TUESDAY 13TH JANUARY 2026 by THISDAY Newspapers Ltd

Tambuwal: Fuel Subsidy Removal, Flawed Polls to Blame for Nigeria’s Economic Woes

Says Nigeria must prioritise competence over regional considerations Rules himself out of 2027 presidential contest

Funmi Ogundare

Former Governor of Sokoto

State and Senator representing Sokoto South, Aminu Tambuwal, yesterday blamed Nigeria’s wors-

ening economic hardship and democratic decline on flawed policy choices, particularly the

abrupt removal of fuel subsidy without a framework by the government of President Bola

Tinubu. Tambuwal, who spoke during an interview on ‘Arise Prime

Time’ said that a compromised Continued on page 10

Chimamanda: Agbakoba Seeks Probe as Public Awaits Appointment of Coroner by Lagos... Page 28 Tuesday 13 January, 2026 Vol 30. No 11237. Price: N400

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UT H

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WEF Report Identifies AI as Biggest Force to Shape Cybersecurity in 2026... Page 5

NRS Leadership, KPMG Officials Meet, Resolve Differences over New Tax Laws

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The leadership of the National Revenue Service (NRS) and top

officials of KPMG Nigeria, a global professional services firm, yesterday held a high-level meeting to address concerns and

disagreements arising from the implementation of Nigeria’s new tax laws. The meeting, which took place

in Abuja, came amid an intense debate within Nigeria’s business and professional community over the implications of the new tax

framework, which is among the most ambitious fiscal reforms in recent years. In a report titled: “Nigeria’s

New Tax Laws: Inherent Errors, Inconsistencies, Gaps and Continued on page 10

Rivers: Two Assembly Members Pull Out of Impeachment Plot South-south leaders inaugurate reconciliation c’ttee Army raises concerns over misrepresentation of COAS’s remarks in Rivers

Chuks Okocha, Sunday Aborisade in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt In what may be the first sign of cracks in Nyesom Wike’s iron grip on the legislature in Rivers State, two members of the House of Assembly have pulled out of the impeachment plot against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, calling for peaceful resolution of the political crisis. Hon. Sylvanus Nwankwo (Omuma State Constituency) and Peter Abbey (Degema State Constituency) rescinded their earlier support for the impeachment, and pleaded with their colleagues to follow the path of peace in the larger interest of Rivers State. The shift came as prominent South-south leaders, un-der the aegis of Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PAN-DEF), yesterday, inaugurated a Peace and Reconciliation Continued on page 10

COMMONWEALTH SECRETARY GENERAL VISITS AKUME...

L-R: Commonwealth Secretary General, Hon. Shirley Botchwey; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume (CON); and Queen Zaynab Ngohemba George, during a courtesy call on the SGF at his office, yesterday

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THISDAY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0807 401 0580

NEWS

MBAH GETS WORLD WATER CONGRESS AWARD...

Commissioner for Local Government Service Commission in Enugu State, Mrs. Amaka Nweke (L), presenting the International World Resources Association World Water Congress Award, received in Morocco, to Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, in Enugu …recently

WEF Report Identifies AI as Biggest Force to Shape Cybersecurity in 2026 Dike Onwuamaeze

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has identified Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the biggest force that would shape cybersecurity in 2026, both for better and for worse. The WEF made the projection in its “Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2026 Insight Report,” which stated that cyber-enabled fraud has overtaken ransomware as Chief Executive Officers’ (CEOs’) top concern. The report also stated that AI, geopolitical fragmentation and complexity in supply chains would accelerate cybersecurity threats in 2026. According to the report, “AI is supercharging the cyber arms race and is anticipated to be the most significant driver of change in cybersecurity in the year ahead.” It added: “AI is transforming cybersecurity on both sides of the fight by strengthening defence while enabling more sophisticated attacks. “AI vulnerabilities are accelerating at an unprecedented pace: 87

per cent of respondents identified AI-related vulnerabilities as the fastest-growing cyber risk over the course of 2025. “Geopolitics is a defining feature of cybersecurity. In 2026, geopolitics remains the top factor influencing overall cyber risk mitigation strategies. “Some 64 per cent of organisations are accounting for geopolitically motivated cyberattacks such as disruption of critical infrastructure or espionage.” The WEF stated further that this year’s findings underscored that cyber risk was no longer a technical issue alone, as it has become a strategic, economic, and societal concern that demands coordinated action across sectors and borders. It added: “While adversaries leverage automation and advanced tactics to exploit systemic weaknesses, the challenge for defenders lies in keeping pace – not only through technological innovation but by strengthening governance, investing in skills and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration.”

The WEF stated that cyberenabled fraud is a concerning threat to business organisations and households alike. In the survey, 73 per cent of respondents reported that they or someone in their network had been personally affected by cyber-enabled fraud over the course of 2025. It also stated that CEOs have rated cyber-enabled fraud as their top concern, shifting focus from ransomware to emerging risks

such as cyber enabled fraud and AI vulnerabilities. The WEF’s report pointed out that AI, geopolitical fragmentation and complexity in supply chains would accelerate cybersecurity threats in 2026. The report said: “Cybersecurity risk in 2026 is accelerating, fuelled by advances in AI, deepening geopolitical fragmentation and the complexity of supply chains. “These shifts are compounded by the enduring sovereignty

The Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms in Nigeria has commended the Kogi State Government for domesticating the Harmonised Taxes and Levies (Approved List for Collection) Law as part of Nigeria’s ongoing tax reforms. The commendation was contained in a social media

posted by the Chairman of the Committee, Taiwo Oyedele in reference to the report of the Joint Revenue Board, following the passage of the Harmonised Taxes and Levies Law by Bayelsa State, with the JRB describing the development as a major milestone in the modernisation of tax administration across the country. According to the report by

is a core strategic concern for governments, businesses and societies. “The coming year will test not only global technological preparedness but also the capacity to align policy, ethics, and collaboration in defending an increasingly digital world.” The WEF’s report stated that CEOs from Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean are faced with the greatest cyber skills shortages.

TotalEnergies: Land Donors Protest Neglect, Marginalisation in Rivers Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Umu Aye family in Ogbogu, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State has protested an alleged neglect and marginalisation by TotalEnergies E & P Nigeria Limited. The protesters, who said they are the principal land donors

of Ogbogu Flow Station and associated facilities of OML 58, expressed sadness over 27 years of alleged neglect by the energy multinational. They alleged that since 1999, no son or daughter of UmuAye has been employed in the multinational oil company, even when they have qualified people

Presidential Committee Lauds Kogi’s Progress in Tax Reform

Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

dilemma and widespread cyber inequity, two factors that expose systemic vulnerabilities. “The result is a threat environment where the speed and scale of attacks are testing the limits of traditional defences.” It added: “In 2026, cybersecurity will continue to evolve across technological, geopolitical, economic, and strategic dimensions. In this landscape, cybersecurity is no longer a backroom technical function; it

the Joint Revenue Board, Kogi State was listed among early adopters of the harmonised tax framework in Nigeria, alongside Anambra, Ekiti, Gombe, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Zamfara, reinforcing the state’s leadership role in implementing tax reform in the country. The Joint Revenue Board, in its report, stated that harmonised tax laws were designed to eliminate

multiple taxation by streamlining numerous pre-existing taxes into a clear and approved list, while outlawing illegal roadblocks and arbitrary tax collections in Nigeria. The Joint Revenue Board noted that the framework promotes transparency through a reduction in cash handling, an increase in the use of technology, and stronger safeguards against revenue leakages.

who are graduates and have the requisite qualifications for positions in the company. THISDAY observed that the protesters, mostly women, were carrying placards with inscriptions such as, “Land rent agreement expired”, “No MoU since 1999”, “We need graduates and contract staff employment”, “Poverty rate is high”, “Replacement of sacked contract staff”, “Register our company with ECP,” among others Speaking with journalists during the peaceful protest yesterday, the Umu-Aye Secretary, Mr. Nwakanma Agi, stated that the community has experienced serious infrastructural and human capital development neglect by the operators of the facility. He said despite efforts made by the land donors to have the company come to understand their plight and proffer a lasting solution to it, the company

continued to allegedly neglect their demands. Agi, who noted that they are major landlords of TotalEnergies, disclosed that more than 60 percent of the company’s facilities are on their land, yet they hardly feel the impact of their presence. “The essence of this protest is that since we gave our land to TotalEnergies more than 50 years ago, we have not benefited from what we are supposed to benefit. “In 1999, we had a resolution, and they employed a few of our indigenes. That was the last time they employed people from the Umu-Aye community. “Those people who were employed have all retired; no new person has been employed from our communities. The major contracts are given to outsiders, and what they give to our people are just menial jobs like grass cutting. The major jobs are given to outsiders.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

DISCUSSING THE TAX LAWS...

A delegation of top executives from KPMG during a visit to the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, for further discussions the New Tax Laws in Abuja...yesterday

Customs Activates New Standard Operating Procedure for Regulating Courier Companies Initiative to boost integrity of clearance process, revenue assurance, others

James Emejo in Abuja

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), yesterday announced the commencement of a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for regulating courier companies operating under the Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) initiative. The move reaffirms customs’ commitment to strengthening

the integrity of the clearance process, enhance revenue assurance, facilitate legitimate trade and ensure that courier operations meet the highest global compliance standards. The DDP derives its legal foundation from International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Incoterms 2020, relevant sections of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, WCO SAFE

Framework of Standards, Revised Kyoto Convention, WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, NCS Courier Clearance Guidelines, and the Nigeria Postal Service Act 2023. In a statement, Deputy Comptroller of Customs National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, stated that the implementation provides a unified framework for registration,

manifest submission, declaration, valuation, clearance, delivery and compliance monitoring, in line with global best practices. He said under the new procedure, courier companies intending to operate the DDP regime are requested to obtain a license from the NCS Headquarters License and Permit Unit under the Tariff and Trade Department.

Abuja–Lokoja Road: Tinubu’s Aide Faults Slow Progress, Urges Contractors to Step Up Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja The Senior Special Assistant on Community Engagement, North-central, Abiodun Essiet, has described the pace of work on the Abuja-Lokoja highway as unsatisfactory, urging contractors to urgently improve performance. Essiet spoke yesterday during an inspection of ongoing federal road projects in Kogi State, where she expressed disappointment over the level of progress recorded on key sections of the corridor. She recalled that the Minister of Works, David Umahi, had last year terminated four road contracts in the state due to poor performance, directing contractors to expand deployment across project sites.

Months after the directive, she said, there had been little evidence of compliance. According to her, two of the contractors inspected failed to meet agreed timelines and showed no clear signs of mobilising additional equipment. Project managers at the sites reportedly admitted that they were behind schedule. Essiet said the slow pace of work was unacceptable, noting that only a few months remained for delivery. She called on the Ministry of Works to ensure stricter supervision and enforcement to guarantee timely completion. “This is a very busy road and expectations are high. Nigerians are looking forward to tangible results, and contractors must intensify efforts

by deploying more equipment and collaborating where necessary to complete this project on time,” she said. Speaking on the dualisation of the Lokoja–Benin Road handled by CGC Nigeria Ltd, the project engineer, Abubakar Yaba, attributed the slow progress to funding challenges. He said the project had reached about 38 per cent completion despite a time lapse of roughly 90 per cent. Yaba disclosed that while about N59 billion had been certified for the project, only about N54 billion had been paid, leaving an outstanding balance of over N4 billion. He added that the absence of budgetary provision for the project in 2025 and delays in outstanding payments were major constraints.

Essiet, however, rejected the funding explanation, insisting that contractors were awarded projects based on proven financial capacity. She said assurances had been given that the Renewed Hope intervention funds would be used to meet obligations. “If financial capacity was lacking, the contract would not have been awarded. The commitment of the President and the Minister of Works is clear. Contractors must demonstrate capacity and deliver,” she said.

He said, “They are expected to submit all mandatory documents, including CAC registration papers, valid courier licenses, compliance bonds and a formal application to operate under DDP. “It is pertinent to note that all licensed operators are required to submit an Advance Electronic Manifest (AEM) 24 hours before shipment arrival, clearly indicating DDP as the Incoterm and providing complete details such as HS codes, item descriptions, values, origins and consignees, in line with the WCO safe framework of standards.” According to Maiwada, SOP further mandates courier companies to act as declarants by filing Single Goods Declarations (SGDs) via the B’Odogwú platform. Declarations should include the declared FOB values, supported by invoices, airway bills, and packing lists. Also, full payment of customs duties, VAT, and other statutory levies must be completed through authorised NCS payment channels before clearance, he added. He said risk-based cargo profiling will guide inspections, with physical examinations conducted

when discrepancies or high-risk indicators are identified. Delivery to the consignee is also permitted only after full clearance, and Proof of Delivery (POD) must be provided upon request. Maiwada said, “To ensure strict adherence, the NCS has instituted a robust monitoring and enforcement mechanism through periodic Post-Clearance Audits (PCA). “These audits will verify the accuracy of DDP declarations, prevent revenue leakages, and confirm compliance with classification and valuation standards. “Violations, including false declarations, non-payment of duties, or operational misconduct, will attract sanctions such as suspension or revocation of clearance licences, seizure of goods, penalties with interest, and prosecution under the NCS Act, 2023.” The SOP further requires operators to submit monthly reports of all DDP shipments, including duty payments, classification details and delivery records, to the relevant Area Commands.

FG Recommits to Strengthening Environmental Governance

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

ment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal,

oversight of projects.

governance and improving the delivery of internationally funded environmental projects in the country. The commitment was made on Monday in Abuja as the National Capacity Building Workshop on Project Oversight for the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Operational Focal Point and Implementing Partners commenced. Declaring the workshop open, the Minister of Environ-

challenges, including desertification, plastic pollution, biodiversity loss, oil contamination in the Niger Delta, and the growing impacts of climate change. The minister, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mahmud Kambari, stressed that addressing these challenges requires not only access to global environmental financing but also strong institutional capacity for effective planning, implementation, monitoring, and

contributions to biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, sustainable land management, and communitybased environmental initiatives across the country, while noting that GEF-supported interventions have helped conserve hundreds of indigenous plant species, promote sustainable forest management, and support renewable energy and energy-efficiency initiatives aligned with Nigeria’s climate action goals.

the programme as He acknowledged the Global SWEEAP to Convene Stakeholders Forum The federal government has described timely and strategic, noting that Environment Facility (GEF) as its commitment to Nigeria continues to grapple a long-standing development on Gender-Responsive Procurement reaffirmed strengthening environmental with a range of environmental partner, highlighting its significant Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Chevening Alumni Association Nigeria (CAAN), in partnership with DO Take Action and with support from the Chevening Alumni Programme Fund of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), is expected to host a high-level stakeholders engagement forum in Kano state under the Scaling Women’s

Economic Empowerment through Affirmative Procurement (SWEEAP) initiative. Scheduled to hold from February 4 to 5, 2026, the Kano forum forms part of a series of strategic engagements under SWEEAP aimed at deepening policy conversations, strengthening institutional capacity, and expanding opportunities for women-owned and led businesses within public procurement

systems across Nigeria. A statement signed by Kester Osahenye, President of Chevening Alumni Association of Nigeria and Precious Ebere Chinonso, Chief Executive of Do Take Action, said SWEEAP is designed to address persistent gender gaps in public procurement by supporting government institutions to adopt Gender-Responsive Budgeting (GRB) and Gender-Responsive Procurement (GRP) frameworks.

tuesDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • T H I S D AY

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

HAPPY MARRIED LIFE...

L-R: President/GCEO of Transcorp Group and the groom’s sister, Dr. Owen D. Omogiafo; the groom, Efosa Elaiho; Vice President Kashim Shettima, and the bride, Binxa Elaiho, during the couple’s wedding ceremony held at Transcorp Hilton Abuja…recently

In Unprecedented Move, Trump Declares Himself Venezuela’s Acting President DoJ begins probe of US Federal Reserve Chair, Powell It’s a pretext to influence monetary policy, says Fed Chief US government revokes over 100,000 visas Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja US President Donald Trump yesterday referred to himself as “acting president of Venezuela” in an image of a mock-up of a Wikipedia page on his Truth Social account. The post, which was liked more than 31,000 times as of last night, is the latest in a string of claims that Trump and Washington are in charge of the South American country following the 3 January capture of Nicolás Maduro. In a lightning overnight military operation led by US special forces, Maduro and his wife were taken from their Caracas compound and flown back to the United States. Last Thursday, Trump said the US could run Venezuela and tap into its oil reserves for years. “Only time will tell” how long Washington would demand direct oversight of the country of some 28.5 million, he said in an interview with The New York Times. But when asked whether that meant three months, six months or a year, he replied: “I would say much longer.” Trump has repeatedly asserted that the United States will “run” Venezuela, despite its interim President Delcy Rodríguez insisting that no foreign power was govern-

ing her country. “Who governs Venezuela? The power of the people and their constitutional government, so there is no doubt, there is no uncertainty,” Rodríguez said on Saturday. “The Venezuelan people govern here and there is a government, the government of President Nicolás Maduro, and I have the responsibility to lead the country while he is held captive,” she added. One day earlier, the Venezuelan government said in a statement that Caracas “has decided to initiate an exploratory process of a diplomatic nature with the government of the United States of America, aimed at the re-establishment of diplomatic missions in both countries.” The government, led by Rodriguez, also confirmed that US Department of State officials were visiting the Venezuelan capital, and that it was in turn exploring a reciprocal visit to Washington, a report by Euronews said. According to Trump, Rodriguez was “fully” cooperating with the US, and Caracas was giving Washington “everything that we feel is necessary”. Trump’s actual Wikipedia entry, which uses the same official portrait as his Truth Social post, does not list him as Venezuela’s

acting president, listing him only as incumbent president of the United States since January 2025. Last week, the US seized two more Venezuela-linked oil tankers that were attempting to break a naval blockade of the South American country. The first was seized in the North Atlantic after a weeks-long pursuit while the second was boarded in the Caribbean. The operation to seize Maduro was largely met with criticism from leaders across South America and since then Trump has extended threats to other countries in the region. Also, the Trump administration has begun the probe of Federal

Reserve Chair, Jerome Powell, over a Congressional testimony he gave last year about the organisation’s building project, a move Powell described as a “pretext” to gain more influence over the central bank and monetary policy. In a video announcing the probe, Powell said the US justice department served the agency with subpoenas and threatened a criminal indictment over testimony he gave to a Senate committee about renovations to Federal Reserve buildings. He called the probe “unprecedented” and said he believed it was opened due to him drawing Trump’s ire over refusing to lower interest rates despite repeated

The interim National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Senator Esther Nenadi Usman, has advised the former National Chairman of the party, Mr Julius Abure, to seek legitimate means of livelihood rather than attempting to commercialise the Labour Party’s political structures.

Usman, in a statement by the National Secretary, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, told Abure that the Labour Party was not for sale. She accused Abure of misleading the public and attempting to deliberately pervert the wellintentioned press statement issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)

my testimony last June or about the renovation of the Federal Reserve buildings. It is not about Congress’s oversight role...Those are pretexts. The threat of criminal charges is a consequence of the Federal Reserve setting interest rates based on our best assessment of what will serve the public, rather than following the preferences of the President,” Powell stated. But Trump was quoted by NBC News as saying that he had no knowledge of the Justice Department’s actions. “I don’t know anything about it, but he’s certainly not very good at the Fed, and he’s not very good at building buildings,” Trump said.

Alternative Bank Signals Strong 2026 Growth Push as Non-Interest Banking Gains Momentum Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Alternative Bank (AltBank) has unveiled a growth and impact agenda for 2026, positioning non-interest banking (NIB) as key driver of financial inclusion, ethical finance and sector-focused development in Nigeria. Speaking during an interview

on Islamic Finance Viewpoint, Executive Director for South, Korede Demola-Adeniyi, said the non-interest banking sector remains significantly underpenetrated, accounting for just 1.7 per cent of Nigeria’s total banking assets as at 2024, despite growing demand for ethical and value-based financial services.

LP Not for Sale, Usman Tells Abure Chuks Okocha in Abuja

public pressure from the president. “On Friday, the Department of Justice served the Federal Reserve with grand jury subpoenas, threatening a criminal indictment related to my testimony before the Senate Banking Committee last June. I have deep respect for the rule of law and for accountability in our democracy. No one—certainly not the chair of the Federal Reserve—is above the law. “But this unprecedented action should be seen in the broader context of the administration’s threats and ongoing pressure for lower interest rates and more broadly for greater say over the Fed. “This new threat is not about

on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, regarding his status in the Labour Party. The interim National Chairman stated that the INEC statement was unequivocal, that the Supreme Court judgement of April 4, 2025, sacked Abure and affirmed Senator Usman and Senator Nwokocha as the National Chairman and National Secretary of the Labour

Party, respectively. “For the benefit of well-meaning Nigerians and all lovers of our hard-won democracy, INEC, Nigeria’s critical democratic institution and the sole constitutional regulator of political parties, categorically cautioned Mr Abure and his co-travellers to desist from parading themselves as representatives of the Labour Party.

She noted that while the industry recorded modest growth in 2025, deeper advocacy, public education and product innovation are required to unlock its full potential. “Non-interest banking is not niche banking. It is ethical banking designed for inclusion. We are not selling to Muslims alone. We are offering a value proposition that works for everyone,” Demola-Adeniyi said. With increased capital and clearer regulation expected to shape the sector in the new year, she expressed confidence that non-interest banks would assume a more prominent role in Nigeria’s economic transformation. According to her, AltBank’s growth strategy for 2026 will prioritise sectors with strong developmental impact, including healthcare, education, agriculture, renewable energy

and transportation. She added the Bank is also exploring structured participation in the creative economy through partnerships, while remaining fully compliant with non-interest banking principles. “These are sectors that shape lives and livelihoods. Our responsibility is to design financing structures that solve real problems, not just disburse funds,” she said. Addressing concerns over perceived over-collateralisation in non-interest banking, DemolaAdeniyi explained the NIB model is partnership-driven rather than interest-based, requiring transparency and shared risk between banks and customers. She stressed the importance of sustained public education to improve understanding of how non-interest banking structures work and the benefits they offer.

tuesDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • T H I S D AY

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • THISDAY

TEN

AFRIMA: We Remain Determined to Keep Lagos Open to the World, Says Sanwo-Olu Affirms Lagos engine room of Africa’s creative economy Rema, Burna Boy, Yemi Alade, others shine at All-Africa Music Awards

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has said his administration remains determined to keep Lagos open to the world, competitive in innovation, and firmly positioned as Africa’s leading hub for creative and cultural enterprise. He said the Lagos State Government remains committed to partnering the federal government and continental institutions to ensure that Africa’s creativity translates into sustainable value, shared prosperity, and global impact. Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his goodwill message at the 9th

edition of the All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, on Sunday night, said Lagos remains the engine room of Africa’s creative economy. He said: “Lagos State’s engagement with the creative and cultural industry is strategic, deliberate, and driven by clear policy intent. Under our administration, the creative sector has been positioned as a core pillar of economic diversification, job creation, tourism development, and global competitiveness, fully aligned with our development framework, the THEMES+

Agenda. “We have moved beyond rhetoric to action by embedding the creative economy into our broader economic strategy, supporting enabling legislation and institutional reforms, encouraging private sector participation, and positioning Lagos as a secure and scalable destination for creative investment. “In Lagos, music is not just entertainment; it is economic infrastructure. In a city defined by its youthful population, our focus is to transform talent into sustainable careers by investing in skills development, creative

hubs, and digital infrastructure that enable young people to convert creativity into longterm economic opportunity, not short-lived visibility. “Every time African music dominates global charts, sells out international arenas, or shapes global culture, Lagos is a central part of that story. Our responsibility is to ensure this global success is anchored at home through infrastructure, policy stability, and an enabling environment that attracts investment while empowering local talent.” Governor Sanwo-Olu also

acknowledged the federal government’s support for AFRIMA and initiatives that advance Africa’s creative economy, saying, “Under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the creative sector has been clearly recognised as a strategic driver of economic diversification, youth employment, and global competitiveness. “This national focus, including the establishment of dedicated institutional support for the creative economy, reinforces the importance of platforms like AFRIMA that move African

RIVERS: TWO ASSEMBLY MEMBERS PULL OUT OF IMPEACHMENT PLOT

Committee chaired by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, to halt the escalating political crisis in Rivers State. The South-south leaders, including former military governor of the state and Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass, King Alfred Papapraye Diete-Spiff; former governor of Akwa Ibom State and Co-Chairman of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees (BoT), Obong Victor Attah; and former deputy governor of Edo State, Chief Mike Oghiadomhe, expressed optimism that the Agabi-led panel would achieve genuine reconciliation. Nonetheless, Nigerian professionals in the diaspora warned that the renewed impeachment move against Fubara and Odu was a political project that threat-ened democratic order in the oil-rich

state. In another development, the Nigerian Army expressed concern over what it described as deliberate misrepresentation of remarks made by Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, during his recent operational visit to 6 Division of the Nigerian Army at the Port Harcourt Barracks. Expressing their change of mind, Nwankwo and Ab-bey told their colleagues to exercise restraint and seek amicable resolution to the ongoing impeachment proceedings against the governor. Speaking with journalists at a press conference in Port Harcourt, Nwankwo stated that the Assembly had issued a notice of impeachment against the governor and his deputy, but said the development had necessitated deep reflection and wide consultations.

Nwankwo, the Minority Leader, said, “We have called this press conference to appeal to our colleagues to temper justice with mercy and to see how this matter can be resolved outside the impeachment proceedings.” He explained that the decision to make a public appeal was informed by numerous interventions from respected elders and leaders within and outside Rivers State, who had called for restraint and reconciliation. The legislator said, “We are appealing to the conscience of our colleagues. Having listened to so many pleas and calls from our elders and leaders, both within and outside the state, begging for leniency, we, too, are calling on our colleagues to reconsider their steps and see how this matter can be resolved amicably.”

Admitting that the governor and his deputy might have acted in ways that infringed on the provisions of the constitution, Nwankwo stressed that dialogue and political wisdom should prevail over confrontation. He stated, “Even though the governor and the deputy governor may have infringed on the constitution, we are appealing to our colleagues to reconsider our stand.” Abbey also said the appeal was guided by a desire to prevent further political tension in the state. He said, “The Minority Leader has said it all. Yes, the governor has infringed on parts of the constitution, but we are human beings. As members of the 10th Assembly, we want to plead with our colleagues to, please, reconsider.”

electoral process that no longer truly reflects the will of voters poses a big challenge in the polity. He explained that the current administration’s decision to remove fuel subsidy was carried out without adequate planning, stakeholder consultation or social buffers, arguing that Nigerians are paying the highest price for that policy today. “The subsidy was removed without any alternative, without any framework, without thinking it through and without consulting Nigerians on how best to go about it,” he said. Beyond economic policy, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, who recently clocked 60, identified the electoral process as one of the most damaging policy failures in Nigeria’s democratic journey, warning that public confidence in elections is rapidly eroding. The former Speaker of the House of Representatives admitted that elections in Nigeria are not completely decided by the electorate, citing manipulation at multiple levels of the process. “At polling unit level, local government level, state level and even national level, things happen that misrepresent what voters actually voted for,” he stated. He attributed the breakdown to a combination of politicians, electoral officials and institutional weaknesses, noting that loopholes in the system are routinely

exploited. According to him, problems ranging from late commencement of voting, failure of technology, compromised officials and poor result transmission have continued to undermine credibility. Despite acknowledging that reforms could cost him or his party electoral victories, Tambuwal said he fully supports nationwide electronic transmission of election results. “I wholeheartedly support any reform that will improve the electoral process, including electronic transmission, even if it means I will lose an election,” he stated. Responding to criticisms that frequent defections by politicians amount to opportunism, Tambuwal defended his own political movements, saying they were driven by conviction and concerns about fairness, not personal gain. He also expressed doubts about the relevance of party ideology in Nigeria, describing most political parties as mere vehicles or conveyor belts for winning power. “I don’t believe parties are adequately driven by ideology. Most are just platforms to access power,” he said. On the emerging opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Tambuwal said the party is committed to transparent and credible primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He disagreed with claims that the ADC would not stand a chance unless it fields Peter Obi as its presidential candidate, insisting that any candidate who emerges through a credible process would enjoy the coalition’s full support. “Whoever emerges through transparent primaries, all of us in the coalition will support that candidate,” he said. On the contentious issue of zoning, Tambuwal argued that Nigeria should prioritise competence over regional considerations, likening the country’s situation to a medical emergency requiring the best hands available. Tambuwal also ruled out contesting the presidency in 2027, saying his current focus is on bringing people together and helping Nigeria find credible leadership, rather than pursuing

personal ambition. “My focus is not about myself. It is about galvanising and bringing out the best for Nigeria,” he said. Reacting to reported foreign military strikes in parts of Sokoto State, Tambuwal described the development as disturbing and worrisome, questioning the justification for such action in a state he said does not face Nigeria’s most severe security challenges. He noted that while banditry existed during his time as governor, the situation never warranted such extreme measures. The former governor warned that unless Nigeria undertakes serious electoral reforms, inclusive governance and well-thought-out economic policies, the country risks further alienating its citizens and weakening its democratic foundations.

