Wahala Don Set Oo! Chimamanda Adichie’s Son Dies, Editors Demand Probe Into Alleged Lagos Hospital Negligence

Wahala don really set for Nigeria’s healthcare system oo! Literary editors and public intellectuals are mourning the tragic death of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s 21-month-old son, Nnamdi, while demanding a full and transparent investigation into what they describe as possible medical negligence at a Lagos hospital.

Co-editors of Camouflage: Best of Contemporary Writing from Nigeria, Professors Nduka Otiono and Odoh Diego Okenyodo, described the loss as “profoundly shattering,” joining Nigerians at home and abroad in sympathising with the award-winning author and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege.

“Losing a child is a pain no parent should ever experience,” the editors said, expressing deep condolences and standing in solidarity with Adichie in what they called her darkest hour.

The statement followed Adichie’s emotional public account in which she alleged that her son’s death on January 6, 2026, was avoidable and resulted from negligence during what should have been routine medical procedures at a Lagos-based hospital.

Quoting her directly, the editors stated: “My son would be alive today if not for an incident at Euracare Hospital on January 6th.”

This revelation has sparked nationwide outrage, with many Nigerians asking tough questions about the safety of hospitals and accountability in the country’s healthcare system.

In response to the public outcry, the Lagos State Government has ordered an independent investigation into the incident, promising that anyone found responsible would face justice. The editors, however, insisted that the probe must not be cosmetic.

“We urge that the investigation be thorough, transparent, and impartial. Every detail must be uncovered so that the truth emerges,” they said.

But this tragedy, they warned, is not just about one family.

According to Otiono and Okenyodo, the death of little Nnamdi exposes deeper, long-standing problems in Nigeria’s healthcare sector—ranging from weak accountability to delays in care and unethical practices. They referenced findings from an anti-corruption survey by TAP Initiative and Dataphyte, which highlighted how informal payments and systemic failures often compromise patient safety.

While clarifying that they were not directly accusing the hospital of such practices, the editors stressed that Nigeria must confront the culture that allows negligence to thrive.

“It is intolerable that any patient—child or adult—should be denied timely care or placed in danger due to failure, indifference, or greed,” the statement read.

They called for:

A comprehensive, independent investigation into all medical and administrative actions surrounding Nnamdi’s death.

Public disclosure of findings, as promised by the Lagos State Government.

Immediate reforms in hospital oversight, with strict sanctions for any healthcare worker found guilty of negligence.


“The people of Lagos have the right to know what happened. If anyone is guilty—whether individual or institution—they must be held fully responsible,” they said.

Beyond justice for Adichie’s family, the editors said the case should become a turning point for Nigeria.

“This should catalyse nationwide action. Our hospitals must be places of care and compassion, not sites of preventable tragedy,” they added.

Paying tribute to the late child, they expressed hope that his death would not be in vain, and that truth, accountability, and reform would emerge from the pain.

As Nigerians continue to mourn with one of Africa’s most celebrated writers, one thing is clear: wahala don set oo. This case has opened a national conversation about patient safety, hospital accountability, and whether ordinary Nigerians—and even global figures—are truly safe in the country’s healthcare system.

Delta Police Redeploy Jesse DPO, Detain Constable Over ₦2.5M Extortion Allegations

The Delta State Police Command has redeployed CSP Chidi Nwabuzor, DPO of Jesse Division, and detained a constable following allegations of extorting ₦2.5 million from a woman seeking her brother’s release from custody.

The allegations surfaced in a viral video implicating the DPO and two officers, Bright and Usman, in the extortion. The victim’s brother, 20-year-old Israel Onojeruo, was initially arrested on January 1, 2026, after being implicated by another suspect. Both were later transferred to the State Anti-Cult Unit (SACU).

In response, CP Aina Adesola ordered an immediate investigation by the Anti-Corruption (X-Squad) Unit. The constable, Bright, was detained at command headquarters, while the DPO was redeployed pending investigation due to prior complaints of unprofessional conduct.

The Police assured the public that any officer found guilty would be decisively dealt with under the Police Act. Citizens can report misconduct through the Complaint Response Unit via numbers: 09011112311, 09155570008, 09064308018, 09066575187.

