The Senate has announced plans to hold an executive briefing over the December 25 United States air strikes on suspected terrorist targets in Sokoto State, following concerns about the National Assembly’s alleged exclusion.

Senator Abdul Ningi questioned the operation, arguing that the strikes amounted to a violation of Nigeria’s territorial integrity and should not have been carried out without legislative oversight or prior engagement with the National Assembly.

The issue has sparked debate within the Senate, with lawmakers seeking clarity on the circumstances surrounding the operation and the level of involvement of Nigerian authorities.

#Nigeria #NationalAssembly #USAirstrikes #Security

JUST IN

“First time in Nigeria, the National Assembly passes a law and it is allegedly forged and rebranded as the ‘approved version’ — all under Tinubu’s watch.”

— Bolaji Abdullahi

Political Earthquake: Atiku’s Son, Abba Abubakar, Dumps PDP for APC, Backs Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election

Abba Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has defected from the PDP to the ruling APC, declaring open support for President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid in 2027. Announcing his move at the National Assembly, Abba described the decision as historic and personal, directing his political structure to join the APC and mobilise for Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. APC leaders hailed the defection as symbolic, saying it reflects confidence in Tinubu’s reforms and signals a new phase of “politics without borders.”

Are Nigeria’s New Tax Laws Unconstitutional? Why a Lawyer Is Suing the Federal Government Over Multiple Budgets, Fiscal Transparency, and the 2026 Tax Reforms

Is Nigeria running its finances in violation of its own laws—and could the country’s new tax regime be declared unconstitutional? These are the questions now before the Federal High Court in Lagos following a landmark lawsuit filed by human rights lawyer, Mr. Tilewa Oyefeso.

Oyefeso has dragged the Federal Government, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the National Assembly, and the Attorney-General of the Federation to court, challenging what he describes as Nigeria’s “opaque and undisciplined fiscal regime.” At the heart of the case is the government’s practice of operating multiple federal budgets simultaneously and introducing new tax laws that he claims contradict both the Constitution and the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007.

According to the suit, the Federal Government has extended capital components of the 2024 Appropriation Act into 2025 and 2026 while the 2025 budget is already in force—effectively running overlapping budgets. Oyefeso is asking the court to determine whether this practice complies with Nigeria’s Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the unified annual budgeting system mandated by fiscal law.

Why does this matter? The lawyer argues that overlapping budgets, supplementary appropriations, and extended capital projects undermine fiscal transparency, distort expenditure projections, and weaken the macroeconomic discipline the Fiscal Responsibility Act was designed to protect. He also accuses the government of failing to publish quarterly budget implementation reports within the legally required 30-day period—an omission he says makes it impossible for citizens to track public spending or hold authorities accountable.

But the lawsuit goes beyond budgets. Oyefeso is also challenging four major tax laws scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026: the Nigeria Tax Act 2025, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act 2025, the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act 2025, and the Nigeria Tax Administration Act 2025.

He contends that the new tax framework prioritises aggressive revenue generation without first ensuring compliance with constitutional limits on borrowing, deficit thresholds, fiscal accountability, and transparency. Citing Section 16 of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines Nigeria’s economic objectives, Oyefeso argues that fiscal and tax policies must promote social justice, equitable wealth distribution, macroeconomic stability, and the welfare of citizens—not merely expand government revenue.

One of his key claims is that the reforms ignore the Fiscal Responsibility Act’s requirement that fiscal deficits should not exceed three per cent of GDP unless expressly approved by the National Assembly. By allegedly sidestepping these safeguards, he says, the new tax laws form part of a broader unconstitutional fiscal structure.

Among the reliefs sought, Oyefeso is asking the court to declare the four tax laws unconstitutional, null, and void. He also wants an order of mandamus compelling the National Assembly to amend the Fiscal Responsibility Act to strengthen transparency, fiscal discipline, and prudent resource management. In addition, he seeks a perpetual injunction to halt the implementation of the new tax laws pending such amendments.

What could this mean for Nigeria’s economy and governance? If the court upholds his arguments, the ruling could upend Nigeria’s 2026 tax framework, force reforms to budgetary practices, and redefine how fiscal responsibility is enforced under the Constitution.