Abbey revealed that the lawmakers had also received calls from political leaders and stakeholders across the country, urging the Assembly to exercise caution. “We have received calls from leaders and people in and out of the state, and we believe that once you raise the axe, you should not swing it immediately,” he said. He, however, stated that any amicable settlement would require cooperation from the governor. According to Abbey, “We plead with our colleagues to reconsider, provided the governor, too, has a role to play. He must ensure that he does not further infringe on the constitution so that there can be an amicable settlement.”

South-south Leaders Inaugurate Reconciliation TAMBUWAL: FUEL SUBSIDY REMOVAL, FLAWED POLLS TO BLAME FOR NIGERIA’S ECONOMIC WOES Com-mittee

In a move suggesting deepseated concerns, promi-nent Southsouth leaders, under the aegis of PANDEF, inaugurated a Peace and Reconciliation Committee chaired by Agabi to arrest the escalating political crisis in Rivers State. This followed the latest development in the renewed political rivalry in the state, prompting a third impeachment attempt against Fubara and Odu. The committee, which was given a two-week ultimatum to broker peace, was inaugurated in Abu-ja yesterday, following an emergency meeting of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees (BoT) and National Executive Committee, amid concerns that the political standoff could undermine governance, peace, and stability in the strategically important oil-producing state. The reconciliation committee, chaired by Agabi, had former Edo

Governor Sanwo-Olu music beyond celebration into structured economic opportunity. “I commend AFRIMA for nine years of vision, resilience, and leadership in elevating African music beyond celebration into serious economic conversation and continental collaboration. North Senator, Obende Domingo, as vice chairman. Other members were former Minister of Housing, Rt. Hon. Essien Nduese; retired federal Permanent Secretary, Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari; former Director of the Department of State Services, Chief Mike Ejiofor; and former Cross River State Attorney-General, Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem (SAN). Deputy National Secretary of PANDEF, Godwin Oko-tie, would serve as secretary of the committee The intervention came against the backdrop of deepening tension between the executive arm of government and the Rivers State House of Assembly, which recently initiated impeachment proceedings against the governor and his deputy, raising fears of another possible breakdown of law and order. At the inauguration ceremony, prominent Niger Delta leaders, including Diete-Spiff, Attah, and Oghiadomhe expressed optimism that the panel would achieve genuine reconciliation. They stressed that Rivers State, given its political influence, economic importance, and role in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, could not afford prolonged political instability. The elders urged all parties to place the collective interest of the people above personal or partisan considerations. Speaking at the event, PANDEF’s National Chairman and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Ambassador Godknows Igali, said the moral authority of the organisation and the calibre of the committee members would compel compliance with the outcome of the reconciliation process. Igali stated that both Minister of Continued on page 29

NRS LEADERSHIP, KPMG OFFICIALS MEET, RESOLVE DIFFERENCES OVER NEW TAX LAWS Omissions”, KPMG Nigeria had Oyedele, defended the Nigeria and highlighted areas where new tax laws, noting that their expressed concerns over some Tax Act (NTA) and clarified the recommendations could be made. initial apprehensions have been aspects of the laws, including policy intent, stating that KPMG The team also commended the significantly allayed. “They affirmed that the reforms the taxation of shares, dividend Nigeria did not understand the Executive Chairman for the effectreatment, non-resident obligations, reform. tive and timely implementation of are both necessary and timely, and However THISDAY learnt that the reforms and noted that their pledged continued professional and foreign exchange deductions, and warned that these could affect the Executive Chairman of the initial apprehensions had been engagement in support of effective tax administration and national NRS, Dr Zacch Adedeji, used significantly allayed. businesses and taxpayers. Besides, KPMG called for a the meeting to clarify some grey “The Executive Chairman of economic growth,” the NRS said review of the tax laws, noting that areas in the new Act, while the the Nigeria Revenue Service in an update on X. Both parties acknowledged the errors, inconsistencies, gaps, KPMG team noted that their earlier (NRS) Dr. Zacch Adedeji, today omissions, and lacunae urgently opinion on the new tax laws had received a delegation of top that differences in interpretation required reconsideration to ensure been misconstrued and expressed management from KPMG on a had contributed to confusion the stated objectives were met. regret over the misunderstanding. courtesy visit. The KPMG execu- among taxpayers and agreed The KPMG team was said tives commended the Executive that sustained dialogue was But the Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax to have sought further clarity Chairman for his leadership and necessary to address emerging Reforms Committee, Mr. Taiwo on the provisions of the laws the timely implementation of the issues, THISDAY gathered.

tuesDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • T H I S D AY

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • THISDAY

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CONFERMENT OF HONORARY DOCTORATE DEGREE ON LAWAL...

Zamfara State Governor, Mr. Dauda Lawal (L), with the Pro Chancellor, Abdullahi Fodio University, Aliero, Dr. Lawal Haliru Bala Jikan Daudu, during the conferment of an honorary doctorate degree on the governor in Kebbi State …recently

Obi Slams Tinubu’s Frequent Foreign Trips, Reno Omokri Disputes Claims Ex-Anambra governor says president spent 196 days abroad in 2025

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

A presidential hopeful and former Governor of Anambra state, Peter Obi, yesterday accused President Bola Tinubu of neglecting Nigerians despite its many challenges, stressing that the president’s frequent foreign travels had become a matter of grave concern. In a treatise he posted on his official X handle, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election,

who insinuated that the whereabouts of the Nigerian leader is currently unknown, argued that since December 2025, Nigerians have not heard a word from their President. But in a response, author and ambassador-designate, Reno Omokri, accused Obi of lying, pointing out that every Nigerian who follows the news knows precisely where Tinubu is, declaring that the presidency has been open and transparent about it.

However, Obi maintained that Nigeria, home to approximately 140 million people living in extreme poverty, the hungriest population globally, staggering insecurity, an unemployment rate exceeding 80 million, and one of the worst places to be born, shouldn’t be burdened with an absentee leader. “In the midst of this chaos, where has our President been? Spending 196 days abroad in 2025 alone—more than he has spent within his own country, at a time

when we face profound crises. Since December 2025, Nigerians have not heard a word from their President. “Reports indicate he opted for a holiday in Europe while the nation was plunged into a New Year marked by hunger, anxiety, and uncertainty. There was no New Year address, no national broadcast, no leadership voice to provide reassurance or guidance. “This lack of presence starkly contrasts with what we see in comparable developing nations

where leaders step up in times of crisis. In Nigeria, following US military strikes on our soil, our President remained silent. Instead of directly addressing the nation, Nigerians learned about these critical events from foreign media, American officials, and the vague communications from the Presidency’s aides known for their propaganda, rather than from their own leader. “This is not governance; it’s neglect. The President was seen abroad yet again for another

Resident Doctors Suspend Planned Indefinite Strike Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended the planned resumption of its proposed industrial action scheduled to begin today. The suspension of the action followed what NARD described as firm commitments from key stakeholders and direct intervention by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, acting on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It the decision was taken at a virtual Emergency National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held on January 11, 2026, during

which the association reviewed the status of its demands and assessed progress made through sustained engagement with relevant authorities. Secretary-General of NARD, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, described the suspension as “strategic and conditional,” stressing it was intended to allow time for an objective assessment of tangible progress at the association’s next NEC meeting, scheduled for January 25, 2026. In a statement, Ibrahim said: “Following firm commitments from critical stakeholders across government and based on direct

presidential intervention led by the Vice President, the NEC unanimously resolved to suspend the resumption of TICS 2.0. This decision is not a retreat from our demands, but a deliberate window to verify implementation and measurable outcomes.” According to him, the meeting extensively reviewed all outstanding issues affecting resident doctors, noting that progress had been recorded on several fronts. On the lingering crisis at the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH), Lokoja, Ibrahim said the issue has been resolved. “In addition to that, a new

reconciliation committee comprising chief medical directors, the Ministry of Health, and NARD has been constituted to ensure that all our members remain in FTH Lokoja and to broker lasting peace between ARD FTH Lokoja and MDCAN FTH Lokoja. The goal is to foster harmony and prevent a relapse.” Regarding the outstanding 25 and 35 per cent CONMESS arrears, the NARD scribe disclosed that verified lists had already been

Advocacy Group Demands Proof of NBMA Chief’s Eligibility

Adeleke to IGP: Call Osun CP to Order MichaelOlugbodeinAbuja Demands unconditional release of detained aide, Abiodun Adegoke Apesin

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has asked the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to call the Osun Police Commissioner, Ibrahim Gothan, to order over arrest and unlawful detainment of people in the state. The governor also demanded immediate release of one of his aides, Abiodun Adegoke Apesin, who has been repeatedly denied bail over a defamation petition

affecting the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Oyebamiji. The governor, in a statement in Osogbo, decried the continuous detention of Mr Adegoke as a breach of his fundamental human rights especially as the subject of the petition from the APC and its candidate is a non-capital offence bailable under the Nigerian law. The governor wondered why police would deny bail on two separate occasions despite compliance with the

conditions set by the police, including producing level 10 and Level 12 officials, calling the situation “an unacceptable partisan conduct by the state police command. While calling on the IGP to direct the Commissioner to order immediate and unconditional release of Mr Adegoke, the governor cautioned the police against becoming a tool in the hands of political players as it would undermine peace and security of the state.

forwarded to the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). According to him, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment has formally written to the Ministry of Finance, with attention to IPPIS, to facilitate payment. “We are not relenting,” Ibrahim said. “NARD will continue close follow-up to ensure that these arrears are paid without further delay.”

summit while remaining absent from his own country when he is needed the most. Earlier this year, he even sent an AI-generated image to the nation instead of addressing his people face-to-face,” Obi emphasised. Stressing that leadership is not simply issuing press releases, but about standing before the people, engaging with them, and offering clarity, Obi stated that Nigerians were not asking for perfection, but we’re demanding presence. He argued that Nigerians are eager to hear from their President through direct media briefings and deserve to understand the state of their country. Obi pointed out that Tinubu cannot run Nigeria like a personal business or a private club, stressing that it was imperative to rebuild and grow the economy through unity and clarity. “Progress is impossible without unity and consensus, and it begins with strong leadership that sets the tone. No policy, reform, economic plan, or security measure can thrive in a divided nation. When leadership withdraws, unity falters, and the fabric of our society unravels under the weight of mistrust and division.

A civil society organisation, Citizens Advocacy for Social and Economic Rights (CASER), has formally requested access to the academic and professional records of Bello Bwari, director-general of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), raising questions about his eligibility to occupy the position. The request was submitted under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act to the Federal Ministry of Environment. CASER said the move was prompted by concerns that the current head of the biosafety agency

may not have met the qualifications required by law. According to the group, the NBMA Act provides that the director-general of the agency must possess at least a master’s degree in biological sciences or a related field, while noting that Bwari is widely known to be a legal practitioner, a background the organisation argues may be inconsistent with the statutory requirements for the role. In the FOI application, CASER called on the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, to confirm the director-general’s credentials and make the information available to the public.

The organisation stressed that transparency in appointments is essential for maintaining confidence in regulatory institutions. CASER further warned that failure to clarify the issue could weaken public trust in agencies responsible for biosafety, environmental protection, and biotechnology oversight. The group added the matter goes beyond one appointment and reflects broader concerns about compliance with enabling laws in public offices. Founder of CASER and a human rights lawyer, Frank Tietie, criticised what he described as the lack of response from professionals in the scientific community.

tuesDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • T H I S D AY

tuesday january 13, 2026 • T H i s d ay

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Ekiti 2026: Group Alleges Political Interference in Omission of PDP’s Candidate from INEC List Gbenga Sodeinde inAdo-Ekiti

A pressure group, Ekiti Liberation Agenda (ELA), has alleged that political interference was responsible for the omission of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s governorship candidate, Dr. Wole Oluyede, from the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) official list of candidates ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State.

The allegation was made yesterday in Ado-Ekiti by Mrs. Motunde Fajuyi, a former Chairman of Ado Local Government Area and a representative of the group, while addressing journalists. Fajuyi alleged that the exclusion of Oluyede’s name from the INEC list was not accidental, but a deliberate act aimed at preventing him from participating in the election. She claimed that the PDP candidate emerged through a primary

Police Investigate Mysterious Death of Family of Six in Rivers Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Rivers State Police Command yesterday commenced investigation to unravel the cause of mysterious death that six members of a family in Ogale, Eleme Local Government Area of the State. It was gathered that victims, a father, mother, three children and a relation were found dead in the morning of Sunday, by neighbours in the area. Meanwhile, in a statement by the State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed that the command has launched an investigation into the sudden death of the family. According to the police spokesperson, the victims, Theophilus Obele (49), Eunice Obele (35), Saka Obele, (18), Peace Obele, (14), Nyimenka Obele (7) and Abel Nwaka (25), were found dead in their rooms with their doors still locked. She stated: “The Rivers State Police Command is deeply saddened in investigating a tragic incident that occurred

on, January 11, 2026, at about 1500hrs, in Ogale Eleme, where six members of a family were found dead in a locked room. “One Godwin Ogosu of Ogale, Eleme, through a distress call, reported that his elder brother, wife and children who slept in the previous night have not woken up from sleep with the doors still locked.” She added: “In a swift response, Operatives of the Command attached to the Eleme Division, mobilized to the scene, and forced open the doors to the room and discovered their lifeless bodies. Preliminary investigation suggests possible generator fume poisoning as the cause of death. The generator was reportedly left on in the parlour of the Victims.” Iringe-Koko further disclosed that “The corpses have been deposited at Last Home Mortuary, Ebubu Eleme, for autopsy,” adding they photographic evidence has been taken, and investigation is ongoing. Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, has directed a thorough investigation into the incident.

election she described as free, fair and monitored by INEC officials. According to her, the absence of Oluyede’s name from the published list raised concerns, especially as no formal explanation had been offered

The Accord Party in Lagos State yesterday received a coalition of politicians and professionals who defected from five political parties, in a move aimed at building what they described as a “people-led mass coalition” to challenge the dominance of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. The defectors, led by Mr Robert Sowore of the Labour Party (LP), a retired banker and financial consultant, were drawn from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Action Alliance (AA), All Progressives Congress (APC), African Action Congress (AAC) and the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). Speaking at the event, Sowore said he joined the Accord Party alongside over 1,000 followers, describing it as the most credible platform for building a broad-based political movement in Lagos.

“Accord is the ideal platform for a people-led coalition that will drive a political tsunami in Lagos State. “The numbers are there. The will of the people is there. We are starting from Alimosho, which is the political capital of Lagos, to take back the state for the people.” According to him, dislodging the APC in Lagos requires what he called a mass coalition of Lagosians rather than a coalition of elites, adding that Accord provides the political space capable of midwifing such a movement. Also speaking, Mr Olatunde Ibrahim, a former APC senatorial aspirant and veteran tax consultant, said he was prepared to deploy his professional experience in support of the coalition. “I have consulted for the six state governments in the South-west. I am ready to bring my skills, knowledge and expertise to

“acting on orders,” though she did not provide documentary evidence to support the claim. She said the development reinforced broader concerns about political exclusion in the state, recalling what she described as unresolved

grievances during the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries, where she alleged that some aspirants, including Kayode Ojo and Mrs. Abimbola Olajumoke, were disqualified without stated reasons.

Violent Protest: Police Arraign 52 Suspects in Edo Felix Omoh-Asun in Benin

Criminal Court II, Benin, Edo State has remanded 52 people to the Ubiaja Correctional Centre in Esan South East Local Government following last Saturday’s protest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area over the killing of a kidnap victim by his abductors while shouting for help. The weekend protest turned violent as several shops were

looted and the Palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma was vandalised. The suspects were arraigned by the Edo State Police Command on charges of robbery, conspiracy to disturb peace and security, malicious damage, among others. The suspects were arraigned by police counsel, P. O Odion. Presiding Judge, Justice Wlliam Aziegbemi, in a

short ruling, said he lacked the jurisdiction to entertain the case and asked counsel representing the defendants to file bail application at the Ubiaja High Court. He thereafter, remanded the suspects to the Ubiaja Correctional Centre and adjourned the case to February 26, 2026 for hearing. Journalists were, however, barred by security agents from entering the court to cover the proceedings claiming there

was an order that they should allow only lawyers to enter the court. Speaking after the arraignment, Wisdom Isaac said nobody made any complaints against the suspects. Meanwhile, tears flowed freely as mothers and fathers struggled to give water, drinks, food and money to the defendants, who are mostly students of Ambrose Alli University.

‘Kwankwaso’s Influence Waning in Kano Politics’ Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Kano People’s Rights Alliance (KPRA) has declared that the political influence of former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and his allies has significantly declined, describing them as increasingly irrelevant in the state’s political landscape. The group said recent developments in Kano politics have exposed deepening divisions within the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and highlighted what it called the diminishing grip of Kwankwaso and his loyalists on the affairs of the state. KPRA made the assertion following the recent public appearance of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf amid speculations of a possible defection from the NNPP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Coalition of Politicians Defects to Accord Party in Lagos

Sunday Ehigiator

by the electoral body despite reports that the primary election met required guidelines. Fajuyi further alleged that individuals who made enquiries at the national headquarters of INEC were informed that the commission’s chairman was

this project,” Ibrahim said. He also advised the party to set up a Research and Social Development Committee to drive evidence-based policy and people-centred programmes. Mr Mayowa Odeyingbo, a technology specialist and former APC member, said his decision to defect was informed by Accord’s ideological clarity. “I have been in the PDP and later the APC. I have discovered that most parties in Nigeria are left-leaning. “Accord is the only centre-right party with a people-centred ideology. It balances the rich and the poor, the literate and the illiterate, the connected and the common man.” Among those who also joined the party were Mr Mayor David, a former LP Lagos State House of Assembly candidate from the AA; Mr Folajimi Babatunde from NNPP; and Mr Ismael Elegbede from AAC.

In a statement by its Coordinator, Isyaku Lawal Tofa, said the absence of Kwankwaso’s allies from the governor’s engagement reflected their growing detachment from the current political reality in Kano State. According to the group, the conspicuous absence of key Kwankwaso’ loyalists,

including the NNPP state chairman, Hashim Sulaiman Dungurawa, was a clear signal of their declining relevance rather than a coincidence. Tofa said: “The notion that Kwankwaso remains a pivotal figure in Kano politics is rapidly becoming a relic of the past. The KPRA asserts that the current leadership

under Governor Yusuf is capable of steering the state towards progress without the need for Kwankwaso’s manipulative tactics. “The silencing of Rabiu Kwankwaso from the political landscape of Kano marks a significant turning point in the state’s governance and political culture.”

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C tuesday january 13, 2026 • T H i s d ay

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Insecurity: Enugu LG Chairman Calls for Decentralisation of Policing Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Chairman of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State, Hon. Ugo Ferdinand Ukwueze, has renewed calls for the decentralisation of policing in Nigeria, describing it as a necessary response to the country’s worsening security challenges. He argued that devolving

policing powers to the states would strengthen security operations, improve intelligence gathering and ensure quicker responses to threats at the grassroots level. Ukwueze maintained that policing closer to the people would foster stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities, while compelling state governments

to take greater responsibility for the protection of lives and property. According to him, decentralised policing would also enhance accountability, as citizens would be better positioned to hold their

leaders responsible for security lapses within their domains. Highlighting the crossborder nature of insecurity, the council chairman said states cannot effectively secure their territories in isolation.

“We owe it a duty to protect our people and our land,” he said, adding that without a coordinated approach among neighbouring states, policing efforts would remain weak and fragmented.

He cited a recent kidnapping incident involving Reverend Sisters in Eburummiri, Ibagwa-Aka, within his local government area, as an illustration of the shortcomings of the current security structure.

APC: Adeleke’s Ally, Wale Bolorunduro, Was the Architect of Half Salary Regime, Not Oyebamiji

which wrongfully that it was Wale Bolorunduro a statement of fact that the 15 District Heads Crowned Yinka Kolawole inOsogbo statement ascribed the gubernatorial who is the Adeleke’s advisory Adeleke government is the Osun State chapter candidate of the party, consultant on economy and worst in the history of the in Toro, Lame and Jama’a The of the All Progressives Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola former Finance Commissioner state based on its numerous monumental Congress(APC) has berated Oyebamiji, as the architect of under the administration verifiable the administration of Osun half salary regime in the state. of former Governor Rauf failures across all the sectors, Emirate Councils The party said it is a pity Aregbesola, is widely known saying that no amount of State Governor Ademola Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi

Fifteen district heads from three newly created Emirate Councils in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State have been crowned, marking another step in strengthening traditional governance structures. The coronations took place across Jama’a, Lame and Toro Emirate Councils, with newly appointed district heads assuming leadership of their respective districts following approval by the state government. At the ceremonies yesterday, the State Commissioner for Local Government and

Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Isah Babayo, urged the district heads to administer their areas in line with Governor Bala Mohammed’s people-centred policies. Alhaji Babayo also charged the traditional rulers to work closely with their respective emirs to promote unity, peace and effective grassroots governance across the emirates. He emphasised that traditional institutions remain vital partners in bringing government closer to the people and ensuring the successful implementation of development programmes at the local level.

Adeleke, accusing its political functionaries of suffering from dementia following its arrant and thoughtless

that the state governor and his cohorts are so forgetful so soon to the extent that they find it difficult to remember

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

are currently being recalled from the market. The statement signed by NAFDAC’s DirectorGeneral, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye said: “NAFDAC wishes to clarify the recent public concerns arising from the voluntary global recall in over 50 countries by Nestlé UK of specific batches of its SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula due

as the undeniable architect of half salary regime in the state. APC explained that it is

defamation of character can save him from losing the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

NAFDAC Assures Consumers of Safety of Nestlé Infant Formulae The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) said that all Nestlé SMA Infant Formulae currently approved for marketing in Nigeria are safe for consumption. The agency also said it did not register the UK batches of the product that

to the potential presence of cereulide, a toxin, in the batches concerned. “The Agency wishes to reassure the public, healthcare professionals, relevant stakeholders particularly parents, guardians and caregivers, that all Nestlé Infant Formulae currently approved for marketing in Nigeria are safe for

consumption and are not part of the recall.” Adeyeye said the recall in the affected countries was due to the potential presence of cereulide in the UK batches, a toxin, which can trigger nausea and vomiting when consumed. Cereulide is an extremely heat-resistant toxin produced by certain strains of the bacterium Bacillus cereus.

