expose the governor to potential risks.

More troubling are allegations that the Chief of Protocol may be acting in concert with unnamed individuals to politically undermine the governor’s security structure. Although no concrete evidence has been made public, the claims have intensified calls for an independent investigation, with sources insisting that the governor’s safety must not be subjected to internal power struggles or administrative shortcuts.

Stakeholders are now urging the Ondo State Commissioner of Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to urgently probe the incident, determine accountability, and restore confidence in the state’s protective operations. Civil society actors have also called for the two officials involved to step aside pending investigations, arguing that doing so would reassure the public and demonstrate institutional accountability.

However, the state government has pushed back against claims of a security breach. The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan, denied that the governor’s safety was compromised, confirming instead that the driver changes were part of a routine annual reshuffle. He explained that all drivers fall under the supervision of the Chief of Protocol and that similar reassignments also affected other units, including the media and ambulance services.

Despite this official explanation, security analysts argue that the episode highlights a deeper structural issue: the need for clear coordination between protocol and security departments. Experts warn that when protocol functions override established security procedures, it can create vulnerabilities that may be exploited.

As the controversy continues, one key question remains: Was the governor’s security genuinely compromised, or was this merely an administrative routine that was misinterpreted? The answer may depend on the outcome of any investigation and whether the state government moves to review and strengthen its internal security and protocol processes.

MINISTER OF LIVESTOCK DEVELOPMENT LAYS FOUNDATION FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF SERVICE CENTRE IN SOKOTO STATE

The new Livestock Service Centre is a key intervention under the World Bank-assisted Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES) Project.

Performing the foundation stone laying, the Minister of Livestock Development, Dr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, reaffirms the Federal Government’s commitment to unlocking Nigeria’s livestock potential for sustainable peace and development.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu stated that the Centre is designed to address livestock losses, rural poverty and insecurity linked to unregulated livestock practices.

The Governor noted that the Facility will introduce modern feedlots, support pasture development and ease the pressures of open grazing on Farmlands.

National Coordinator, L-PRES, Dr. Sanusi Abubakar, assured full support from the National Coordination Office to guarantee the project’s successful implementation.

The Commissioner for Livestock Development, Bello Muhammad Wamakko, highlighted Sokoto State Government’s investment in routine vaccination programmes and other measures to reduce Farmer–herder conflicts.

Similar projects are being executed in 20 participating States nationwide, expected to enhance food security, improve animal health and strengthen the Nation’s economy.

NAF ACCELERATES ACQUISITION OF 12 AH-1Z ATTACK HELICOPTERS TO ENHANCE SECURITY

In a strategic move to enhance the operational capacity of the Nigerian Air Force the Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, led a Programme Management Review meeting with senior United States Government officials and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron in San Diego, California, USA.

The engagement focused on fast-tracking the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, a critical capability enhance professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in attainment of national security objectives.

A Statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame indicates that Air Marshal Aneke expressed appreciation to the United States Government and Messrs Bell Textron for their continued cooperation, professionalism, and transparency in the execution of the helicopter acquisition programme.

The Air Chief noted that the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters represents more than a platform upgrade, describing it as a reflection of the enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.

Reaffirming the NAF’s sense of urgency and commitment, Air Marshal Aneke assured the US team that his administration would take all necessary measures to ensure the helicopters are delivered in the shortest possible time while expressing gratitude to president Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Airforce as regards platform acquisition

Air Marshal Sunday Aneke reassured Nigerians of the NAF’s unwavering commitment to eliminating terrorist and criminal threats with professionalism, restraint, and accountability, while sustaining public trust and confidence in the Service’s operations.

Ekiti Assembly to Spend ₦1.2 Billion on Chairs, Tables and Vehicles in 2026—While Key Ministries Get Zero Funding: Is This Governance or Misplaced Priorities?

A review of the Ekiti State House of Assembly’s 2026 budget estimates by SaharaReporters has revealed a controversial plan to spend ₦1.2 billion on executive chairs, tables, cabinets and office furniture, despite the fact that ₦470 million was already spent on similar items in 2025. The proposed expenditure includes 700 executive chairs, 600 tables, 200 chamber tables, 100 cabinets, 50 office shelves and 12 chair sets, raising questions about fiscal responsibility and government priorities.

