Oga ooo… I am deeply disappointed,” Dr. Kemi Olunloyo said emotionally.

She expressed shock and disappointment at Dr. Adedeji Adeleke for publicly referring to her—an investigative journalist—as a mad woman.

According to her, she expected Dr. Adeleke to address serious unresolved issues, including what truly caused the death of Davido’s mother and the circumstances surrounding the deaths of some of Davido’s close friends. Instead, she said he chose to hold a press conference to insult her and deny the existence of his alleged biological granddaughter.

Dr. Kemi stated that the denial was based on claims that Ayo, Anu’s mother, is a prostitute—an allegation she strongly condemned.

She explained that her passion for Anu comes from a place of concern, saying she does not want the child to suffer or be abandoned.

Dr. Kemi further revealed that she was the one who initially opened Anu’s Instagram page to create awareness after Davido allegedly attempted to silence the girl’s family. She said she later handed over control of the account to Anu’s mother. Now 13 years old, Anu, she said, only wants to be acknowledged and treated as one of the Adeleke daughters.

Addressing another controversy, Dr. Kemi clarified that her own son never denied her on social media, explaining that individuals impersonating him online were actually her cousins.

She concluded by vowing to continue fighting for Anu until the Adeleke family acknowledges the child, insisting that Anu does not deserve the hardship she is currently facing.

Dr. Kemi Olunloyo reportedly broke down in tears while sharing her side of the ongoing Anu vs. the Adeleke family controversy.

Tragedy as Niger Varsity Student Takes Own Life After Losing ₦600,000 to Betting….

A 300-level student of a university in Niger State has reportedly taken his own life after losing ₦600,000 to sports betting. The incident has left fellow students and family members in shock, as he was described as calm before the tragedy. Sources say he became deeply distressed after the loss and could not handle the pressure. Authorities are said to be investigating the case, while many Nigerians are calling for awareness on the dangers of gambling addiction among youths.
#fintternews

Federal Fire Service Warns Nigerians Against Scooping Fuel From Fallen Tankers

The Federal Fire Service (FFS) has warned Nigerians to stop scooping fuel from fallen or crashed tanker trucks, saying the act is very dangerous and can lead to death.

The Controller General of the FFS, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, gave the warning after a video showed people collecting fuel from a fallen tanker at Tincan Liverpool Bridge in Apapa, Lagos.

He explained that fuel can easily catch fire or explode, putting many lives at risk. Adeyemi advised people to stay away from such accident scenes and immediately call emergency services instead of trying to collect fuel.

According to him, no amount of fuel is worth losing lives.

#FireSafety #StaySafe #NigeriaNews #PublicAwareness

NOA to Blow N252m to Teach Youths Say ‘No Japa Syndrome’ – Wahala or Opportunity?

Omo, government dey serious oo! National Orientation Agency (NOA) don plan to spend N252 million to sensitise Nigerian youths against Japa Syndrome – the wahala wey make plenty young people dey run abroad for better life.

According to the 2026 budget, the money go cover three locations: Kebbi State (N77m), Owan federal constituency (N140m), and Cross River’s Calabar municipal/Odukpani (N35m).

This na part of bigger youth empowerment and sensitisation drive, wey also include drug abuse, FGM, domestic violence, and civic education. NOA talk say dem dey target reach 3 million Nigerians daily through awareness campaigns.

Minister of Budget, Senator Atiku Bagudu, don beg youths to stop illegal migration, say government don arrange measures to empower them inside Naija.

Is Nigeria’s Army Under Digital Attack? Nigerian Army Hunts Operators of Fake Social Media Accounts Impersonating the Chief of Army Staff

The Nigerian Army has sounded the alarm over what it describes as a growing digital threat: the proliferation of fake social media accounts falsely claiming to be operated by or affiliated with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu. The development has raised concerns about online fraud, misinformation, and the misuse of military authority in cyberspace.

In a press statement issued on January 9, 2026, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, described the trend as “disturbing,” warning that unscrupulous individuals are creating and running these accounts to mislead the public. According to the Army, the impostor profiles are being used to solicit funds, defraud unsuspecting citizens, and circulate false information in the name of the COAS and the Nigerian Army.

The Army categorically clarified that Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu does not operate or maintain any official social media account on any platform. This statement directly contradicts the claims made by the fake profiles, which present themselves as authoritative voices of the Army’s top leadership.

Colonel Anele urged Nigerians to exercise extreme caution online and avoid engaging with, responding to, or sharing content from any account claiming to represent the Chief of Army Staff. The public was advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious pages, as interaction with such accounts could expose users to financial scams, identity theft, or the spread of dangerous misinformation.

