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Articles by Halimat O. Shittu
EFCC Denies Harassment, Unlawful Arrests During Lekki Estate Raid
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has rejected allegations that its operatives harassed, intimidated or unlawfully arrested residents during a raid on Applewood Estate along Orchid Road, Lekki, Lagos State. The commission said the operation, conducted by its Lagos Directorate 1 at about 5am on Monday, October 26, 2026, resulted in the arrest of 21 suspected cybercrime fraudsters and the recovery of five exotic cars.
ADC Demands Probe into Alleged Payments for Ministerial Appointments
The African Democratic Congress Presidential Campaign Council has called on President Bola Tinubu to investigate claims by one of his campaign spokespersons that some ministers allegedly pay billions of naira to secure appointments and later seek to recover the money. The council urged the President to clarify whether he was aware of the alleged practice and disclose the steps his administration would take to establish the facts.
EFCC Witness Admits AMCON Board Approved NG Eagle Transaction
A prosecution witness in the alleged ₦76bn fraud case involving former Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria Managing Director, Ahmed Kuru, has admitted that AMCON’s board approved the transaction involving NG Eagle Limited. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission investigator, Bawa Kaltungo, also told the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on Tuesday that approximately ₦149m generated from the transaction was paid into AMCON’s account with the Central Bank of Nigeria.
ICPC, UN Agency Join Forces to Prevent Fraud in Northeast Humanitarian Aid
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has partnered with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs to tackle fraud and corruption threatening humanitarian assistance in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states. The collaboration is aimed at identifying corruption risks, preventing the diversion of relief supplies and ensuring that assistance reaches vulnerable communities across the Northeast.
Tinubu Says Economic Reforms Are Restoring Confidence, Driving Sustainable Growth
President Bola Tinubu has said his administration’s economic reforms are beginning to reverse Nigeria’s long-standing economic underperformance, citing improved gross domestic product growth, increased capital inflows and gains in the manufacturing sector. The President said the developments indicated that the government’s policies were beginning to yield results, although more work remained to achieve sustainable growth and shared prosperity.
Pensioners Demand Payment of Outstanding Benefits, Clarification of Pension Reforms
The Federal Parastatals and Private Sector Pensioners Association of Nigeria (FEPPPAN) has called on the Federal Government to settle outstanding pension obligations, including three months of the N25,000 monthly subsidy-removal palliative due to eligible beneficiaries.
UNN, NYSC Deny Issuing Uche Nnaji’s Certificates, ICPC Witness Tells Court
The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) have denied issuing certificates attributed to former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, an investigator with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) told the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday. The witness, SP Yakubu Ibrahim, disclosed this while testifying in the alleged certificate forgery case against Nnaji before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.
EFCC Investigator Challenges Union Bank’s Debt Claim in Arik Air Receivership Trial
An Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigator has disputed Union Bank of Nigeria’s claim that Arik Air owed the bank, describing the airline’s receivership as fraudulent during proceedings at the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja. Bawa Kaltungo, Director of the EFCC Zonal Directorate 2 in Lagos, told the court that investigations into a petition concerning the receivership showed that the foundation for appointing a receiver-manager over the airline was faulty.
Lagos Strengthens Ebola Surveillance, Urges Residents to Remain Calm
The Lagos State Government has intensified disease surveillance and emergency preparedness to prevent, detect and respond to potential cases of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), assuring residents that there is no need for panic.
FG Releases ₦38.93bn to Revitalise 166 Public Tertiary Institutions
The Federal Government has disbursed ₦38.93bn to 166 public tertiary institutions across Nigeria to tackle infrastructure gaps and improve facilities for teaching and learning. The intervention, provided under the Needs Assessment Revitalisation Fund, covers 79 universities, 46 polytechnics and 41 colleges of education, with universities receiving the largest share of the funding.
Ekiti High Court Adopts Digital System to Speed Up Justice Delivery
The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving justice delivery through technology following the introduction of a digital case management system at the state High Court. Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by the Acting Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice, Gbemiga Adaramola (SAN), stated this on Sunday during the official launch of the Nigeria Case Management System in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.
Ogun Youths Protest Delay in Reconstruction of Abeokuta–Imeko Road - News Digest
Youths in Ogun West have called on the Ogun State Government to honour its January 2026 promise to reconstruct the Abeokuta–Olorunda–Imeko Road, expressing concern that the route has deteriorated further despite the commitment.
Presidency Launches North-West Climate Fund With ₦20bn Target
The Presidency has launched the North-West Climate Fund to support efforts to address flooding, drought and other climate-related challenges across the region, with a target of raising ₦20bn over four years. Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North-West), Abdullahi Yakasai, disclosed the funding target on Tuesday during the North-West Climate Summit at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja.