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T H I s D Ay • TUESDaY JaNUaRY 13, 2026

Politics

Acting Group Politics Editor DEJI ELUMOYE Email: deji.elumoye@thisdaylive.com 08033025611 sms only

Mutfwang’s Defection and New Power Equation on the Plateau

yemi Kosoko writes about how Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s recent defection from the People’s Democratic Party to the all Progressives Congress could redefine political cooperation and competition in Plateau State.

mutfwang

overnor Caleb Mutfwang’s dramatic defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) marks one of the most consequential political realignments in Plateau State since the commencement of the Fourth Republic in May, 1999. Far beyond a routine party switch, the move reshapes Plateau’s internal power blocs, reconfigures its relationship with the federal government, and signals a broader national trend of PDP fragmentation. Mutfwang’s exit from the PDP did not occur in a vacuum. According to reports, the governor cited “prayer, consultation, and deep reflection” before formally joining the APC. His decision followed months of internal PDP instability, legal battles, and factional disputes that weakened the party’s cohesion on the Plateau and nationally. The APC, for its part, framed the defection as “calculative, measured, and popular,” arguing that Mutfwang and the leaders who moved with him “controlled more than 90% of the PDP followership” in the state. This suggests that the governor’s move was not merely personal but part of a coordinated political migration. Plateau’s longstanding political fragmentation historically, has been a battleground of shifting alliances, personality-driven politics, and ethno-religious undercurrents. Since 2015, the state has oscillated between the APC and PDP, with each administration inheriting deep-seated divisions. Mutfwang himself acknowledged this

fractured landscape, saying he defected to help “unify the state’s political class” and heal longstanding acrimony between rival camps. His public reconciliation with former Governor Simon Lalong—once a fierce opponent—symbolized a new elite consensus that could reshape Plateau’s political future. What is observed as the Federal factor in the defection saga is both strategic alignment and political survival. A central theme in the governor’s defection is alignment with the federal government. His advisers described the APC as the “safest option” amid PDP instability and emphasized the benefits of working closely with the presidency on security and

development issues. Mutfwang himself pledged loyalty to President Bola Tinubu, arguing that Plateau’s voice would be “stronger from the inside” of the ruling party. In a state grappling with recurring violence, federal alignment is often seen as a pragmatic necessity. The PDP in Plateau State expressed its outrage and the question of mandate in a reaction that was swift and scathing. The party accused Mutfwang of “betrayal of public trust” and “political opportunism,” arguing that he defected without consulting party structures and should constitutionally vacate his office. This raises a broader national debate on whether elected officials should retain their mandates after switching parties. Considering that Nigerian courts have

It is a recalibration of Plateau’s power structure, a strategic alignment with federal authority, and a reflection of the PDP’s deepening internal fractures. Whether it leads to genuine unity or simply a new configuration of old rivalries will shape Plateau’s political trajectory for years to come.

historically allowed governors to defect, the moral and democratic implications remain contested. The implications for Plateau’s 2027 Elections is obvious when Mutfwang predicted that Plateau could deliver “one million votes” for the APC in 2027—a bold claim, but not impossible if the current realignment holds. With senators, local government chairmen, and key PDP figures defecting alongside him, the APC now enjoys unprecedented consolidation in the state. However, Plateau’s electorate is unpredictable. Voters have repeatedly punished incumbents and shifted loyalties based on performance, identity politics, and security concerns. Mutfwang’s defection is part of a broader wave of PDP governors crossing over to the APC, deepening the opposition party’s crisis and strengthening the ruling party’s grip on the North Central region. If the trend continues, the PDP risks losing its historical foothold in the Middle Belt—once a stronghold of antiestablishment sentiment and minority political assertion. Governor Mutfwang’s defection is not merely a political manoeuvre; it is a recalibration of Plateau’s power structure, a strategic alignment with federal authority, and a reflection of the PDP’s deepening internal fractures. Whether it leads to genuine unity or simply a new configuration of old rivalries will shape Plateau’s political trajectory for years to come.

tuesDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • T H I S D AY

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Tuesday January 13, 2026 Vol 27. No 11236

opinion@thisdaylive.com

www.thisdaylive.com

MR. JUSTICE STEPPIN’ RAZOR

CHIDI ANSELM ODINKALU challenges the Judge handling the Malami case to name those trying to pervert justice

See page 21

SOUTHEAST AND POLITICS OF STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT

Aligning with the party at the centre is an act of foresight, argues CHIECHEFULAM IKEBUIRO

See page 21

EDITORIAL

RESIDENT DOCTORS AND SUSPENDED STRIKE

See page 22

OKHAI AKHIGBE pays tribute to the Nigerian Armed Forces on Remembrance Day

THE ARMED FORCES AND OATH OF ALLEGIANCE

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu launched the 2026 Nigerian Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem on 2nd December 2025. The Abuja unveiling event was part of the build-up to the annual 15th January memorial to commemorate distinguished military service, personal sacrifice and the Nigerian Spirit. The ceremony showcases a military parade, gun salutes, accolades, and the laying of flowery wreaths at the cenotaph for military heroes in the Federal Capital Territory and state capitals. The President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, state governors, legislators, ministers, service chiefs, heads of establishments, diplomats, senior military officers, VIPs, military veterans, and members of the public will attend this sombre yet iconic spectacle which will be broadcast in real time. The memorial ‘red poppy’ emblem has its origin in an old 1915 poem, "In Flanders Fields" written by Canadian Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, in honour of his friend Lieutenant Alexis Helmer, killed during World War 1. The emotional poem describes thousands of graves at the military cemetery overgrown with blood-red poppies. This led to the red poppy becoming the most recognized memorial symbol for soldiers who died in active duty. It is estimated that over 50,000 African soldiers died during World War 1 and over 475,000 died during World War 2. A significant number of these casualties were Nigerian troops. In 1921, the Royal Canadian Legion and the British Legion adopted the artificial poppy created by Madam Anna Guerin and established the first ‘Poppy Appeal to honour fallen soldiers and support veterans. Remembrance Day is traditionally celebrated amongst Commonwealth Nations on November 11th to commemorate the armistice and end of World War 1 on the 11th of November, 1918 at 11am. In Nigeria however, we celebrate Remembrance Day on the 15th of January. The 15th of January is a watershed in Nigerian history. Barely seven years after attaining independence from Britain in 1960, the country was plunged into a bloody civil war that lasted for 30 months. Military troops that once trained together became enemies and killed each other on the battlefield. Civilians were conscripted to fight this war on both sides and lost their lives, limbs, and their sanity. On 15th January 1970, the civil war officially came to an end with the historic signing by General Olusegun Obasanjo and Colonel Philip Effiong. The restoration of peace could begin after the massive military and civilian casualties. Ironically, there is a generation of younger Nigerians that have very limited information on this national tragedy which still influences the sociopolitical landscape today. But Gen Zs aside, what

does the Armed Forces Remembrance Day mean to Nigerians of every demographic? What does this sacrifice of life by soldiers mean? It is a question that applies to me as well, especially being a military veteran who has lost many friends, colleagues, and subordinates on the battlefield. I remember, as a Captain serving at the Directorate of Military Intelligence in 2000, being assigned to coordinate the security of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day ceremony at Alausa, Lagos. That memorable moment at the cenotaph, standing on one side of the Lagos State governor, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was decked in a dark blue French suit. To his left stood Brigadier General George Emdin, Commander 9 Brigade, Ikeja, and former Commanding Officer, Army Training Wing in my cadet days at the Defence Academy. On January 15, 2026, Bola Ahmed Tinubu will stand at the cenotaph again, as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, to remember the heroes who paid the ultimate price. One of such recent heroes is Brig. Gen Musa Uba who was killed alongside some of his troops in November 2025. Another harsh reminder that the battle against the insurgency may be far from won. There will be more casualties, more soldiers will fall, and their comrades will fight on. Blood. Sweat. Tears. This is what distinguishes the soldier in society. We live to a certain code based on the Oath of Allegiance we took on entering military service. Courage is demanded in the face of danger. It is the warrior mindset. Over the last 30 years, between peacekeeping, internal security, counter insurgency and counter terrorism operations the number of military casualties has grown exponentially. My mind travels back in time, to the early days when we started off in military training. Most of us were just teenagers looking for adventure. The Academy was a gruelling five years of tough military training, being pushed to the limit by senior cadets, while studying to qualify for a university undergraduate degree. To lead men in battle is an honour that must be earned, we were told. It was first cadets training cadets in endurance runs, obstacle crossing, map reading, toughness, and

military tradition. Then came the drills. We burnt rubber on the parade ground from marching to instructions every day. Learning to react instinctively, to compensate the next man’s deficiency, working as a group with a common mission. Our instructors on the parade ground were the non-commissioned officers. Men who would salute us after we were commissioned but they owned the parade ground. They poked us with their staffs and rolled us on the gravel when we defaulted. The Regimental Sargent Majors – RSMs, were custodians of military tradition and they drilled us to perfection. Sergeants taught us how to fire weapons, to strip and clean them, and to treat them as a best friend. They needed us to be of the highest quality because we would lead men under gunfire. And where we couldn’t lead, where we faltered, we could be shot by our own. When it came to field training, our instructors were the officers, proud graduates from the academy themselves. They were ruthless. We dug trenches till our palms bled. We cried in the cold and the rain on the highlands of Jos. We got lost during night navigation in Kachia. Some drowned in Port Harcourt. We marched 50 kilometres in full battle gear. We didn’t bath for two weeks. They stole our weapons when we fell asleep on guard duty then ‘puteed’ us till we could no longer stand. Take this training serious, they said to us over and over again, because this training may save your lives in the field. They pushed us to the limit because they understood that they were also training us for themselves. We would be their subordinates in the field when the bullets flew past. So, while we trained under the directives of then Colonel Emdin, learning to ambush the enemy and dig trenches in defence we got the heartbreaking news of one of the earliest casualties of the ECOMOG operations. It shook the entire cadet corps.

Captain Akhigbe served in the Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps. He is working on a documentary for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day. okhai1926@gmail.com

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CHIDI ANSELM ODINKALU challenges the Judge handling the Malami case to name those trying to pervert justice

MR. JUSTICE STEPPIN’ RAZOR

If you wanna live - treat me good If you wanna live, live I beg you treat me good

I'm like a walking razor Don't you watch my size I'm dangerous, said I'm dangerous I'm like a walking razor Don't you watch my size I'm dangerous, dangerous. Peter Tosh, Steppin’ Razor (1977) Winston Hubert McIntosh, the Jamaican martial arts exponent better known by his stage name Peter Tosh, was one of the trio – together with Robert Nesta (Bob) Marley, and Neville Livingstone (Bunny Wailer) - who founded the legendary Reggae band, the Wailers, in 1963. By 1974, the group was all but dissipated. First Bob Marley and then Peter Tosh launched off into what would become epochal solo careers. Their respective paths as solo artistes telegraphed the ideological conflicts that ultimately sundered the Wailers. While Bob Marley’s music offered a medley of reconciliation, romance, and regroup, Peter Tosh was muscular in protesting the injustices of his environment. His solo debut in 1976, which came out under the title “Legalize it”, was way ahead of its time in making the political and clinical case for the legalization of Marijuana. The following year, in 1977, Peter Tosh’s second album which came out under the title “Equal Rights”, was to become the anthem of an international movement for social justice whose birth coincided with the launch of the album. One of the tracks in this album was “Steppin’ Razor”, a perspicacious dirge of self-assertion which was to define his identity in life as well as his legacy upon his untimely killing ten years later in 1987. Musicians, of course, have an entitlement to artistic license in framing themselves in public imagination, which is not necessarily available to other vocations. Forsaking the rules that control their own vocation, it now seems that some judges in Nigeria may prefer, like Peter Tosh, to exercise both artistic license and faux testicularity in inventing themselves in judicial fashion as Mr. Justice Steppin’ Razor. In August 2023, for instance, Flora Azinge, a senior judge of the High Court of Delta State presiding over election petitions in Kano, north-west Nigeria, complained publicly for the second time in open court that “a senior member of the bar offered one of her staff a sum of N10 million bribes for onward delivery to the panel.” On an earlier occasion, she has claimed that an un-named senior lawyer had asked her to provide him with her account for the transmission of a seasonal gift.

Preferring instead to flex her credentials as Madam Justice Steppin’ Razor, the judge was reported as having threatened that she “would no longer take any attempt to bribe judges, saying that attempts to pervert the cause of justice through the back door is not tenable in her court.” She did not say what she would be prepared to do or how many importunations it would take for her to do them. In the court hall where the judge voiced these claims, there were lawyers present but none had the courage or presence of mind to remind her that she had powers to deal summarily with the complaints that she raised or that by choosing not to exercise those and instead bury them in anonymous allegations, she was actively involved in bringing her judicial office into disrepute. This past week, Polycarp Nwite, a judge sitting in Abuja, has chosen to join the ranks of the judicial Steppin’ Razor, in announcing that he is “dangerous”. The occasion was the adjourned sitting of the Federal High Court in the Federal Capital Territory for the hearing of the application for bail in the trial of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, his wife, and his son on charges of money laundering and aggravated pillage of Nigeria’s patrimony. After granting the application of the accused for bail, the judge is reported to have launched into what can at best be described as performance-enhanced monologue, suggesting that he had been importuned by some senior lawyers to compromise the case or to “go easy” on the accused: “When I am handling any case, please don’t approach me. When you are doing your case, you can get the best lawyers in this country to do your case, but don’t attempt to approach me for any help. I am not the type of judge. I know what God has done for me by giving me this job, and I have vowed to do it to the best of my ability. I have sworn before Almighty God and man that I am going to do my duty without fear or favour.” He added, with a touch of hyper-ventilation, that “any attempt to try this will be vehemently resisted.” A lawyer and a teacher, Odinkalu can be reached at chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu

Aligning with the party at the centre is an act of foresight, argues CHIECHEFULAM IKEBUIRO

SOUTHEAST AND POLITICS OF STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT

Recently, the South East Stakeholders’ Meeting of the All Progressives Congress was held in Enugu State. At that gathering, the clear message that stood out was the urgent need for unity across the Southern political corridor to consolidate the gains of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and secure victory for the APC in 2027. It is a position that deserves sober reflection, not emotional dismissal. In politics, sentiment is a luxury while strategy is a necessity. And for the Southeast, the time has come to invest our votes where they can yield tangible political returns. For decades, we have demonstrated remarkable loyalty to political causes and parties, often without commensurate rewards. Since 1999, the Southeast largely aligned with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), even when that party controlled the centre for 16 uninterrupted years. Yet, beyond symbolic appointments and occasional infrastructure mentions, the Southeast remained politically peripheral, electorally useful but strategically expendable. The hard question we must now ask is, what enduring political or developmental gains did that long-standing alignment truly deliver to the Southeast? Politics, everywhere in the world, is transactional. Regions that negotiate from positions of relevance and leverage reap the benefits of power. Those who consistently vote against the centre, or scatter their influence across losing platforms, consign themselves to the margins. Nigeria is no exception. This is why the call from the Enugu meeting should be understood as political realism. Aligning with the party at the centre is an act of foresight. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has embarked on farreaching reforms, some painful, others inevitable. Whether one agrees with all of them or not, one fact is this: this government will shape Nigeria’s economic (and political) direction for the foreseeable future. The Southeast cannot afford to be spectators in decisions that will define Nigeria’s future. The argument that we should continue to vote symbolically in protest may be emotionally satisfying, but it is strategically hollow. Elections are not moral victories; they are pathways to power. And Power is what translates political participation into tangible outcomes. It is what it is! It is also time we put to rest the romantic notion of “voting our own” as a sufficient political strategy. Yes, Peter Obi’s performance in the 2023 presidential election was impressive and, to people like me, surprising. However, elections are won not by momentum alone. Truth be told, there is currently no viable pathway to an Obi presidency in 2027, even with his alignment with the ADCa home to a mix of aggrieved politicians, including former APC “ power brokers”.

An alignment that also exposes a deeper contradiction because if the path forward still requires alliances with the same political class Obi’s movement defined itself against, then the narrative of a clean break from “old order” becomes harder to sustain. Or was it all a ruse? More importantly, there is the fundamental challenge of the absence of nationwide electoral viability. It is what it is! The alternative often implied within this coalition is a return to a familiar northern presidential option. But does this choice truly serve Southern or Southeastern interests? After eight years of President Muhammadu Buhari, a Fulani northerner, the informal but widely respected understanding within Nigeria’s power rotation framework is that power should remain in the South. To jettison that understanding now would not only deepen national distrust, it would also weaken the South’s collective bargaining power in the long run. Aligning behind another northern ticket so soon would amount to political self-sabotage. The Southeast must therefore think beyond protest votes and sentimental attachments. The real question is not which party makes us feel morally comfortable, but which alignment places us closer to decision-making power, federal presence, and developmental negotiation. Political relevance is not awarded; it is negotiated. It is what it is! This does not mean blind loyalty to the APC, nor does it suggest abandoning legitimate grievances. Rather, it calls for pragmatic engagement. Entering the room where decisions are made, influencing policy from within, and positioning the Southeast as a critical stakeholder rather than a perpetual opposition enclave. As 2027 approaches, the Southeast must choose between symbolism and strategy, between emotional consistency and political consequence. Votes are currency in a democracy. It is time we spent ours wisely. The future will not reward sentiment. It will reward calculation and strategic alignment. Lastly, an Igbo presidency will not emerge from isolation or perpetual opposition. It will come from relevance, trust, and negotiated inclusion within Nigeria’s power architecture. Chiechefulamikebuiro@gmail.com

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EDITORIAL

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

RESIDENT DOCTORS AND SUSPENDED STRIKE Government should honour agreements freely entered

ery day as many of their peers seek greener pastures e commend the Nigerian Asabroad. However, we are of the view that all these sociation of Resident Doctors strikes do not resolve any problem. As all previous (NARD) members for suspendcases have proven, parties would still return to the ing their industrial action earlier negotiating table after several lives have been lost. scheduled to commence yesterA more strategic way to resolve this logjam can be day, January 12. We hope that attained without bringing untold hardship to patients the two-week window between now and January 25 and other citizens that may need their services in the will afford the government, NARD and other key hospitals. Authorities in the sector should know that stakeholders in the health sector an opportunity to this is not an auspicious moment to dither on the isresolve all contending issues. With the progress acsue of healthcare for the people. Resort to judicial anknowledged by the resident doctors on issues such as tics is also not an enduring solution to the challenge. accoutrement allowances, promotion and salary arHowever, unions in the health sector need to re-exrears, specialist allowances, welfare of house officers, amine their methods. While refusal to work is unietc., there can be an end to these industrial actions in a versally recognised as a tool available sector as critical as health if there to demand a better work environment is honesty of purpose. or the enhancement of wages, the We are even more concerned Government, at all levels, should put in place frequency of these strikes now posthat the Joint Health Sector machinery to seriously address issues that give rise to es a serious threat to our socio-ecoUnions and Assembly of Health nomic development. But the greater Care Professionals (JOHESU) these endless strikes, especially in critical sectors like responsibility lies with the federal members have been on strike for government as well as the states. In a health and education more than two months without country where more than half of the any amicable resolution of conpopulation live in poverty, being able T H I S D AY tending issues in sight. As we EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU to access healthcare at the public hospitals remains stated recently, this frequent face-off between health DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE critical, as many cannot afford even the consultation workers and government at all levels has not only left MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO fees in the private hospitals. We therefore urge the DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU an indelible stain on the image of the public health government, at all levels, to put in place machinCHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI care system in the country, but it has also brought unEDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN ery to seriously address the issues that give rise to told hardship to many Nigerians. While the federal THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE these endless strikes, especially in critical sectors like government claims that most of the demands have health and education. been addressed, JOHESU members remain adamant, We sympathise with health workers in the country that withholding of the immediate adjustment and who operate under very difficult conditions and seriT H I S D AY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary ous financial constraints. But whatever their grouses EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA Structure (CONHESS) was the core issue behind the GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, may be, strikes cannot resolve them. We hope that strike. ISRAEL IWEGBU the federal government will dialogue with JOHESU We fully support the aspirations of both NARD and DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, on the urgent need to suspend their current industriANTHONY OGEDENGBE JOHESU members, especially regarding their welDEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI al action. More importantly, authorities in the health fare, conducive working environment and recogniSNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH sector must use the period between now and January tion of their contribution as sacrosanct to an efficient ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI 25 to resolve lingering issues with the resident dochealthcare system. We also share the frustrations of CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI tors. DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO resident doctors whose membership is depleting ev-

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LETTERS DEATH OF CHIMAMANDA ADICHIE’S SON The reported death of Nkanu Nnamdi, the 21-monthold son of renowned Nigerian novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, has sent shockwaves across the country and beyond. Beyond the grief of a bereaved family, the incident has reopened an uncomfortable but necessary conversation about the quality of care, accountability, and professionalism in Nigeria’s healthcare system, both private and public. According to the family, the death of the toddler was not just tragic but avoidable. Adichie has accused a Lagos-based private facility, Euracare Hospital, of negligence in the handling of her son’s medical condition. These are serious allegations that strike at the heart of trust between patients and healthcare providers. The family alleges a litany of failures that culminated in the child’s death. These include claims that the toddler was denied oxygen, given excessive sedation that allegedly led to cardiac arrest, left unattended by medical staff, and transported in a manner said to be inconsistent with standard medical practice. If proven, such actions would represent grave departures from basic paediatric and emergency care

protocols. Euracare Hospital, for its part, has expressed deep sympathy to the family over the loss of the child but firmly denied any improper care. The hospital maintains that its treatment of the patient was in line with international standards. As with many such cases in Nigeria, the truth may only emerge through thorough, independent investigation rather than public statements and counter-statements. What makes this case particularly disturbing is that it mirrors the daily experiences of countless Nigerians whose stories never make the headlines. In both private and public hospitals, patients are frequently subjected to unprofessional conduct, poor communication, and substandard care, often with devastating consequences. The situation is even more dire in many government-owned hospitals. Overcrowding, understaffing, weak oversight, and a culture of impunity mean that patients often have no option but to endure whatever treatment they receive, without explanation or the opportunity to question decisions that affect their lives.

Negligence and avoidable mistakes by medical professionals are not minor lapses; they can and do lead to death. For this reason, such errors must be prevented at all costs. Professional standards, continuous training, and strict adherence to clinical guidelines are not optional extras but essential safeguards. This is where leadership and regulation must come to the fore. The Minister of Health and state commissioners for health should, as a matter of urgency, ensure that medical directors in both public and private hospitals actively monitor clinical practices. Hospital leadership cannot remain confined to offices issuing unsupervised directives while unsafe practices persist on the wards. This death is one too many and must not be swept under the carpet. Whether in a high-end private facility or a struggling public hospital, negligence and poor practices must no longer be tolerated. Nigeria’s healthcare system owes its citizens more than sympathy after tragedy; it owes them safe, competent, and accountable care. Tochukwu Jimo Obi, Obosi Anambra State

LAWYER TUeSday, JANUARY 13, 2026

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US President, Donald Trump

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Invasion 2026: Venezuela Today; Tomorrow, Who's Next?

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In this edition

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Order of Priority Where Competing Interests in Land Emanate from Same Grantor Page IV

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: 6 2 0 2 n o i Invas ; y a d o T a l Venezue 's Next? o h W , w o r r o Tom

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Quotables ‘Justice must never be for sale. The Bench must never, become a sanctuary for compromise. Corruption in any form, in any arm of government, weakens the nation. But, corruption in the Judiciary, destroys it to the core.’ - HE Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

‘Our pronouncements at this juncture in our history, have preserved constitutional order and upheld the democratic will of the people. Yet…we must go further. Beyond merely defending democracy, we must keep it….by ensuring that justice is not only done, but manifestly seen to be done.’ - Hon. Justice Kudirat KekereEkun, GCON, Chief Justice of Nigeria

Tinubu’s Tax Reform and Nigeria’s Broken Social Contract Page V

When Power Writes the Law: Trump, Maduro, and the New Geopolitics of Intervention Page VI

Trump's Abduction of Maduro, Implications for Venezuelan Sovereignty, It’s Neighbours, and the International Community Page VIII

lawyer

onikepo braithwaite: editor, jude igbanoI: deputy editor, peter taiwo, steve aya: reporters

III The advocate

T H I S D AY • TueSday, JANUARY 13, 2026

Fubara, to Go or Not.....

ivers State is back in the news again, and as usual, not for anything pleasant. Nigerians thought that having been out of office for six months, that as soon as the Rivers State Executive and Legislature resumed work in September 2025, they would hit the ground running. Alas, we were wrong.

Notice of Allegations Against Governor Fubara and Deputy Governor Odu Last week, on January 8, 2026 to be precise, the Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA) commenced removal proceedings against the State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, in accordance to Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended)(the Constitution). It appears that there are allegations of gross misconduct against them, such as budgetary impropriety, failure to present the 2026 Budget Appropriation Bill, alleged extra-budgetary expenditure without approval from the RSHA, and financial neglect of the RSHA and Rivers State Judiciary. It is unclear whether the accusation of unlawfully demolishing the RSHA Complex against Governor Fubara, which may amount to an act of terrorism (destruction of a Government Facility), is among the new allegations - see the definition of Terrorism in the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 (TPPA). Highly Inflammable Governor Governor Fubara appears to be a person, whom we describe in Yoruba, as one who people want to set fire to, but, strangely, assists the ignition process by rubbing petrol on his body, thereby making himself highly inflammable, instead of perhaps, sitting in a pool of water to make himself non-flammable. On 17/3/2025, a Notice of 5 Allegations was submitted by 26 RSHA Members against Governor Fubara; therefore, he shouldn’t have created any avenue for history to repeat itself, particularly as the Supreme Court had declared in a 2024 case, that Rivers State had had no government at the time. For one, over three months after resumption, the key Ministries in Rivers State, such as Justice, Finance, and Education are said not to have Commissioners. In Borishade v NBN 2007 1 N.W.L.R. Part 1015 Page 217 at 241 per Monica Dongban-Mensem, JCA (now PCA), the Court of Appeal noted that “there has been no clear definition under the law of this nation, as to what constitutes a misconduct”. In Hon. Muyiwa Inakoju & 17 Ors v Hon. Abraham Adeleke & 3 Ors (2002) LPELR-1510 (SC) per Dahiru Musdapher, JSC, the Supreme Court gave the statutory definition of gross misconduct as “a grave violation or breach of the provisions of this Constitution, or a misconduct of such a nature as amounts to, in the opinion in the House of Assembly, gross misconduct”. The Apex Court per Niki Tobi, JSC went on to define “gross” in this context as “atrocious, colossal, deplorable, disgusting, dreadful, enormous, gigantic, grave, heinous, outrageous, odious and shocking”. It is clear that breaching the provisions of the Constitution, could be gross misconduct. For instance, a public official breaching the Code of Conduct, or withdrawal of monies from public funds without approval of the State House of Assembly (see Sections 209 & 120(3) & (4) of the Constitution). Governor Fubara stands accused of the latter. A notice of removal containing allegations of misconduct, signed by at least one-third of RSHA Members, was presented to the

onikepo Onikepo braithwaite Braithwaite onikepo.braithwaite@thisdaylive. com onikepob@yahoo.com

The

Advocate “Governor Fubara appears to be a person, whom we describe inYoruba, as one who people want to set fire to, but, strangely, assists the ignition process by rubbing petrol on his body, thereby making himself highly inflammable, instead of perhaps, sitting in a pool of water to make himself non-flammable. On 17/3/2025, a Notice of 5 Allegations was submitted by 26 RSHA Members against Governor Fubara; therefore, he shouldn’t have created any avenue for history to repeat itself….. any predecessor-in-office that installs a successor-inoffice (to do his/her bidding), does so at their own peril, as there is no law to support this action….any agreement that a candidate who has only served one term mustn’t seek a second term, is against public policy, unconstitutional, null and void ab initio and unenforceable…..” Speaker of the RSHA. Governor Fubara and Professor Odu, obviously have a right to defend themselves against the allegations. But, whether they respond or not, within 14 days of presentation of the allegations to the Speaker, a resolution of a motion of whether or not to investigate the allegations, must be passed. The resolution to investigate must be passed by at least a two-thirds majority of the RSHA, and within seven days of this, the Chief Judge of Rivers State, upon the request of the RSHA Speaker, shall appoint a Panel of seven persons to investigate the allegations, and report its findings within three months - see Section 188(2)-(7) of the Constitution. Where the allegations remain unproven, no further removal proceedings in the matter shall continue. But, in 2019, in the case of former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Mr Simeon Achuba, the then Chief Judge of Kogi State, Hon. Justice Nasiru Ajanah, instituted a Panel to investigate the allegations levelled against Mr Achuba. Though the findings of the Panel were that the allegations of misconduct against Mr Achuba were unproven, the Kogi State House of Assembly (KSHA) still went ahead to remove Mr Achuba, in breach of

Section 188(8) of the Constitution. See AG Kogi State & Ors v Achuba & Ors (2024) LPSLR-61940 (CA); Kogi State House of Assembly & Ors v Achuba & Ors (2024) LPELR-61938(CA). On the other hand, if the allegations of misconduct are proven, within 14 days of receipt of the report, the report is adopted by a motion of at least two-thirds of the House of Assembly, and the Governor and/or Deputy shall stand removed on the date of the adoption of the report - see Section 188(9) of the Constitution. However, Section 188(10) of the Constitution which seeks to oust the jurisdiction of the courts from the proceedings of the Panel or the House of Assembly in the removal of a Governor or Deputy, appears to be unconstitutional, as it goes against the rules of natural justice, the right to fair hearing enshrined in Section 36(1) of the Constitution, and Section 6(6)(b) of the Constitution which gives the courts the powers to adjudicate on all matters except those mentioned in Section 6(6)(c) of the Constitution, that is, the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy, which such removal proceedings are not a part of. In the

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara

case of Hon. Muyiwa Inakoju & 17 Ors v Hon. Abraham Adeleke & 3 Ors (Supra) per Sunday Akinola Akintan, JSC, Governor Ladoja was restored to his position as Governor of Oyo State, on the ground that the process that led to his removal was faulty. It is trite that the removal process set out in Section 188, must be followed to the letter, if not, it can be challenged. In Hon. Muyiwa Inakoju & 17 Ors v Hon. Abraham Adeleke & 3 Ors (Supra) for example, there were eight infractions that were cited in Governor Ladoja’s removal process, including Legislators sitting at D’Rovans Hotel instead of the House of Assembly to deliberate on the removal, and instead of sending the notice of the allegations to the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, publishing it in the newspapers (see Section 188(2)(a) & (b) of the Constitution). Let’s wait and see, how the Fubara/ Odu removal matter plays out. Will the RSHA complete the removal process, or are they just grandstanding? Only time will tell. Agreement Not to Seek a Second Term Sections 180(1)(a), (2) & 182(1)(b) provide unequivocally, that a Governor holds office until his successor is sworn in, that a term of office is four years, and a candidate cannot serve for more than two terms, that is, eight years. This is what the Constitution recognises. The Constitution doesn’t recognise any term elongation beyond two terms in office, or a third term to be served vicariously through a successor-in-office. Therefore, any predecessor-in-office that installs a successor-in-office (to do his/ her bidding), does so at their own peril, as there is no law to support this action. Consequent upon the foregoing, any agreement that a candidate who has only served one term mustn’t seek a second term, is against public policy, unconstitutional, null and void ab initio and unenforceable, unless of course such Governor is found to be suffering from any of the impediments listed in Section 182 of the Constitution that disqualifies him/her from running (also see Section 1(1) & (3) of the Constitution). Such agreement is inconsistent with Section 182(1)(b) of the Constitution. See Fasel Services Ltd & Anor v NPA & Anor (2009) LPELR-1245(SC) per Mahmoud Mohammed, JSC on the non-enforceability of illegal contracts. The only way to ensure that such a candidate doesn’t get a second term, is either to support a stronger aspirant that will secure the party ticket at the primaries, or, if the unwanted candidate is still able to secure the party ticket, support another candidate against the unwanted candidate during the election. This latter option was adopted by the then ‘G5 PDP Governors’ who decided not to support former Vice President, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, GCON, the PDP Presidential candidate in the 2023 election. They supported APC’s President Bola Tinubu, GCFR instead, and he won the election. Conclusion It is unfortunate that all the trouble in Rivers State, has absolutely nothing to do with the betterment of the welfare of the people (see Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution). It is about a scramble for power, control and State funds! From where we are sitting, we can see that the only person so far, that will certainly gain from the war, is President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, as the two opposing sides, even though they are not in any type of alliance, have pledged their allegiance to the President’s second term bid, and are eager to outdo themselves on who will deliver victory to him in Rivers State!