For now, the defendants have 30 days to respond, and the case is yet to be assigned to a judge. But the questions raised are already resonating nationwide: Is Nigeria violating its own fiscal laws? Are the new tax reforms legally sound? And will the courts finally impose transparency on how public funds are budgeted, spent, and taxed?

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

House Sports C'ttee Hails Super Eagles Victory Urges Them To Avoid Complacency
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‎The House of Representatives Committee on Sports has urged the Super Eagles to remain focused and avoid complacency as they prepare for their quarterfinal match at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
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‎Chairman of the Committee, Kabiru Amadu, in a statement applauding Nigeria’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Mozambique in Monday's Round of 16 encounter, stressed the importance of maintaining concentration on winning the trophy as the tournament enters its decisive stages.
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‎The House Sports Committee commends the Super Eagles players and the technical crew for their composure and collective strength so far, which have seen goals produced from all departments of the team.
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‎The Committee reaffirmed the support of the National Assembly and the Federal Government as the Super Eagles continue their quest for continental glory.

Delcy Rodriguez Sworn In as Interim President of Venezuela After US Capture of Nicolas Maduro and Wife, Signals Conditional Cooperation With Washington

Venezuela’s former Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has been sworn in as interim president following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, by United States forces. The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday at the National Assembly in Caracas, drawing global attention amid rising diplomatic tensions and cautious signals of possible engagement with Washington, according to AFP.

Rodriguez, who took the oath “in the name of all Venezuelans,” expressed sorrow over the detention of Maduro and Flores, describing them as “hostages in the United States.” While condemning the US operation, the National Assembly pledged full support for Rodriguez’s interim leadership. Lawmakers also re-elected her brother, Jorge Rodriguez, as parliamentary speaker, consolidating the family’s grip on both the executive and legislative arms of government.

During the session, legislators chanted slogans linked to Maduro’s controversial 2024 re-election campaign, which was widely criticised by opposition groups and foreign governments, including the United States, as fraudulent. Senior lawmakers accused President Donald Trump of overstepping international norms, vowing to pursue all avenues to secure Maduro’s return to power.

Venezuela’s Supreme Court authorised Rodriguez to assume the presidency in an acting capacity, a move later endorsed by the military. Maduro’s son, Nicolas Maduro Guerra, and the ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) also threw their weight behind Rodriguez, insisting the country remains stable under her leadership. The PSUV and its allies currently control 256 of the 286 seats in parliament following elections boycotted by much of the opposition.

Despite insisting that Maduro remains Venezuela’s “only legitimate president,” Rodriguez extended a conditional offer of cooperation to Washington, which has indicated willingness to work with Caracas if its demands on political reforms and oil access are met. However, Trump warned that Rodriguez could face consequences similar to or worse than Maduro’s if she failed to comply with US directives.

The unfolding developments mark a dramatic turning point in Venezuela’s political crisis, deepening internal power consolidation while reshaping the country’s already strained relationship with the United States.

BREAKING: Nigerian Government Withdraws Criminal Defamation Case Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Over Allegations Against Akpabio, Yahaya Bello

The Federal Government of Nigeria has formally withdrawn the criminal defamation and cyberbullying case instituted against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly. Court documents show that the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation filed a notice of discontinuance on December 12, 2025, effectively terminating the prosecution at the Federal High Court.

The charges stemmed from petitions by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, following comments made by Akpoti-Uduaghan during a televised interview on Politics Today, where she alleged that both men were plotting to eliminate her. Despite earlier petitions to the Inspector General of Police alleging threats to her life, the senator was charged for publicly raising the claims.

Several prominent figures, including Governor Usman Ododo, Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo, Ambassador Reno Omokri, and Sandra Duru, had been listed as witnesses for the complainants. The withdrawn case is one of two criminal matters filed by the Federal Government against the senator, with the second case expected to come up in court and possibly face a similar fate.

The development follows a public announcement by Senate President Akpabio that he had instructed his lawyers to withdraw all defamation-related lawsuits against individuals, after a cleric’s sermon influenced his decision. However, Akpabio still has a separate ₦200 billion civil defamation suit pending against Akpoti-Uduaghan over allegations of sexual harassment, in which he is demanding massive damages and public apologies.