In addition to furniture, the Assembly is seeking ₦800 million to procure three 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs and 30 Toyota Corolla vehicles, further fueling concerns about luxury spending amid economic challenges facing the state.

This development follows earlier revelations that ₦300 million was budgeted for the construction of a governor’s and deputy governor’s lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, even though ₦470 million had already been spent on similar projects between January and September 2025. Another contract worth ₦320 million was reportedly awarded for the construction of a guest house chalet within the Government House, allegedly to a permanent secretary, raising transparency concerns.

While billions are allocated to official residences, vehicles and office furniture, a review of Ekiti State’s audited financial statements for 2024 shows that 35 government agencies received zero funding for capital projects, despite having a combined capital budget of ₦3.3 billion. Affected institutions include the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Ekiti State Pensions Board, Civil Service Commission, Housing Corporation, Fiscal Responsibility Commission, Office of Public Defender, Teaching Service Commission, University Teaching Hospital, and several others critical to governance, education, healthcare and public welfare.

The report also highlights a troubling pattern in public procurement, with multiple contracts worth billions of naira reportedly awarded to individuals listed as “Permanent Secretary.” These include airport-related projects such as the ₦3.3 billion Instrument Landing System, electrification works, transformer installations, floodlight systems, and road extensions, along with smaller procurements like buses and motorcycles.

Critics argue that the growing gap between lavish government spending and the chronic underfunding of essential agencies reflects a governance crisis. As calls for transparency, accountability and prudent use of public funds intensify, the question remains: Why are billions being committed to furniture, vehicles and government lodges while critical ministries and public institutions are left unfunded?

This controversy has once again placed Ekiti State’s budgeting priorities under national scrutiny, raising fundamental concerns about public trust, fiscal discipline and whether state resources are truly being used in the best interest of citizens.

How Did Nigerian Writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Lose Her 21-Month-Old Son? What the Family’s Statement Reveals About the Tragic Passing of Little Nkanu Nnamdi

Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, are mourning the heartbreaking loss of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Nnamdi, who passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a brief illness.

The family confirmed the tragedy in a statement issued on Thursday by Omawumi Ogbe, requesting privacy as they grieve. According to the statement, one of the couple’s twin boys, Nkanu Nnamdi, died after a short period of illness. The family described the loss as devastating and asked the public and the media to allow them space during what they called an “incredibly difficult time.”

The statement read in part that the family is deeply saddened by the passing of their child and appealed for grace, prayers, and respect for their seclusion, stressing that no further public comments would be made. It underscored the emotional weight of the moment, acknowledging the profound pain that accompanies the loss of a young child.

Chimamanda Adichie, celebrated globally for works such as Half of a Yellow Sun, Americanah, and We Should All Be Feminists, has long been regarded as one of Africa’s most influential literary voices. News of her personal tragedy has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from readers, admirers, and members of the literary community, many of whom have expressed condolences while honoring the family’s request for privacy.

While the family did not disclose details beyond confirming that the child died after a brief illness, the announcement highlights the fragile nature of life and the shared human experience of grief—transcending fame, public recognition, and achievement. The careful wording of the statement reflects a desire to protect the family’s space as they navigate mourning away from public scrutiny.

As messages of support continue to emerge, the central appeal remains clear: respect the family’s need for quiet and dignity during this time of sorrow. For many, the story serves as a reminder that behind celebrated public figures are families who experience loss just as deeply as anyone else.

Did Heaven’s Gate Founder Apostle Chikere Ship Her Lexus to Nigeria and Claim It Was Stolen? How an Ex-Husband Says £17,000 Was Collected From UK Insurers and What This Means for Accountability

A major controversy has erupted around Apostle Chikere Nwafor, founder of Heaven’s Gateway Ministries, following allegations by her ex-husband, Martin Ogbulu, that she shipped her luxury Lexus SUV from the United Kingdom to Nigeria and later reported the vehicle as stolen to her insurance company—allegedly collecting nearly £17,000 in compensation.