IV law report

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Order of Priority Where Competing Interests in Land Emanate from Same Grantor Facts The Appellant instituted the action at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), seeking amongst other reliefs, a declaration that she is entitled to the statutory right of occupancy over a plot of land measuring 2,100.01 square metres at Plot 856, Cadastral Zone A04, Asokoro, Abuja; a declaration that any purported notice of reinstatement of right of occupancy to the 3rd Respondent dated 10th December, 2009 by the FCT Administration is illegal, null and void. She also sought orders of perpetual injunction restraining the Respondents from disturbing her interest, rights and quiet possession on the plot, and from committing further acts of trespass on the land. The 1st and 2nd Respondent filed a joint statement of defence, in opposition to the Appellant’s claims. The 3rd Respondent did not file any process. The case of the Appellant was that she was validly allocated the said Plot 856 by the 1st Respondent by a Right of Occupancy dated 13/1/2006 and she paid all requisite fees in respect of the allocation and subsequently, obtained building plan approval over the land on 19th April, 2007, and had since been in lawful possession of the land consistently paying ground rent on the same until 2009. She claimed that although a Right of Occupancy over the same land was formerly granted to the 3rd Respondent, however, it was validly revoked by the 1st and 2nd Respondent before the land was allocated to her. In their defence, the 1st and 2nd Respondent claimed that the allocation of the said Plot 856 to the Appellant by the 1st Respondent was done in error, as the same land had previously been allocated to the 3rd Respondent pursuant to a Statutory Right of Occupancy dated 30th December, 2002, which was never revoked, and the 3rd Respondent’s title to the land was still subsisting at the time the land was erroneously allocated to the Appellant. The 1st and 2nd Respondent’s witness testified that when the dispute arose, the 1st and 2nd Respondent attempted to settle the matter amicably between the Appellant and the 3rd Respondent by offering the Appellant an alternative plot of land and payment of N15,000,000.00 as compensation, however, she rebuffed the offer. At the conclusion of trial, the trial court delivered its judgement dismissing the Appellant’s claims. Dissatisfied, the Appellant appealed to the Court of Appeal, which unanimously dismissed the appeal. Thereafter, the Appellant filed a further appeal at the Supreme Court.

Issues for Determination The Supreme Court adopted the issues distilled by the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Respondents, with some modifications as follows: i) Whether or not the Court of Appeal was right in affirming the decision of the trial court, notwithstanding that the 3rd Respondent did not participate in the trial court. ii) Whether or not the Court of Appeal was right in holding that the judgement was in favour of the 1st and 2nd Respondent, and that it was beneficial to the 3rd Respondent. iii) Whether or not the Court of Appeal was right when it found that both the newspaper publication and the Notice of Reinstatement of the land dispute (exhibit G) in favour of the 3rd Respondent were speculative, and did not prove the Appellant’s title. iv) Whether or not the alleged failure of the Court of Appeal to consider the Appellant’s reply brief, occasioned any miscarriage of justice. Arguments Arguing issues 1 and 2 together, Counsel for the Appellant contended that since the 3rd Respondent was duly served with the processes at the trial court but elected not to enter a defence, then the trial court should have deemed the evidence tendered by the Appellant as admitted by the 3rd Respondent, and rely on the unchallenged evidence in resolving the claim in favour of the Appellant. Counsel argued that the failure of the 3rd Respondent to participate in the proceedings, amounted to an admission of the Appellant’s claims. Counsel for the Appellant also

Honourable Moore Aseimo Abraham Adumein, JSC

In the Supreme Court of Nigeria Holden at Abuja On Friday, the 13th day of June, 2025 Before Their Lordships Muhammed Lawal Garba Adamu Jauro Jummai Hannatu Sankey Moore Aseimo Abraham Adumein Obande Festus Ogbuinya Justices, Supreme Court SC.733/2017 Between ADETOUN ALAWIYE

APPELLANT

And

1. HON. MINISTER OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY 2. THE FEDERAL CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 3. SAMPSON ADEBISI FASEMRE

RESPONDENTS

(Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Moore Aseimo Abraham Adumein, JSC)

argued that the 1st and 2nd Respondent have no interest in the disputed land and therefore, cannot make a case for the 3rd Respondent. On issue 3, Counsel for the Appellant argued that the Court of Appeal erred in affirming the trial court’s finding that the Notice of Revocation issued by the 1st and 2nd Respondents to the 3rd Respondent was speculative and that the trial court was right not to have relied on same. Counsel argued that there was sufficient evidence before the court to establish that whatever title the 3rd respondent claimed over the land had been revoked. On issue 4, Counsel for the Appellant argued that the lower court failed to address the issue of breach of title over the disputed land and neglected its duty by not pronouncing on two of the issues submitted for determination, thereby

“...where the issue of priority of interest arises, and the grant of title to the land relates to the same parcel of land, then the first in time prevails….the reason is because a grantor having successfully divested himself of his title in respect of the disputed piece of land, would have nothing left to convey to a subsequent purchaser, under the elementary principle of nemo dat quod non habet, as no one may convey what no longer belongs to him”

occasioning a miscarriage of justice. In response to the Appellant’s arguments on issues 1 and 2, Counsel for the 1st and 2nd Respondent argued that since the Appellant’s claim before the trial court was essentially for a declaration of title to land, the Appellant was required to succeed on the strength of her own case, irrespective of the absence of the 3rd Respondent Responding on issue 3, Counsel for the 1st and 2nd Respondent argued that the Appellant failed to specifically prove that there was indeed, a revocation of the title of the 3rd Respondent over the disputed property, as Exhibit F (newspaper publication) tendered by the Appellant does not constitute a valid notice of revocation. Counsel for the 1st and 2nd Respondent submitted that the land was validly allocated to the 3rd Respondent, and that the allocation remains subsisting, as it has not been revoked in accordance with Section 28 of the Land Use Act. Counsel for the 3rd Respondent argued similarly there was no evidence of a valid revocation of the 3rd Respondent’s title to the land, hence his title remains subsisting and the Court of Appeal rightly affirmed the decision of the trial court. Court’s Judgement and Rationale Resolving the 1st, 2nd and 3rd issues together, the Supreme Court reiterated the settled position of the law that in an action for declaration of title to land, a claimant must succeed on the strength of his or her own case, and not on the weakness of the defence.

The Supreme Court held that to resolve an issue on dispute to land where the grant of title to the land relates to the same parcel of land, then the first in time prevails or takes priority. The Court referred to the principle of law expressed in the Latin maxim “prior tempore potior jure” meaning “First in time, stronger in right” or “First in time, preferred in law”, and held that to resolve an issue on dispute to land where competing interests over the same parcel of land emanate from the same source, the earlier grant takes priority. The Apex Court relied on to H. N. O. AWOYEGBE & ANOR. v CHIEF J. E. OGBEIDE (1988) 1 NSCC 491 in which it also held that the reason is because a grantor having successfully divested himself of his title in respect of the disputed piece of land, would have nothing left to convey to a subsequent purchaser under the elementary principle of nemo dat quod non habet, as no one may convey what no longer belongs to him. The Supreme Court held that from the facts of the case, it was undisputed that both the Appellant and the 3rd Respondent derived their title to the subject land from the same grantor - the 1st and 2nd Respondent. The Apex Court held that however, the 1st and 2nd Respondent, through whom the Appellant was resting her title to the land in dispute, were clear and equivocal in their claim which they provided oral and documentary proof of, that they had validly granted title of the land to the 3rd Respondent since 2002, but erroneously and inadvertently allocated the same land to the Appellant in 2006 during the subsistence of the 3rd Respondent’s title thereon which was never revoked. The Court held that the Appellant on her part did not adduce any evidence to counter the 1st and 2nd Respondent’s claim, that the 3rd Respondent’s title to the land has not been revoked. The Supreme Court held further that by the provisions of Section 28 of the Land Use Act, for any revocation of title to land granted by the appropriate authority to be valid, it must be issued under the hand of a public officer duly authorised by the Governor, and the title holder must be served with the notice of intention of revocation or the certificate issued to him. The Apex Court found that in this case, there is no iota of evidence that any such notice was ever issued to the 3rd Respondent. The Supreme Court also held that where a certificate of occupancy has been validly issued to a person by the appropriate authority, there is a presumption that the holder of the certificate is the owner of the land in exclusive possession thereof, and the presumption can only be rebutted if it is proved by the evidence that another person had a better title to the disputed land prior to the issuance of the certificate of occupancy. The Court referred to GRACE MADU v DR BETRAM MADU (2008) 6 NWLR (PT. 1083) 296 at 319-320. The Apex Court held that in this case, the Appellant did not lead any evidence showing that the Certificate of Occupancy issued to the 3rd respondent by the 1st and 2nd Respondents was null and void or that it had been properly revoked. The Court also held that Exhibit F and G relied on by the Appellant – a newspaper publication and a Notice of Reinstatement do not constitute valid evidence of a valid revocation and the lower court was right to describe both pieces of evidence as speculative, therefore, since the 3rd Respondent’s title to the land was not revoked, he remains the rightful owner of the land. On the second issue, the Supreme Court held that from their pleadings, the 1st and 2nd Respondents were consistent and equivocal that the land in dispute belongs to the 3rd Respondent thereby establishing the 3rd Respondent’s title to the land. The Court found that therefore the judgement of the trial court is in the unfettered favour of the 1st and 2nd Respondents jointly, and also the 3rd Respondent, whose title to the land is dispute is rooted through them. Accordingly, the Apex Court resolved all the live issues against the Appellant, and in favour of the Respondents. Appeal Dismissed. Representation Chief Kanu G. Agabi, SAN, Uchenna Njoku, SAN and others for the Appellant. Idris Abubakar, SAN and others for the 1st and 2nd Respondent. Dr Lilian Ojimma and others for the 3rd Respondent.

Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Reports (NMLR)(An affiliate of Babalakin & Co.)

TueSday, JANUARY 13, 2026 • T H I S D AY

article

et me start by saying that I do not object to paying taxes, or to the idea that Nigeria’s tax system requires reform. What I object to is being taxed by a government that delivers almost no public value in return for the revenue it collects from citizens. Put more formally, I object to being taxed by a State that fails to uphold its side of the social contract.

Social Contract The social contract is the implicit agreement between a State (Government) and its citizens regarding rights, duties, and expectations. Citizens accept the authority of the State (Government), including its laws and taxation powers, because the Government is expected to provide protection, basic services, fairness, and some improvement in collective welfare over time. Tax compliance and rule-following are exchanged for security, opportunity, and public provision. In Nigeria, this contract has been eroded to a devastating degree. Where I live, we supply our own water through private boreholes, generate our own electricity using generators and inverters, and pay for private security to compensate for an underfunded Police Force. When a massive pothole developed on our road, damaging vehicles and disrupting daily life, residents came together to fix it themselves, relying on personal funds and informal coordination, rather than any arm of the State. These experiences are not exceptional. They reflect the ordinary conditions under which many Nigerians live, where the State has abandoned its end of the social contract, and is largely absent from the most basic functions it is supposed to fund. New Tax Laws It is against this backdrop of a broken social contract, that the Tinubu administration is pursuing tax reform. The proposed reforms are sweeping. They consolidate multiple tax laws into a single framework, expand digital monitoring and enforcement, tighten compliance requirements, and impose harsher penalties for evasion. The proposals introduce presumptive taxation that pulls millions of informal earners into the tax net, including freelancers, small traders, and digital workers. They implement global minimum tax rules for multinationals, restrict corporate deductibility on certain expenses, and replace earmarked levies with broader development taxes. There are new surcharges on fossil fuels supposedly meant to fund clean energy, and higher compliance thresholds that catch more businesses in enforcement. On paper, this looks like the Nigerian Government is finally building fiscal capacity. In practice, it assumes a level of bureaucratic competence, institutional credibility, and evenhanded enforcement that everyday experience in Nigeria struggles to support. The Nigerian State, especially this current administration, lacks the administrative ability, required credibility, and demonstrated willingness to apply these reforms fairly, correctly, and evenly. So, the question becomes: what motivates a State to pursue higher levels of tax compliance when it makes little effort to rebuild trust, credibility, or reciprocal provision? Why would a government strengthen its ability to collect revenue, in the face of its inability and seeming unwillingness to uphold its end of the social contract? Electricity supply remains unreliable across much of the country. Fuel prices have risen sharply since subsidy removal, feeding directly into transport and food costs. Inflation continues to erode real incomes. Public healthcare and education remain unpredictable in quality and access. Security outcomes vary sharply, by region and income. Government efforts to alleviate this suffering are limited at best. Daily life already requires citizens to absorb costs that the state nominally exists to manage. Within this context, expanded taxation is detached from lived governance outcomes and increasingly difficult to justify within any reciprocal civic arrangement. Resulting Tension The widening of the tax net, makes this tension visible. Presumptive taxation and expanded enforcement pull millions of informal earners into the fiscal system. These are people who already face unstable incomes and limited protection. Broadening the tax base has theoretical appeal, in a country with high informality. But, in practice, it targets people who absorb economic shocks directly and immediately. Inflation, currency pressure, fuel volatility, and insecurity, fall hardest on those least equipped to manage them. Adding tax obligations on top of this exposure deepens vulnerability, rather than easing it. This could be defensible, if the government offered credible forms of protection in return. Access to affordable credit, insurance, legal recognition, predictable regulation, and effective dispute resolution could turn compliance into a benefit. Instead, what’s emerging for many is fiscal inclusion paired with social exposure. They will pay more tax, with no increase in quality of life. Think about what that means in practice. A freelance graphic designer in Lagos could face presumptive tax

Fikayo Akeredolu

Tinubu’s Tax Reform and Nigeria’s Broken Social Contract This article by Fikayo Akeredolu discusses the Nigerian Government’s new tax laws, the discrepancies therein and the need for transparency and accountability; the relationship of taxation and the social contract between the State and the citizens, highlighting how Government has failed to perform its own side of the agreement, shifting its burden onto the people, thereby turning this new tax initiative into nothing more than an extraction from the people with more paperwork, rather than reform. She makes suggestions on what should happen, going forward, to improve the current situation obligations based on estimated income, rather than actual earnings. If work dries up for three months, the tax bill doesn’t adjust. If clients delay payment, there’s no State-backed mechanism to enforce contracts or provide bridge financing. If inflation spikes and transport costs double, there’s no safety net. The tax collector shows up with digital enforcement tools, and penalties for non-compliance. The State that’s supposed to provide security, opportunity, and basic services remains absent. At this point, the social contract is gone, and the government is now no more than an extractor of its own people’s livelihoods. On the corporate side, the reform introduces sophisticated global tax concepts that require consistent enforcement, administrative coherence, and reliable institutions. Nigeria struggles across each of these dimensions. For large firms, compliance costs and uncertainty will rise. For domestic firms operating on thin margins and facing expensive financing, tighter thresholds and deductibility rules generate pressure that gets passed through to prices, wages, and employment. Ultimately, households bear these costs too. Redistribution within this framework remains opaque. Development levies replace earmarked levies with limited transparency about where the money actually goes. Fossil fuel surcharges are justified as supporting clean energy even as households facing energy poverty receive little immediate relief. There’s

“A State that expands its power to extract revenue while failing to restore trust, fairness, and basic provisions is unilaterally renegotiating the terms of citizenship. It’s demanding deeper compliance, while offering thinner guarantees in return. In that setting, taxation ceases to function as part of a shared civic bargain, and becomes more like a compulsory transfer enforced by authority rather than by consent”

no clear path from compliance to benefit, no visible improvement that would justify the expanded burden. Afunctional social contract doesn’t require perfection. It requires effort, transparency, and visible improvement over time. Citizens can accept taxation, if the State demonstrates that it’s trying to hold up its end of the bargain. That might look like functional primary healthcare clinics, in every local government area. It might look like roads that don’t destroy vehicles, and force communities to fund repairs themselves. It might look like a Police Force that doesn’t require bribes, for basic services. It might look like transparent budgeting, where citizens can see how tax revenue is allocated and spent. It might even look like a concerted effort, to improve Nigeria’s score on the Corruption Perceptions Index. None of this is happening. The Tinubu administration is not even pretending to prioritise these basics, alongside tax reform. There’s no parallel agenda for service delivery, no accountability mechanism for public spending, and no effort to rebuild trust, before demanding compliance. A State that expands its power to extract revenue while failing to restore trust, fairness, and basic provisions is unilaterally renegotiating the terms of citizenship. It’s demanding deeper compliance, while offering thinner guarantees in return. In that setting, taxation ceases to function as part of a shared civic bargain, and becomes more like a compulsory transfer enforced by authority rather than by consent. President Tinubu came into office promising “renewed hope.” What he’s delivering instead, is renewed extraction. The subsidy removal, the currency devaluation, the inflation spike, the security failures - all of this has landed hardest on ordinary Nigerians. At the same time, his government has offered almost nothing to cushion the blow. Now comes tax reform that demands even more from citizens, who are already carrying costs the government should bear. This is a choice. President Tinubu could have sequenced reform differently. He could have prioritised visible service delivery, alongside revenue expansion. He could have built trust, before demanding compliance. He chose not to. Instead, he’s pursuing a strategy that treats Nigerians as revenue sources to be optimised, rather than citizens owed reciprocal obligations. Nigeria does need tax reform. But, revenue without

reciprocity erodes legitimacy faster than it builds State capacity. A tax system can modernise on paper, while the social contract beneath it continues to collapse. What Tinubu is building, is a State that’s closer to citizens financially, while being further away in every other sense that matters. If this administration wants compliance, it needs to earn it. Right now, it’s just demanding it. And, that’s not reform. It’s an extraction, with more paperwork. What Should Happen Now First, transparency. The version of the Tax Bill passed by the National Assembly and the version ultimately gazetted should be published side by side, in full. Nigerians should be able to see what was debated, what was agreed, and what now carries the force of law. In a low-trust environment, opacity doesn’t just create confusion. It confirms every suspicion citizens already have, about how power works in Nigeria. Second, restraint. Where the law itself is under dispute, enforcement should be suspended. No deductions, penalties, or compliance actions should proceed, while questions about legislative integrity remain unresolved. Compliance secured under uncertainty, doesn’t strengthen the State. It hardens resentment, and confirms that the government cares more about extraction than legitimacy. Third, accountability. If discrepancies between the debated and gazetted texts reflect procedural failures or deliberate manipulation, those responsible must publicly account for them. This isn’t about punishment, for its own sake. It’s about reaffirming that lawmaking is a constitutional process, not an administrative shortcut that can be gamed by whoever controls the gazette. Fikayo Akeredolu, Political Economist studying the political and institutional constraints that undermine reform. in oil-dependent countries like Nigeria. Completing her PhD (DPhil) at the University of Oxford, where her research draws on extensive fieldwork in Nigeria to examine how institutional fragility, elite interests, and distributional conflict shape outcomes of the energy transition. Former Bloomberg’s Country Manager for West African Countries. Currently, Senior Research Associate on the ACCLIMATE project at the University of Bristol; World Bank Africa Fellow, focusing on climate finance and policy implementation. Assistant Dean, St Anne’s College, University of Oxford

VI coVER

TueSday, JANUARY 13, 2026 • T H I S D AY

Jubilation in Venezuelan Capital, Caracas

Invasion 2026: Venezuela Today; Tomorrow, Who's Next?

To many, it came as no surprise when President Donald Trump of the United States of America ordered the invasion of the sovereign State of Venezuela, and forcefully abducted its President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, who appeared in a U.S. Court with a black eye, raising questions of possible violation of her human rights. Nicholas Maduro and his wife were forcibly brought to face trial, before a US court. What were the immediate and remote causes of such daring move by the USA, infringing on the territorial integrity and sovereignty of another nation? While jubilations erupted in Caracas, the Venezuelan Capital, not a few have expressed their worries over Trump’s actions and the real reasons he invaded Venezuela. Could it be the exportation of narcotic drugs into the US, allegedly masterminded by Maduro? Could it be an eye on Venezuela’s rich oil reserves? Kunle Edun, SAN; Kingsley Jesuorobo and Chukwuemeka Eze visit the issue, offering insightful perspectives

Venezuela Attack: Lessons for the International Community Kunle Edun, SAN

he abduction of President Nicolás Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela, is a violent reminder that the big and powerful nations actually rule the world. They determine what is right and what is wrong. The Rules-based International order, does not apply to them. Russia’s unprovoked

w a r against Ukraine, is a good example. Once the interest of any of the powerful nations is threatened, they do not wait for the UN to decide for them. UN is just there

“The abduction of President Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela, is a violent reminder that the big and powerful nations actually rule the world. They determine what is right and what is wrong. The Rules-based International order, does not apply to them”

to whip the smaller nations into line, and give them a false hope of an international order based on laws. U.S has just pulled out, from more than 60 International organisations. Trump was elected to ‘Make America Great Again’. In as much as his invading Venezuela may be seen as a breach of International law, I dare say that it was what the American people voted for. The hypocrisy of International law and the UN, has been revealed. The only way out for the smaller or less powerful nations, is to also make their countries great by respecting the democratic rights of their citizens, stop looting the resources of their countries, and make sure that the welfare and security of their citizens are their primary considerations. If Venezuela had a responsible leadership and there is no suppression of the citizens, I do not think that Trump would have been able to find any good reason to invade the country. When African leaders make

their countries great, they will earn respect in the International community. Sadly, many of them are errors in the various Presidential Palaces, that are mostly interested in the mad acquisition of wealth while their people suffer. Kunle Edun, SAN, former NBA National Publicity Secretary When Power Writes the Law: Trump, Maduro, and the New Geopolitics of Intervention Kingsley Jesuorobo Background On 3 January, 2026, a dramatic military operation ordered by U.S. President Donald J. Trump culminated in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces in Caracas, followed by his transportation to New York to face criminal charges. The strikes involved air and naval assets, combat engagements in Venezuelan

VII cover

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Invasion 2026: Venezuela Today; Tomorrow, Who's Next? territory, and resulted in Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, being held in U.S. custody. Trump publicly declared that Washington would “run” Ve n e z u e l a until a “safe and judicious transition” could be implemented, and immediately began an outreach to major oil companies and foreign governments, regarding Venezuela’s energy sector and reconstruction. Intense Debate The stunning operation has triggered intense debate, over the legality of the act under international law. Many commentators at the United Nations and in international legal scholarship, swiftly labelled the strikes and capture as a violation of the United Nations Charter, particularly Article 2(4), which prohibits the use of force against another State’s territorial integrity and political independence, except in self-defence or with Security Council authorisation. Yet, a contrasting line of argument - one increasingly embraced in realist and power-political circles - challenges the assumption that international law has ever genuinely constrained the conduct of powerful States. The capture of President Maduro, from this vantage point, is less a rupture of international law than an illustration of how the international system actually works: where law bends to the capacities of those with the power to enforce or evade it.