Turaki-Led PDP Rejects Alliance With APC Ahead of 2027 Elections
The Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected any proposed alliance with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that such cooperation could undermine democracy and turn Nigeria into an “electoral monarchy.” In a statement issued on Tuesday, the National Publicity Secretary of the party’s Interim National Working Committee, Ini Ememobong, said the faction’s loyal members would neither support President Bola...
EFCC Arrests Abuja Businessman Over Alleged $120m Fraud
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested an Abuja-based businessman, Innocent Ezuma, over allegations that he defrauded a Ukrainian investor of more than $120m. Ezuma, 57, was arrested at his residence in Abuja on Monday, October 19, and remains in the commission’s custody. EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale confirmed the arrest to PUNCH on Tuesday but declined to provide further details about the case.
Dangote Accepts Bae U’s Invitation to Appear on YouTube Show
Billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote has accepted an invitation from Nigerian content creator Adebayo Ridwan, popularly known as Bae U Barbie, to appear on his YouTube programme, Curiosity Made Me Ask. Bae U extended the invitation on Monday during a visit to Dangote Refinery in Lagos, where he questioned the businessman about his media engagements and the need to connect with younger Nigerians interested in his business and its planned initial public offering.
FG Confirms Ebola Case in Abuja, Begins Tracing 44 Contacts
The Federal Government has confirmed an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, and identified 44 contacts as health authorities intensify efforts to prevent further transmission of the disease. The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, announced the development on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, following laboratory confirmation of the infection.
Ogun Doctors Urge Government to Allocate 15% of Budget to Healthcare
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ogun State branch, has called on the state government to dedicate at least 15 per cent of its annual budget to healthcare, improve doctors’ welfare and strengthen public hospitals ahead of the 2027 governorship election. The association also urged political parties and governorship candidates to present clear, measurable and adequately funded healthcare plans for 2027–2031, insisting that healthcare should feature prominently in their campaign agendas.
2027 Elections: PDP, NDC Threaten Court Action Over Omitted Candidates
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) have threatened to take legal action against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) if it fails to include their omitted candidates in the list for the 2027 general elections. The parties’ national publicity secretaries, Mohammed Jungudo of the PDP and Osa Director of the NDC, told The PUNCH that they might seek legal redress if the commission failed to resolve the matter by October 24, 2026.
Former Delta Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan Dies at 71
Former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71 following a brief illness. His family announced his death in a statement signed by Toju Andre Uduaghan on Monday, October 19, 2026. Uduaghan, who was born on October 22, 1954, died on Monday morning, according to the family.
Otti Signs Four Laws to Reform Abia Criminal Justice System
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has signed four bills into law, including three aimed at reforming the state’s criminal justice system and an amendment to the law governing Abia State University. The laws are the Abia State University Amendment Law No. 4 of 2026, Abia State Administration of Criminal Justice Law No. 6 of 2026, Abia State Criminal Law No. 7 of 2026 and Abia State Restorative Justice Law No. 8 of 2026.
Imo Police Arrest 22-Year-Old Suspect Over Cult-Related Killing
The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 22-year-old man, Bright Adiene, over the suspected cult-related killing of Nnamdi Okeke in Owerri. The incident was reported on Saturday, October 17, 2026, according to the police. The command’s spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed the arrest in a statement, adding that the suspect remained in custody while efforts continued to apprehend another suspect identified as Anyima.
Delta Police Arrest Five Suspects in Separate Criminal Operations
The Delta State Police Command has arrested five suspected armed robbers during separate operations targeting criminal activities in Ughelli North and Ika South Local Government Areas of the state. The command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists in Warri on Sunday.
DSS Arrests Highlight Importance of Intelligence-Led Security Operations
The Department of State Services (DSS) has been commended for its recent arrest of five suspects linked to the abduction of 20 prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and the reported apprehension of fugitive Faisal Maina. Olufemi Lawson, National Secretary of the Campaign for Democracy, described the arrests as significant progress in Nigeria’s efforts to tackle insecurity, particularly kidnapping, terrorism and organised crime.
APC Wins All 21 Chairmanship Seats, 239 Councillorship Positions in Kogi
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has secured all 21 chairmanship seats and 239 councillorship positions in the Kogi State local government elections held on Saturday, October 17, 2026. The Chairman of the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission, Mamman Nda-Eri, announced the results on Sunday at the commission’s headquarters in Lokoja, declaring APC candidates winners across all 21 local government areas and 239 electoral wards.