Nass Releases the Four Ceetified Tax Acts to Public
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‎The National Assembly has released the four tax reform Acts duly signed into law by President Bola Tinubu for public record, verification and reference.
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‎House Spokesman Akin Rotimi says the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and Speaker, House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, directed the immediate release of the Certified True Copies of the Acts, including the endorsement and assent pages signed by the President.
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‎Rotimi says this is to dispel public concerns and allegations regarding purported alterations and the circulation of unauthorised and misleading versions of the laws.
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‎The four Acts released are:
‎• The Nigeria Tax Act, 2025
‎• The Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025
‎• The National Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025
‎• The Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act, 2025.
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‎Rotimi further notes that parliament would remain vigilant and proactive in defending the integrity of its work, clarifying that the only authentic and authoritative versions of the four tax Acts are those certified and released by the National Assembly.

EXCLUSIVE: FIRS Chairman Zach Adedeji Plans Lavish Dubai Birthday With Seyi Tinubu Amid Controversy Over Alleged Tax Law Alterations

The Chairman of Nigeria’s Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zach Adedeji, is reportedly planning a lavish birthday celebration in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on January 6, 2026, despite mounting public outrage over alleged alterations to recently enacted tax laws. Multiple sources disclosed that the high-profile event is expected to attract influential political and business figures, including Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu.

The planned celebration comes at a sensitive time, as Adedeji and the FIRS face intense scrutiny over claims that provisions of Nigeria’s new tax reform laws were altered after passage by the National Assembly, allegedly to benefit powerful interests. While the controversy continues, President Tinubu has insisted that the implementation of the tax reforms would proceed as scheduled from January 1, 2026, describing the changes as critical to resetting Nigeria’s fiscal framework rather than increasing taxes.

Lawmakers, particularly from the House of Representatives minority caucus, have raised concerns about discrepancies between the versions of the tax laws debated and passed by parliament and those published in the Federal Gazette. In response, investigative committees have been set up to probe the alleged alterations, even as the federal government moves ahead with the rollout of the new tax regime.

ADC Coalition Criticizes Tinubu Over NNPC Legacy Debt Cancellation, Calls Move Unconstitutional and Harmful to States

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s approval to cancel legacy debts owed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) to the Federation Account. The party described the move as unconstitutional, arguing that it undermines subnational governments by erasing longstanding public liabilities without legislative approval.

According to ADC, the cancellation involved about $1.42 billion and N5.57 trillion in legacy NNPC debts, including obligations from production sharing contracts, domestic supply obligations, and royalty receivables. The coalition warned that the executive directive overrode constitutional provisions that require all Federation revenues to be paid into the account for distribution among federal, state, and local governments.

ADC accused the President of repeated constitutional violations and expressed concern over apparent inaction by the National Assembly. The party emphasized that any unilateral cancellation reducing revenues due to states and local governments is unconstitutional, asserting that Nigeria must operate as “a nation of laws, not of men.”

House of Representatives Minority Caucus Launches Probe Into Alleged Alterations of Tinubu’s Tax Reform Laws After National Assembly Passage

The House of Representatives Minority Caucus has constituted a seven-member fact-finding committee to investigate allegations that President Bola Tinubu’s newly assented tax reform laws were altered after being passed by the National Assembly. The committee, chaired by Afam Ogene, was formed following claims that the versions of the tax laws published in the official government gazette differ materially from the harmonised bills approved by both chambers. Despite earlier efforts by the House leadership to address the controversy, including ordering a re-gazetting of the harmonised laws, the Federal Government proceeded with implementing the new tax regime from January 1, 2026. Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda said the probe is aimed at ensuring accountability, protecting Nigerians’ interests, and uncovering the truth behind the alleged discrepancies, with the committee expected to submit its findings within seven days.

Peter Obi Criticises Tinubu’s Tax Policy, Warns Nigeria Cannot Prosper by “Taxing Poverty”

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned Nigeria’s current tax system, arguing that prosperity cannot be achieved by imposing heavier taxes on an already impoverished population. In a statement titled “Prosperity cannot come by taxing Poverty”, Obi stressed that honest leadership, transparency, and fairness are central to sustainable economic growth. He criticised a revenue-driven approach that prioritises government income over citizens’ welfare and highlighted a tax fraud controversy, claiming that the law being enforced differs from what was passed by the National Assembly. Obi called for a people-centered tax system that supports enterprise, protects the vulnerable, and restores public trust, insisting that wealth creation depends on production, not excessive taxation.