#DeltaPolice #Extortion #NigeriaNews”

Delta Police Redeploy Jesse DPO, Detain Constable Over ₦2.5M Extortion Allegations

The Delta State Police Command has redeployed CSP Chidi Nwabuzor, DPO of Jesse Division, and detained a constable following allegations of extorting ₦2.5 million from a woman seeking her brother’s release from custody.

The allegations surfaced in a viral video implicating the DPO and two officers, Bright and Usman, in the extortion. The victim’s brother, 20-year-old Israel Onojeruo, was initially arrested on January 1, 2026, after being implicated by another suspect. Both were later transferred to the State Anti-Cult Unit (SACU).

In response, CP Aina Adesola ordered an immediate investigation by the Anti-Corruption (X-Squad) Unit. The constable, Bright, was detained at command headquarters, while the DPO was redeployed pending investigation due to prior complaints of unprofessional conduct.

The Police assured the public that any officer found guilty would be decisively dealt with under the Police Act. Citizens can report misconduct through the Complaint Response Unit via numbers: 09011112311, 09155570008, 09064308018, 09066575187.


#DeltaPolice #Extortion #NigeriaNews”

Did Abdulfatah Ahmed Divert ₦5.78 Billion UBEC Funds? Why Kwara Court Adjourned Ex-Governor’s Fraud Trial to February 16

A Kwara State High Court sitting in Ilorin has adjourned the ₦5.78 billion alleged fraud trial of former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed and his former Commissioner for Finance, Ademola Banu, raising fresh questions about how public education funds were allegedly diverted under the previous administration. The case, which resumed before Justice Mahmud Abdulgafar, was postponed to February 16, 2026, following legal objections during the presentation of evidence by the prosecution.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), through its Ilorin Zonal Directorate, is prosecuting the former officials over claims that funds meant for educational development were unlawfully redirected. According to the EFCC, the defendants approved the use of Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) matching grants—money specifically allocated for building and upgrading primary and junior secondary schools across Kwara’s 16 local government areas—to pay civil servants’ salaries, contrary to the conditions attached to the funds.

During the latest hearing, the prosecution called its sixth witness, Stanley Ujilibo, who told the court that the EFCC obtained bank statements from Polaris Bank (formerly Skye Bank) and Guaranty Trust Bank as part of its investigation. He explained that official letters dated August 1, 2025, were sent to both banks requesting records of Kwara State Government accounts. The banks acknowledged the requests and provided the statements, which were admitted as exhibits by the court.

The trial further revisited earlier testimony by a former Accountant-General of Kwara State, Suleiman Oluwadare Ishola, who stated that ₦1 billion from UBEC matching grants was borrowed in 2015 by the Ahmed administration to pay salaries and pensions. This revelation has intensified public scrutiny over whether funds intended for school infrastructure were systematically diverted for recurrent government expenses.

However, proceedings were briefly stalled when the EFCC attempted to tender additional documents from the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Accountant-General. Defence counsel, led by Kamaldeen Ajibade, objected on procedural grounds, arguing that the documents had not been properly highlighted for clarity and reference. Justice Abdulgafar upheld the objection and consequently adjourned the case.

The adjournment has sparked debate across Kwara State and beyond: Was public education funding sacrificed to cover salary obligations? Did the former administration violate the terms governing UBEC grants? And will the evidence presented be enough to establish criminal responsibility?

As the trial continues, the case stands as a major test of accountability in Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, particularly regarding the management of education funds and the prosecution of high-profile political figures.

ICPC Rejects Dangote’s Petition Withdrawal, Continues Probe of Ex-NMDPRA Chief Farouk Ahmed

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that it will continue investigating allegations of corruption against Engineer Farouk Ahmed, the former Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), despite the withdrawal of a petition by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.

Dangote initially filed the petition in December 2025, accusing Ahmed of corruption, including the alleged misappropriation of public funds and spending approximately $5 million on his children’s education in Switzerland, despite lacking a verifiable lawful income to support such expenditure. The allegations sparked nationwide outrage and intensified scrutiny of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.

