NNPP Kano Chairman Urges Members Not to Defect to APC Amid Rising Political Tensions

Suleiman Hashim Dungurawa, NNPP Kano State Chairman, has urged party members to resist plans to defect to the APC. Speaking on behalf of both state and national leadership, he emphasized that the NNPP’s national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, opposes any defections. Dungurawa stressed that staying in the party is crucial for fulfilling NNPP’s vision of improving governance, education, agriculture, commerce, and other key sectors in Kano State. He also appealed on moral and religious grounds for members to remain committed.

How Did We Under-Develop Ourselves?’ Sam Amadi Condemns Decay of Owerri Grammar School, Blames Africa’s Leadership Failures

Former Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) Chairman, Dr. Sam Amadi, has criticised decades of poor leadership in Africa, using the dilapidated state of Owerri Grammar School in Imo State as evidence of governance failure. Reflecting on the school founded in 1958 by visionary leader Dr. Nnanna Ukaegbu, Amadi lamented how once-thriving public institutions have been allowed to decay despite years of democracy and massive public spending. He argued that Nigeria and Africa have regressed in education and healthcare since independence and urged African intellectuals to confront internal leadership failures rather than blaming colonialism alone for the continent’s underdevelopment.

2027 Presidency: Peter Obi Declares He’s Running for President, Rules Out Vice-Presidential Slot

Former Labour Party presidential candidate and ex-Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, has confirmed he will contest the 2027 presidential election, firmly dismissing any plan to run as a vice-presidential candidate. Speaking during an X Spaces discussion on Sunday, Obi said his years of preparation, governance exposure, and business experience were aimed solely at leading Nigeria as president, not serving as a deputy. He expressed confidence in his capacity to turn the country around and appealed to supporters for prayers and backing ahead of the 2027 polls.

Integrity Shock as ICPC Scores NNPC Zero, Ranks National Oil Company Bottom Despite Fresh Profits and Reform Claims

Nigeria’s anti-corruption watchdog, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has rated the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) zero in its 2025 Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard, placing it last among 357 federal ministries, departments and agencies assessed nationwide. The report found that NNPCL failed across all four integrity pillars—management culture, financial management, administrative systems, and anti-corruption mechanisms—classifying the national oil company as a high-risk institution. The outcome has intensified concerns over governance, transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, especially given NNPCL’s recent claims of improved profitability.
The ICPC report also revealed mixed results across petroleum regulators, with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) emerging as the top-performing agency, while the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NMDPRA) recorded weak compliance. Overall, only about 14% of federal agencies achieved substantial compliance, prompting the ICPC to signal tougher enforcement actions against persistently non-compliant institutions. Analysts warn that NNPCL’s zero score poses reputational risks and could undermine public trust and investor confidence unless urgent governance reforms are implemented.

NNPC Reports N5.4 Trillion Profit as Directors’ Pay Hits N4.096 Billion, Administrative Costs Surge

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) revealed that directors’ fees rose to N4.096 billion in 2024, a 58% increase from 2023, amid a record N5.4 trillion profit. Executive pay slightly dipped to N1.365 billion, while employee welfare expenses rose to N749.7 billion, contributing to zero voluntary resignations. Administrative and operational costs surged to N3.58 trillion, driven by consultancy, software, security, travel, and training expenditures. The report highlights scrutiny over governance costs despite NNPCL’s reforms and massive profits, as the company continues its transition under the Petroleum Industry Act.

African Union Rejects Recognition of Somaliland, Reaffirms Commitment to Somalia’s Unity, Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity

The African Union has firmly rejected any move to recognise Somaliland as an independent state, reiterating its long-standing support for the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia. In a statement issued on December 27, 2025, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, warned that recognising Somaliland would violate the AU Constitutive Act and the principle of respecting borders inherited at independence. He cautioned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent and threaten peace and stability across Africa. The AU reaffirmed its full backing for Somalia’s federal authorities, stressing its commitment to peace-building, state consolidation and inclusive governance, despite renewed international debate following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland.