Nigerian Students Set January 14 for Nationwide Mass Protest as NANS Moves to Resist Tinubu’s Controversial Tax Reform Laws Amid Growing Opposition

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has fixed January 14, 2026, as a National Day of Action to stage a mass protest against the implementation of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration’s new tax laws, which came into effect on January 1, 2026. The student body has begun nationwide mobilisation, warning that it will lead large-scale demonstrations unless the government suspends the controversial Tax Reform Law.

The planned protest comes amid increasing resistance to the new tax regime, following claims of discrepancies between the versions of the tax bills passed by the National Assembly and those later gazetted. Several stakeholders, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the minority caucus of the House of Representatives, have called on the federal government to halt the implementation pending clarification.

Despite these concerns, President Tinubu has dismissed calls for suspension, insisting that no major issues have been identified to warrant stopping the reform process. Reacting to the government’s stance, NANS President Olushola Oladoja criticised the decision to proceed with enforcement while key issues remain unresolved, describing it as dismissive of public concerns and democratic engagement.

Oladoja argued that enforcing the tax law without addressing widespread objections undermines transparency and public trust, particularly for policies that significantly affect ordinary Nigerians. He further faulted the Presidency for reaffirming the January 1 commencement date, saying it sidelines citizens most impacted by the reforms.

As part of its action plan, NANS has instructed its structures nationwide to prepare for a peaceful protest in Abuja, with students expected to converge at the Unity Fountain and march to the Presidential Villa. The association is demanding an immediate suspension of the tax law’s implementation to allow for proper review and resolution of the alleged inconsistencies.

NANS warned that failure to heed its demand could trigger sustained student-led protests across the country, adding to mounting pressure on the federal government over the contentious tax reforms.

#OpEd: My Prediction – Why Nigeria Will Be the Greatest Country in 2026, By Bayo Oluwasanmi

In this satirical New Year opinion piece, Bayo Oluwasanmi predicts that 2026 will be a transformative year for Nigeria, blending humor with sharp critique of the nation’s political and social landscape. He foresees a “deranged, narcissistic dictator” leading the country, a National Assembly enacting bizarre laws, and foreign-managed healthcare systems. Oluwasanmi humorously suggests radical reforms, including new countries within Nigeria, palm oil-powered lanterns replacing electricity, and K-9 police replacing human officers.

Through satire, he highlights corruption, inefficiency, insecurity, and the failures of government while urging Nigerians to confront the truth and work toward solutions. The piece blends wit, irony, and political commentary to provoke reflection on the state of the nation.

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#Nigeria2026 #BayoOluwasanmi #Satire #OpEdNigeria #NigerianPolitics #Corruption #PoliticalHumor #NewYearPredictions

Senate President Akpabio Withdraws All Defamation Lawsuits Against Natasha Akpoti, Others After Priest’s Sermon Sparks Change of Heart

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has ordered his lawyers to withdraw all pending defamation lawsuits he filed against individuals who accused him of misconduct, including Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Akpabio made the announcement during a church programme, revealing that a sermon delivered by a priest prompted him to reassess his actions and abandon the legal battles.

He disclosed that he had instituted nearly nine court cases against people he accused of lying, slandering his name and defaming his character, but decided to discontinue all of them after reflecting on the message preached in church. Although he did not provide full details of each case, the decision directly affects the high-profile ₦200 billion defamation suit he filed against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan in December 2025.

In that lawsuit, Akpabio accused the Kogi Central lawmaker of making false allegations of sexual harassment, which he claimed damaged his reputation, subjected him to public ridicule and portrayed him as a predator abusing his office. Court documents showed that he sought sweeping remedies, including massive damages, retractions, and nationwide broadcast apologies, as well as the removal of online content linked to the allegations.

The case had already progressed with court approval for substituted service through the Clerk of the National Assembly after attempts to serve Akpoti-Uduaghan directly failed. Akpabio also argued that the allegations, widely circulated across television, radio and social media, caused him severe humiliation and distress.