Speaking to SaharaReporters, Martin detailed a sequence of events he claims exposed what he describes as a calculated scheme. According to him, the first warning sign appeared when the Lexus, normally parked in its usual space in the UK, suddenly disappeared. When he questioned Chikere, she reportedly told him her cousins had borrowed the car for a family event, an explanation he initially found believable.

Weeks later, Martin said Chikere contacted him in a panic from Nigeria, pleading for help and warning that her insurance company would soon reach out to him. She allegedly told him that she had already filed reports and emails claiming the vehicle had been stolen. When insurers later contacted him to ask whether the car was at home, Martin said he simply told them he had not seen the vehicle, unaware at the time that it had allegedly been shipped abroad.

According to Martin, the insurance company subsequently paid Chikere close to £17,000. He later realised, he claimed, that the same Lexus RX450h she reported as stolen was already in Nigeria and in use. He alleged that he possesses photographs showing the vehicle in the UK before shipping and later in Nigeria, insisting that “the car didn’t disappear—it was moved.”

Martin further alleged that this was not an isolated incident but part of what he described as a pattern of deceptive behaviour, claiming that Chikere used influence and connections to manipulate situations. He said the timeline suggested the car was shipped shortly before Chikere travelled to Nigeria, after which the insurance claim was made.

As of the time of publication, Apostle Chikere had not responded to repeated requests for comment from SaharaReporters.

The allegations also revive earlier controversies surrounding the cleric, including claims that she orchestrated the arrest and prolonged detention of a former church caretaker, Alfred Morris Oyawari, over alleged missing building materials. According to Martin, Alfred—who earned just ₦40,000 monthly and managed multiple construction projects for years—was arrested in April 2025 and has remained in custody at Ikoyi Prison, with allegations of police influence, court delays, and pressure on relatives not to pursue legal action.

Together, the claims raise troubling questions about abuse of power, accountability, and the treatment of vulnerable individuals by influential religious figures. If proven, the Lexus insurance allegation would not only implicate possible fraud but also deepen public scrutiny of how authority and privilege can be used to evade responsibility.

Did Wike Admit Using the Judiciary for APC’s Political Battles? Why the FCT Minister Says He Helped Kill Osun’s LG Funds Case—and What It Means for Democracy in Nigeria

Nigeria’s political space was thrown into controversy after Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, openly claimed that he helped influential figures within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) use the judiciary to frustrate the Osun State local government funds lawsuit. Speaking in a video circulating online, Wike boasted that the court actions that led to the withholding of Osun’s local government allocations were not accidental but carefully engineered by powerful political actors working behind the scenes.

Addressing a crowd in Port Harcourt, the former Rivers State governor accused APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, of enjoying the political benefits of judicial decisions against the Osun State Government without acknowledging those who made them possible. According to Wike, the lawsuit—widely viewed as targeting Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration—was part of a broader political strategy rather than a purely legal process.

Wike warned APC leaders against what he described as ingratitude, insisting that their current advantage in Osun was the result of unseen political manoeuvres. “Today, you are enjoying in Osun. You don’t know those who did the work,” he said, cautioning party leaders not to “take our support for Mr President for granted.” His remarks appeared to be a direct response to Basiru’s criticism of his involvement in Rivers State politics.

The political clash follows Basiru’s demand that Wike resign as FCT minister, arguing that he is not a member of the APC and therefore has no standing to interfere in the party’s internal affairs. Basiru maintained that his comments were aimed at defending party structure and respecting sitting governors, adding that Wike’s response was inappropriate for a member of the Federal Executive Council.

The controversy also reopens debate surrounding the Supreme Court’s December 2025 ruling on the Osun local government funds dispute. While the Court faulted the Federal Government for withholding funds, it also ruled that the Osun Attorney General lacked the authority to sue on behalf of the local councils without proper authorisation. A minority judgment, however, criticised the Federal Government’s action as harmful to local governance.