Alleged Forgery Of Tinubu’s Tax Reform Law Is Treason, Assault On Democracy — Atiku Alleges

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the Bola Tinubu administration of committing a “brazen act of treason” through alleged unauthorised alterations to the recently passed Tax Reform Law. In a statement issued by his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku claimed that key provisions were illegally inserted after the National Assembly had passed the bill, in violation of Sections 4 and 58 of the 1999 Constitution. He alleged that the changes granted excessive powers to tax authorities, imposed harsher financial burdens on citizens and businesses, and removed critical legislative oversight mechanisms. Atiku warned that the alleged forgery undermines constitutional democracy, due process and legislative supremacy, while worsening hardship for Nigerians already facing poverty and inflation. He called for the immediate suspension of the law’s implementation, legislative correction of the alleged alterations, judicial intervention to strike down unconstitutional provisions, and public resistance to what he described as an erosion of democratic governance.

Take-It-Back Movement Condemns US Airstrikes In Nigeria, Says Tinubu Has Failed On Security, Demands His Resignation

The Take-It-Back Movement (TIB) has strongly condemned recent United States airstrikes targeting ISIS-linked groups within Nigeria, warning that the action undermines national sovereignty and exposes the failure of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to secure the country. In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Sanyaolu Juwon, the movement acknowledged the threat posed by terrorism but rejected foreign military intervention on Nigerian soil, citing the devastating consequences of past U.S.-led interventions in countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan. TIB accused the Tinubu government of failing to protect citizens and Nigeria’s territorial integrity, linking public support for the airstrikes to a growing loss of confidence in the administration. The group also referenced the government’s crackdown on the 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests as evidence of misplaced priorities, and concluded by calling for President Tinubu’s resignation, insisting that sovereignty belongs to the people and not a government that cannot guarantee security and welfare.

South Africa’s EFF Condemns US Christmas Day Airstrikes In Nigeria, Warns Of Growing American Militarism And Threat To African Sovereignty

South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has strongly criticised the United States over Christmas Day airstrikes carried out in northwest Nigeria, reportedly in Sokoto State, describing the action as military imperialism and a grave violation of African sovereignty. In a statement, the EFF accused US President Donald Trump of using inflammatory religious rhetoric to justify the strikes and of oversimplifying Nigeria’s complex security crisis into a religious conflict. The party argued that violence in northern Nigeria is driven by poverty, banditry, insurgency, and governance failures affecting all communities, not just Christians. It also faulted the Nigerian government’s response, describing its praise of US–Nigeria security cooperation as capitulation to foreign military pressure. Warning that American interventions are driven by selfish economic interests such as oil, the EFF urged African governments and institutions to resist what it called expanding US militarism on the continent.

Afenifere Faction Backs Trump, Hails US–Nigeria Christmas Day Airstrikes On ISIS Terrorists In Sokoto

A faction of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has thrown its weight behind former US President Donald Trump and the United States military over the Christmas Day airstrikes carried out against ISIS-linked terrorists in North-West Nigeria. In a statement signed by its Organising Secretary, Kole Omololu, the group described the joint US–Nigerian military operation in Sokoto as timely and necessary, arguing that years of insecurity and ineffective governance justified foreign assistance. Afenifere said true sovereignty lies in the ability of a government to protect its citizens and urged Nigerians to support, rather than criticise, the counter-terrorism operation. The endorsement followed confirmations by both the Nigerian government and Defence Headquarters that the strikes were approved and marked one of the most significant US military interventions on Nigerian soil in the fight against terrorism.

AAC Chairman Warns Against US Airstrikes in Sokoto, Cautions Nigeria on Sovereignty and Long-Term Instability

The African Action Congress (AAC) Chairman for the FCT, Agena A. Robert, has warned Nigerians against celebrating recent U.S. airstrikes on alleged terrorist targets in Sokoto State. He cautioned that foreign military intervention risks undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty and could lead to long-term instability. In a statement titled “A Wake-Up Call for Nigerians: Don’t Trade Sovereignty for Short-Term Gains,” Robert argued that such strikes make Nigeria a potential battleground for global power interests and criticized the government for appearing merely “notified, not consulted.” He emphasized that foreign powers exploit conflicts rather than solve them, urging Nigerians to seek local solutions, strengthen regional cooperation via ECOWAS and Lake Chad Basin partners, and hold the Presidency accountable for approving foreign military operations. Robert stressed that addressing terrorism requires tackling root causes like poverty, corruption, and governance failures, rather than relying solely on airstrikes.