Beyond public awareness, the Army confirmed that it is actively pursuing the operators behind these accounts. It stated that necessary steps are being taken to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those responsible in accordance with existing laws. The move underscores a broader effort by the military to combat cyber-enabled crimes that exploit public trust in state institutions.

The development highlights growing concerns about digital impersonation and information warfare in Nigeria, particularly as social media becomes an increasingly powerful tool for influence, deception, and criminal activity. By issuing a formal warning and launching a manhunt for the perpetrators, the Nigerian Army is signaling its determination to protect both its institutional credibility and the public from online exploitation.

As authorities intensify their investigation, Nigerians are being reminded that not every account bearing official names or military symbols is legitimate. The episode serves as a stark reminder of how easily digital platforms can be weaponised—and why vigilance, verification, and accountability are more critical than ever in the age of social media.

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 Ogun State Experiencing a Surge in Drowning Cases? Police Warn Hotels and Recreational Centres to Enforce Safety Measures

The Ogun State Police Command has raised alarm over a disturbing rise in drowning incidents across the state, issuing a public advisory to residents, hotel operators, and recreational facility managers to take urgent preventive measures. According to the advisory, dated January 7, 2026, and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, there is an increasing trend of drowning cases, particularly in rivers, streams, and swimming pools, which poses a serious threat to public safety.

The police warned that all members of the public must exercise extreme caution when engaging in water-related activities. The advisory places significant responsibility on hotel owners and operators of recreational centres, emphasizing that swimming pools must be properly supervised, clearly marked, and staffed with trained lifeguards at all times. Furthermore, it stressed that essential safety equipment, such as life buoys, rescue hooks, and first aid kits, must be readily accessible to prevent tragic incidents.

The statement underlined that the Commissioner of Police considers avoidable loss of life unacceptable, adding that all stakeholders, from facility operators to individual swimmers, must take proactive steps to ensure their safety and that of others. “Hotel and recreational facility operators must ensure that all swimming pools are properly supervised, clearly marked, and have trained lifeguards on duty at all times. Safety equipment must also be readily available,” the advisory stated.

The rise in drowning incidents has reportedly been reported in various parts of Ogun State, prompting the police to take a strong stance on preventive measures. According to the Command, these deaths are largely avoidable, highlighting a need for stronger enforcement of safety regulations at both private and public facilities. The advisory specifically calls on hotels, resorts, and recreational centres to prioritize the implementation of international safety standards in their pools and water recreation areas.

Experts agree that drowning incidents often occur due to a combination of factors, including poor supervision, lack of trained personnel, absence of safety equipment, and neglect of precautionary measures. In Ogun State, the police noted that the situation is particularly concerning given the popularity of rivers, streams, and man-made swimming pools in residential and commercial areas. Families and young people who frequent these water spots are most at risk if proper precautions are not taken.

DSP Babaseyi further urged residents to adopt a culture of safety, warning against reckless swimming, especially in unsupervised areas. “Members of the public are urged to exercise extreme caution when swimming in rivers, streams, or swimming pools,” he said. The statement also encouraged hotel and recreational facility operators to develop emergency response plans and conduct regular drills to ensure staff readiness in the event of accidents.

The advisory highlights that drowning is preventable with a combination of vigilance, safety infrastructure, and proper training. Trained lifeguards, visible signage, marked depth levels, and ready-to-use life-saving equipment can drastically reduce the risk of fatalities. Hotel and recreation centre operators are advised to strictly comply with these guidelines to protect patrons and mitigate liability.

The police warning comes at a time when families, tourists, and residents increasingly frequent recreational facilities for leisure, particularly over weekends and holidays. Experts suggest that awareness campaigns, coupled with enforcement of safety regulations, are crucial in preventing further loss of lives. “Avoidable loss of life is unacceptable,” the statement emphasized, reflecting the seriousness with which the Ogun State Police are approaching the situation.

In conclusion, the Ogun State Police Command’s advisory serves as a reminder that water safety is a collective responsibility. Individuals, families, and facility operators must work together to ensure that swimming and other water activities are conducted safely. With rising cases of drowning, the state police are calling for heightened vigilance, strict adherence to safety protocols, and proactive intervention to prevent further tragedies. Residents and visitors are urged to take the advisory seriously, exercise caution around water, and ensure that any swimming activity is supervised and equipped with safety measures.