Wike’s admission has triggered intense reactions across political and civil society circles, raising troubling questions about judicial independence, political influence over court processes, and the weaponisation of legal institutions for partisan gain. If court outcomes can be “worked out” through political connections, critics ask, what does this mean for democracy, federalism, and the rule of law in Nigeria?

As tensions escalate between Wike and APC leadership, the episode underscores a deeper struggle over power, loyalty, and accountability within Nigeria’s political system—one that could reshape party alliances, governance in Osun and Rivers States, and public trust in the judiciary.

VDM Calls Out President Tinubu Over Failed Scholarship Promises to Nigerian Students in Morocco

Nigerian activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM), has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu and his son, Seyi Tinubu, over the deteriorating conditions some Nigerian students are reportedly facing in Morocco. The students, granted scholarships by the Nigerian government, were promised full support including a $500 monthly allowance, and were allegedly instructed not to work while studying.

In a video shared online, VDM revealed that some students have suffered serious consequences due to the government’s alleged failure to deliver on these promises. He claimed that one student died while another sustained a broken leg after attempting to work secretly to survive. He also highlighted the poor state of their accommodation, where up to five students were crammed into rooms meant for one, lacking electricity and proper study facilities.

VDM warned that if students continue to be neglected, they may resort to cybercrime, which could negatively impact Nigeria’s international image. He also alleged that attempts by students to reach out to influencers and media houses were met with demands for money before their stories could be shared.

The activist called on the government to intervene urgently and suggested that funds meant for students may have been embezzled. VDM’s video has received praise from fans who expressed outrage at the government’s inaction and applauded his advocacy for the students’ rights.

This incident underscores ongoing concerns about government accountability in managing scholarship programs and protecting Nigerian students abroad, and it adds to VDM’s history of activism, which includes previous solo protests addressing national insecurity issues.

From Harvard with love: Why Ijebuland Is Blessed With a Strong Choice.

Education has long been one of the defining strengths of the Awùjalẹ̀ institution in Ijebuland. The immediate past Awùjalẹ̀, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, was widely respected not only for the length of his reign but also for his intellectual depth, discipline, and exposure. His solid formal education and broad worldview shaped a reign marked by courage, clarity, and principled leadership. Under him, Ijebuland benefited from a ruler who could engage confidently with governments, institutions, and global audiences while remaining firmly rooted in tradition. It is therefore unsurprising that education remains a central consideration as conversations continue about the next Awùjalẹ̀.
Within this context, Omoọba Abímbọ́lá Onabanjo’s educational background has drawn considerable attention (@omoobagg) . He holds a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Banking and Finance from Lagos State University, a discipline that provided him with strong foundations in economics, financial systems, and organizational discipline. Beyond this, he pursued advanced executive education at some of the world’s most respected institutions including Harvard Business School, the Wharton School, and Columbia Business School, where he refined his understanding of leadership, international strategy, corporate governance, and global capital markets. This level of exposure places him firmly within the long standing tradition of educated Ijebu leadership.

Rivers State House of Assembly Initiates Impeachment Proceedings Against Governor Fubara Amid Rift With Wike

The political landscape in Rivers State has taken a dramatic turn as the Rivers State House of Assembly formally began impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Oduh. During a plenary session presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, the Majority Leader, Major Jack, read a notice detailing allegations and claims of gross misconduct against Governor Fubara.

A total of 26 lawmakers reportedly signed the notice, which they claim aligns with provisions of the Nigerian Constitution. The Speaker announced that the notice would be formally served to Governor Fubara within seven days, in line with legislative procedures. Similarly, Deputy Governor Oduh faces a separate notice read by Deputy Majority Leader Linda Stewart.

The impeachment proceedings occur against the backdrop of a long-standing political rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor and political mentor, Nyesom Wike, which continues to polarize Rivers State’s political structure. The All Progressives Congress (APC) emphasized that Wike’s potential involvement in the party would not override Fubara’s current office and leadership, underscoring the link between political roles and office-holding.

The ongoing crisis highlights the tensions within the state’s political elite, raising questions about governance, party dynamics, and the stability of Rivers State’s administration. The situation remains fluid as the assembly moves forward with the impeachment process, which could significantly impact the state’s political alignment and future leadership.