Category: News

On Tuesday, the Senate Public Accounts Committee (SPAC) cleared the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) of a N62.2 billion under-remittance query that was part of the 2019 audit report by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation (OAuGF).

During an investigative session with Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the committee decided to form a smaller panel to address the remaining 76 queries raised against the Service in the 2019 and 2020 audit reports.

The session focused on the first 77 queries concerning alleged financial infractions by Customs. The Auditor-General’s representative, acting on the directive of SPAC Chairman Senator Ibrahim Dankwabo (Gombe North), read Query 1: In 2017, Customs’ total revenue collection stood at N691.242 billion, but only N629.23 billion was remitted, leaving a balance of N62.2 billion allegedly unremitted to the Federation Account.

Adeniyi explained that the N62.2 billion classified as unremitted was a result of a misclassification of levies collected on behalf of other agencies. He stated, “The under-remittance of N62.2 billion leveled against Customs in the 2019 audit report was wrongly arrived at through misclassification of levies collected. While most levies are to be collected and remitted into the Federation Account, others—like those on local production of wheat, textiles, and wines—do not go into the Federation Account. The totality of these accounted for the alleged unremitted N62.2 billion.”

The committee accepted this explanation and cleared Customs of the query. Similar clarifications were provided for Queries 2 and 3, which also satisfied the committee.

Senator Babangida Hussaini (Jigawa North West) questioned why Customs allowed such queries to reach the investigative stage, noting that they should have been resolved during reconciliation with auditors. Adeniyi reminded the committee that the years under review were a period of strained relations between the Senate and the Nigeria Customs Service.

Based on Customs’ explanations, SPAC decided to set up a small panel to meet with the Service to reconcile the issues raised in the remaining 74 queries. The committee expects the reconciliation panel to expedite the resolution of the outstanding audit queries without further delay.

In a recent interview on the Nevon HQ podcast with journalist Rufai Oseni, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), made it clear that his political drive is not about personal ambition for the highest office. The former Anambra State governor emphasized that his primary focus is on resolving the nation’s pressing issues rather than merely seeking power.

Obi stated, “I am not desperate to be president of Nigeria. I am desperate to see Nigeria work.” He highlighted the severe economic difficulties affecting countless Nigerians, especially the youth, who are struggling to find stable sources of income. He described his deep concern for the lack of opportunities and the rampant corruption that plagues the country.

“I am desperate to see young people have a means of livelihood. I am desperate to see people stop stealing public money. I am desperate to see Nigeria work,” he added, underscoring that his motivation stems from a desire for national transformation, not personal gain. Obi’s comments reflect a broader commitment to addressing systemic failures and fostering a better future for all citizens.

The Delta State government has issued a firm reminder to private school operators about the complete prohibition of graduation parties and all related end-of-year festivities. Authorities have warned that any institution caught breaching this order will face severe repercussions, including the possibility of a five-year shutdown of the school.

This renewed emphasis comes on the heels of reports that some school administrators across the state have resumed alerting parents and employees about upcoming end-of-term events. The government first imposed the ban in September 2025, aiming to relieve families of what it called an avoidable financial strain caused by lavish ceremonies.

Former Commissioner for Secondary Education, Mrs. Rose Ezewu, stated that the policy aligns with the state’s consistent educational framework. Education stakeholders have endorsed the measure, arguing that it reduces the cost of schooling, upholds quality standards, and refocuses attention on learning rather than expensive social gatherings.

A recent circular, allegedly from the office of the Commissioner for Secondary Education, was distributed among school owners and principals. It explicitly outlawed “graduation parties, however named” in Delta, threatening a five-year closure for non-compliant schools. While some initially doubted the authenticity of the message, a proprietress from Sapele local government area (who preferred anonymity) verified its validity. She noted that the local Chief Inspector of Education (CIE) had earlier communicated the prohibition, and the latest notice simply reinforces the rule.

Ezewu cautioned that schools imposing special graduation fees or organizing flamboyant events would attract sanctions. The government has also indicated broader regulatory efforts targeting private schools, aiming to curb frequent textbook changes, multiple uniform sets, and other hidden costs that inflate education expenses and burden parents.

Parents are advised to confirm with school heads well ahead of time if any celebrations are being planned.

Financial educator Kalu Aja has taken a swipe at Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to Mexico, Reno Omokri, over his remarks concerning the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State. Aja accused Omokri of lacking consistency in his advocacy, pointing out that Omokri had previously championed the cause of Leah Sharibu but now opposes public campaigns for abducted students.

In a post on X on Tuesday, Aja highlighted the contradiction, stating that Omokri, who once pushed for global attention on Leah Sharibu’s case, now claims that publicity for abductions fuels terrorism. He described Omokri as a man without a moral compass, especially since Omokri currently holds an ambassadorial position but lacks a moral foundation.