On January 5, 2026, Dangote’s legal team, led by Dr. O.J. Onoja, SAN, formally withdrew the petition, citing that another law enforcement agency had assumed responsibility for investigating the matter. However, the ICPC rejected the withdrawal, emphasizing that once a petition alleging corruption is received and an investigation commences, the process cannot be terminated at the discretion of the petitioner—particularly in cases of public interest and alleged abuse of office.

In a press statement, ICPC spokesperson Okor Odey stressed that the commission’s investigation would proceed in line with its statutory mandate to ensure transparency, accountability, and the fight against corruption in Nigeria. The ICPC also highlighted that the inquiry serves the interest of the Nigerian people and cannot be halted simply because the petitioner withdraws.

Following the accusations, Farouk Ahmed resigned from his position as NMDPRA Chief Executive, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed a successor. ICPC had earlier summoned Dangote to appear before a special panel of investigators in Abuja regarding his petition. Dangote had publicly criticized Ahmed’s alleged spending during a media briefing on December 14, 2025, highlighting the contrast between such expenditure and the economic struggles of ordinary Nigerians amid inflation and rising fuel prices.

The ICPC’s decision to continue its probe underscores the agency’s commitment to holding public officials accountable, regardless of a petitioner’s withdrawal, and signals a robust approach to anti-corruption enforcement in Nigeria.

How Did Ex-AGF Abubakar Malami, His Sons Amass 57 Luxury Homes, Hotels, University Assets Worth ₦213 Billion? Inside the EFCC Money Laundering Case, Court Forfeiture Order, and Full Property List Shaking Nigeria

How did a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice allegedly acquire 57 high-value properties across Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and Kaduna? What explains the sudden emergence of luxury hotels, vast landed estates, factories, schools, filling stations, shopping complexes, and an entire private university tied to Abubakar Malami (SAN) and his two sons? And why has a Federal High Court now ordered the interim forfeiture of assets valued at a staggering ₦213.2 billion?

In a dramatic legal move that has reignited national debate on corruption and elite wealth in Nigeria, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, granted an ex-parte application filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), authorising the temporary seizure of 57 properties allegedly linked to Malami and his sons, Abdulaziz and Abiru-Rahman. The court ruled that the assets are reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activity and should be preserved pending full investigation and trial.

What exactly did investigators uncover? The forfeited properties include luxury duplexes in Maitama and Asokoro, high-end hotels in Abuja and Kano, shopping malls, warehouses, petrol stations, plazas, and sprawling estates across Kebbi State. Among the most striking assets are massive institutional holdings under the “Rayhaan” brand: Rayhaan University with multiple sites reportedly worth tens of billions of naira, agro-allied factories with heavy machinery, staff quarters, mosques, media outlets, model academies, and large commercial hubs such as Azbir Arena and Zeennoor Hotel in Kano.

Why are these properties raising alarm? According to the EFCC, the scale, speed, and structure of the acquisitions—many made while Malami served as Nigeria’s chief law officer—point to potential money laundering and abuse of office. Several assets were allegedly purchased at relatively low values and later upgraded into multi-billion-naira developments. Others are held through foundations, companies, and educational or religious fronts, prompting questions about whether public office was leveraged to build a vast private empire.

What happens next? The interim forfeiture does not yet mean permanent confiscation. The court has ordered that the assets be preserved while legal proceedings continue. Interested parties may be invited to show cause why the properties should not be finally forfeited to the Federal Government. Meanwhile, civil society groups and anti-corruption advocates are asking: will this case mark a turning point in Nigeria’s fight against high-level corruption, or will it join the long list of stalled elite prosecutions?

As Nigerians digest the full list of 57 properties—ranging from luxury residences and hotels to universities, factories, schools, filling stations, and commercial plazas—the central question remains: how did a public official and his immediate family come to control assets worth over ₦213 billion, and will the courts finally provide answers that restore public trust?

Why Was Former AGF Malami Granted ₦500m Bail? Is Justice Really Blind in Nigeria?”