By enforcing proper supervision, ensuring lifeguard presence, and maintaining necessary safety equipment, Ogun State can significantly reduce drowning incidents and protect lives. The police advisory serves as a timely call to action, emphasizing that safety must be the priority in all recreational water activities.

“Is Night Duty a Death Sentence for Female Workers in Nigeria? How Safe Are Women Like Nurse Chinemerem?”

The tragic killing of Nurse Chinemerem Pascalina Chuwumeziem on January 3, 2026, after returning home from night duty at the Federal Medical Centre in Abuja has exposed a stark reality for female workers in Nigeria: the night shift can be deadly. In a country where insecurity is rampant, especially in major cities, women working late hours are disproportionately targeted by criminals, including notorious “one-chance” taxis.
Despite widespread awareness of these risks, many employers continue to schedule female staff for night shifts without providing safe transportation or alternatives, a failure that amounts to negligence. Under Nigerian labour laws, organizations have a duty of care to protect employees, but for female workers on night duty, these protections often stop at the workplace gate. The predictable dangers faced by women like Nurse Chinemerem demand accountability, not mere condolences.
The article highlights that employers have practical solutions: dedicated night buses, transport allowances for safe services, or support for personal vehicle acquisition. Unions, too, must do more than issue statements—they must demand safety as a non-negotiable condition for night work. Failure to do so signals that women’s lives are valued less than their labour.
This tragedy raises critical questions for Nigerians: Should female workers be forced into dangerous night shifts without protection? Are unions and employers doing enough to prevent such deaths? How can Nigeria reform workplace safety to ensure women are not exposed to predictable dangers?
Fintter readers, we want your voice: How should the government, employers, and unions act to protect women like Nurse Chinemerem? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments to join this urgent conversation.

Sokoto Court Jails Three for Spraying Naira Notes at Social Events, Orders Community Service

Justice Ahmad Mahmud of the Federal High Court in Sokoto has sentenced Ahmad Abdullahi Buhari, Jamilu Bello, and Yasir Muhammad Bala to five years imprisonment for offences related to Naira mutilation. The trio pleaded guilty to charges under Section 21(1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, for spraying Naira notes at birthday parties in Sokoto. Each convict received one-year jail terms per count, with an option to pay N100,000 fine per count. Additionally, they are required to depose to affidavits of good behaviour with the EFCC and carry out community sensitization in secondary schools against cybercrime and other fraudulent activities. The case highlights Nigeria’s strict stance against currency mutilation and misuse.

#SokotoCourt #NairaMutilation #CBNAct #NigeriaNews #SocialEventDrama #EFCC #CommunityService #FraudAwareness #Legitng #TrendingNews

Nigerian Woman Doris Gomba Completes 27-Day Cross-Border Trek from Ghana to Lagos to Advocate for Orphans, Faces Challenges Across Togo and Benin

Nigerian activist, actor, and singer Doris Gomba Obarine completed a physically and emotionally demanding 27-day trek across West Africa from Ghana through Togo and the Republic of Benin to Lagos, Nigeria, to raise awareness about the plight of orphans. Motivated by her personal experience as an orphan, Obarine said the journey was aimed at amplifying the voices of children who lose their parents and challenging societal neglect.
During the trek, she faced language barriers, logistical challenges, and financial pressures, particularly in Togo and Benin, while navigating accommodation, border crossings, and local perceptions. Despite difficulties, she visited orphanages, donated to children, and shared words of encouragement.
Obarine described the journey as a foundation for her advocacy mission, emphasizing that the real work involves long-term support, skill acquisition, and empowerment for orphans. She also hopes the project will elevate her acting career, which has spanned nearly a decade.

#DorisGomba #OrphanAdvocacy #WestAfricaTrek #NigeriaNews #CrossBorderTrek #LagosNews #InspiringStories #OrphanSupport

Nigerian Army Neutralizes Three Suspected Suicide Bombers in Borno, Recovers Explosives and Suicide Vests

Troops of the Nigerian Army, under Operation Hadin Kai, killed three suspected suicide bombers during an intelligence-led operation along the Guduf–Pulka axis in Gwoza LGA, Borno State. The operation, conducted in collaboration with local volunteer forces, allowed the army to intercept the suspects before planned attacks on civilians.

Security sources said suicide vests and other improvised explosive device (IED) components were recovered and secured. The army also inflicted heavy casualties on terrorist escorts, forcing survivors to flee into the Mandara Mountains, abandoning four AK-47 rifles and two motorcycles, which were destroyed.