DAILY POST recalls that Omokri had criticized Afrobeats star Davido for using a FIFA World Cup countdown concert to draw international attention to the abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State. Davido had displayed the victims’ names and urged the government to act swiftly.

In his response, Omokri argued that excessive media coverage of kidnappings benefits criminals rather than helping victims. He cited former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher’s statement that ‘publicity is the oxygen of terrorism,’ suggesting that global outrage often shifts pressure from perpetrators to governments and amplifies the psychological impact of such acts.

However, Aja dismissed Omokri’s argument as hypocritical, accusing him of double standards. He questioned why Omokri would support publicity for one victim but condemn it for others, asserting that such inconsistency undermines his credibility.

Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu recently traveled to Zamfara State for a work-related engagement. During his stay, he participated in the Islamic funeral rites for three police personnel who died while performing their duties. The IGP expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and the entire police force.

At the Zamfara State Police Command, Disu offered condolences to officers and reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s resolve to fight banditry and other serious crimes in the state. He was greeted by top government officials and security stakeholders, including the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Nakwada, who stood in for the governor at the funeral and related events.

Speaking to the command’s personnel, the IGP praised the fallen officers as brave individuals who gave their lives for the nation while battling criminals threatening Zamfara’s peace. He assured the families that their loss would not be forgotten and that the force would continue to honor their sacrifice.

Disu acknowledged the pain of losing these officers but stressed that it would only intensify the police’s determination to fight banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. He encouraged officers to stay focused, resilient, and professional, emphasizing that criminals would not be allowed to hinder security efforts to restore lasting peace in the area.

The IGP commended the command for recent operational victories, including arresting suspects, recovering explosives and stolen motorcycles, rescuing kidnap victims, and conducting successful anti-bandit operations. He attributed these successes to intelligence-led policing, operational dedication, and collaboration among security agencies.

Disu promised continued improvements in operational capacity, logistics, welfare, and resources for effective policing. He also highlighted the importance of intelligence operations, community partnerships, and cooperation with other security agencies in the fight against crime.

The IGP urged officers to remain steadfast, disciplined, and committed to their constitutional duties, noting that the best way to honor the fallen is to persistently pursue peace, security, and justice for the people of Zamfara.

Ardo Muhammad, the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN), has clarified that the four men taken into custody in Okpokwu Local Government Area last week were innocent travelers, not kidnappers.

In a statement issued Tuesday in Makurdi, Muhammad explained that the Fulani men were en route from Benue to Onitsha to visit relatives when they were attacked.

The arrests followed reports that local youths had foiled a kidnapping attempt in the area on Wednesday, rescuing five people allegedly held by suspected abductors. Authorities later confirmed that three suspects were arrested and handed over to the police, while one person reportedly escaped.

Confirming the incident, Okpokwu Local Government Chairman Adah Inalegwu stated that the suspected kidnappers abandoned their captives after being chased by vigilante youths. He noted that three individuals were arrested the next day, but security agencies had not yet established their connection to the alleged abduction. “They are strangers in the community. It has not yet been confirmed if they were kidnappers, but they have been handed over to the police,” he said.

However, Muhammad rejected any link between the arrested men and kidnapping, insisting they were merely traveling to see relatives in Onitsha. He said, “The four Fulani men arrested were travellers going from Benue State to Onitsha to visit their relatives. One of them managed to escape. The other three were severely beaten. One of them later died from his injuries at the scene, while the remaining two are currently receiving medical treatment.”

The MACBAN chairman urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident, apprehend those responsible for the attack, and ensure justice is served. He dismissed allegations that the men were criminals, arguing they were targeted solely because they were Fulani travelers moving peacefully through the area.

During a recent appearance on the Nevon HQ podcast, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) standard-bearer, Peter Obi, outlined his approach to national security. Speaking with host Rufai Oseni, the former Anambra State governor declared that his administration would adopt a dual strategy: extending peace to those who choose it while confronting with force anyone who opts for conflict.

Obi emphasized the importance of dialogue and unity, stating that he would engage with all parties willing to cooperate. However, he made it clear that those who reject peace and persist in violent actions would face the full weight of the state. “If you want to be part of this new Nigeria we are building, that is possible. We can work together. But if not, you will face the consequences of your actions,” Obi asserted.

The presidential hopeful stressed the need for honesty in addressing Nigeria’s challenges. He promised an inclusive government that would show care and love for all citizens, ensuring that nobody is left behind. This statement comes amid growing concerns about insecurity in the country, as voters seek candidates with clear plans for restoring order.