In a dramatic development, Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has granted ₦500 million bail to former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, along with his wife, Bashir Asabe, and son, Abdulaziz Malami. The court imposed strict conditions: the sureties must own property in highbrow Abuja districts such as Asokoro, Maitama, or Gwarinpa, and travel documents must be deposited and verified.
Malami, currently remanded at the Kuje Correctional Centre, faces 16-count charges from the EFCC over alleged money laundering of ₦8.7 billion. Despite the seriousness of the allegations, the court allowed bail with stringent financial and procedural guarantees, while barring Malami from leaving the country without prior court approval.
The case raises critical questions about accountability, fairness, and public perception of justice in Nigeria. Critics may ask: Why are high-profile defendants often granted huge bail while ordinary citizens face harsher restrictions? Does wealth and influence tilt the scales of justice? How does this decision impact public confidence in anti-corruption efforts?
Fintter readers, we want your opinion: Is this bail a sign that the judicial system works fairly, or does it highlight systemic privilege? Should Nigeria reform bail and pre-trial policies to ensure equality before the law? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation.

NCC Staff Allege Abuse, Corruption, Irregular Recruitment Under EVC Dr. Aminu Maida, Call for Probe

Some staff members of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have accused Executive Vice Chairman and CEO Dr. Aminu Maida of widespread corruption, abuse of power, staff victimisation, and intimidation. Operating under the name Concerned Staff of the NCC, they allege management has refused to promote existing employees citing “no vacancies” while approving the recruitment of over 50 new staff.
The workers further claimed that the introduction of a voluntary redundancy scheme is being used to force out existing employees to create vacancies for preferred candidates, amid alleged board interference and staff intimidation, including involvement of the Department of State Services (DSS).
Sources also allege that Maida frequently travels abroad, particularly to the UK, without handing over responsibilities, leaving oversight to close associates. Staff warned that no individual is above the law and called on the Minister of Communications, anti-corruption agencies, the National Assembly, and the media to investigate irregular recruitment, the redundancy scheme, intimidation practices, and alleged declining service quality at the NCC.

#NCCCorruption #AminuMaida #NigerianTelecoms #StaffAbuse #IrregularRecruitment

SERAP Urges President Tinubu to Probe N128 Billion Missing From Power Ministry, NBET

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to investigate allegations that over N128 billion was misappropriated or diverted from the Federal Ministry of Power and the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET). Citing the Auditor-General’s 2022 and 2025 reports, SERAP highlighted missing funds, undocumented payments to contractors, irregular foreign travel expenses, unauthorized sub-account transfers, and extra-budgetary spending.

SERAP urged prosecution of those responsible, recovery of the funds, and their use to address Nigeria’s 2026 budget deficit. The organization emphasized that tackling corruption in the power sector is essential to improve electricity supply and uphold constitutional and international anti-corruption obligations. SERAP warned it may take legal action if the government fails to act within seven days.

#SERAP #Tinubu #PowerSectorCorruption #NBET #NigeriaNews #Accountability #AntiCorruption #ElectricityCrisis #PublicFunds

Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed Accuses FCT Minister Nyesom Wike of Plot to Destabilise Bauchi, Says Tinubu Is Surrounded by “Hooligans and Charlatans” Amid Alleged Political Victimisation

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has accused the Federal Government and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, of orchestrating a coordinated campaign of political victimisation, intimidation, and abuse of state institutions aimed at destroying his political career.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, the governor alleged that Wike was actively influencing security agencies and anti-corruption institutions, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to target him and officials in his administration. Mohammed claimed that petitions, court processes, and security actions against his government were politically motivated and designed to tarnish his reputation, force political alignment, or neutralise him as a perceived threat.

The governor further alleged that Wike had threatened to “put fire” in Bauchi State, accusing him of bribing people, manipulating institutions, and selling influence. He said intelligence from within the EFCC suggested that documents and petitions were deliberately orchestrated to implicate his Commissioner for Finance and cast suspicion on his government.

Mohammed described the actions as a violation of his fundamental human rights and said he had written to the Attorney General of the Federation and other agencies, warning that he would escalate the matter to the international community. He stated that he was seeking protection against what he termed “reckless” political persecution.