Okey Bakassi Dismisses Divorce Rumours, Says Marriage Remains Intact
Nigerian comedian and actor Okey Bakassi has dismissed reports circulating on social media that his wife intends to divorce him after 15 years of supporting her and their children in the United States. The entertainer, whose real name is Okechukwu Onyegbule, described the viral claim as disturbing and disrespectful, stressing that his marriage remains intact. In a post on his Instagram page on Monday, Bakassi said he and his wife recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary in Canada.
Bauchi Police Arrest Three Over Drug Possession, Alleged Defilement of Seven-Year-Old
The Bauchi State Police Command has arrested three suspects in separate cases involving alleged possession of Indian hemp and the defilement of a seven-year-old girl. The command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nafiu Habib, announced the arrests in a statement on Tuesday, saying they formed part of ongoing efforts to tackle criminal activities across the state.
Akpabio Opposes Decriminalisation of Attempted Suicide
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has opposed a proposal to remove criminal penalties for attempted suicide, insisting that survivors should face imprisonment as the Senate advanced a bill seeking medical treatment and rehabilitation instead of prosecution. The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who represents Cross River South, seeks to replace criminal punishment for attempted suicide with medical assessment, treatment, rehabilitation and other support services.
EFCC Urges Nigerian Girls to Shun Sextortion, Cybercrime
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called on young Nigerian girls to steer clear of sextortion and cybercrime, warning against relationships and criminal schemes that could expose them to exploitation or legal consequences. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede gave the advice in Abuja on Monday, October 12, 2026, during an event organised by the African Girl Guild to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child.
Yinka Quadri Backs Tinubu’s Re-election, Cites Support for Entertainers
Veteran Yoruba actor Yinka Quadri has explained his support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid, citing the President’s longstanding financial assistance to entertainers and contributions to infrastructure development. Quadri said his support, shared by other practitioners in the film industry, was not driven solely by personal benefits but also by Tinubu’s history of helping entertainers, dating back to his tenure as governor of Lagos State.
Oyebanji Dissolves Ekiti Cabinet, Retains SSG, Two Others
Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has dissolved the State Executive Council ahead of his second-term inauguration scheduled for Friday, October 16. Oyebanji announced the dissolution on Monday during a valedictory session with cabinet members at the Executive Council Chamber, Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti. However, the exercise excluded the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro; the Chief of Staff, Niyi Adebayo; and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode.
Ghana Police Arrest Eight Over Beating of 21-Year-Old During Fraud Initiation
The Ghana Police Service has arrested eight suspects over the alleged assault of a 21-year-old man during his initiation into an internet fraud operation in Kotokrom, Sunyani West Municipality, Bono Region. The Bono Regional Police Command disclosed this in a statement dated October 9, following a distress call received by its Regional Operations Unit on October 4, 2026, reporting an attack on a man in the community.
- News Digest
APC Criticises Atiku for Addressing Tinubu as ‘Bola’ The All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council has criticised former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar for addressing President Bola Tinubu by his first name, accusing him of allowing political ambition to overshadow the decorum expected of a statesman.
NES Calls for Credible Budgets, Transparent Public Spending
The Nigerian Economic Society (NES) has urged federal and state governments to prioritise realistic budgeting, sustainable revenue generation and transparent public spending to ensure that economic reforms improve Nigerians’ living conditions. The society also warned that governments must link borrowing to productive investments, stressing that future generations should inherit valuable assets rather than unsustainable debts.
Four Injured as 60-Year-Old Building Partially Collapses in Rivers
Four people sustained injuries after part of a two-storey building collapsed in Old Port Harcourt Township, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Friday night. The building, located at No. 18 Club Road, is reportedly more than 60 years old and among the oldest structures in the area. An eyewitness, who requested anonymity, said the parapet on the building’s second floor detached from the main structure and fell onto the ground floor, where people had gathered at a bar.
ABUAD Unveils Three Locally Produced Herbal Medicines, Urges Reduced Imports
Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), has urged Nigerians to patronise locally produced herbal medicines and reduce their reliance on imported alternatives. The Deputy Director of AB Pharmaceutical Services, Oluwatoyin Afolabi, said Nigeria’s continued dependence on foreign herbal products, despite its indigenous medicinal resources and growing research capacity, amounted to economic and medical dependence that required urgent attention.
Kano Police Arrest Four Suspects, Recover Three Stolen Vehicles
The Kano State Police Command has arrested four suspects and recovered three stolen vehicles in separate operations carried out between October 8 and 9. The Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Kiyawa, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, attributing the recoveries to intelligence-led operations by the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and the Ungogo Police Division.