His sudden decision to discontinue all defamation suits marks a dramatic turnaround in a legal confrontation that had attracted intense public attention, raising fresh political and legal questions about accountability, reconciliation and the use of defamation laws by powerful public officials in Nigeria.

Adeyanju Slams Tinubu Over Implementation of Controversial Tax Reform Act, Calls It an Insult to Nigerians and Violation of Rule of Law

Human rights activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has strongly criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for proceeding with the implementation of the controversial Tax Reform Act from January 1, 2026, describing the move as an insult to Nigerians and a serious breach of democratic principles. Adeyanju said the President’s decision to enforce the law despite unresolved controversies, including allegations of forgery and violations of constitutional procedures, demonstrates a blatant disregard for due process and the rule of law.

According to Adeyanju, the unresolved legal and procedural questions surrounding the Act render its enforcement illegitimate and potentially dangerous, warning that it could further erode public trust in government institutions. He argued that no law burdened with such serious allegations should be implemented without transparent investigations and constitutional clarification.

The activist also raised concerns over reports that President Tinubu may have unilaterally written off debts owed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), questioning the constitutional authority for such a decision. He stressed that matters involving taxation and public finance must follow due process and receive proper legislative approval.

Adeyanju warned that bypassing constitutional safeguards could set a dangerous precedent for governance in Nigeria and called on the National Assembly and the judiciary to intervene to protect democracy. He urged the Federal Government to suspend the implementation of the Tax Reform Act until all allegations surrounding its passage are thoroughly investigated and resolved in line with constitutional provisions.

Breaking News: Top Nigerian Senator Godiya Akwashiki Dies at 52 in India After Prolonged Illness, Family Confirms

Godiya Akwashiki, the senator representing Nasarawa North Senatorial District, has died at the age of 52. Family sources confirmed that the lawmaker passed away on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at a hospital in India, where he had been receiving treatment for a long-term illness.

Akwashiki was first elected to the Nigerian Senate in 2019 and made history in 2023 by becoming the only senator from Nasarawa North to secure two consecutive terms since the state’s creation. He was a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and was widely regarded for his strong grassroots support and emphasis on constituency-focused development projects.

Before joining the National Assembly, Akwashiki served multiple terms in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, rising to the positions of Majority Leader and later Deputy Speaker. Born on August 3, 1973, in Angba Iggah, Nassarawa Eggon Local Government Area, his death marks a significant loss to Nasarawa politics and Nigeria’s legislative community.

President of the Senate Reaffirms Senate’s Commitment to National Stability in 2026

The President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio, has expressed confidence that 2026 will be a year of renewed hope and steady national progress, anchored on institutional responsibility, legislative diligence, and collective resolve.

In his New Year message Akpabio acknowledged the resilience of Nigerians and underscored the central role of the National Assembly particularly the Senate in sustaining democratic stability, promoting accountability, and advancing the nation’s development agenda.

He noted that while the Executive continues to implement its policies, the National Assembly remains firmly committed to its constitutional responsibility of lawmaking, representation, and oversight, ensuring that governance outcomes reflect the aspirations of the Nigerian people for national unity, economic stability, and social justice.

Akpabio says as the nation approaches the 2027 general elections, there is need for caution among Nigerians against divisive politics and false messianic narratives.

He urged political actors to conduct themselves with restraint and urged Nigerians to continue to support democratic institutions and to work collectively for peace, equity, and national progress as he wishes citizens a prosperous 2026.

Northern Coalition Rejects Tinubu’s Tax Reforms, Accuses President of Executive Overreach

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has criticized President Bola Tinubu for attempting to enforce new tax reform laws from January 1, 2026, claiming the gazetted versions were materially altered after parliamentary approval. The coalition described this as a “reckless assault on democracy” and “executive overreach,” asserting that the changes undermine legislative authority and constitutional order.

CNG accused the Presidency and tax reform committee chairman Taiwo Oyedele of pushing reforms that could worsen economic hardship, while also criticizing the National Assembly for failing to defend the integrity of the laws. The group rejected any enforcement of the reforms, warning that implementing disputed taxes amid public opposition risks deepening economic distress, eroding trust in government, and violating democratic principles.