In a sharp rebuke of the presidency, the Bauchi governor said President Bola Tinubu was surrounded by “hooligans and charlatans” determined to destroy opposition figures. He also accused Wike of being a destabilising force within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleging divided loyalties and describing him as an “undertaker” of the opposition party.

Mohammed warned that the alleged impunity within the ruling circle poses a serious threat to democracy, accountability, and political stability in Nigeria, insisting that unchecked abuse of power would have grave consequences for the country.

Tinubu Appoints EFCC Lawyer Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, as Director of Public Prosecutions to Strengthen Federal Government’s Legal and Anti-Corruption Strategy

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of seasoned anti-corruption lawyer, Mr Rotimi Iseoluwa Oyedepo, SAN, as the new Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Federal Ministry of Justice. The appointment, announced on December 30, 2025, involves Oyedepo’s transfer of service from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to the mainstream Federal Civil Service in what the government described as a decision made in the public interest. Oyedepo will replace Mr Abubakar Babadoko, who is set to retire after completing the mandatory eight-year tenure as a director on December 31, 2025. A law graduate of the University of Ilorin and alumnus of the Nigerian Law School, Oyedepo brings over 15 years of experience in prosecuting complex economic and financial crimes at the EFCC, where he also served as Head of the Monitoring Unit. He was part of the Federal Government’s legal team in the landmark P&ID arbitration case. The Presidency said his appointment is expected to reduce reliance on external legal counsel, strengthen prosecution capacity, and ensure greater consistency in the government’s legal strategies, particularly in high-profile corruption cases.

Tinubu Government Denies ‘ADP4VIP’ Plot to Arrest and Detain Opposition Figures, Calls Allegations Fake and Baseless Disinformation

The Federal Government has firmly denied allegations that it established a secret programme known as “ADP4VIP” to arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition politicians in Nigeria. In a statement issued on December 30, 2025, and signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government described the claims as false, fabricated, and deliberately misleading. According to the government, the alleged programme—which purportedly involved a multi-agency task force comprising the EFCC, ICPC, and NFIU under the coordination of the Office of the National Security Adviser—does not exist. The administration said the forged document behind the claims was designed to portray lawful accountability as political persecution, particularly targeting members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Reaffirming President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and constitutional freedoms, the government cited Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association. It stressed that law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies operate independently and within legal boundaries. The government also warned Nigerians against the spread of misinformation and fake news as the 2027 general elections approach, cautioning that political actors may increasingly deploy disinformation for relevance. Despite accusations of a crackdown on opposition parties, the Tinubu administration insisted it remains focused on economic reforms, tackling insecurity, restoring investor confidence, and delivering measurable progress for Nigerians.

FG Reaffirms Unwavering Commitment to Rule of Law, Dismisses Fabricated Allegations of Targeting Opposition

The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically states that it harbours no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures. This clarification is in response to a fabricated document in circulation alleging the establishment of a non-existent multi-agency task force for a purported programme tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).

The baseless document falsely claims that a task force comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, aims to aggressively target prominent opposition figures without due process.

The authors of this deliberate disinformation imprudently cite “multiple credible sources” to allege a planned “systematic weakening and neutralisation of opposition political activity,” particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The Federal Government wishes to state emphatically:

1. There is no such programme as “ADP4VIP.”

2. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is firmly and successfully focused on its core agenda: implementing measurable economic reforms, defeating insecurity, expanding trade opportunities, and restoring investor confidence.

3. The attempt by some opposition elements to frame lawful accountability as political targeting is a dangerous red herring designed to shield so-called VIPs from answering to our national laws and anti-corruption agencies.

The Government underscores its foundational principles. Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees every Nigerian the right to freely associate and assemble. President Tinubu swore an oath to uphold this Constitution and its protections, including the freedoms of association and religion. He is a democrat with considerable and positive footprints.

Under President Tinubu's leadership, the Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions. Nigeria is a constitutional democracy where law enforcement and judicial agencies are obligated to perform their duties professionally, without interference, and in the nation's best interest.

Politicians and citizens are therefore enjoined to desist from engaging in disinformation, misinformation, and fake news, especially in an era where credibility is intrinsically linked to informational fidelity.