RULAAC Calls on Tinubu Govt to Clarify Legal Basis for US Airstrikes in Sokoto

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has urged President Bola Tinubu’s government to clarify the legal, institutional, and accountability framework behind the U.S. airstrikes in Sokoto State on Christmas Day.
In a statement signed by Executive Director Okechukwu Nwanguma, RULAAC acknowledged Nigeria’s responsibility to combat terrorism but emphasized that operations involving foreign forces must respect sovereignty, civilian protection, and the rule of law.
RULAAC highlighted concerns about conflicting narratives and lack of transparency surrounding the airstrikes. The organization called for answers on:
The scope of Nigeria’s consent to the operation
Control and oversight exercised over the U.S. strikes
Safeguards against civilian harm
Accountability mechanisms in case of violations
The group stressed that foreign military actions cannot substitute for addressing underlying governance failures, including weak policing, lack of prosecution for terrorism sponsors, and institutional gaps.
RULAAC also warned against framing Nigeria’s security crisis along religious lines, stating that the issue is impunity versus justice. It called for lawful governance, rights-respecting community policing, and institutional reforms as essential to long-term security.

ADP Warns Against Foreign Military Strikes on Nigerian Soil, Calls for Sovereignty and Constitutional Oversight

The Action Democratic Party (ADP) has expressed concern over U.S. military strikes on ISWAP terrorists in Northwest Nigeria, warning that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and constitutional order. In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Sani Dawop, the party emphasized that fighting terrorism must not justify outsourcing the use of force or eroding national authority. ADP National Chairman, Engr. Yabagi Yusuf Sani, called for full transparency, legislative oversight, and adherence to constitutional provisions, stressing that Nigeria must address terrorism without weakening its governance or accountability.

Northern Governors Condemn Maiduguri Mosque Suicide Bombing, Mourn Slain Kano Lawmakers

The Northern States Governors’ Forum has strongly condemned the suicide bombing that struck the Gomboru Market Mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, describing the attack as barbaric, cowardly and a grave violation of religious sanctity. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening during Maghrib prayers, when a suspected suicide bomber infiltrated the mosque, killing five worshippers and injuring at least 35 others, turning a sacred moment of worship into tragedy.

In a statement issued by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, through his Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governors expressed deep sorrow over the attack and extended condolences to the government and people of Borno State, particularly Governor Babagana Zulum, as well as the families of the victims and those injured. The forum stressed that attacks on places of worship offend human conscience and are intended to instil fear, but vowed that such acts would only strengthen the region’s unity and resolve against terrorism and violent extremism.

The governors urged security agencies and authorities in Borno State not to be discouraged, noting that terrorism thrives on fear and division. They called for sustained and intensified efforts to eliminate terrorism and restore lasting peace, while also advocating enhanced security around places of worship and public spaces, especially during festive periods marked by large gatherings. The forum reaffirmed its solidarity with Borno State and pledged full support as security agencies work to prevent further attacks.

In addition, the Northern Governors’ Forum mourned the deaths of two serving members of the Kano State House of Assembly, Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo and Sarki Aliyu Daneji, describing their passing as a painful loss to Kano State and democratic governance. The governors extended condolences to the Kano State Government, the legislature, and the families of the deceased lawmakers, praying for eternal rest for the departed and strength for those they left behind.

What’s the Cost of a Merry Christmas? Azu Ishiekwene Reflects on Power, Politics and Personal Choices

In this reflective Christmas opinion piece, Azu Ishiekwene departs from conventional year-end predictions to examine the deeper personal, political, and social costs of seeking a “merry” Christmas in a turbulent world. Writing against the backdrop of a chaotic global year marked by political disruption, Ishiekwene curates and revisits some of his most unusual and thought-provoking articles published in 2025.
Through humour, satire, and introspection, he reflects on Nigeria’s everyday frustrations—such as incomprehensible airport flight announcements—and broader continental issues, including the rise of algorithm-driven populism around Burkina Faso’s military leader, Ibrahim Traoré. He questions the substance behind viral political hero-worship and warns against mistaking online fantasy for real governance and reform.
The article also takes a deeply personal turn as Ishiekwene honours mentors and colleagues who shaped his journalism journey, highlighting how small acts of faith and guidance can define a lifetime. From tributes to seasoned journalists to reflections on career choices, love, regret, and ambition, he underscores the idea that life is lived forward, not in hindsight.
Politically, Ishiekwene revisits his controversial analysis of Peter Obi’s political future, cautioning against alliances that could undermine long-term ambition. He closes with a sober reminder that Christmas cheer should not come at the cost of critical thinking, moral clarity, or personal authenticity—urging readers to celebrate thoughtfully as they step into the New Year.