President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores

curity - but in practice, decisions under Chapter VII have been heavily influenced by geopolitical interests and the Security Council’s power dynamics. When a non-P5 State’s conduct is deemed threatening, intervention can be legitimised (as The Myth of Absolute Nonin Kuwait, 1990-91) — but, when a Interference P5 member engages in force without Traditional interpretations of the United Security Council authorisation, veto Nations Charter treat State sovereignty power effectively shields it from - and the principle of non-interference accountability. in domestic affairs - as sacrosanct. But, In the case of Venezuela, critics a closer look at the UN’s history reveals argue that the U.S. operation lacked structural exceptions for the permanent both Security Council approval and a members of the Security Council (P5), valid self-defence justification. Indeed, particularly the United States. The Secretary-General António Guterres veto power, enshrined in Article 27 and representatives of Russia and of the UN Charter, enables the U.S., China, have condemned the operation United Kingdom, France, Russia, and as illegal under international law’s China, to block any Security Council letter and spirit. But, such formal action that might impede their strategic denunciations are distinct from any interests. This effectively immunises practical constraint on the United them, from collective action being States’ actions. Historically, major used to check their unilateral uses powers have disregarded international of force. In practice, powerful States objections when strategic interests have often acted with impunity when are at stake, secure in the knowledge Sovereignty in Practice: Unequal confronting weaker States - whether that enforcement mechanisms are and Selective through covert operations, economic impotent without cooperation from The international legal order was coercion, or outright military force. those same powers. never underpinned by a strict, Even during the heyday of the Cold universal commitment to nonWar, great powers regularly intervened interference. The UN Charter itself The Reality of International Law: in the internal affairs of other States balances principles of sovereignty Force Over Forum under the guise of ideological conflict, with exceptions for collective se- It is increasingly evident that the counterinsurgency support, and covert world’s political order is tilting toward a hierarchy of power, rather than a genuinely multilateral legal order. For weaker States, international “Thus, to argue that Trump’s operation represents legal protections often exist more a sudden collapse of international law, misunderin rhetoric than reality; for powerful States, international law functions stands the underlying dynamics: international law as an instrument to be wielded selectively. has long coexisted with - and been subordinated Trump’s public embrace of unilateral military action - framed domestically to - the strategic interests of the most poweras law enforcement or regional security - underscores a broader shift: the ful States. The stronger a State’s military and normative force of international law economic capacity, the more latitude it enjoys, to weakens when military supremacy is conflated with legitimacy. The capacity interpret or evade legal norms” to strike another sovereign capital action, without meaningful restraint from the UN. The same pattern persisted in the post-Cold War era, from NATO’s interventions in the Balkans to the U.S. invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq. Each of these operations prompted legal debate, yet none resulted in decisive international enforcement actions against the intervening powers. The common denominator was not legal clarity, but military dominance and political leverage. Thus, to argue that Trump’s operation represents a sudden collapse of international law, misunderstands the underlying dynamics: international law has long coexisted with - and been subordinated to - the strategic interests of the most powerful States. The stronger a State’s military and economic capacity, the more latitude it enjoys, to interpret or evade legal norms.

and abduct its Head of State is, in itself, a demonstration of who shapes the rules on the ground. Implications for Middle Powers: Canada and Nigeria in an Age of Assertive Power The implications of this evolving international order, are not confined to States in direct confrontation with great powers. Middle powers and regional anchors such as Canada and Nigeria are increasingly compelled to recalibrate their strategic assumptions, not because they are equal adversaries of dominant States, but precisely because their room for autonomous decision-making is narrowing. For Canada, geographical proximity to the United States has always been a defining - and constraining - feature of its foreign policy. While it is implausible to imagine dramatic, overt intervention of the kind witnessed elsewhere, the more subtle reality is arguably more consequential. Canada’s strategic alliances, defence posture, intelligence cooperation, energy policy, and even diplomatic positioning are increasingly shaped within parameters implicitly set by Washington. As U.S. foreign policy becomes more openly unilateral and interventionist, Canada’s margin for divergence correspondingly shrinks. The pressure is not exercised through tanks or airstrikes, but through alignment expectations, economic leverage, security integration, and shared threat narratives. In such an environment, sovereignty is not extinguished, but it is conditioned - exercised within boundaries drawn by the gravitational pull of American power. Nigeria’s position is starker, and more instructive. As Africa’s most populous nation and a regional military heavyweight, Nigeria has traditionally viewed itself as insulated from direct great-power coercion. That assumption cont'd on page VIII

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Invasion 2026: Venezuela Today; Tomorrow, Who's Next? cont'd from page VII

is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain. The recent U.S. military actions described as strikes deep within Nigerian territory - following sustained warnings and escalating rhetoric from President Trump, serve as a sobering marker of a broader truth: no State, regardless of size or regional influence, is categorically beyond the reach of interventionist impulses when it is deemed strategically relevant or insufficiently compliant. Whether framed as counterterrorism, protection of global interests, or enforcement of international norms, such actions underscore that Nigeria, like many States in the Global South, operates within an international system where sovereignty is contingent, not absolute. Taken together, Canada and Nigeria illustrate two faces of the same global reality. One experiences intervention primarily through structural alignment and strategic constraint; the other encounters it through coercive signalling and direct force. Both reveal a world drifting further from the ideals of multilateralism, and toward a hierarchy defined by military reach and political dominance. In this emerging order, international law does not disappear, but, it increasingly follows power rather than restrains it. For States outside the inner circle of global dominance, the lesson is unmistakable: the question is no longer whether intervention is lawful in the abstract, but whether resistance is feasible in practice. Conclusion: Law, Power, and the International Order The capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces is likely to be memorialised - in legal textbooks and political analyses alike, as a watershed moment in international relations. Critics assert that it violates core norms, setting a dangerous precedent. Supporters of realist frameworks argue that it merely reveals what the international system has always been: a domain where military capacity, not legal principle, ultimately dictates outcomes. International law, in its idealised form, aspires to restrain the powerful and protect the weak. In practice, history suggests that it often does the opposite. The intervention in Venezuela - controversial, complex, and fraught with geopolitical implications, highlights not the failure of international law, but its subordination to the realities of power politics in a world where the permanent members of the Security Council retain privileged positions not because of legal merit, but because of their unmatched coercive capabilities. Kingsley Jesuorobo, Law Commission Governor, Ontario, Canada; Board Chair, Canadian Association of Nigerian Lawyers

Jubilation in Venezuelan Capital, Caracas

Trump's Abduction of Maduro, Implications for Venezuelan Sovereignty, It’s Neighbours, and the International Community Chukwuemeka Eze Introduction The world woke up on 3 January, 2026, to the chilling news of a sting military operation in Venezuela by the United States, which resulted in the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Celia Flores, in the dead of the night. The duo were immediately flown to the United States and arraigned in court on various charges, including narco-terrorism. The action of the USA has been condemned by many countries as being a violation of international law, especially the United Nations' Charter. Operation Absolute Resolve and its fallouts On January 3, 2026, the United States launched "Operation Absolute Resolve", a massive military and law enforcement incursion into Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

“Trump characterised the action as the "Monroe Doctrine", asserting that American dominance in the Western Hemisphere would never again be questioned. The U.S. announced plans to indefinitely control the sale of Venezuelan oil, to "reimburse" the U.S. for the operation”

To accomplish the task, the US amassed over 150 U.S. aircrafts launched from 20 bases, and conducted aerial strikes across Caracas and northern Venezuela to suppress air defences. Using its crack Delta Force, the US raided Maduro’s residence at Fort Tiuna, capturing him and his wife. They were transported to the USS Iwo Jima and then flown to New York, where they were arraigned in a Manhattan Federal court on January 5, 2026. They pleaded not guilty to charges of narcoterrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation, and weapons offences. The raid resulted in the deaths of 100 persons, including 32 members of the Cuban military and security agencies. The US action has implications for the world order, sovereignty, maritime freedom, economic exploitation, and governance generally. President Trump initially stated the U.S. would "run the country" until a "safe, proper and judicious transition". He explicitly linked the intervention to securing Venezuela's oil reserves, stating U.S. companies would "rebuild" the sector. Despite U.S. claims, the existing Venezuelan government remained largely intact. Vice President Delcy Rodríguez was sworn in as Acting President by the Supreme Tribunal of Justice on January 5, 2026. Trump characterised the action as the "Donroe Doctrine", asserting that American dominance in the Western Hemisphere would never again be questioned. The U.S. announced plans to indefinitely control the sale of Venezuelan oil, to "reimburse" the U.S. for the operation. How Latin American Neighbours Responded There were mixed reactions among neighbours of Venezuela, over the US strikes. Colombian President and the most virulent critic of Trump, Gustavo Petro, ordered the mobilisation

of security forces along the ColombiaVenezuela border in anticipation of a mass influx of Venezuelan refugees. On 5 January, 2026, Petro warned that he would "take up arms" for his country if necessary, after the US threatened him and his Government, stating that any similar interventions in Colombia would have a response. Nonetheless, the Colombian President commenced dialogue on January 7 with Trump to diffuse tension. According to President Petro, "Instead of a United States dominating the world - an imperial dream - it is a United States isolated from the world. An empire was not built, by being isolated from the world". Police in Trinidad and Tobago, which hosts the largest per-capita population of Venezuelan refugees and migrants, cordoned off key areas of the capital, Port of Spain. The Government of Trinidad and Tobago, which has hosted US military personnel and vessels amid its recent buildup in the Caribbean Sea, stated that it did not participate in the attack. The Government of Guyana, whose ongoing border dispute with Venezuela heated up in 2023-2024, had a muted response, but, was broadly supportive of the removal of Maduro. Guyanese President, Irfaan Ali,announced that the country's security forces were "fully mobilised" to deal with potential refugees, and an increase in instability along the border. The Cuban Government declared two days of national mourning on 5 and 6 January, 2026, for its soldiers killed in the attacks. World Reaction UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, stated that US actions had "worrying implications for the region", "constitute[d] a dangerous precedent", and worried "that the rules of international law have not been respected". At the request of China, Colombia, and Russia, the UNSC convened on 5 January, 2026, to discuss the situation. Representatives of Russia and cont'd on page IX

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Invasion 2026: Venezuela Today; Tomorrow, Who's Next? cont'd from page VIII

China called for the immediate release of President Maduro, while the US representative rejected characterisations of US actions as military aggression, describing the operation as a targeted law enforcement measure to arrest an indicted fugitive. The attack was condemned by other countries, including Brazil, Chile, China, France, Iran, Mexico, North Korea, Russia, South Africa, and Spain. U. K., Argentina, Chile, France, Germany, Israel, Peru, and Ukraine applauded the developments. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez urged de-escalation, stating that "international law and the principles of the U.N. Charter must be respected"; this was echoed by European Union (EU) foreign policy Chief and European Commission Vice-President, Kaja Kallas. The Governments of Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Spain, Uruguay, and the outgoing administration in Chile, issued a joint statement rejecting the US action and expressed their concern, saying that it could "constitute an extremely dangerous precedent for peace and regional security and endanger”. With respect to internal governance in Venezuela, opposition Nobel Peace Prize laureate, María Corina Machado expressed frustration, after Trump suggested he would work with Delcy Rodríguez instead of the established opposition. Many analysts have wondered, how the impasse escalated to the point of abduction of Maduro. The factors are both internal and external. Let us start with the internal factor. Governance Issues: Hugo Chavez, Chavismo, and Maduro After leading a failed coup attempt in 1992, Hugo Chavez eventually rode to power in 1998. Chávez established himself as a charismatic and populist leader, gaining a devoted following and reshaping the country's political landscape. He justified many of his policies as part of a "Bolivarian Revolution", aimed at empowering the Venezuelan people, especially the poor, who make up the grand majority of the population. However, critics contend that Chávez concentrated power within his administration, undermining democratic institutions. In 1999, shortly after being elected, Chávez pushed for a new Constitution that expanded presidential powers through Judiciary and governmental control, lengthened the presidential term indefinitely, and abolished the Senate. The Supreme Court came under heavy influence from Chávez, and the judicial system effectively became a tool for repressing opposition and dissent. By 2009, the Judiciary was described as effectively subservient to Chávez, with Judges who opposed the administration being dismissed, imprisoned, or harassed. He remained in power, until he died in 2013. His protégé and Vice President,

US President, Donald Trump

Nicholas Maduro, replaced him as the country's leader until his date of capture. Despite having the largest oil reserves in the world, Venezuela's political and economic turbulence over the years has been traced to this resource. Venezuela's dependence on oil revenues, has been cited as a major factor in the country's economic instability. Reliance on oil revenues, left Venezuela especially vulnerable to the volatility of global oil markets. While high oil prices in the early 2000s allowed for substantial social spending, the State-run oil company Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A (PDVSA) became increasingly politicised, with appointments and agendas often based on loyalty rather than expertise. By 2013, inefficiency and mismanagement by the Government had contributed to declining production oil levels. The dependence on oil revenue, coupled with insufficient investment in other sectors, prevented the creation of a stable economy. It was alleged that Maduro's power tactics enabled systemic cronyism and repression, stifling opposition through media censorship, judicial control, and the persecution of dissenters. Amidst widespread economic hardship, Maduro cracked down on opposition groups, media, and protests, creating a political environment described as one-party rule. During the mass protests in 2014 and again in 2017, government forces responded with significant violence, resulting in hundreds of deaths and thousands of arrests.

“UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, stated that US actions had "worrying implications for the region", "constitute[d] a dangerous precedent", and worried "that the rules of international law have not been respected"

In addition to political repression, critics argue that Chavismo's economic policies and the resulting crises, have precipitated one of the worst humanitarian emergencies in Latin American history. This has led to severe food and medicine shortages, hyperinflation, and skyrocketing poverty for Venezuelans. A mass migration crisis has seen over six million people leave the country, just over a fourth of the total population, seeking stability and opportunity elsewhere, such as Colombia or the United States. The external factor to the crisis, revolves around what the US regards as alleged interference of its adversaries within the Western Hemisphere. It was widely reported by the American media on 7 January, that the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, said that the Trump administration told Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodriguez, that the country must cut ties with China, Iran, Russia and Cuba, and agree to partner exclusively with the US on oil production. Further reports indicate that, Venezuela has begun to respond favourably to the US request. The Monroe Doctrine versus a New World Order According to Wikipedia, the Monroe Doctrine is a United States foreign policy position, that opposes any foreign interference in the Western Hemisphere. Originally concerning European colonialism, it holds that any intervention in the political affairs of the Americas by foreign powers, is a potentially hostile act against the United States. The doctrine was central to American grand strategy, in the 20th century. President James Monroe first articulated the doctrine on December 2, 1823, although it was not named after him until 1850). At the time, nearly all Spanish colonies in the Americas had either achieved, or were close to independence. Monroe asserted that the New World and the Old World were to remain distinctly

separate spheres of influence, and thus, further efforts by European powers to control or influence sovereign States in the region would be viewed as a threat to U.S. security. In turn, the United States would recognise and not interfere with existing European colonies, nor meddle in the internal affairs of European countries. The meaning of the Doctrine has been extrapolated, from time to time. In his message to Congress of December 2, 1845, President Polk reinterpreted the Monroe Doctrine, in terms of the prevailing spirit of Manifest Destiny. Whereas, Monroe had said only that the Western Hemisphere was no longer open to European colonialism, Polk now stated that European nations had better not interfere with projected territorial expansion by the U.S. In 1954, Secretary of State, John Foster Dulles, invoked the Monroe Doctrine at the 10th Pan-American Conference in Caracas, denouncing the intervention of Soviet communism in Guatemala. President John F. Kennedy said at an August 29, 1962, news conference: "The Monroe Doctrine means what it has meant since President Monroe and John Quincy Adams enunciated it, and that is that we would oppose a foreign power extending its power to the Western Hemisphere, and that is why we oppose what is happening in Cuba today. That is why we have cut off our trade. That is why we worked in the OAS and in other ways, to isolate the Communist menace in Cuba. That is why we will continue to give a good deal of our effort and attention to it". America First Policy and Trump's Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine President Donald Trump implied potential use of the doctrine in August 2017, when he mentioned the possibility of military intervention in Venezuela, after CIA Director, Mike Pompeo, declared that the nation's deterioration was the result of interference from Iranian and Russian-backed groups. In cont'd on page X

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Invasion 2026: Venezuela Today; Tomorrow, Who's Next? cont'd from page IX

February 2018, Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson, praised the Monroe Doctrine as "clearly… a success", warning of "imperial" Chinese trade ambitions and touting the United States as the region's preferred trade partner. Trump reiterated his commitment to the implementation of the Monroe Doctrine at the 73rd UN General Assembly in 2018. Russian permanent representative to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzya, criticised the U.S. for what Russia perceived as an implementation of the Monroe Doctrine at an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on January 26, 2019. Venezuela's representative listed 27 interventions in Latin America that Venezuela considers to be implementations of the Monroe Doctrine and stated that, in the context of the statements, they considered it "a direct military threat to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela". Cuba's representative formulated a similar opinion, to that of Venezuela. On March 3, 2019, National Security Advisor, John Bolton, invoked the Monroe Doctrine in describing the Trump administration's policy in the Americas, saying "In this administration, we're not afraid to use the word Monroe Doctrine...It's been the objective of US Presidents going back to President Ronald Reagan, to have a completely democratic hemisphere". Trump's determination to treat the Western Hemisphere as a U.S. sphere of influence, has been characterised as a revival of the Monroe Doctrine. The final draft of the 2025 National Security Strategy, called upon the United States to "reassert and enforce the Monroe Doctrine to restore the U.S. pre-eminence in the Western Hemisphere". The document announced the "Trump Corollary" to the Monroe Doctrine. Foreign policy experts described the move as a desire to divide the world into "spheres of influence" between the United States, Russia, and China, and American officials later explained the strategy in those terms. Trump's large-scale naval deployment and military strikes against alleged drug boats in the Caribbean, were described by experts as examples of gunboat diplomacy. The designation of drug cartels as terrorist organisations, and Trump's promise of land-based military strikes were described as providing a legal rationale for possible military action and regime change in Venezuela. In 2025, The New York Times noted that "top administration officials have been explicit that their overarching goal is to assert American dominance over its half of the planet". Following the capture of Venezuelan President, Nicolás Maduro on 3rd January, 2026 raid, Trump claimed that the action was an application of the Monroe Doctrine, stylising it as the "Donroe Doctrine" and telling reporters that "American dominance in the Western Hemisphere will never

President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores

be questioned again". On 7 January, German President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier said, the United States is actively dismantling the post-World War II international order it once helped build. He said that recent US actions amounted to a profound breach, comparable to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which he called a historic rupture. The German leader did not specify any particular US action, but his remarks followed global shock over the recent US military operations in Venezuela, that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Use of Force Under International Law The International Court of Justice (ICJ) decided in Nicaragua v United States (1986), that the U.S. violated international law by supporting Contra rebels, mining ports, and attacking Nicaraguan infrastructure, thereby breaching sovereignty and non-intervention principles, despite the U.S. claim of self-defence against the Nicaragua Sandinista aggression. The ruling affirmed customary international law, established criteria for "armed attacks", and held the U.S. accountable for funding, training, and directing paramilitary actions, marking a significant legal precedent against State intervention. The ICJ held that these actions interfered with Nicaragua's right to self-determination and nonintervention, violating international law. The U.S. argument that it was acting in collective self-defence

“Nigeria should ensure internal cohesion, through the avoidance of repression or suppression of its citizens and high-handed governance….Nigeria should manage its resources in such a way, so as to prevent the Venezuelan experience….. Nigeria should avoid high-stakes superpower politics”

against Nicaragua's support for rebels in El Salvador, was rejected. The US was also found liable, for interrupting peaceful maritime commerce. The prohibition of the use of force is not, however, absolute, because self-defence is an exception. However, whether the use of force will be considered legitimate and without adverse consequences, is dependent on whether the use of force is necessary and proportional to the purpose. The customary international law position has been codified in Article 2 of the UN Charter. A State may be able to use force outside its territory, in situations that do not violate the territorial integrity of other States. However, a State might use force for humanitarian purposes, or to protect citizens of the intervening State who are living abroad. The UN Charter does not acknowledge these situations as exceptions to the prohibition against the use of force. Many members of the international community, feel that States cite these justifications to hide improper motives. When a State faces an imminent attack, it may have a right to act in anticipatory self-defence. Article 51 and other provisions of the UN Charter, do not address this situation. However, customary international law recognises the right of anticipatory self-defence, when an armed attack is imminent and inevitable. If an attack is possible but not imminent, a State probably cannot launch a pre-emptive strike. The UN Security Council pursuant to Articles 24 and 25 of the UN Charter, may permit the UN to use collective force against a threat to international peace and security. The Security Council triggered this power in the early stages of the Korean War, and during the Iraq invasion of Kuwait in 1990. The Security Council rarely invokes this power, though, and prefers to exert its

authority through economic sanctions or other non-military measures. Under customary international law, the Caroline Case laid down conditions that will be present, before a State can resort to use of force in anticipatory self-defence. The Caroline incident was used to establish the principle of "anticipatory self-defence" in international relations, which holds that it may be justified only in cases in which the "necessity of that self-defence is instant, overwhelming, and leaving no choice of means, and no moment for deliberation". In Nicaragua v United States, the ICJ stated that “self-defence warrant(s) only measures which are proportional to the armed attack and necessary to respond to it, a rule well established in customary international law”. From the whole circumstances of the Venezuelan case, the writer finds no support for the action of the US from the UN Charter. Lessons for Nigeria Nigeria should ensure internal cohesion, through the avoidance of repression or suppression of its citizens and highhanded governance. The Chavismo political philosophy, could not sustain the economy of Venezuela. All the arms of government were controlled by the executive, while opposition figures were sent to prison. Trump would have found it difficult to strike Venezuela with the ferocity he did, if Venezuela was functional democratically and economically. Nigeria should manage its resources in such a way, so as to prevent the Venezuelan experience. Nigeria should avoid high-stakes superpower politics. Venezuela played political chess with Russia, Iran, China, the US, and Cuba. At the end of the day, it burnt its hands. When a situation becomes very difficult, Nigeria may sue the offending country to the ICJ. Venezuela did not exploit this option, despite decades of adversarial action by Washington. Chukwuemeka Eze, former Postgraduate Lecturer on Diplomatic and Consular Relations, Nasarawa State University, Keffi

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ipNX Reinforces Commitment to Abia State Digital Transformation

Emma Okonji

Telecommunications and ICT solutions provider, ipNX, has reaffirmed its commitment in supporting the digital transformation agenda of Abia State at the recently concluded Abia Technology and Innovation Summit (ATIS), held at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia. As a strategic partner of the state, ipNX featured prominently with its Director, Dr. Olusola Teniola, delivering a keynote address and participating in a strategic panel session titled: ‘Developing the Infrastructure Network for Abia State Digital Transformation.’ In his address, Teniola commended the Abia State government, under the leadership of Dr. Alex Otti, for its bold vision and strong commitment to building a digitally enabled economy. “When we kicked off this partnership, we spoke about a digital future where government, businesses, and citizens

are seamlessly connected through world-class infrastructure. Today, that future is no longer theoretical. It has begun to take shape,” Teniola said. He noted that the extensive digital infrastructure deployed across ministries, departments, and agencies represented more than connectivity, describing it as the backbone of a smarter, more efficient, and transparent Abia State, capable of supporting modern governance and economic growth. Teniola also praised the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MST&I) for convening the summit and for creating a platform that combined policy dialogue with practical innovation, particularly through the ATIS Hackathon. “Because digital transformation must be inclusive, ipNX is deliberately investing in the youth of Abia State. The creativity and problem-solving we witnessed at the hackathon reaffirmed our belief that

Abia’s future is bright and its young people are ready,” he added. Speaking at the summit, the Chief Information Officer of Abia State, Mr. Gerald Ilukwe, emphasised that human capital remained the state’s greatest asset in its innovation journey. “The most important resource required to transform Abia into Africa’s emerging innovation powerhouse is human capital, which Abia has in abundance. Combined with the strong digital infrastructure being built by the Ottiled government, through partnerships with WIOCC and ipNX, we are laying a solid foundation for sustainable innovation and growth,” Ilukwe said. The Abia Technology and Innovation Summit brought together government leaders, technology experts, private sector players, and young innovators to advance conversations around infrastructure, innovation, and inclusive digital development in the state.

Addme Brings Stress-free Living to Life with Balloon Release in Lagos Kayode Tokede

As the new year begins, Addme, an innovative brand, offering smart cooking mates designed to make meals tastier effortlessly is encouraging Nigerians to let go of stress and embrace a lighter, more joyful way of living. The brand brought this message to life through a community-focused activation tagged “A StressFree Start with Addme,” held at Ikotun Market, Lagos. The highlight of the event was a striking visual spectacle that saw thousands of balloons released into the sky, symbolising the collective release of stress and the

beginning of a calmer, more positive year. Speaking on the activation, General Manager, Addme Nutrition Limited,Sukhman Kaur stated that, the initiative reflects the brand’s purpose of supporting Nigerian families in their everyday routines. “As a brand, Addme is committed to making everyday cooking simpler and less stressful for Nigerian homes. A Stress-Free Start with Addme reflects our belief that when cooking becomes easier, families can enjoy more meaningful moments together. The balloon release symbolises letting go of pressure and starting the year with ease,” she

said. Also speaking on the activation, Marketing Manager, Addme Nutrition Limited, Vivian Pratt stated that the activation was designed to connect with consumers where they live and shop. “Ikotun Market was the perfect place to bring this message to life. “Our goal was to meet consumers in their everyday environment and show, in a very human way, how Addme supports stress-free living. This activation allowed us to connect emotionally with families and reinforce Addme as their everyday meal companion,” she said.

Rotary District 9111 Organises Skills Acquisition Training

Rotary International District 9111 under the visionary leadership of the District Governor, Rtn Prince Henry Akinyele is set for its annual vocational training aim to empower the youths in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The Chairman Vocational Service Committee, Rtn Kudirat Ola-Opoola disclosed that “ Rotary District 9111 free two weeks intensive skills acquisition training holds between January 12 to 23,2026 at MKO Abiola Stadium, Kuto Abeokuta between 8 am and 2 pm daily”. Rtn Kudirat Opoola, a past President of Rotary

Club of Ewutuntun added, “This initiative is designed to equip residents of Ogun State with practical, highdemand skills to foster self reliance and economic growth.” In her words, “Interested and selected applicants are therefore encouraged to proceed with registration at Rotary House, behind NIPCO Petrol station, Abiola Way; register at any Rotary Club in Abeokuta or register online.“ She stated that, “Free trainings and skills acquisition are to be offered on solar paneling, pattern cutting, makeup,

fascinators, baking and pastries, and application closes on January 8, 2026.” “The two-weeks intensive trainings aim to transform lives, and this initiative reaffirms Rotary District 9111 clubs commitment to community upliftment and empowerment. Successful graduands are to be assisted as start- ups with grants and some with low- interest loans. Other benefits include: certificates of completion to be issued and access to experienced entrepreneurs as mentors, including industry experts and professionals,”she said.

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) October 2025

Month

Money Supply (M3)

119,037,577.07

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

9,291.49

Money Supply (M2)

119,028,285.58

Quasi Money

79,681,419.97

-- Narrow Money (M1)

39,346,865.60

---- Currency Outside Banks

4,646,794.28

---- Demand Deposits

34,700,071.33

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

34,804,442.84

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

84,233,134.23

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

99,199,655.08

---- Credit to Government (Net)

24,787,980.96

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

0.00

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

74,411,674.12

--Other Assets Net

2,603,854.03

Reserve Money (Base Money)

36,641,142.21

--Currency in Circulation

5,057,881.01

--Banks Reserves

31,583,261.21

--Special Intervention Reserves

284,361.95 • Source - CBN

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

October 2025

Inter-Bank Call Rate

October 2025

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

27.00

Treasury Bill Rate

15.07

Savings Deposit Rate

7.43

1 Month Deposit Rate

11.37

3 Months Deposit Rate

11.32

6 Months Deposit Rate

11.12

12 Months Deposit Rate

11.78

Prime Lending rate

18.89

Maximum Lending Rate

29.56

NSE MARKET INDEX CAP

0.75%(52%YoY)

Index

0.9% (29%Y/D) • Monetary Policy Rate - 27%

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE As At 24TH NOVEMBER , 2025

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $63.14 a barrel on Monday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basrah Medium (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).

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TUESday, JANUARY 13, 2026 • T H I S D AY

mARKET NEWS

Eterna Commences N21.52bn Rights Issue to Drive Growth Strategy

Kayode Tokede

Eterna Plc has announced the official opening of its N21.52 billion Rights Issue, marking a major milestone in its capital raising programme and growth strategy. The Rights Issue comprises 978,108,485 ordinary shares of 50 kobo each, offered at N22.00 per share, and is expected to raise approximately N21.52

billion from investors. Speaking on the development,Chairman of the Board, Dr. Gabriel Ogbechie in a statement said: “This Rights Issue marks a significant step forward in our long-term strategy to consolidate Eterna’s leadership position in the downstream energy sector. It will enable us to pursue growth opportunities across our value chain while delivering sustained value to our shareholders.”

P R I C E S MaiN Board

F O R DEALS

The capital raise is designed to strengthen the company’s balance sheet and support strategic expansion across its business segments. Under the structure of the offer, existing shareholders are entitled to subscribe for three (3) new ordinary shares for every four (4) ordinary shares held as at the close of business on November 27, 2025. All new shares issued will rank pari passu with the company’s existing ordinary shares.

S E C U R I T I E S Market Price

quantity traded

The formal signing ceremony for the Rights Issue was held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, following shareholders approval at the Annual General Meeting in July 24, 2025. This capital raise follows Eterna Plc’s resilient financial performance in Q3 2025 and 9-month period, with a revenue of N55.2 billion and N212.8 billion recorded respectively. There was sustained profitability over

T R A D E D

value traded ( N )

MaiN Board

A S

O F

the 9-month period, as Eterna recorded a profit before tax of N1.39 billion amidst industry wide decline in margins. Proceeds from the Rights Issue will be deployed to support several strategic initiatives, including the expansion of Eterna’s retail network, upgrading of its lubricant blending plant, enhancement of LPG retail assets, acquisition of commercial delivery assets, expansion of aviation fuelling

J A N UA RY DEALS

operations, and investment in ESG related projects aligned with the company’s sustainability goals. A portion of the capital raised will also serve as an operational working capital buffer to enhance day to day liquidity, including inventory financing and short-term trade payables. This will help strengthen resilience against market volatility, foreign exchange fluctuations, and potential supply disruptions.

/ 1 2 / 2 6 Market Price

quantity traded

value traded ( N)

XIV

T H I S D AY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026

MARKET NEWS A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return. An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 08 January 2026, unless otherwise stated.