With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the public should anticipate an increase in fabricated narratives and political blackmail by actors who employ falsehood as a strategy for relevance. We urge all Nigerians to remain vigilant and to reject the politics of distortion and division.

Every Nigerian retains the constitutional right to lawful association and political activity. Concurrently, our security and anti-corruption institutions retain the lawful mandate to operate in the nation's interest.

As we draw the curtain on 2025 and step into a new year, this government will not be distracted by those invested in perpetual politicking. Nigerians deserve continuity, progress, and tangible results—and that is what the Tinubu Administration remains dedicated to delivering.

Mohammed Idris, fnipr
Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation
Federal Republic of Nigeria

Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Overpriced’ ₦355 Million ICT Centre in Akwa-Ibom Facilitated by Senate President Akpabio Remains Poorly Equipped, Raises Anti-Corruption Concerns

A civic technology platform, MonITNG, has flagged an “overpriced” ₦355 million ICT centre in Etim Ekpo, Akwa-Ibom North West Senatorial District, facilitated by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The project, executed through the Federal Cooperative College, Ibadan under the Ministry of Agriculture, is largely incomplete and poorly equipped, providing only 25 desktop computers, basic tables, and stools. Key facilities such as UPS systems, printers, backup power, and a perimeter fence are missing, rendering the centre largely unusable. MonITNG highlighted concerns over political branding and misuse of public funds, calling for contractors to complete the project and anti-corruption agencies to investigate, emphasizing that public resources must benefit communities rather than serve political interests.

Federal Polytechnic Bida Staff Accuse Management of Alleged N1.1 Billion Diversion of Personnel Funds to Controversial Supplier Payments Amid Unpaid Salary Arrears and Promotion Backlogs

Staff at Federal Polytechnic Bida have accused the institution’s management of plotting to divert N1.1 billion intended for personnel welfare to settle controversial supplier claims from a previous administration. Workers allege that senior officials planned to take a 40% cut while using only 60% of the funds for staff arrears, including unpaid promotion and salary increments dating back to 2017, 2024, and 2025. Staff members are demanding that anti-corruption agencies investigate instead of allowing the funds to be misused, citing transparency and accountability concerns. The school management has yet to respond to the allegations.

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.

Tinubu Criticized for Appointing Ex-Governor Yahaya Bello to APC Reconciliation Committee Amid ₦80 Billion Corruption Allegations

The African Transparency Initiative (ATI) has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello to the APC national reconciliation committee. ATI described the move as a “grave assault on integrity and accountability,” citing Bello’s alleged involvement in corruption, illegal mining, terrorism sponsorship, and political violence, including the diversion of over ₦80 billion during his tenure. The group warned that Bello’s inclusion undermines Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, erodes public trust, and sends a negative signal to the international community. ATI called for his immediate removal and urged law enforcement agencies to pursue ongoing allegations without political interference.

ICPC Must Uphold Justice, Fairness, and Rule of Law

In this opinion piece, Muhammed Al-Ameen stresses the critical role of anti-corruption agencies like the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in Nigeria’s fragile democracy. He argues that these institutions are vital to maintaining the integrity of the state, and their independence is non-negotiable.

Independence and integrity of anti-graft agencies are essential; any political manipulation threatens democracy.

ICPC under Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN—a Senior Advocate of Nigeria—is increasingly seen as politically biased, ignoring court orders and engaging in selective justice.

Senior Advocates are expected to uphold the law and serve as examples, but ICPC’s leadership has allegedly disregarded judicial processes, undermining public trust.

Mishandling Aliko Dangote’s petition against Farouk Ahmed (NMDPRA), effectively defending the accused instead of conducting an impartial investigation.

Ignoring an interim injunction by Kano State High Court protecting ALGON members from harassment.


Such actions signal institutionalized lawlessness, where those knowledgeable of the law use it selectively for political purposes.


Recommendations:

Immediate intervention by the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) regarding petitions against Dr. Aliyu.

ICPC must comply with all outstanding court orders and rid itself of political interference.

The Presidency and judiciary should ensure the ICPC functions as a neutral, accountable watchdog.