Gov. Ododo Greets Christians at Christmas, Harps on Peace, Unity

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has conveyed heartfelt Christmas goodwill message to Christians across the State, describing the sacred feast of the Nativity as a solemn reminder of selfless love, meekness and devotion to the service of mankind.

In his message through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, the Governor reflected on the spiritual depth of the season, noting that the birth of Jesus Christ calls believers to walk in patience, forbearance goodwill and virtues that strengthen harmony and communal living.

Governor Ododo observed that the enduring lessons of Christmas remain vital to the growth of Kogi State, urging citizens to uphold the spirit of brotherhood, restraint and collective duty as pillars for lasting peace and progress.

He stated that his administration remains guided by these timeless ideals in the pursuit of good governance, public order, and the steady advancement of the state, anchored on inclusive policies and geared towards the well-being of the populace.

The Governor further assured that the security and welfare of the people remain topmost priorities of the government, pledging continued efforts to safeguard lives and livelihoods.

He prayed that the joy of Christmas abide in every household accross Nigeria, rekindle hope in every individual and usher the people into a New Year marked by peace, diligence and shared prosperity.

Nigeria’s National Assembly has been thrown into deep controversy following allegations that Senate President Godswill Akpabio ordered the Clerk of the National Assembly to withhold certified copies of a tax reform bill transmitted to President Bola Tinubu and subsequently signed into law. The alleged directive has fueled suspicions among lawmakers that the version of the tax law assented to by the president may differ from what was debated and passed by both chambers of parliament.

According to reports by Peoples Gazette, two senators and four members of the House of Representatives claimed that repeated requests for certified true copies of the assented tax law were denied on the explicit instruction of the Senate President. Lawmakers said the embargo on the document has intensified internal tension, mistrust, and accusations of procedural manipulation within the legislature.

The controversy began after a House of Representatives member, Abdulsammad Dasuki (PDP, Sokoto State), raised a Point of Privilege during plenary, alleging that the tax laws made available to the public did not reflect the versions passed by the National Assembly. Dasuki stated that after the bill’s passage, he spent several days comparing the gazetted laws with the House’s Votes and Proceedings as well as the harmonised versions approved by both chambers, only to discover significant discrepancies.

According to Dasuki, the documents obtained from the Ministry of Information contained provisions that lawmakers neither debated nor approved. He insisted that the situation amounted to a serious breach of legislative procedure and constitutional governance, stressing that his intervention was meant to alert parliament to a potentially dangerous precedent rather than to move a formal motion.

Following his claims, several lawmakers formally requested access to the certified copy of the law signed by President Tinubu to verify whether any alterations occurred between legislative passage and presidential assent. However, lawmakers alleged that officials in the Clerk’s office repeatedly refused to release the document, citing direct instructions from Senate President Akpabio.

The refusal to release the assented version has further deepened suspicion, especially after Peoples Gazette reported that it had obtained a certified true copy of the tax bill as passed by the National Assembly. Lawmakers questioned why parliamentary leadership would block access to the assented version if no changes had been made.

Several legislators described the situation as an attack on legislative oversight and transparency. A ruling party senator, who spoke anonymously for fear of retaliation, warned that the alleged concealment of the document represented an attempt to undermine Nigeria’s democratic process and called on Nigerians of conscience to intervene. Another House member from Oyo State criticised Speaker Tajudeen Abbas for failing to address the issue with the urgency it deserved, expressing concern that the government appeared unwilling to suspend the January 1 implementation of the disputed tax law despite the unresolved controversy.

At the centre of the dispute is the fear that unauthorised clauses may have been inserted into the tax reform laws after parliamentary approval, raising serious constitutional and legal questions. Lawmakers warned that denying access to the assented copy erodes trust within parliament and weakens democratic accountability.

Meanwhile, Senator Sunday Karimi, a member of the Senate Finance Committee, dismissed claims of alterations as unsubstantiated rumours but acknowledged that the matter deserved investigation. He stated that all versions of the bill—those passed by the National Assembly and the gazetted laws—should be made publicly available for transparency. Karimi also expressed confidence in President Tinubu, insisting that the president would not be complicit in any attempt to undermine Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

The allegations have sparked widespread political backlash beyond the National Assembly. Opposition figures and civil society groups have accused unnamed actors of secretly altering the tax laws, with some describing the alleged actions as treasonous. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the situation as a “brazen act of treason” and a direct assault on Nigeria’s democracy.