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors. Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return. NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS

AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund 645.51 652.80 4.29% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 391.73 391.73 -10.58% Nigeria International Debt Fund 100.00 100.00 15.58% Afrinvest Dollar Fund 114.83 114.83 3.17% ALPHA MORGAN CAPITAL MANAGERS LTD mutualfund@alphamorgan.com Web: www.alphamorgan.com, Tel: +2347018898523 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ALPHA MORGAN BALANCED FUND 2,257.06 2,289.41 3.54% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 17.46% AIICO Balanced Fund 8.03 8.15 2.40% AIICO Eurobond Fund 100.26 100.26 0.25% Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 16.06% Anchoria Equity Fund 1.65 1.65 26.47% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 433.43 438.72 67.77% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com info@anchoriaam.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund -100.00% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund -100.00% ARM Ethical Fund -100.00% ARM Eurobond Fund -3983.23% ARM Fixed Income Fund -3904.65% ARM Short Term Bond Fund -3929.82% ARM Shariah Fixed Income Fund -4055.56% ARM Short Term Eurobond Fund -4055.56% ARM Specialized Dollar Fund -4055.56% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 0.00% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com; Tel 08069294653 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 121.80 121.8 0.38% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 1,264.81 1264.81 12.35% AVA GAM Fixed Income (Naira) Fund 1.00 1.00 16.26% AVA GAM Money Market Fund AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 0.00 0.00 0.00 AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 AXA Mansard Money Market Fund CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 2.75 2.75 11.36% CEAT Fixed Income Fund 6.19 6.34 35.10% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.08 1.08 -0.50% CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.23 1.23 -0.99% CardinalStone Dollar Fund 1.92 1.94 3.60% CardinalStone Equity Fund 1.28 1.29 2.94% CardinalStone Balanced Fund 1.00 1.00 16.92% CardinalStone Money Market Fund CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapel Hill Denham Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Nigeria Bond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Paramount Equity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 16.57% 112.31 112.31 11.40% Cordros Fixed Income Fund 122.90 122.90 12.66% Cordros Halal Fixed Income Fund Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 119.03 119.03 5.76% Cordros Milestone Fund 238.44 240.29 3.26% CORONATION ASSETS MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com, Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 16.43% Coronation Balanced Fund 2.18 2.22 2.54% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.50 1.50 0.31% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EDC Nigeria Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EDC Nigeria Halal Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup.com Web:www.emergingafricagroup.com/emerging-africa-asset-management-limited/, Tel: 08039492594 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Emerging Africa Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Bond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Eurobond Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Emerging Africa Halal Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FBNQUEST ASSETS MANAGEMENT LIMITED invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn First Asset Money Market Fund 100 100 16.21% First Asset Bond Fund 1669.56 1669.56 11.06% First Asset Dollar Fund 128.08 128.08 7.24% First Asset Halal Fund 142.71 142.71 13.92% First Asset Specialised Dollar Fund 124.86 124.86 7.63% First Asset Balanced Fund 441.72 446.06 3.13% First Asset Smart Beta Equity Fund 474.39 481.13 16.85% First Asset Blended Dollar Fund 110.45 110.45 -1.20% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund (LMMF) 0.00 0.00 0.00 Legacy Debt Fund (LDF) 0.00 0.00 0.00 Legacy Equity Fund (LEF) 0.00 0.00 0.00 Legacy USD Bond Fund (LUBF) 0.00 0.00 0.00 FCMB-TLG Private Debt Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Adeniran.Daniel@fsl.ng Web: https://www.fsl.ng/asset-management ; Tel: +2348062727759 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FSL Money Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSL Euro Bond 0.00 0.00 0.00 FIRST ALLY ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED blossom.omojughare@first-ally.com Web: https://first-allyasset.com/ ; Tel: +2348023217850 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FAAM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 17.11% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral income fund 0.00 0.00 0.00

Coral money market fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSDH HALAL FUND 0.00 0.00 0.00 FSDH dollar fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Coral Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 HILLCREST CAPITAL MANAGEMENT dabbey@hillcrestcapmgt.com Web: https://hillcrestcapmgt.com/; Tel: +2348075144540, 0214540094 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Hillcrest Balanced Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn LOTUS HALAL FIXED INCOME FUND 0.00 0.00 0.00 LOTUS HALAL INVESTMENT FUND 0.00 0.00 0.00 LOTUS HALAL EQUITY EXCHANGE TRADED FUND 0.00 0.00 0.00 LOTUS WAQF ENDOWMENT FUND 0.00 0.00 0.00 MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: www.meristemwealth.com/funds/; Tel: +2348028496012 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Value ETF 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Growth ETF 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Dollar Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 Meristem Money Market Mutual Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 MANGO ASSET MANAGEMENT jetadafe@mangoam.com Web:https://mangoam.com/; Tel: +234 7030839517 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Mango Naira Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 16.48% NORRENBERGER INVESTMENT AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIMITED

enquiries@norrenberger.com

Web: www.norrenberger.com, Tel: +234 (0) 908 781 2026 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Norrenberger Money Market Fund (NMMF) 0.00 0.00 0.00 Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) 0.00 0.00 0.00 NORRENBERGER DOLLAR FUND (NDF)-----($) 0.00 0.00 0.00 NORRENBERGER TURBO FUND (NTF)-----(N) 0.00 0.00 0.00 PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 10.00 10.00 15.63 PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.96 12.69 -0.23% PACAM Money Market Fund 3.50 3.57 3.78% PACAM Equity Fund 2.05 2.13 -0.70% PACAM EuroBond Fund 165.81 172.03 7.40% SCM CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn The Frontier Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 0.00 0.00 0.00 SFS REIT 0.00 0.00 0.00 UH REIT/SFS 0.00 0.00 0.00 STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund Stanbic IBTC Absolute Fund UPDC REIT Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund Stanbic IBTC Imaan Fund Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC Aggressive Fund Stanbic IBTC Conservative Fund

STL ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web: WWW.STLASSETMGT.COM; Tel: 8136115170 Fund Name STL MONEY MARKET FUND STL BALANCED FUND STL DOLLAR FUND

UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name United Capital Money Market Fund United Capital Sukuk Fund United Capital Fixed Income Fund United Capital Nigerian Eurobond Fund United Capital Global Fixed Income Fund United Capital Stable Income Fund United Capital Equity Fund United Capital Balanced Fund United Capital Wealth for Women Fund United Capital Children Investment Fund VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Money Market Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva USD Fixed Income Fund QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Zenith Balanced Strategy Fund Zenith Income Fund Zenith Income Fund Zenith Money Market Fund ZEDCREST INVESTMENT MANAGER LIMITED Web: www.zedcrestwealth.com; Tel: +2348075881240 Fund Name Zedcrest Money Market Fund Zedcrest Fixed Inocme Fund Zedcrest Dollar Fund REITS Fund Name SFS REIT UPDC REIT

0.00 259.24 1.67 144.82 161.95 5,176.10 12.41 9,948.03 318.84 4.71 387.90 975.08 44,529.01 427.93 13,237.36 9,486.56

0.00 259.24 1.67 144.82 161.95 5,176.10 12.41 10,035.93 324.35 4.77 387.92 987.62 45,129.42 435.32 13,403.31 9,523.60

15.60% 0.00% 3.82% 12.64% 14.70% 0.00% 5.89% 3.13% 2.60% 5.33% 0.74% 3.92% 4.29% 3.79%

4.23% 1.05% jemenike@stlassetmgt.com

Bid Price 100.00 1,476.23 113.92

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 100.00 20.01% 1,498.45 48.73% 113.92 13.92% unitedcapitalplcgroup.com

Bid Price 1.00 1.22 1.98 124.93 1.25 129.39 2.01 2.29 1.84 1.17

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.00 15.12% 1.22 -25.22% 1.98 7.61% 124.93 5.80% 1.25 5.85% 129.39 14.32% 2.03 4.68% 2.31 3.30% 1.85 2.81% 1.17 4.40% funds@vetiva.com

Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 15.96 16.06 28.44% 40.81 40.91 103.49% 57.81 58.01 77.23% 1.00 1.00 17.01% 59.10 59.30 48.15% 144.93 146.93 1.95% 1.00 1.00 17.01% service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 35.45 35.88 4.48% 41.75 42.16 4.42% 30.48 30.48 0.58% 1.00 1.00 16.50% investmentoperations@zedcrest.com Bid Price 0.00 0.00 0.00

Offer Price 0.00 0.00 0.00

Yield / T-Rtn 0.00 0.00 0.00

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

0.00

0.00%

9,523.60

1.05%

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

TUESday, JANUARY 13, 2026 • T H I S D AY

FEatures

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com,

How CBN is Raising Financial Services Standards with Consumer Education

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reaffirms its commitment to educating consumers on key issues around financial services offerings and complaints resolutions. Issues around financial literacy, complaints resolutions, entrenching right to privacy and confidentiality are receiving regulatory support. Already, the Customers Bill of Rights approved by the CBN highlights the central role of customers in business success, and role of banks in ensuring safe and secured banking system. Precious Ugwuzor reports

s a financial sector regulator, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has a duty of care, ensuring that it provides excellent guidance that ensures that bank customers get the best services for their patronage. Central to achieving this goal is the need provide financial literacy, complaints resolution mechanisms, protecting customers’ right to privacy and confidentiality. The regulator has also gone a step further by providing guidance to bank customers on what their obligations to the lender are. According to CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, while the apex bank continues to lay the foundation for price stability and foster a conducive policy environment, the role of banks in this journey remains crucial. “At the Central Bank, we have intensified surveillance of market activities to ensure compliance. Together, we must build a market based on strong governance and transparency. As regulators, we will maintain a zero-tolerance approach to compliance violations,” he said. On its Consumer Education Series shared across social media platforms, the CBN educated bank customers on what they need to know about Bank Verification Number (BVN) Watchlist. It said: “Do You Know that your Bank Verification Number is more than just numbers, it is your financial identity in the Nigerian banking system. BVN Watchlist contains the records of individuals or institutions who have been confirmed to engage in fraud, financial misconduct or serious violations of banking rules. Continuing, it said: “If your BVN is listed: Go to your bank, find out what exactly the problem is and work to settle it; Do not forget to use your BVN and your account responsibly, honor your financial obligations and never participate in, support or benefit from fraud. The CBN also highlighted issues around understanding the difference between needs and wants as it provides financial literacy lessons to the public. It asked: “Did you know that financial literacy helps you distinguish between your needs and your wants? Smart money management starts with knowing the difference. When you understand this, you are better equipped to make informed decisions about how to spend, save, and budget your money”. It explained further: “Needs are essentials things you must have to live and function. These include food and water, basic healthcare, shelter or rent, school fees, and other necessities. Wants are things that are nice to have but not essential for survival. They add comfort, style, or enjoyment, such as eating out frequently or buying luxury items. Before you spend, pause and ask yourself: Do I need this, or do I just want it?”. Earlier, the apex bank unveiled the Bank Customers’ Bill of Rights during “CBN Fair” held in Lagos, with theme: "Driving Alternative Payment Channels as Tools for Financial Inclusion, Growth and Accelerated Economic Development" highlights the rights of customers and their obligations to the banks. The Bill of Rights, insisted that a bank customer has a right to be informed, right to choose, right to safety, right to privacy and confidentiality, and the right to redress. Others include right to good service, right to equality and right to free monthly statement of account. On the other hand, the report listed certain obligations that a customer owes to his or her bank. They include duty to

CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso

financial obligations, duty to protect instruments and information, duty to provide factual information and not to mislead the bank, duty to report suspected fraud or error and duty of personal safety and safety of assets. Speaking during the event, the CBN Acting Director, Corporate Communications Department, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, said the Management of the CBN, under the leadership of Cardoso, is committed to protecting the rights of bank customers and promoting quality services. Ali said the core objective of this engagement, therefore, is to sensitize members of the public on how the bank’s policies and innovations can enhance their lives and livelihood and contribute to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy. She explained that as a means of protecting banks’ customers and ensuring that they are not shortchanged, the CBN launched the Unified Complaints Tracking System (UCTS), aimed at streamlining and improving the management of consumer complaints against financial institutions. The system, alongside a USSD code (*959#) for verifying licensed institutions, enhances transparency and consumer protection in the Nigerian financial sector. “The core objective of this engagement, therefore, is to sensitize members of the public on how the Bank’s policies and innovations can enhance their lives and livelihood and contribute to the growth and development of the Nigerian economy,” she said. Other stakeholders insisted that at the heart of the CBN strategy is its commitment to maintaining economic stability. “Administration prioritized an inflation targeting framework, which has been pivotal in controlling inflation and stabilizing the naira through careful adjustments in the monetary policy, rate and other instruments. The CBN has kept the economy on a steady course despite global economic headwinds,” they said. “This year has been marked by innovative reforms and realignments,

significant upgrades were made to digital platforms, automating financial processes and implementing stringent cyber security measures to protect assets and data,” they said. The participants’ concerns around banking system stability, customer services and complaints were addressed by CBN team from the Other Financial Institutions Department, Payments System Policy Department, Consumer Protection and Financial Inclusion Department, Currency Operations and Branch Management Department, and Financial Markets Department. Understanding the Bill of Rights The bill of rights, described the customer as the most important person in the economy and every business succeeds only when the customer is happy. Describing the customer as a king, it said: “As a king, the customer has many rights. But a king also has duties which he owes himself and the society. In Nigeria, customers of banks have certain rights and duties guaranteed by law, regulation and conventions”. The report disclosed that a bank customer, has a right to disclosure of information from his/her bank on products and services the bank offers. “The information provided must be complete, relevant and truthful. Your bank must explain to your understanding all contractual terms and charges prior to the consummation of any agreement or contract. This right enables you to have relevant information in order to make rational choices. It amounts to a breach of right if your bank fails to provide this information or deliberately misleads you in anyway,” it said. According to the apex bank, bank customers also have a right to select from the range of products and services made available by your bank at competitive prices. “This means that as a customer, you can, at all times, decide on the product or service to accept/purchase and the ones to decline. It is wrong for a bank to restrict your choices or compel you to accept/purchase products or services that are ill-suited for your needs. Where you are not satisfied

with your bank's service delivery on any product or service, you have the right to end the contract or even the banking relationship provided you settle all outstanding commitments,” it said. The CBN explained that the right to safety requires a bank to guarantee all its customers a secure and conducive banking environment devoid of threats to their safety and health. “You have the right to be reasonably protected from accidents while on the premises of your bank. You also have the right to be protected from negative effects of pollution of any kind whether arising from your bank's operations or from other sources. It is necessary to stress that your bank is obligated to adhere strictly to applicable safety and directives to ensure that your safety and well being are adequately guaranteed while you are on the premises of your bank,” it said. The bill of rights, described the customer as the most important person in the economy and every business succeeds only when the customer is happy Continuing, the apex bank also highlighted the customers right to privacy and confidentiality. It explained that as a bank customer, one has the right to freedom from disclosure of your account details by your bank as intrusion into your account by third party. In other words, a bank is not to divulge your account information to a third party; a bank must also protect customers’ information from unauthorized access by a third party. It however, stated that there are, expectations to this right where a bank is required by law to make disclosure; and where a customer consents to the disclosure. “A bank must provide its customers a redress mechanism to express their displeasure or grievance. The mechanism must be free, accessible, transparent, timely and convenient. You have a right to efficient complaints management system through which you can lodge complaints against your bank. You also have the right to be kept abreast of resolution process (acknowledgment, feedback, updates, and explanation) and ultimately, basis of decision. Where you are not satisfied with the decision of your bank, you have the right of review either by your bank, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) or the court,” it stated. The CBN however, stated that all customers have a right to value for their money which involves the right to be treated with respect and dignity by banks and their representatives. “The hallmark of banking is customer satisfaction and as such your bank would have failed if it was unable to offer quality and value-adding banking services to you as a customer. Part of this right is that your bank must provide appropriate response to your needs and complaints,” it said. Bank customers also have the right to equality. Here, the right requires that a customer is treated equally as other customers regardless of differences in financial standing/deposit balance, physical ability, age, gender , ethnicity, or creed. It is wrong for a bank to offer preferential treatment to some customers at the expense of other similar kind of customers. However, banks may decide to differentiate customers on account of the nature of products customers purchase or subscribe to. NOTE: Story continues in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

XVI

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • THISDAY

POLITY Why Alex Otti Should Desist From Attacking Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and President Tinubu Prof Kalu Eni

braham Lincoln once said, “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” That quote fits perfectly into what is happening in Abia State today. Governor Alex Otti needs to pause and reflect. He should study the political journeys of governors like Abubakar Audu and Kayode Fayemi and learn how power slipped away from them. This is not abuse. It is a simple political lesson. Sadly, instead of humility, his aides have chosen insults and name-calling. Governance is not about shouting at critics; it is about listening to the people. Ferdinand Ekeoma and Njoku Ukoha should also be told the truth plainly: they are not trained media professionals. Their recent statements show this clearly. No serious media aide speaks with so much anger, insults, and lack of balance. They behave like political attack dogs, not spokespersons of a sitting governor. Their words show panic, not confidence. A government that is doing well does not fight everyone. If Governor Otti truly believes he is all-powerful, he should remember how he moved round Abia before the 2023 elections, pleading with stakeholders for support. Power did not come by magic. It was negotiated and supported by many interests. And let it be said clearly: if Otti loses the 2027 governorship election, heaven will not fall. He will not be the first governor to lose, and Abia will still survive. What we now see in Abia is politics

Governor Alex Otti

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu

of bitterness and religion. Under this administration, people openly say a deputy governor was chosen mainly because he is a Catholic. This is dangerous and backward. Abia belongs to everyone. Leadership should unite the state, not divide it along religious lines. There is also a serious problem of transparency. Abians do not know the real cost of projects. They do not know how contracts are advertised, bidded for, or awarded. Everything looks like secret

President Bola Tinubu

dealings. Governance should be open, not run like a private club. Governor Otti should immediately desist from attacking Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. These leaders have shown maturity and restraint. The federal attention Abia enjoys today did not come by chance. It came through goodwill and long-standing relationships. That goodwill should not be abused or taken for granted. More disturbing is the growing

intolerance in Abia. Opposition voices are being suppressed. Critics are treated as enemies. Supporters of President Tinubu are insulted simply for their political beliefs. That is not democracy. A confident leader allows free speech and opposing views. Governor Alex Otti must understand this simple truth: power is temporary. Respect lasts longer. Attacking federal leaders and their supporters will not help Abia. History is watching, and so are the people.

NEWS

Tuggar: Tinubu to Push Nigeria’s Position on Climate Change at UAE Summit Deji Elumoye in Abuja

As this year’s sustainability summit gets underway in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, yesterday

said that President Bola Tinubu is expected to address world leaders on Nigeria’s position on global climate change. Addressing newsmen, the minister declared that the President will use

the forum this week to address Nigeria’s position in the general global discourse on climate change “and on sustainability, describing it as very important. “It’s not just about averting climate change but

doing it in such a way that it is sustainable,” he said. Tinubu, who’s attending the summit on the invitation of the President of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh

NAFDAC Assures of Safety of Nestlé Infant Formulae Sold in Nigeria Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) said that all Nestlé SMA Infant Formulae currently approved for marketing in Nigeria are safe for consumption The agency also said it did not register the UK batches of the product that are currently being recalled from the market . The statement signed by NAFDAC’s Direction General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye said: “NAFDAC wishes to clarify the recent public concerns arising from the voluntary

global recall in over 50 countries by Nestlé UK of specific batches of its SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula due to the potential presence of cereulide, a toxin, in the batches concerned. “The Agency wishes to reassure the public, healthcare professionals, relevant stakeholders particularly parents, guardians and caregivers, that all Nestlé Infant Formulae currently approved for marketing in Nigeria are safe for consumption and are not part of the recall”. Adeyeye said the recall in the affected countries was due to the potential presence of cereulide in

the UK batches, a toxin, which can trigger nausea and vomiting when consumed. Cereulide is an extremely heatresistant toxin produced by certain strains of the bacterium Bacillus cereus. NAFDAC confirms that: “The SMA range sold in Nigeria is manufactured at Nestlé Tuas Factory, Singapore, and is duly registered with NAFDAC as follows: SMA GOLD 1 – NAFDAC Reg. No.: B1-2783SMA GOLD 2 – NAFDAC Reg. No.: B1-2780SMA GOLD 3 – NAFDAC Reg. No.: B1-2781 “NAFDAC has verified and

reiterates that the SMA and NAN range of infant formulae produced for the Nigerian market are not part of the affected batches involved in the voluntary and precautionary recall in other countries”. NAFDAC DG said the alert has been issued as a precautionary measure in the interest of public health, consistent with NAFDAC’s statutory responsibility to keep Nigerians duly informed of emerging global food safety concerns, even in circumstances where the likelihood of local exposure remains minimal.

Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, according to Tuggar, is expected to make a presentation before the world leaders at the annual summit. He added: “All I can tell you is that he is going to talk about Nigeria’s focus in terms of deliverables vis-a-vis climate change.” The minister further revealed that the President will use the opportunity to sign some bilateral agreements with his United Arab Emirates counterpart as well as interested UAE investors. He added: “And in the case of Nigeria, we have a deficit in terms of project preparation. So this presents an opportunity to come with identified projects and try and source the funding from some of the countries and the organisations that are going to be in attendance. Last year Nigeria also participated at that previous event. “Now some partnerships were engendered at that time. Where are we now? What is Nigeria doing currently with the government of the UAE and where are we taking it? We are even taking it further because President Tinubu is going to

have a bilateral with the President of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. “And one of the things to be discussed there is the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which is expected to be signed during that bilateral agreement. So this sort of concretise some of the discussions that have been going on and some of the investment opportunities. “This is because a lot of investors from the UAE side are saying they want that agreement to be signed so that they ensure their investments will be protected once it’s signed and they come in with the investments.” On the Nigerian side, Tuggar stated that it also protects the investment of Nigerians, since a lot of Nigerians do business in Dubai. “Some actually even have factories and so forth. So this further protects them and it also dignifies the Nigerian. For us, we want to ensure that the dignity of Nigerians is upheld and Nigerians are respected wherever they go to invest, wherever they go to visit,” he added.

THI S DAY • Tuesday, January 13, 2026

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

A T

REPO

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com

08056356325

J a n u ar y

S & P INDEX

1 2 ,

2 0 2 6

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OPR

25.34%

CALL

23.25%

INDEX LEVEL

595.26

1/4 to daTE

0.24%

N1,441.36/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

25.18%

1-MONTH

21.37%

1-DAY

0.10%

YEAR TO DATE

-10.99%

*AS AT MONDAY., Jan. 12, 2026

3-MONTH

22.41%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.24%

NERC: 33 Nigerians Killed, 33 Others Injured in Electricity-related Mishaps in Three Months

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Nigeria’s electricity network recorded a grim safety toll in the third quarter of 2025, with 33 people losing their lives, another 33 sustaining injuries, while 57 power-related accidents were reported across the country. The figures, contained in the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) Q3 2025 report, underscored persistent safety failures within the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) despite years of regulatory warnings and enforcement efforts. The accidents, reported by electricity licensees during the

quarter, were spread across several distribution zones, highlighting how exposure to unsafe electricity infrastructure remains a nationwide problem rather than a localised one. According to the report’s accident summary, Ikeja and Kano electricity distribution areas recorded the highest number of incidents during the quarter, with both zones reporting 10 accidents apiece. Ikeja also recorded six injuries and four deaths while Kano posted six deaths and four injuries. Eko, Kaduna and the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) also featured prominently, while Abuja, Jos, Aba, Port Harcourt, Enugu

and Yola recorded varying but still troubling levels of incidents. In many of these cases, accidents resulted in either severe injuries, fatalities, or both. A closer look at the causes of casualties revealed a pattern of systemic weaknesses. Wire snaps emerged as one of the deadliest hazards, accounting for 10 fatalities and seven injuries during the quarter. These incidents often occur when ageing or poorly maintained lines collapse onto public spaces, residential areas or roads, exposing unsuspecting members of the public to live electricity. Besides, unsafe acts and hazardous conditions

accounted for the highest number of injuries and tied for the highest number of fatalities. Ten deaths and 18 injuries were attributed to unsafe practices or conditions, pointing to a mix of human error, poor safety culture, and inadequate enforcement of operational standards by licensees. In practice, such incidents frequently involve technicians working without proper isolation of power lines, members of the public tampering with electricity infrastructure, or exposure to live equipment without protective barriers. Illegal or unauthorised access to electricity installations

also contributed to the casualty figures, leading to two fatalities and three injuries during the period under review. These incidents are often linked to energy theft, unauthorised connections and attempts to bypass meters, all of which expose individuals to significant risk while further destabilising the power system. Vandalism, while responsible for fewer casualties in the quarter, still resulted in two deaths. Acts of vandalism frequently weaken infrastructure integrity, increasing the likelihood of wire snaps, explosions and fires that may not immediately harm the perpetrators but later

endanger the wider public. The report also recorded nine fatalities and five injuries under other miscellaneous causes. Beyond human casualties, the report noted that the TCN recorded four cases of damage to property and infrastructure arising from explosions, fire outbreaks or acts of vandalism during the quarter. These incidents further underlined the economic and social costs of poor safety performance in the power sector, extending beyond personal loss to include damage to critical national assets. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

Kwara Govt Urged Direct House of Assembly to Make 2026 Budget Accessible to the Public Hammed Shittu in Ilorin A non governmental organisation(NGO) in Kwara state, the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) has sought the intervention of the state government over the purported failure of the

state House of Assembly to make the proposed 2026 budget publicly accessible to the residents of the state. The organisation said that, such ugly development has remained a serious setback for transparency and participatory governance in the state. The group in a statement

issued in Ilorin and signed by its Global Director, Mr. Olasupo Abideen Opeyemi said, “Despite repeated commitments to open governance by the present administration, citizens are still being denied timely access to one of the most important public documents in the state.”

Food name of commodity

Rice

Size

State

Price

50kg

Abuja

N65,000 N68,000

50kg

LAGOS

₦55,000 – ₦70,000

50kg

Kwara

50kg

ENUGU

50kg rivers

₦52,000 – ₦54,000 ₦65,000 ₦70,000 ₦60,000 N65,000

BBYDI acknowledged that since the inception of the current administration, the proposed budget has eventually been released to the public. However, the organisation noted with deep concern that for the past three years, civil society groups and citizens

Commodities name of commodity

Sorghum

Price

have had to engage, write formal letters, and send emails before the document is made available, a practice it described as unacceptable in a democratic system. “A public budget is not a favour that should be granted upon request; it is the right of the people. The continued

reluctance to proactively release the proposed budget raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability,” the statement said. The story continues online on www.thisdaylive.com

T o d ay

State

Price

name of commodity

Size

State

Price

100kg JIGAWA

N30,000

B EAN S

Benue

N32,000

Brown Beans

100kg

50kg bag

₦90,000 – ₦95,000

Lagos

100kg

Kaduna

N32,000

N95,000

50kg

Enugu

N24,000

Kano

50kg

Lagos

N26,000

100kg

Delta

N35,000

₦70,000 – ₦75,000 ₦72,000 – ₦75,000

100kg

Abia

N36,000

Size

50kg 50kg 50kg 50kg

Oloyin (Honey)

White Beans

Borno White Beans

Delta

White Beans

N72,000 – ₦75,000

Tuesday, January 13, 2026 • T H ISDAY

BUSINESSWORLD

News Food

name of commodity

Palm oiL

Size

State

25cl Lagos 25cl

25cl

OYO

25cl 25cl

IMO Edo

25cl Abuja

Commodities

Price

T o d ay

Price

name of commodity

Size

State

Price

name of commodity

Size

State

₦20,000 – ₦42,500

Groundnut

100KG Kano

40,500

ONIONS

100kg

Ibadan N60,000

100KG Benue

47,000

100KG Lagos

45,000

100KG Delta

44,000

100KG

Abia

100KG KADUNA

₦24,000 – ₦35,000 ₦22,000 – ₦35,000 N32,000-N56,000

₦20,000 – ₦35,000 ₦25,500 – ₦35,000

Price

name of commodity

Size

Location

Price

MAIZE

50kg

Oyo

N30,000

50kg

Enugu

N30,000

100kg delta

N30,000

50kg

Abia

N32,000

N30,000

100kg KANO

N250,000₦270,000 N250,000100kg Plateau ₦270,000 100kg BENUE

100kg DELTA

50kg

Lagos

N30,000

27,000

N250,000

100kg LAGOS

N250,000

50kg

Kano

N32,000

40,000

100kg ENUGU

N250,000₦270,000

100kg Benue

N30,000

Housing Ministry to Prioritise Completion of Ongoing Projects in 2026 Stories by Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Housing Minister, Ahmed Dangiwa, has stated that the ministry will in 2026 prioritise the completion of all ongoing projects, particularly the Renewed Hope Housing Projects, re-emphasising the commitment of the administration of President Bola Tinubu to provide Nigerians access to affordable and decent housing. Dangiwa spoke during the expanded ministry’s

management meeting with heads of departments and units, to review the 2025 performance of the ministry and presentation of the 2026 work plan, a statement by the ministry’s spokesman, Badamasi Haiba, said. The minister explained that, despite funding challenges in 2025, the ministry was able to appreciably achieve milestones in both its presidential priorities and ministerial deliverables, including reforms in land administration, and delivery of Renewed Hope Cities in

Gombe Gets State Electricity Regulatory Commission

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has issued an order to transfer regulatory oversight of the electricity market in Gombe State from the commission to the Gombe State Electricity Regulatory Commission (GOSERC). In a statement in Abuja, NERC stated that it was done in compliance with the amended Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electricity Act 2023, as amended. Recall that with the EA

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Deputy Business Editor Chinedu Eze Comms/e-Business Editor Emma Okonji Asst. Editor, Energy Emmanuel Addeh Asst. Editor, Money Market Nume Ekeghe Correspondents KayodeTokede(CapitalMarkets) James Emejo (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Reporter Peter Uzoho (Energy)

2023, the commission retained the role as a central regulator with regulatory oversight on the inter-state and international generation, transmission, supply, trading and system operations. The EA also mandates any state that intends to establish and regulate intrastate electricity markets to deliver a formal notification of its processes and requests NERC to transfer regulatory authority over electricity operations in the state to the state regulator. Based on this, NERC stated that the government of Gombe state complied with the conditions precedent in the laws, duly notified the commission and requested for the transfer of regulatory oversight of the intrastate electricity market in the state. “The transfer Order by NERC has the following provisions: Direct Jos Electricity Distribution Plc (JED) to incorporate a subsidiary (JED SubCo) to assume responsibilities for intrastate supply and distribution of electricity in Gombe State from JED.