Al-Ameen concludes that ICPC’s credibility and Nigeria’s democratic integrity are at stake. The agency must choose between strengthening the rule of law or becoming a tool for political vendettas.

The piece calls for restoration of institutional sanity, fair enforcement of laws, and prioritizing the public’s interest over political expediency.

A civil society organisation, the Association of Legislative Drafting and Advocacy Practitioners (ALDRAP), has formally urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to reject the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria as a surety in the ongoing corruption case involving former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN).

In a petition dated December 24, 2025, and addressed to the EFCC Chairman in Abuja, ALDRAP based its request on Section 167(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015, which clearly outlines who qualifies to stand as a surety in criminal proceedings. The group argued that the Director-General of the Legal Aid Council does not meet the statutory and ethical requirements required under the law.

The petition, signed by ALDRAP’s Secretary, Dr. Tonye Clinton Jaja, cited the 2024 Anti-Corruption Index published by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission (ICPC). According to the group, the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria was among federal government agencies that recorded a zero percent (0%) score in the ICPC’s ethics and integrity assessment for the year.

ALDRAP stressed that this poor rating raises serious concerns about the integrity, credibility, and suitability of the Legal Aid Council’s leadership to act as a surety for a defendant facing serious corruption allegations. The group argued that allowing a public official whose institution failed to meet basic anti-corruption benchmarks to guarantee the bail of a former justice minister accused of massive financial crimes would undermine public confidence in the justice system.

“The implication is that a person heading an institution that scored zero percent in the ICPC anti-corruption index cannot be considered fit and proper to stand as surety for Malami, who is himself undergoing investigation and prosecution for corruption-related offences,” the petition stated.

ALDRAP further reminded the EFCC of its mandate as a watchdog against corruption and urged the commission to ensure that all bail conditions strictly comply with the law and ethical standards. The group noted that it was incorporated in 2017 under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) and is committed to promoting adherence to the 1999 Constitution and other relevant laws governing public accountability.

Meanwhile, the petition comes against the backdrop of serious criminal charges filed against Malami by the Federal Government. SaharaReporters had earlier reported that Malami is facing 16 counts bordering on money laundering, conspiracy, and unlawful acquisition of assets, alongside his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and an associate, Hajia Bashir Asabe.

According to court documents, prosecutors allege that Malami and his co-defendants used corporate fronts and proxies, including Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited, Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, and Meethaq Hotels Limited, to conceal and launder illicit funds while Malami served as Nigeria’s chief law officer. The alleged offences span nearly a decade, from 2015 to 2025, covering both his time in office and the period after.

The charges detail multiple financial transactions involving billions of naira, including over ₦1 billion allegedly concealed through Sterling Bank accounts, large cash collaterals used to secure bank loans, and payments for luxury properties in Abuja, Kano, Birnin Kebbi, and other locations. Prosecutors claim that no fewer than 30 high-value properties worth about ₦212.8 billion were acquired using proceeds of unlawful activities.

The government further alleges that Malami and his associates violated provisions of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 (as amended) and the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022, through systematic concealment, conversion, and retention of illicit funds.

Against this backdrop, ALDRAP has expressed confidence that the EFCC will give its petition urgent and favourable consideration, insisting that the integrity of the bail process must not be compromised in a case of such national significance. The group warned that allowing questionable sureties could weaken anti-corruption efforts and send the wrong message to Nigerians about accountability at the highest levels of government.

Lawyer Adeyanju Calls for Probe of Dangote’s $5 Million Allegation Against NMDPRA Boss

Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has urged Nigerian anti-corruption agencies to investigate claims that Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), spent $5 million on his children’s education in Switzerland. Adeyanju warned the government against succumbing to what he described as Aliko Dangote’s attempt to monopolize Nigeria’s oil sector. He emphasized that the dispute reflects Dangote’s frustration with regulatory oversight and called for a holistic investigation into allegations of impropriety, pricing of locally refined fuel, and potential sub-standard products. Adeyanju stressed that regulators must be protected when operating within the law and that patriotism should not force Nigerians to pay higher prices for local products.