In a recent gathering in Abeokuta, the Progressive Muslim Cleric (PMC) of Ogun State called on the national government to take swift and comprehensive measures to eradicate the growing threat of insecurity plaguing Nigeria. Speaking during a press event tied to the 1448 Hijrah celebrations, PMC president Abdul Wasiu Akinyemi emphasized the urgency of restoring safety and normalcy for all citizens.

Akinyemi refuted the notion that insecurity is confined to a particular ethnic group, pointing out that acts like kidnapping and terrorism have historically occurred across various regions. He referenced the 2010 bombing at Eagle Square under President Goodluck Jonathan’s tenure as clear evidence that such threats are not ethnically exclusive. “We often see on television and read in newspapers that individuals from different backgrounds—whether Chinedu or Adamu—are caught committing these crimes. Some southerners even adopt northern names to disguise their identity, but their true origins are revealed upon arrest. This shows that blaming a single tribe is misguided,” he stated.

The cleric also discussed Islamic legal perspectives on punishment, noting that Shariah law prescribes severe penalties for bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers based on the severity of their offenses. He explained, “In Islam, the principle of ‘an eye for an eye’ applies. For those who kill, the punishment may be death. For others, it could be amputation or banishment, which is akin to life imprisonment.”

Acknowledging Nigeria’s secular framework, Akinyemi urged the government to harmonize constitutional mandates with religious insights from both Islam and Christianity to craft effective anti-crime policies. “As a Muslim scholar, I recognize that Nigeria is secular. The government must balance the constitution with what Islam and Christianity teach, and then find a common ground. The primary responsibility lies with the federal government to tackle and uproot insecurity so that we can live as normal citizens. They need to do more,” he added.

The celebration’s theme, “Voices in Myriad Pathways: From Migration to Civic Action,” highlighted the Hijrah as a symbol of hope and resilience. Akinyemi noted that Prophet Muhammad’s migration represented a shift from hardship to success, urging Nigerians to embrace similar transformations—from conflict to peace, corruption to integrity, and poverty to prosperity. He called for the new Islamic year to inspire spiritual renewal, economic progress, and sustainable national development.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Dr. Wole Oluyede, has issued a bold warning to the incumbent Governor, Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), by displaying a red card during the party’s final campaign rally. Oluyede declared that the governor would be defeated in the upcoming election.

Speaking at the rally held in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, Oluyede likened his action to a football dismissal, stating that he had effectively sent Oyebanji out of the Government House. He described the gesture as a symbol of freeing the people of Ekiti from what he termed oppressive leadership.

Oluyede expressed unwavering confidence in his victory at the June 20 poll, arguing that the majority of Ekiti residents are dissatisfied with the current administration. He accused the Oyebanji-led government of impoverishing the state and failing to deliver on promises.

The PDP candidate called on voters to see the election as a fight for freedom and urged them to turn out in large numbers. He emphasized that every vote counts and cautioned against any form of intimidation at polling units. Oluyede advised voters to ensure ballot boxes are empty before voting and to remain at polling stations until votes are counted.

He also warned against vote-buying, describing it as a threat to the state’s future. Oluyede questioned the use of federal allocations by the state government over the past three and a half years, noting that the infrastructure and development outcomes fall short of expectations given the resources available.

In a direct appeal to the electorate, Oluyede urged them to ignore fake news and propaganda, which he described as the APC’s stock-in-trade. He positioned himself as a David ready to defeat the Goliath of the current administration, promising a better future for Ekiti under PDP’s umbrella.

The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has urged party members and supporters not to lose hope following a Federal High Court ruling that ordered the deregistration of the party. Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, Mark described the judgment as an attack on Nigeria’s democracy and expressed confidence that higher courts would overturn it.

While hosting a delegation of ADC candidates in Abuja on Monday, Mark stated that the ruling by Justice Peter Lifu was issued illegally, as the Court of Appeal had previously ordered a stay of proceedings in the case. He emphasized that the judgment could not stand while the appellate court’s order remained in force, calling it a violation of due process.

“The ruling will be set aside because it fails the test of law and due process. Our democracy must be shielded from actions that threaten the constitutional rights of political parties and the choices available to Nigerians,” Mark said. He urged party faithful to stay calm and remain focused on the party’s goals, assuring them that the decision would be reversed through legal channels.

Mark further assured that the ADC would participate in the 2027 general elections. “I guarantee all our candidates, members, and supporters that this temporary hurdle will be overcome via the judicial process. We remain unshaken and trust in the rule of law,” he added. The ADC chairman reiterated the party’s dedication to strengthening democratic institutions and offering Nigerians a credible alternative in the upcoming polls.