Preliminary intelligence indicated that the neutralised suspects were dispatched by the Ali Ngulde-led Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction of Boko Haram. The operation is part of enhanced efforts by Operation Hadin Kai to track and neutralise terrorist elements, with strengthened collaboration with community-based volunteer groups and public awareness campaigns to report suspicious activities.

VIDEO: Sokoto Men Play With Alleged U.S. Bomb Fragments From Christmas Day Airstrike, Mock American Military and Boast Nigerians Are Stronger as DHQ Issues Safety Warning

A viral video has emerged showing some men, suspected to be herdsmen, handling and playing with what they claim are fragments of a bomb dropped by the United States military during a Christmas Day airstrike in Jabo community, Sokoto State. In the footage obtained by SaharaReporters, the men are seen casually rolling and touching the metallic object while speaking in Hausa, openly mocking the U.S. military and boasting that Nigerians are stronger than any foreign or local armed force.

The men derided America as a “disgrace,” claimed that no U.S. missile or nuclear weapon could successfully strike Nigerian soil, and suggested that divine will alone determines outcomes. Despite the obvious danger, they laughed and encouraged one another to “show strength,” while praying that the fragment would not explode.

The video surfaced amid heightened security concerns following reports that explosive materials from the alleged U.S. airstrike site had been taken by unauthorised persons. Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed awareness of the situation and issued a strong warning to residents, urging anyone in possession of such materials to return them immediately.

Speaking in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, stressed that the items were highly dangerous and should only be handled by trained military personnel. He appealed to the public and the media to help ensure the safe return of the materials to nearby military bases or recognised security locations to prevent potential loss of lives and further harm.

New Tax Law 2026: Simple and Legal Bank Transfer Narrations Nigerians Can Use to Avoid Overpaying Tax as FG Begins Digital Monitoring

As Nigeria prepares to roll out a new tax regime in January 2026, financial experts are urging Nigerians to pay closer attention to how they describe bank transfers. The federal government plans to rely more on digital banking data to improve tax compliance, meaning bank transfer narrations could play a key role in determining whether funds are classified as taxable income.

Tax consultants explain that tax is charged mainly on income earned from services or business activities. When bank transfer narrations are vague or misleading, such transactions may be flagged as income, potentially leading to higher tax liabilities, audits, or penalties during annual filings. Using clear, accurate, and honest descriptions helps ensure individuals only pay tax when it is legally required.

To guide Nigerians, experts recommend simple and lawful narrations such as “Gift/Family support” for personal gifts, “Refund/Reimbursement” for returned money, “Personal transfer” for moving one’s own funds, “Loan received” for borrowed money, and “Capital contribution” when injecting personal funds into a business. For business transactions, describing the exact goods or services sold is advised.

However, Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, clarified that banks will not automatically deduct money from accounts regardless of narration. He stressed that Nigerians will still declare their income themselves at year-end, adding that the reform is meant to promote awareness and fairness, not to impose hidden taxes.

The government also dismissed widespread fears surrounding the new tax law, noting that low-income earners, gifts, remittances, pensions, and Nigerians in the diaspora remain exempt. Overall, the reform is positioned as a move to reduce the tax burden on vulnerable groups, strengthen compliance, and stimulate economic growth—making accurate bank transfer narrations an important habit for Nigerians ahead of 2026.

Breaking: NAFDAC Warns Nigerians About Fake Kiss Condoms – 3 Ways to Identify Counterfeit Products

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public warning about counterfeit Kiss condoms circulating in major Nigerian markets, including Onitsha, Idumota, Trade Fair, Kano, Abuja, Uyo, and Enugu. Consumers are advised that fake condoms may be darker, loosely printed, poorly lubricated, and have missing manufacturer or caution information, increasing the risk of breakage and ineffective protection against STIs and pregnancy. NAFDAC urges Nigerians to purchase products only from licensed suppliers, report suspicious items via phone, email, or the Med-Safety app, and remain vigilant. Health risks from counterfeit condoms include infections, allergic reactions, and unintended pregnancies, making awareness and verification critical.

Nigeria’s Tax Ombudsman to Launch Full Operations on January 1, 2026 with Dr. John Nwabueze as Pioneer CEO

Nigeria’s Tax Ombudsman will commence full operations on January 1, 2026, with Dr. John Nwabueze appointed as the pioneer Tax Ombud and CEO. The office, established to enhance transparency, accountability, and fairness in the tax system, will handle complaints on taxes, levies, customs duties, excise matters, and other related issues. It has the authority to initiate legal proceedings on behalf of taxpayers at no cost, provide guidance on tax administration, and raise awareness of taxpayer rights and obligations. Dr. Nwabueze emphasized the office’s commitment to a transparent, efficient, and fair tax justice system.