Karsana Abuja, Kano and Lagos, which are due for commissioning soon. Dangiwa disclosed the firm commitments made by the federal government to address funding gaps and clear outstanding liabilities in 2026. He urged the directors of the departments of Public Private Partnership (PPP) and public buildings to intensify monitoring of

various sites to ensure effective and timely delivery of projects, stressing that Nigerians expect affordable and decent housing. The minister further charged heads of departments to ensure that contractors that have been mobilised are given clear timelines for project completion. He noted that the ministry must consolidate

its legacy in 2026 in order to showcase its achievements to Nigerians and the international community, calling for the cooperation and inputs of staff to help the federal government achieve its agenda. On Renewed Hope Cities, the minister disclosed that three additional locations namely: Maiduguri, Enugu and Port Harcourt will come on stream, bringing

the total number to six, alongside the existing projects in Lagos, Abuja and Kano. Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, stated that the departments of Public Private Partnership and Public Buildings are expected to meet their targets in 2026, assuring them of needed support to achieve their goals.

TCN, Partners Sensitise Abia, Imo, Anambra Residents on Power Line Upgrade The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Federal Ministry of Finance have carried out a sensitisation programme for Project Affected Persons (PAPs) on the proposed reconstruction and upgrade of the Alaoji–Onitsha 330kV Single Circuit Transmission Line line. The sensitisation exercise covered 12 local government areas along the transmission line corridor in Abia, Imo

and Anambra states, a statement in Abuja by the TCN General Manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, said. Speaking during the programme, the Project Manager, Omobola Sobo explained that the AfDB-funded project involves upgrading the existing Alaoji–Onitsha transmission line to a quad circuit configuration using advanced quad conductors. She noted that the upgrade would more than double the line’s capacity, thereby improving electricity supply reliability and

meeting growing consumer demand. Also, the Assistant General Manager, Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), Aromeh Adole emphasised that the sensitisation exercise was a critical step ahead of the planned payment of compensation to impacted persons and the clearing of the Right of Way (RoW) for the safe execution of the reconstruction project. This, he stressed, is to ensure public safety within the transmission line corridor during the construction exercise.

He further assured that all affected property owners would receive appropriate compensation in line with approved guidelines, following the completion of the final verification process. To ensure smooth project execution, TCN said it will collaborate with PGM Nigeria Limited to implement the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) for the affected persons and facilitate the clearing of the transmission RoW under the AfDB-funded initiative.

27 Students Advance to semi-finals in N35m Interswitch Competition Emma Okonji

A total of 27 students have advanced to the semi-finals, where they will compete in the N35 million national science school competition organised by Interswitch. Known as I n t e r s w i t c h S PA K , Interwitch is using the national science competition as a platform for students to create solutions that will enable individuals and communities prosper. Now in its 7th edition,

the school competition is a showcase of academic brilliance and nationwide talent that continues to inspire young innovators across Nigeria, equipping them with the skills and confidence to tackle real-world challenges. Highlighting the significance of the competition, Executive Vice President, Group Marketing and Communications, Interswitch, Cherry Eromosele, said: “ I n t e r s w i t c h S PA K

is more than a competition; it is a deliberate investment in the next generation of innovators, problemsolvers, and leaders. By creating a platform that challenges and inspires young minds, we are equipping them with the skills, confidence, and mindset to thrive in an increasingly competitive global economy.” One of the semifinalists, Gbolamiga Atekoja from Heritreats Private Secondary School, Ondo State, who

shared his excitement, said: “Qualifying for the preliminaries of InterswitchSPAK has been a dream come true. I have always wanted to be part of this competition since my junior secondary school days. The experience has pushed me to think faster, work smarter, and believe more in my abilities. I’m grateful for the opportunity and for the platform Interswitch has created for students like me to grow and showcase our potential.”

tuesDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • T H I S D AY

PUBLIC NOTICE PRE-DISCONNECTION NOTICE MADE PURSUANT TO THE NIGERIAN COMMUNICATIONS ACT 2003 AND THE GUIDELINES FOR PROCEDURE FOR GRANTING APPROVAL TO DISCONNECT TELECOMMUNICATIONS OPERATORS The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) hereby notifies the General Public that approval has been granted for the disconnection of Connect, Surf and Smile Limited (Connect) from Airtel Networks Limited (Airtel) as a result of non-settlement of interconnect charges. Connect was notified of the application and was given opportunity to comment and state its case. The Commission, having examined the application and circumstances surrounding the indebtedness, including an undertaking of repayment issued by Connect in line with the provisions of the Guidelines and duly registered by the Commission. The Commission has determined that Connect does not have sufficient reason for non-payment of the interconnect charges. The General Public is, therefore, requested to TAKE NOTICE that: 1. The Commission has approved the Disconnection of Connect to Airtel in accordance with Section 100 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA), 2003 and the Guidelines on Procedure for Granting Approval to Disconnect Telecommunications Operators, 2012. 2. At the expiration of 7 (Seven) days from the date of this notice, Airtel will discontinue passing voice and data traffic through Connect and will, thereafter, utilise alternative channels in interconnecting with other Network Service Providers. Please note that this disconnection will subsist until otherwise determined by the Commission. Dated this 13th Day of January 2026 Signed: Nnenna Ukoha Head, Public Affairs Department Plot 423 Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, Tel: +234-8-61-7000-29 fax: +234-9-461-7514 Toll Free No: 622. E-mail: ncc@ncc.gov.ng

www.ncc.gov.ng www.ncc.gov.ng KHALEESI

arpa6429

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

MAIDEN OFALA FESTIVAL...

R-L: His Royal Majesty, Igwe Engr. (Sir.) A.C. Emelobe, GON, Ezeokpoko II of Oba, Igwe Onyilingugba, Eze Orazuluchie, presenting Staff of Office and Certificate of Conferment of Chieftaincy title as Okpataozueora I of Oba to the Chairman of Cubana Group, Chief Obinna Tochukwu Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana), at the maiden Ofala Festival held on the 9th of January, 2026, in Oba, Idemili South, Anambra State PHOTO: CUBANA GROUP

Tinubu: Oba Akran Was a Visionary Monarch, Left Track Record of Tolerance and Unity He was one of the most respected, respectable tradi-tional rulers, Obasanjo mourns He was known for his wisdom, cul-ture preservation, declares Sanwo-Olu

Deji Elumoye in Abuja James Sowole in Abeokuta and Yinka Olatunbosu President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, mourned the passing of Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry, on Mon-day. He was aged 89. Extending condolences to the government and people of Lagos State, Tinubu, in a release by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commiserated with Lagos State Traditional Council, of which the late Oba Babatunde was permanent Vice Chairman, Badagry Council of Chiefs, as well as sons and daughters of the historic and revered kingdom. Tinubu affirmed that the traditional ruler provided visionary and purposeful leadership over his domain for nearly 50 years, leaving a track record of harmony, tolerance, unity, and prosperity

among his people. The president commended that the efforts of Oba Babatunde in protecting, preserving, and protecting the historical significance of Badagry Kingdom, a former slave harbour and route, and the rich cultural heritage that continued to attract global attention. Tinubu acknowledged the wisdom of the late traditional ruler and his council in maintaining a balance between modernity and tradition, managing multicultural interests, and ensuring the sanctity of various cultural icons for posterity. The president urged an appreciation of the legacy of Oba Babatunde, who worked as a teacher for many years before venturing into journalism, where he made an impact while holding positions at West African Pilot, Post Group of Newspapers, Daily Sketch, and New Nigeria. Tinubu prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed traditional ruler and comfort for his family. On his part, Obasanjo said the

news of the traditional ruler’s passing was received with shock. He stated that the late apex monarch in Badagry had emerged as one of the most respected and respectable traditional rulers in Lagos State. In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde

Akinyemi, Obasanjo said, “He had a most eventful life, which traversed eight decades and his reign of fifty years over Badagry Kingdom, which occupies a pedestal of looming importance in our ancient and contemporary history, witnessed notable peace and stability.

“Badagry has since pre-colonial times, remained a robust repertoire of the finest aspects of our cultural and artistic heritage. He would be remembered as a patriot and custodian of our cultural and traditional values, who gave his best while on the throne of his forefathers.

Late Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I

Soludo’s Wife Draws Attention to Rising Cardiovascular-related Deaths, Issues Preventive Tips David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Anambra State governor’s wife and founder of the nongovernmental crusade, Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has raised alarm over rising cases of cardiovascular-related deaths. Mrs. Soludo, a healthy living advocate explained this calls for a conscious and more intentional medical and habitual discipline. Mrs. Soludo stated this in

Awka, noting the seeming neglect by many people to go for routine heart checks, has helped the increase in most cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure, cardiac arrest and stroke, which are the commonest among them. Mrs. Soludo said: “It is important for everyone to understand that deaths from cardiovascular diseases are usually quick and

undefendable, especially when they are in their acute stages. “Most cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by addressing habitual risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diets and obesity, physical inactivity, and harmful use of alcohol. “May I re-emphasize the important role healthy living plays in finding solutions to cardiovascular deaths. You must

engage in regular exercises and eat healthy and organic foods are just as important as checking the condition of the heart more often.” She also urged people who are at risk of cardiovascular diseases due to hereditary reasons, to be cautious of their overall health habits, and avoid lifestyles that can exacerbate the underlying problem.

Gov Mutfwang Reaffirms Commitment to Youth Devt

Make Proposed 2026 Budget Accessible to Public, NGO As NYSC holds 2026 annual management confab in Jos “As part of our commitment choice of Plateau State as host Urges KWASG to Ensure State Assembly’s Compliance Yemi KosokoinJos was a testament to the return of to youth development, I visited Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

A non-governmental organization (NGO) in Kwara State, the Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative (BBYDI) has sought the intervention of the state government over the purported failure of the state House of Assembly to make the proposed 2026 budget publicly accessible to residents of the state. The organisation alleged such ugly development has remained a serious setback for transparency and participatory governance in the state. A statement issued in Ilorin

on Monday and signed by the group’s Global Director, Mr. Olasupo Abideen Opeyemi, said that, “Despite repeated commitments to open governance by the present administration, citizens are still being denied timely access to one of the most important public documents in the state”. BBYDI acknowledged that since the inception of the current administration, the proposed budget has never eventually been freely released to the public. However, the organisation noted with deep concern that

for the past three years, civil society groups and citizens have had to engage, write formal letters, and send emails before the document is made available, a practice it described as unacceptable in a democratic system. “A public budget is not a favour that should be granted upon request; it is the right of the people. “The continued reluctance to proactively release the proposed budget raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability,” the statement said.

Plateau State governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Monday declared open the 2026 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Annual Management Conference, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to youth development, peacebuilding, and the strengthening of national unity. The conference, held at Crispan Hotel in Jos, brought together top NYSC management officials, senior staff from across the federation, policymakers, and experts to review the scheme’s performance and chart new strategies for the year. Welcoming participants, Governor Mutfwang said the

peace and stability in the state. He described Plateau as a “safe haven for all peace loving Nigerians and foreigners,” noting that the NYSC has remained a critical institution in promoting national integration since its establishment after the civil war. The governor commended the scheme for its contributions to education, healthcare, rural development, sports, and youth empowerment through skills acquisition programmes. He urged the NYSC to intensify efforts in equipping corps members with relevant entrepreneurial skills to enable them transition into job creators after service.

the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Mangu in 2025 and directed immediate renovation works, including expansion of facilities, completion of staff quarters, and conversion of power supply to solar,” he said. Mutfwang also announced the allocation of additional hectares of land to the NYSC for agricultural activities, expressing confidence that the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Orientation Course would hold at the upgraded camp. He encouraged participants to explore the tourism attractions of Jos and assured Nigerians that “the future of the country is bright” with collective effort.

THISDAY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026

NEWS

TRAINING FOR THE HEALTHY LIVING...

Wife of the Governor of Anambra State and Founder of Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, Dr Nonye Soludo, during a training session with her personal trainer in Awka, Anambra State, ... yesterday

CDS at AFCRD 2026: Weight of Our Gratitude to Our Fallen Heroes Incalculable Buratai seeks expanded, well-equipped police

Linus Aleke in Abuja

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyode, paid a moving tribute to Nigeria’s fallen heroes during the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) 2026, describing their sacrifice as immeasurable and eternally honoured. In his address, Oluyode acknowledged the courage,

dedication, and selflessness of service members, who gave their lives in the line of duty, emphasising that the nation owes them a debt of gratitude that cannot be quantified. He called on both citizens and the mili-tary establishment to remember their legacy, uphold the values they defended, and continue to support the armed forces in safeguarding the country’s

peace, security and prosperity. Oluyode said, “On this solemn and historic occasion of AFCRD 2026, we gather as a nation to honour the extraordinary bravery and sacrifices of the men and women of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. “This day serves as a poignant reminder of the heavy price paid for the peace and liberty we enjoy today. We pay our deepest

respects to our fallen heroes, those valiant souls who laid down their lives to safeguard the unity and sovereignty of our great nation. “Their ‘today’ was given for our ‘tomorrow’, and their legacy of courage remains etched in the annals of our nation’s history forever. Their devotion to duty was not a mishap but a calling to patriotism; hence, the weight of our gratitude remains incalculable.”

Edo Govt Postpones Resumption Date for Primary, Secondary Schools over Insecurity Ex-presidential aspirant urges protection of citizens, not criminalising protests

Felix Omoh-Asun in Benin

The escalating security situation in Edo Central Senatorial District has caused Edo State Government to postpone resumption date for primary and secondary schools in the area. Edo State Ministry of Education, which disclosed the development yesterday, said a new date would be announced later. In a press statement by Emmanuel Paddy lyamu, Commissioner for Education, the ministry informed the general public, parents, school heads, and proprietors, that the

resumption of all public and private schools in Edo Central Senatorial District for the Second Term of the 2025/2026 academic session had been postponed until further notice. Meanwhile, schools in other senatorial districts resumed Monday, January 12. Giving reasons for the shift in date, the statement said, “This is to enable us address some exigencies to improve the welfare of our children. The new date of resumption will be duly communicated to the public in due course. “Parents, guardians, and all

education stakeholders within Edo Central Senatorial District are kindly requested to take note of this development and comply accordingly.” Insecurity had plagued the district, especially Ekpoma, the community the hosts Ambrose Alli University (AAU). The management of AAU had earlier shut down the school. The management also shifted resumption and commencement of academic activities. A press release in Benin City on Saturday, signed by Otunba Mike Ade Aladenika, Head, Information, Public Relations

and Protocol of the school, said the management, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mrs. Eunice Eboiserehimen Omonzejie, approved the postponement on behalf of the University’s Senate. The statement said, “This decision has become necessary to enable the University to complete ongoing renovation works on student structures and facilities, aimed at enhancing the overall teaching and learning experience.

Oluyode also remembered the families of fallen soldiers, acknowledging the strength and resilience they have shown in the face of profound loss. He said, “Although we cannot replace the departed, we will never renege on our efforts to ensure that their legacies endure, and they shall forever be honoured by posterity.” Addressing troops currently serving across various theatres of operation, the CDS commended their unwavering dedication, often under the most challenging and perilous conditions. He stated that their professionalism and loyalty had continued to strengthen Nigeria’s security. Oluyode stated, “As your Chief of Defence Staff, I am immensely proud of your commitment to discipline, selfless service, and the protection of our nation’s freedom and democracy. Your battle scars are a silent testament to your courage and devotion.” The CDS assured that the armed forces would continue to safeguard national security at all times, stressing that threats, whether domestic or trans-border, would be decisively addressed. He reaffirmed that the welfare

of personnel remained a top priority, guided by his Military Strategic Philosophy, “To consolidate the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria through enhanced jointness for a reinforced operational posture, supported by improved welfare efforts and sound administration, ensuring the Armed Forces maintain its core military fundamentals in guaranteeing Nigeria’s sovereignty and prosperity.” Oluyode also expressed his profound appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his strategic guidance and unwavering support, assuring the country of the armed forces’ enduring commitment to defending democratic values and maintaining peace. He extended special gratitude to military families, especially spouses, who had held the home front with courage and resilience. The CDS appealed to all Nigerians to reflect on the significance of the day, to foster national unity, and reject divisive rhetoric. He stated, “As you wear the remembrance emblem, do so with pride, knowing it symbolises a debt of gratitude to the labours of our forebears and the unsung heroes who keep us safe.

Over 500 Benefit from Free Medical Outreach Organised by Institute in Rivers Community

Ibunge in Port Harcourt consultations, health screenings of IHVN, Dr. Charles Mensah, and basic healthcare services, whose leadership and institutional ADC: Govs Defecting to APC Vulnerable Blessing Over 500 residents of Opobo offering much-needed support support, he said, were instrumental Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has said governors on the platform of opposition political parties defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), were doing so as a result of their vulnerabilities and not because of the interest of Nigerians. National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, however, said on the other hand, that the major strength

of the ADC was the fact that it was standing with Nigerians. Abdullahi, stated these when he featured on a television programme, saying the crisis in Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), were engineered by the ruling APC. While criticising the ruling APC for the hardship it has imposed on Nigerians, Abdullahi stressed that the ADC could not wait to takeover the leadership of the country in order to commence giving

the country good governance beyond just taking over power. Abdullahi said the ADC was the only available alternative for the opposition willing to wrestle power from the oppressive APC with a view to reposition the country. He assured the people that the ADC was open to all comers, adding however that it was a party with rules which everyone was applying to join irrespective of status in the society must abide with.

community in Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State have benefited from free medical care outreach organised by the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) in partnership with organisers of Opobo Marathon. The outreach is part of a comprehensive community medical outreach organised alongside the 8th edition of Opobo Marathon, reinforcing the event’s growing impact beyond sports. The programme provided beneficiaries with free medical

to residents across the kingdom. Speaking during the outreach, Project Lead of Opobo Marathon, Henry Cookey, expressed appreciation to IHVN for its commitment to community health, describing the intervention as both timely and impactful. He noted the initiative embodied the core values of the marathon, which seeks to use sport as a platform for development and service to humanity. Cookey also paid special tribute to the Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer

to the success of the outreach. The medical exercise was coordinated by Dr. Fabian Jaja, who highlighted the scale and significance of the intervention. According to him, a dedicated medical team comprising five doctors, nurses and medical volunteers was deployed to ensure effective and efficient service delivery. Dr. Jaja added the impressive turnout and level of medical need witnessed during the outreach underscored the importance of taking healthcare services directly to the grassroots.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • THISDAY

NEWS

NEWS CONFERENCE TO DECLARE SUPPORT FOR DOUGLAS CHUKWU 2027 PRESIDENTIAL AMBITION...

L-R: Programmes Manager, Diaspora Voices Network (DVN), Mr Ezekiel Remigius; Coordinator of DVN, Enugu State, Ms Ukamaka Igboji; Director-General of the Network, Chief Madus Mathias and National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Samuel Aniegbo, during a news conference to declare support for Douglas Chukwu 2027 Presidential ambition in Enugu ... recently

Chimamanda: Agbakoba Seeks Probe as Public Awaits Appointment of Coroner by Lagos Rights activist says his law firm handing over 25 cases of medical negligence Commiserates with renowned author, other affected families

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Wale Igbintade, Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

Renowned lawyer, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN) yesterday raised the alarm over what he described as a worsening medical negligence crisis in Nigeria, calling for an immediate and comprehensive overhaul of the country’s health regulatory framework. The former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) said the death of Nkanu, the 21-month-old son of Nigerian author Chimamanda Adichie and her husband, Ivara Esege, must offer an opportunity to reform the health system in Nigeria. He made the remarks on two separate occasions, including in a statement he issued on the Chimamanda matter as well as while speaking last night on a national television, calling for a probe into the death of the toddler. This came even as Nigerians await the appointment of a Chief Coroner by the Lagos State government in line with the existing law. The Lagos State Coroner Law mandates autopsies and coroner inquests for deaths that are violent, unnatural, suspicious, or occur under unclear circumstances, including some maternal deaths, to determine the cause and circumstances, overriding religious or traditional objections to medical examination. The law empowers the Chief Coroner to order post-mortems

to uncover facts, prevent future avoidable deaths, and establish medical truth, requiring reports to the coroner and potentially leading to criminal investigations if foul play is suspected. A key provision in the law is that cases of suspicious or unnatural deaths or where the cause isn’t clear require a coroner’s inquest to find the medical cause, time, and circumstances of death, establishing facts beyond superstition or guesswork. A key provision in the law is that cases of suspicious or unnatural deaths or where the cause isn’t clear require a coroner’s inquest to find the medical cause, time, and circumstances of death, establishing facts beyond superstition or guesswork. The question now is: has the autopsy been conducted? If yes, why has the result not been made public to establish once and for all the cause of death? And when will the Lagos state government set up a coroner’s inquest? Besides, the law empowers the coroner to order autopsies even if families object on religious or traditional grounds, as such objections aren’t valid defenses against the law. Specifically, autopsies are required when sudden deaths occur in hospitals where the cause isn’t immediately obvious or occurs shortly after admission and foul play is suspected. A verdict detailing how, when, and where the person died is eventually reached, while

referral for criminal investigation is made if a suspect is identified. In essence, the law aims to bring transparency to deaths, provide closure, and gather crucial data for public health and justice. But speaking on television, Agbakoba said: “This issue here ought to be a lesson to us all; it ought to be a lesson to the Nigerian government. It is not enough for the Lagos State governor to have made a broadcast; I commend him for that, but what will change is the issue. The child of Chimamanda must not be allowed to have died in vain. “If it will lead to a complete reform of the medical system, so be it, and that is what is required. We need to have a new medicare system in Nigeria. That should be the way we should go forward.” The celebrated author has already served Euracare Hospital in Lagos with a legal notice, alleging that medical negligence and professional impropriety led to the death of her son. The family

Some private and public primary Schools in Niger State have reopened for academic activities weeks after being forcefully closed over insecurity. Governor Mohammed Bago had in November directed the schools to be closed following the abduction of 230 primary/

secondary school children and their teachers from St Mary’s Catholic Primary Secondary School, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area of the state. The Ministry of Education, through Commissioner for Basic Education, Dr Asabe Mohammed, a week ago, directed schools in safe areas of the state to reopen from Monday, January 12.

involved, Euracare, for agreeing to cooperate with investigators. However, he stressed that investigations must be independent and transparent. “I have witnessed instances where medical records are altered to avoid culpability,” he warned. The senior lawyer said the issue was also personal, recounting experiences of misdiagnosis and near-fatal medical errors affecting members of his family. He further cited several highprofile and lesser-known cases across the country, including deaths from delayed medical response, surgical negligence, improper procedures, and wrong medication, as evidence of a systemic crisis rather than isolated incidents. Agbakoba criticised what he described as the conflation of policy-making and regulatory enforcement roles by ministers and commissioners of health, calling it a fundamental governance failure. He advocated a clear separation of responsibilities, with independent

regulatory bodies empowered to inspect, monitor, and sanction health facilities and practitioners. He also commiserated with families affected by medical negligence, including Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, describing the recent high-profile case as only “the visible tip of a much larger crisis” affecting countless Nigerian households. In a statement earlier, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Health, Kemi Ogunyemi, said the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) had visited the facility and begun a comprehensive review of all reports and allegations. “It is only after a thorough review of all medical investigation the child’s death that medical negligence can be established and those responsible held accountable. For now it is premature to use that language,” a medical practitioner who pleaded to remain anonymous declared to THISDAY.

Dan’agundi: Ganduje’s Absence Delaying Kano Gov, Abba Yusuf’s Defection to APC Says ex-party chair unhappy with Kwankwaso over remarks concerning him

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano

Director-General of the National Productivity Centre, Dr. Baffa

Niger Schools Reopen Weeks After Shutting Down over Insecurity

Laleye Dipo in Minna

alleges that Nkanu died due to medical negligence on the part of Euracare Hospital. Separately, in a statement, Agbakoba, who said he has spent over 20 years handling medical malpractice cases and has been involved in more than 50 such matters, described the incident as emblematic of deep-rooted systemic failures in healthcare delivery and regulation. He noted that the reported administration of Propofol in the case required exceptional care due to its known risks, including cardio-respiratory failure, adding that overdose could be fatal. “I am, quite honestly, not shocked that such a simple procedure at an acclaimed hospital has ended so terribly,” he said, pointing to what he described as widespread incompetence in some health facilities. Agbakoba commended the Lagos State Government for pledging to investigate the incident and also acknowledged the hospital

The directive, however, stated that all schools in Niger North Senatorial zone and some in Niger South should remain shut. In most of the secure local government areas of the state especially Chanchaga, Bosso Munya, Suleja, Bida, Lapai, Agaie, Paikoro schools reopened for another academic exercises yesterday.

Babba Dan’agundi, has said the absence of former National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, is delaying the defection of Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, to the party. Dan’agundi also disclosed that Ganduje had expressed displeasure over a comment attributed to another former governor of the state, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, which described him as an enemy. Speaking on the reported move by Yusuf to return to APC, Dan’agundi described the development as a source of great joy and encouragement for the party in Kano State. “It is a thing of joy for us. All APC leaders, stakeholders, and supporters in Kano State

are happy and excited about the governor’s return, and we are fully prepared to give him maximum support and cooperation,” he said. He confirmed that preparations to officially welcome the governor into APC were already at an advanced stage. “At the national level, discussions have progressed significantly, and consultations are also ongoing at the state level,” he explained. Dan’agundi attributed the delay in finalising arrangements to the Umrah pilgrimage undertaken by Kano State APC Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Abbas, as well as the absence of the party’s leader in Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, who was outside the country.