Neymar Pays Tribute to Messi Ahead of Argentina Farewell
Brazilian football star Neymar Jr. has paid tribute to Lionel Messi ahead of the Argentine captain’s final appearance for the national team in Tuesday’s farewell match against the Republic of Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. Messi, Argentina’s most-capped player, is set to end his international career two-and-a-half months after losing the 2026 World Cup final to Spain. He will wear Argentina’s famous sky-blue-and-white jersey for the final time in front of his home supporters.
Abia Specialist Hospital Performs First Brain Surgery
Abia State Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic Centre in Umuahia has successfully carried out its first major brain surgery, marking a significant milestone in the state’s healthcare sector. Abia State Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, announced the development on Tuesday while briefing journalists on decisions reached at the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
Foundation Sues TikTok Over Access Restrictions in Four Northern States
The Foundation for Digital Justice has filed a lawsuit against TikTok Inc. at the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged restrictions on access to the platform in Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi and Sokoto states. The organisation filed the suit on October 5, 2026, through its lead counsel, Festus Ogun, alleging that the reported restrictions had violated the constitutional rights of millions of Nigerians to freedom of expression and freedom from discrimination.
Abia Revokes Trademore Estate Building Permit Over Regulatory Violations
The Abia State Government has revoked the building permit issued for Trademore Housing Estate, Ubani, Umuahia, citing serious planning and regulatory violations discovered at the development. The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, announced the decision on Tuesday while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting held on Monday and presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Police Pension Fund Considers Investment in Dangote Refinery
The Nigeria Police Force Pensions Limited is considering investing in the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals as part of efforts to diversify its portfolio and maintain returns for police personnel and retirees. The Acting Managing Director of NPF Pensions, Muhammed Dutse, disclosed this in Abuja on Monday during activities marking the 2026 Customer Service Week.
Oyo NUT Dedicates Teachers’ Day to Abducted Pupils, Teachers
The Nigeria Union of Teachers, Oyo State Wing, has dedicated the 2026 World Teachers’ Day celebration to pupils and teachers abducted during an attack in Oriire Local Government Area of the state on May 15, 2026. The state NUT Chairman, Hassan Fatai, disclosed this on Monday during the celebration held at the Islamic High School Multipurpose Hall, Orita Basorun, in Ibadan North Local Government Area.
Zamfara Governor Explains Refusal to Pay Ransom for Abducted Brothers
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has explained why he refused to pay ransom to bandits who abducted his brothers, Yusuf and Amba, saying he would not give money to criminals. Lawal disclosed this during a media chat on Monday, where he reiterated his opposition to negotiating with kidnappers operating in the state. According to Channels Television, the governor said ransom payments empower criminals and encourage them to continue abducting residents.
Oyo Commissioner Urges Youths to Use Technology for Job Creation
The Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, has called on young people to embrace technology and acquire relevant skills to become self-reliant and contribute to the state’s economic development. Adegoke, represented by Mrs Funmilayo Oyeniran, made the call during the graduation ceremony of the September cohort of the Shining Stars Global Impact Foundation Tech Innovation Boot Camp in Ibadan.
Ekiti North SDP Candidate Outlines Legislative Priorities Ahead of 2027
The Social Democratic Party candidate for Ekiti North Senatorial District, Peter Obafemi, has pledged to pursue reforms aimed at improving representation and promoting national development if elected in the 2027 general elections. Obafemi, who contested the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election on the SDP platform, said his decision to seek a Senate seat demonstrated his continued commitment to public service despite the outcome of the governorship poll.
Akume, Nasarawa Governor Rally North-Central Leaders for Tinubu’s 2027 Bid
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, on Friday led North-Central political leaders and stakeholders in launching a regional movement to mobilise support for President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
APC South-West Youths Commend Ooni for Youths Empowerment Efforts
The All Progressives Congress youths in the South-West have commended the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, for what they described as his youth-focused initiatives aimed at supporting the development of young Nigerians.
Lagos Justice Ministry says Teenager, Adult Faced Armed Robbery Charges
The Lagos State Ministry of Justice has clarified that a teenager and an adult recently reported to have been detained over a pair of slippers were, in fact, prosecuted for alleged conspiracy to commit robbery and armed robbery. The Director of Public Prosecutions, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Adebayo Haroun, made the clarification in a rejoinder issued on Friday regarding charge number ID/22014C/23.
Olu of Imasayi Says Nigeria’s Economy Gradually Recovering Under Tinubu
The Olu of Imasayi, Oba Lukman Kuoye, has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s economic outlook under President Bola Tinubu, saying the country is gradually moving towards recovery. Kuoye made the remarks on Tuesday at his palace in Imasayi, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, during a press conference to commemorate his fifth coronation anniversary.
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