Nigeria Confirms Awareness of US Airstrikes in Sokoto State Amid Debate Over Sovereignty

Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, stated that the federal government was fully informed and involved in the US-led airstrikes against terrorists in Sokoto State. Tuggar emphasized that Nigeria provided critical intelligence and coordinated closely with US authorities, ensuring the operation avoided inflaming religious tensions. While the US Department of Defense and former President Donald Trump announced the strikes publicly, civil society groups have argued that Nigeria’s consent was not formally sought, raising questions about sovereignty and foreign policy communication.

Nicki Minaj Faces Backlash, Loses Followers After Speaking On Christian Persecution In Nigeria At Turning Point USA Event

American rap superstar Nicki Minaj has sparked widespread controversy and social media backlash following her surprise appearance at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest, where she spoke on faith, politics, and global issues, including the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Minaj appeared alongside conservative activist Erika Kirk and used the platform to praise former U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance for what she described as their efforts in raising global awareness about violence against Christians, particularly in Nigeria.

Her remarks immediately triggered mixed reactions online. While some supporters commended her for drawing attention to religious persecution and amplifying the plight of Nigerian Christians—an issue she has previously addressed at international forums—others expressed strong opposition. Critics, especially from her progressive and LGBTQ+ fanbase, accused Minaj of aligning with conservative politics and abandoning communities that have long supported her career. Viral clips and posts alleging that she had “gone MAGA” intensified the backlash across multiple platforms.

The controversy quickly spilled into Minaj’s social media presence, with reports indicating that her Instagram account was deactivated shortly after the event. Viral claims suggested she lost up to 10 million followers, although independent checks indicate that the figure may be exaggerated, with some reports pointing to a smaller decline or noting that the account may have been inactive prior to the event.

The debate has drawn reactions from fellow artists, public figures, and commentators, with opinions sharply divided between those defending her right to speak on matters of faith and global violence, and those criticising what they see as a political and ideological shift. The Turning Point USA event itself has also attracted scrutiny, reflecting broader debates about celebrity involvement in politically charged causes.

Earlier in November, Minaj had spoken at a United Nations event hosted by the U.S. Mission, where she also highlighted alleged violence against Christians in Nigeria. That appearance marked the beginning of heightened public attention on her growing advocacy for religious freedom, a stance that continues to provoke both support and criticism worldwide.

Tags:
#NickiMinaj, #ChristianPersecution, #Nigeria

Ex-AGF Malami Accuses EFCC of Blocking Court Order Service, Insists Bail Order Was Properly Served

Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of deliberately evading compliance with a valid court order granting him bail. Malami’s camp insists that contrary to the EFCC’s claims, the anti-graft agency was properly served with the order but allegedly refused to acknowledge or accept it.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Mohammed Bello Doka, Malami said a court bailiff visited the EFCC offices a day after the order was issued, but officials of the commission declined to receive the documents. According to Malami, such refusal does not invalidate service under Nigerian law, as attempted service and subsequent delivery to legal representatives are sufficient to establish notice of a court order.

Malami further disclosed that the same bail order was later received by the chambers of Chief J.S. Okutepa (SAN), a senior advocate linked to the EFCC, arguing that this conclusively established the commission’s awareness of the court directive. The former AGF maintained that the EFCC’s continued detention of him therefore amounts to an attempt to sidestep judicial authority.

The EFCC, however, has firmly rejected these claims. In an earlier statement, its lead counsel, Okutepa, described reports of an ex-parte bail order as misleading, bizarre, and professionally irresponsible. He insisted that neither the EFCC nor his law firm was served with any court order directing Malami’s release and said he only learned of the alleged order through social media reports.

Okutepa also recalled that on December 10, 2025, Justice S.C. Oriji of the FCT High Court ordered Malami’s remand in EFCC custody for 14 days pending investigations, an order he said remains valid and subsisting. He added that a subsequent bail application filed by Malami’s legal team before another FCT High Court was dismissed on December 18, 2025, with the court affirming that Malami was not being unlawfully detained.

The legal dispute has now escalated into a public standoff, with Malami accusing the EFCC of contempt and the commission warning against what it described as abuse of judicial process and attempts to mislead the public. The controversy has further intensified scrutiny of the EFCC’s handling of high-profile corruption cases and the enforcement of court orders in Nigeria.