As of the time of reporting, neither Senate President Akpabio, the Clerk of the National Assembly, nor Speaker Tajudeen Abbas had publicly responded to the allegations. The unfolding controversy has placed Nigeria’s tax reforms at the centre of a growing political storm, with calls mounting for full disclosure, legislative accountability, and a transparent review of the assented laws to safeguard the integrity of the country’s democratic process.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting religious freedom and ensuring that no Nigerian suffers persecution because of their faith, as he delivered his 2025 Christmas goodwill message to Christians across the country and around the world.

In the message released on Tuesday, December 24, President Tinubu said his government remains firmly dedicated to upholding national unity, peaceful coexistence, and the constitutional right of all Nigerians to freely practise their religion without fear, intimidation, or violence. He stressed that religious differences must never be a source of division or conflict in Nigeria.

Tinubu disclosed that throughout the year, his administration has actively engaged prominent leaders from Nigeria’s two major religions—Christianity and Islam—particularly amid growing concerns over religious intolerance, insecurity, and allegations of targeted attacks against Christian communities in parts of the country. According to him, these engagements are aimed at strengthening collaboration between government and religious institutions to prevent conflict and foster mutual understanding.

The President said his government would build on these discussions to deepen cooperation with faith-based leaders, promote dialogue, and encourage peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of different religious backgrounds. He emphasised that the protection of religious freedom remains a key pillar of his administration’s governance agenda.

Extending Christmas greetings to Christians, Tinubu described the season as a period of reflection on the birth of Jesus Christ and His enduring message of love, peace, hope, and salvation. He noted that Christmas goes beyond celebrations and festivities, reminding humanity of Christ’s teachings as the Prince of Peace and a symbol of unity and compassion.

Tinubu thanked God for the opportunity to serve as Nigeria’s President and offered prayers for peace and harmony across the nation, particularly among people of different faiths. He reassured Nigerians that his government remains resolute in safeguarding the rights of all citizens to live, worship, and pursue their aspirations in safety and dignity.

“As your President, I remain committed to doing everything within my power to enshrine religious freedom in Nigeria and to protect all people of different faiths from violence,” Tinubu said, adding that no individual, regardless of ethnicity or belief, should be made to suffer for professing or practising their faith.

The President also acknowledged the role of Christians in Nigeria’s social development, noting that Christian values have inspired acts of charity, care for the vulnerable, and efforts to promote peace, tolerance, and harmony in communities across the country. He commended individuals and groups who continue to work selflessly to support the less privileged and strengthen social cohesion.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to security and stability, Tinubu said his government has consistently reassured Nigerians of its determination to safeguard the nation’s unity since assuming office in 2023. He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, stating that collective strength, faith in God, and national solidarity would help overcome current challenges.

As Nigerians travel during the festive season, the President urged citizens to exercise patience, discipline, and caution on the roads, wishing all travellers safe journeys and peaceful celebrations. He concluded by expressing confidence that, with divine guidance and unity of purpose, Nigeria would continue progressing toward a future that coming generations would be proud of.

Atiku Abubakar Slams Tinubu Government for Allegedly Ignoring Supreme Court Ruling on Local Government Autonomy, Calls It Constitutional Breach

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for failing to implement a binding Supreme Court judgment mandating direct FAAC allocations to local governments. In a statement issued on December 24, 2025, Atiku described the prolonged non-implementation as deliberate defiance of the Constitution rather than administrative delay, accusing the federal government of using compliance as a political tool to control governors. He warned that continued denial of local government financial autonomy is crippling grassroots development, worsening poverty, and undermining democratic governance, while urging the president to immediately direct the Attorney-General to enforce the court’s ruling.

#AtikuAbubakar
#LocalGovernmentAutonomy
#SupremeCourtRuling

Aisha Buhari Reveals Pneumonia as Cause of Late President Buhari’s Death in New Book"

Former First Lady, Aisha Buhari, has disclosed in her newly released book From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari that pneumonia was the immediate cause of her late husband’s death. She dismissed conspiracy theories suggesting poisoning or sabotage, stating that medical professionals clearly informed the family. Aisha Buhari also linked Buhari’s earlier health challenges to exhaustion and dietary imbalance. The book further reflects on governance challenges during his presidency, the DSS controversy, and her post-presidential humanitarian initiatives, including a cardiovascular and medical centre in Kano.

#AishaBuhari #MuhammaduBuhari #BuhariDeath #Pneumonia #NigeriaPolitics #NigerianPresidency #Governance