He assured, “Once they return, a special meeting will be held with His Excellency Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his delegation to conclude the process.” Dan’agundi also said Ganduje described the remarks by Kwankwaso as inappropriate and deeply displeasing. Dan’agundi, a close ally of Ganduje, stated , “Dr. Ganduje told me clearly that he was not happy at all with the comments made by Senator Kwankwaso against him. “While welcoming Governor Yusuf to our fold, Ganduje made it clear to me that Kwankwaso’s statements were unnecessary, especially at a time when Kano needs unity, peace, and collective progress,”

THISDAY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026

NEWS

OKOYA’S FREE MEDICAL OUTREACH IN CELEBRATION OF HIS 86TH BIRTHDAY IN LAGOS...

L-R: Mrs. Wosilat Okoya-Seriki; Chief Servant, Doyin Group Peniel Apartments Abuja, Mrs Oluwatoyin Adedoyin; Managing Director, Eleganza Industrial City Limited, Chief (Dr.) Folashade Noimat Okoya; Olori Oba Ojomu of Ajiran, Olori Bunmi Akinloye and Consultant to the Okoya @86 Medical Outreach, Dr. Jemilade Longe; during Day 6 of the Okoya Community Free Healthcare Outreach to mark Chief Okoya’s 86th birthday held at Oluwanishola Estate, Lekki–Ajah Expressway, Lagos ...recently

Register Every Member or Be Removed, Yilwatda Reads Riot Act to All Coordinators Registration already hits two million, says party scribe Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has directed all coordinators of the ongoing nationwide electronic membership registration exercise across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to ensure that no member of the party was left unregistered. Yilwatda, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, warned that

any coordinator who failed in this responsibility would be replaced. The chairman gave the directive when he met with State Registration Coordinators at the national secretariat of APC in Abuja. All State Organising Secretaries of APC were appointed coordinators of the exercise, except where the officer was not trained for the exercise. The ongoing registration exercise had been scheduled to end on January 30. Yilwatda stated, “The position of Coordinator is not ceremonial

but a responsibility to strengthen the party. If any Coordinator does not get all members registered in his or her state, we will drop you and appoint another person. The position you occupy is an opportunity to make the party better.” He reminded the coordinators that they were the foot soldiers of the party, stressing that when party structures at the state level are strong and functional, the party itself becomes strong. The chairman also urged the state party chairmen to cooperate

fully with the coordinators to ensure a seamless and successful exercise. He stated, “Nobody contests elections at the national secretariat. Elections are won or lost at the state, senatorial, constituency, local government, and ward levels. The performance of the party rests squarely on you.” The chairman warned against a situation where the party claimed millions of members in a state but recorded very low votes during elections, describing such discrepancies as unacceptable

RIVERS: TWO ASSEMBLY MEMBERS PULL OUT OF IMPEACHMENT PLOT

the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and Fubara were members of PANDEF, expressing confidence that they would respect the committee’s decisions in the overriding interest of peace in the Niger Delta. Igali stated, “As leaders and committed members of PANDEF, and given their pedigree and sense of responsibility to the region, we expect all parties to submit themselves to this process and abide by the outcome of the committee’s work.” In his acceptance remarks, Agabi described the assignment as a solemn national duty, thanking PANDEF’s leadership for the confidence reposed in the committee. He paid glowing tribute to DieteSpiff, describing him as a symbol of sacrifice, unity and unwavering commitment to the South-south and the Nigerian nation. According to Agabi, the current crisis in Rivers State demands wisdom, restraint, and humility from all political actors. He warned that failure to resolve the impasse could cast doubt on the commitment of those involved to the welfare of the people and the nation at large. “We cannot afford to stand by and do nothing as Rivers State, whose talents and resources continue to bless this nation, grapples with issues of political power,” he said. Using a relevant analogy, Agabi cautioned the parties against destructive political confrontation,

likening the situation to a clam and an oyster that fought on the seashore until both were picked up and consumed by a fisherman. “May it not be with Rivers State as it was with the clam and the oyster,” he warned. The committee appealed for humility, forgiveness and reconciliation, and stated that the principal actors were once allies who supported each other’s political ascent and, therefore, owed themselves and the people a duty to reconcile. “It is in forgiving that true greatness can be found,” the committee chairman stated, urging the parties to rise above grievances and embrace dialogue. Agabi, who acknowledged personal relationships with both Wike and Fubara, appealed to them to lead the reconciliation process by example, stressing that leadership at such moments requires sacrifice and a commitment to peace. “The mighty hand of God is upon them, and that great hand demands leadership in reconciliation,” he said. The committee also appealed to members of Rivers State House of Assembly to demonstrate restraint, maturity and public spirit by embracing dialogue and forgiveness. “This committee is not appointed to sit in judgement over the parties. Our duty is to appeal for reconciliation. Sacrifices are called for. Make them and let there be peace,” Agabi clarified. The seven-member commit-

tee’s terms of reference included identifying the main actors in the crisis; engaging key stakeholders, such as the FCT minister, former governors, elders, traditional rulers, and political leaders. The panel was also expected to facilitate dialogue between the executive and legislature; recommend steps to restore reconciliation, stability, law and order; and ensure that any resolution respected constitutional norms and the democratic will of the people. The panel was mandated to consult widely, maintain confidentiality to build trust, and submit a comprehensive report with recommendations to the president and PANDEF’s Board of Trustees within 14 days.

Professionals: Removal Plot Driven by Godfatherism, Legislative Overreach

Nigerian professionals in the diaspora warned that the renewed impeachment move against Fubara and Odu threatened democratic order in the oil-rich state. In an e-statement issued on Monday, Nigerian Diaspora Professionals for Democratic Stabil-ity (NDPDS) said the impeachment moves by the Rivers State House of Assembly reflected an abuse of legislative power rooted in a prolonged political struggle between Fubara and Wike. The statement, signed by President of the group, Dr Chukwudi Nnamani, and its secretary, Mr Adewale Ogunsiwaju, stated

that the impeachment process, which resurfaced despite earlier political interventions and judicial proceedings, risked reducing constitutional mechanisms to instruments of political vendetta. The statement read, “The impeachment threats against Governor Fubara have become cyclical, predictable and politically motivated. This is no longer about oversight or constitutional accountability; it is about who controls Rivers State’s political structure and resources. “A democracy cannot function when impeachment is weaponised as a tool of supremacy rather than a last-resort constitutional remedy.” The group stated that the crisis in Rivers State had its roots in the breakdown of the political relationship between Fubara and Wike shortly after the governor assumed office, stressing that legislative actions since then have mirrored factional loyalties rather than public interest. The group said, “It is impossible to ignore the context. The House of Assembly has been deeply polarised, with legislative actions reflecting allegiance to external political authority rather than the electorate. “No democracy should tolerate a situation where a sitting governor is subjected to perpetual threats of removal for refusing to submit to political godfathers.”

Army Raises Concerns over COAS’s Misrepresented Remarks in Rivers State

going forward. Yilwatda stated that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) had created an environment conducive to ensure the success of all party programmes. He insisted that party structures at all levels must begin to reflect real membership strength. He further warned that any State Executive Committee member who failed to register before January 30, would be removed from office, stressing that NEC, the second highest organ of the party after the convention, has

the constitutional authority to enforce compliance. “It is not negotiable. This warning must be sounded from the state level down to the ward level,” he said. Yilwatda condemned sharp practices aimed at blocking or excluding party members from the registration process. He warned, “No chairman, no coordinator, and not even a governor has the power to stop any party member from being registered. No one must be disenfranchised.”

Nigerian Army expressed concern over misrepresentation of remarks by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, during his recent operational visit to the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt. In a statement by Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the army condemned a report by an online news outlet, headlined, “Nigerian Army Chief Raises the Alarm over Rising Pipeline Vandalism in Niger Delta.” Anele described the report as misleading, malicious, and entirely false. The statement stressed that the COAS neither raised the alarm nor expressed concern about any alleged increase in pipeline vandalism during his visit. It urged the public to disregard the report. The army said the visit was part of the COAS’s routine operational tours aimed at assessing troop readiness, interacting with personnel, and identifying operational and welfare challenges. While addressing officers and men of 6 Division, Shaibu emphasised the importance of their role in protecting critical national infrastructure, stating that effective performance of this mandate directly contributes to the country’s economic stability. The army chief charged the troops to remain disciplined, committed and dedicated to their duties, assuring them that their

welfare remains a top priority under his Command Philosophy. He disclosed that some challenges raised by commanders, particularly accommodation shortages, had already been addressed through the approval of new construction projects, renovation of existing quarters, and completion of ongoing works. He added that improvements in educational facilities for soldiers’ children were also being considered. Responding to questions from journalists, the COAS explained that his visit to 6 Division marked his maiden operational tour of the area of responsibility. He said the purpose was to gain first-hand insight into the activities of the troops, understand their challenges, and ensure that necessary interventions were made promptly to enhance operational effectiveness. Shaibu further assured personnel that while some of the issues raised during the visit had been resolved immediately, others would be addressed as soon as he returned to Abuja. He reiterated the need for troops to continue to carry out their duties conscientiously, particularly in safeguarding critical national assets, whose protection was vital to the country’s economy. The army also cautioned media organisations against publishing unverified reports that distorted facts and undermined ongoing security efforts.

TUESDAYSPORTS

TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026 • THISDAY

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Osimhen on the Brink of Erasing Rashidi Yekini’s Goals Record Duro Ikhazuagbe

Super Eagles top marksman, Victor Osimhen, is on the verge of equaling Nigeria’s revered ‘goalsfather’ Rashidi Yekini in the number of goals scored for the senior national team. Should the Galatasaray frontman

AFCON 2025

able to score two goals against hosts Morocco in the semifinal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations inside the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Wednesday, Osimhen will be at par

with the late striker fondly called “Goals-father” by the Nigerian sporting press. Yekini netted 37 goals in his 58 matches for Super Eagles before hanging his boot. He passed away in controversial circumstances aged 48 years on May 4, 2012. Yekini who was named African

Footballer of the Year in 1993, scored Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal against Bulgaria in 1994. Earlier same year, Yekini was part of the ‘Golden Generation’ that won the 1994 AFCON in Tunisia and emerged as the top scorer with five goals. But Osimhen at just 27 years

and 51 caps for the Super Eagles, is just two goals away from equalling Yekini’s feat in 58 matches for Nigeria. Should the Galatasaray striker fires a hat trick against Morocco, in the game already dubbed ‘Final Before the Final’, Osimhen would have succeeded in becoming Nigeria’s new ‘Goal King’. Osimhen announced his arrival on the scene at the FIFA U17 World Cup in Chile in 2015 under the watch of Emmanuel Amuneke. He emerged the top scorer with 10 goals and the second most valuable player of the U17 World Cup tournament that Nigeria won that year. History beckons on the former

SSC Napoli forward on Wednesday night, as the 90 minutes battle, for which he will have Alex Iwobi, Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman providing valuable support, offer him the opportunity to equal the great man’s tally. Iwobi, who has been extraordinary at this AFCON, is set to win his 96th cap for country, taking him closer to the century-mark of former captain Joseph Yobo, and former goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama, who garnered 101. Ahmed Musa remains the man-with-the-record at 111 caps. Meanwhile, Super Eagles will have their official training on the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat today at 6.15pm.

Niger Delta Games: Cross River Lands New Talents at State Trials

Victor Osimhen... on the brink of rewriting Super Eagles history

CAF Opens Probe into Algeria’s Q’final Misconduct in Marrakech

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed opening a formal disciplinary proceedings following incidents recorded during the quarterfinal matches of the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. In a statement released yesterday, CAF confirmed that it had collected recent match reports and reviewed video evidence pointing to potentially unacceptable behaviour involving some players and officials during the quarter-final fixtures between Cameroon and Morocco, as well as Algeria and Nigeria. CAF disclosed that the matters have been formally referred to its Disciplinary Board for investigation, stressing that appropriate sanctions would be imposed should any individuals be found guilty of wrongdoing. In addition to on-field and technical area incidents, CAF

revealed that it is also reviewing footage related to an alleged case of misconduct involving members of the media in the mixed zone area after one of the quarter-final matches. The continental body reiterated its firm stance against any form of inappropriate

behaviour at its competitions, particularly actions directed at match officials or tournament organisers. “CAF strongly condemns any behaviour that falls short of professional standards during its events,” the statement said. “Appropriate action will be

sought against anyone whose conduct is inconsistent with the values and regulations of CAF competitions.” The outcome of the investigations is expected to be communicated in due course, as the tournament approaches its decisive semi-final stage.

Cross River State sports authorities may have made major breakthrough in talents discovery as the State’s Trials for the 2nd Niger Delta Games berthed in the central senatorial district. Organised by the Liaison Committee members of the NDG in conjunction with the Cross River State Sports Commission led by Lawrence Etta, the trials serve to select athletes that will participate in the state finals to pick those who will represent the state at the games. “The trials for the Games has continued to ignite hope and inspiration among young sporting talents in both the urban and rural communities in Cross River State. “The competition’s talent discovery drive has recorded remarkable success, particularly within the Central Senatorial District” remarked Ettah He said the initiative has brought together promising young athletes from diverse local governments and villages—many of whom are experiencing organized sports exposure for the very first time. “The ongoing talent hunt has not only uncovered raw and exceptional abilities but has also created unforgettable moments of joy and motivation for future champions. “For several participants, the exercise marks their first opportunity to leave their immediate communities, interact

with peers from other areas, and dream beyond their local environment”, Ettah told NDG Media. Co-Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo(KSM), was impressed by the report and said it has captured a cardinal essence of organising the Games. “This is primarily one of the reasons for the Games, providing opportunities for those in the hinterland to compete and put their talents to use in sports. “We want to provide a platform for every youth in the Niger Delta region to find expression for their raw skills and perhaps become a national and international champion”, Ikpokpo stated. The initiative has drawn widespread commendation from athletes, community leaders, and sports stakeholders, who praised the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), DunamisIcon Limited and the Cross River State Government for their commitment to youth empowerment through sports. They also described the programme as a timely and innovative platform capable of reshaping the future of sports in the region. Members of the state liaison committee include Queen Gladys Igut, the Secretary, Mrs Rosemary Usang, the Director of Sports, Ettah Emmanuel, the Head of Media and Publicity and David Enwa.

Port Harcourt International Polo Tournament Begins with Fanfare

Players, officials, guests and polo aficionados gathered at the Port Harcourt Polo Club on Sunday for the opening ceremony of the 2026 International Polo Tournament in an atmosphere filled with camaraderie. The President of Port Harcourt Polo Club, Henry Prince Agbodjan in his opening speech, stressed the need for strengthened friendships and shining spirit of polo. With the theme, “United By The Game”, the tournament brings

together polo players from within and outside Nigeria to contest for trophies in various cups. According to the president, “This tournament brings togother players, officials, and polo enthusiasts from within Nigeria and across international borders, united by our shared love for a sport that embodies discipline, tradition, courage, and camaraderie. “The theme ‘United By The Game’ reflects more than competi-

tion; it speaks to the bonds polo creates across cultures, generations, and backgrounds. On this field, rivalry is tempered by respect, and competition is elevated by friendship. “This year’s tournament holds a special and deeply significant place in our hearts, We proudly dedicate the 2026 Port Harcourt International Polo Tournament to the memory of our past president and polo legend, Roland CookeyGam.

“Roland was not only a distinguished sportsman but also a visionary leader whose passion, integrity, and commitment to the growth of polo left an indelible mark on this club and on Nigerian polo as a whole.” Agbodjan commended the players for their skills and called on them to keep the flag flying. “To our players, we wish you thrilling chukkas and safe competition. To the officials and umpires, we thank you for upholding the

highest standards of the game. “To our sponsors, partners, and supporters, we are grateful for your unwavering belief in this tournament. And to the general public and polo lovers, thank you for being part of this celebration of sport and heritage,” he stated In the opening throw-in, Team A defeated Team B by 2-1 in the Roland Cookey-Gam Cup meant for beginners, while FB9/Indian Warriors defeated Cassectric 6½-6 in the T.Y Danjuma Cup.

T H I S D AY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026

BACK PAGE CONTINUATION THE KNEE ON EFCC’S NECK

Money Laundering (FATF) blacklisted the country, making international financial transactions difficult for the country. In response to this pressure, the Obasanjo administration established the EFCC to go after corrupt persons, and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to descend on corrupt public officials. The ICPC came earlier in 2000, and there have been arguments about the overlap of functions between both bodies, and their independence from political influence exerted by the Executive, but over time, the EFCC has been the most dominant of the two bodies, and perhaps the most controversial. It handles more high-profile cases. It is far more dramatic in its efforts, and it has been accused of being a willing tool for the promotion of the preferences of the government of the day to suppress the opposition and to demonise persons who are not in the good books of the ruling party. This is the clear context of the pressure currently on the neck of Olukoyede’s EFCC triggered by cases involving the Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Muhammed and his Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Dr. Yakubu Adamu, as well as the case of former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN. Yakubu Adamu, a former Branch Manager of Polaris Bank Plc was accused of having conspired to launder a total sum of $9.7 million for the Bauchi State Government, a charge to which he has since pleaded not guilty and for which he has been denied bail and remanded in prison, along with three other defendants who are altogether accused of terrorism financing. The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Muhammed, the principal of the accused persons has since decried the attempt to link either his state or his person, or associates with terrorism financing alleging that as a sitting Governor, he enjoys constitutionally guaranteed immunity, and that the only reason he is being targeted is because he has refused to join the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC - Nigeria’s ruling party at the centre. He said: “The APC-led Federal Government thinks it can use the courts and institutions of government, like the EFCC, to persecute and prosecute Nigerians who are not in their party. If they don’t stop, we’re going to declare war”. His name was mentioned in a motion in court. He has now vowed never to join the APC. He has the support of groups in Bauchi State including the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), Christian Youths Initiative for Peace (CYIFP), and Concerned Bauchi Citizens. These supporters have been very loud in the media, so loud that the EFCC was left with no option but to defend itself.

Abubakar Malami Similarly, the former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, was arraigned along with his wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe and his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami over alleged money laundering offences to the tune of N8. 7 billion, on a 16-count charge bordering on conspiracy, and money laundering. They pleaded not guilty. They were briefly remanded in Kuje prison, and have since been granted N500 million bail each by the court of Justice Emeka Nwite. Hearing in the case has been adjourned till February 17. But as in the Bauchi case, the principal accused person has declared that the allegations against him and his family are “baseless, illogical and wholly devoid of substance”. He insists that he was not involved in any form of money laundering, and that the EFCC is acting on the basis of “deep-seated historical animosity, personal vendetta, bias and retaliatory persecution.” He demanded that the EFCC Chairman should step aside. Malami was a member of the APC, and served as Attorney General of the Federation under the Buhari administration. He recently declared his interest in running for the governorship of Kebbi State on the platform of the African Democratic

Congress (ADC). The link between both cases is the claim that the main persons are being persecuted and tried in court because of their refusal to join the ruling party. Their supporters have also alleged that the Tinubu administration is using the anti-corruption agencies to play politics: to forgive those who join the APC and promote the President in the light of the obvious drift towards APC dominance across the country, and punish, persecute and trouble those who insist on opposition politics. A wing of the Nigerian commentariat is also all over the media with the argument that cases involving APC figures, where such exist, tend to run very slowly in the courts, and they quietly peter out, whereas allegations against opposition figures tend to run very quickly judicially, with the EFCC showing much enthusiasm. The allegations against the EFCC are weighty and it is just as well that the institution has chosen to defend itself. Uwujaren has argued that the EFCC is completely neutral and apolitical, and that it is not the fault of the body if cases tend to drag in the courts. The EFCC, he noted, has no control over the machinery of justice. The EFCC chairman has also responded that he has no personal animus against former AGF Malami and on the allegation that he was once indicted by the Ayo Salami panel of inquiry, he said the proof should be published by those who claim to have it. He added: “Let me tell Nigerians that the commission’s investigation panel cleared me of any wrongdoing. The presidency at the time also cleared me. The law enforcement agencies handed me a clean bill. I can say clearly that there’s no report anywhere that I’ve been involved in any fraudulent dealings…” He added that he in fact inherited the Malami case from his predecessor, and that in 2025 alone, he re-opened many cases that had gone cold in the file. He used the opportunity to draw attention to many high-profile cases that the EFCC under his watch has treated leading to thousands of convictions, and recovery of assets – tangible and intangible. He denied that opposition politicians are being targeted. He wants Nigerians to allow the EFCC to breathe! “I can’t breathe” said George Floyd on May 25, 2020. It seems to me that the EFCC should indeed be allowed to breathe. While it is important to keep the Nigerian public abreast of the activities of the EFCC, in the spirit of transparency, both the agency and the public, especially the media, should desist from media trial. The pattern around here, which is absolutely wrong, is that once a person’s name is

CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM AND THE DEMISE OF TRUE CHRISTIANITY

and running away from them, but the words of his poetry still stand very tall today as the world witnesses the sacredness and the sanctity in the power of those words. In the wake of the many upheavals that plague our universe, there is a whole lot of ugliness prevalent in Christendom. The ugliness presented itself in so many forms - slavery, torture, lynching, beating, burning, shooting and mutilation - all heinous crimes perpetrated by white Christians, while preaching the word of Jesus Christ, against blacks and other races that were not white. Christians have failed to see the sufferings of blacks, but have embraced the emergence of Christian Nationalism and ignored the moral decadence of the brutality and the oppression of our times. Throughout my personal journey as a practicing Christian, even within the limitations of my ambivalence, l have struggled with trying to find meaning in a society that preaches virtue and does evil. I have constantly wrestled with my faith within a religion that does not even recognize my existence as a human being. This terrible conflict has fueled my contradiction and has today become exacerbated by the recent happenings of Christian Nationalism that preaches the supremacy of one race over others. I believe that it must be our collective duty and responsibility to address the deep contradiction that white supremacy masked in Christian Nationalism poses for Christianity all over the world. Writing about Christian Nationalism, one must focus and reflect on the social and economic evils of slavery and segregation in America. Today, pivoting back to the current white supremacy in America, and the rotten politics therefrom, we must ponder and wonder how white Christians profess and confess their pure Christian faith, and still practice and impose their centuries of hate upon other races. Within this prism, lies the corruption of religion, self-interest and deceit. For other races who are ardent members of the Christian faith to continue to endure the brutality of white supremacy, hidden now under the so-called Christian Nationalism, is a paradoxically immanent revelation that compels me, and should also make many other reasonable Christians, to use words as weapons to resist this

Archbishop Okoh religious attack on humanity. This short essay must never be the last word about the wickedness of those who brought Christianity to the world, especially about those who used the religion to wrongly prosecute Africans, but it must be a journey that starts a conversation about how to, while exploring ways to heal the deep wounds of the past, and find ways to liberate the world from the resurgence of the hurt that is being once again, empowered by Trump and his fellow white men and women hiding under Christianity. From the days when something as simple as an affirmation of one’s blackness took great courage and was a dangerous proposition, to today when whites still act in an arrogantly superior manner towards blacks and other people of colour, the advances made by the civil rights movements to protect and preserve black people and their humanity have been eviscerated by white supremacy and their Christian Nationalism. How else can one explain the complexity of black subjectivity – as a people who are formed and created by this same Christian God, and subjected from infancy on, by the prevalent

imminence of the ever-present ubiquitous threat of death – promised them, and delivered very promptly by these white Christians? In America today, blacks are being treated as shabbily as they were treated during slavery and thereafter. In a patriarchal society where an adult black male is called “boy” or “nigger”, something must be awfully wrong. Black people’s struggle against white supremacy under the umbrella of Christian Nationalism is undeserving within the laws and doctrine of Christianity. The spiritual power to resist and overcome the suffering, I think, is what keeps them moving and alive. The symbol of Jesus Christ as the saviour of all people, especially of those who proclaim His faith, to me is not an abstraction or even an anonymous symbol. It is a sign that signifies purity, kindness, equality, equity and fairness to all. But the arrant and sinful behaviour of most Christians, especially the white ones, forces me to continue to seek an ultimate and convincing meaning that is difficult to express in rational terms about the wickedness of the practitioners of Christian Nationalism. It has become rather difficult for a lot of minority Christians to find the language today to describe the unfairness in Christianity in the face of the treatment that white Christians are meting to them. Is it possible to consider the same Jesus that they have embraced, and which these same wicked evangelical white Christians who have supported and participated in the killings of blacks, to be their same saviour? Many wonder if it is this same God that they worship that gave them slavery, segregation, lynching, poverty and death, asking them to turn the other cheek and await their rewards in heaven. For several centuries, suffering created by Christians caused deep religious paradoxes especially for people of colour by challenging the faith of many Christians in the justice and love of God. Going through the lethany of the physical and spiritual anguish humanity has suffered in the hands of white Christians, has made many to question the existence of God. How if there was a God, did he allow white people to do as they do for so many years? How did God allow the Christian Crusades (1096 – 1291) that killed 3 million people, the Inquisition

mentioned in connection with any matter involving the EFCC, the person is immediately considered guilty by interested groups who may even have no knowledge of the details of the matter. This stems from the widespread assumption that whoever goes into government to serve is not there to serve anybody but himself or herself, and that only thieves accept public appointments. There is so much distrust of the public arena among Nigerians. The principle in law however is that no man can be judged guilty until he has been convicted by a court of competent jurisdiction. Nigerians do not trust the courts. They believe that judges are not pursuing justice but their own self-interest or the dictates of hidden puppeteers. Culturally, Nigerians believe that the only man who gets caught is the one society calls a thief, otherwise every Nigerian is a thief. The rule is don’t get caught – a mindset that does not even respect the justice administration system. It is a great burden indeed to have a society that has no faith in its own processes. This is the big challenge that the current EFCC Chairman, those before him and the ones that will come after, face. In Olukoyede’s case, there is the added skepticism that the Tinubu administration that has not been aggressive about the fight against corruption, many even doubt its moral credentials, has now suddenly woken up in the lead up to the 2027 elections to launch a war against corruption. Why now?, Nigerians ask. But is there a best time to apply the law? The current ruckus will pass. Everything passes in Nigeria, without record, trace, or resolution. But let this be said and noted. Nobody is above the law. It is not true that the Governor of a state in Nigeria cannot be investigated or mentioned in a motion in court because he enjoys immunity. There is a plethora of decided cases establishing that a Governor can be investigated, and illegal assets acquired by a Governor can be temporarily forfeited. In the on-going Malami case also, a temporary forfeiture of assets is reported, obviously to preserve the res in the matter – 57 properties in all valued at N213. 2 bn. The burden has now shifted to Malami, SAN. What is in his original assets declaration form before and after office? What was his salary or income? What is he paying as tax? These are the issues, not the media debates between EFCC and its critics. In the long run, however, there should be dedicated, special courts, designated strictly to deal with corruption cases expeditiously and to address the allegation that EFCC cases tend to stay too long in the courts. Our courts do not always meet the people’s expectations. They are part of the problem.

(12th - 19thc.) that took over 100,000 lives; the Colonial Genocide in the Americas (1492-1900) that caused 56 million Indigenous deaths, the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade (1500-1900) in which 12 million were enslaved, and 2 million died in transit, European Colonial Conquest in Africa/Asia (1500 – 1900) with Tens of millions killed; (over 20 million in Congo alone); British Colonial Famine Policies in India (18th – 19th c.) which caused 30 – 50 million deaths, Holocaust (1933 – 1945) had 6 million Jews killed in Germany, Taiping Rebellion (1850 – 1864) with 30 million killed under a radical Christian messianic movement, Biafra Genocide with 3 million, mostly children killed by a coalition of Christians and Muslims, Sexual Abuse in Christian Institutions (20th – 21st c.) in which hundreds of thousands of children were abused and molested, and many more killings performed mostly by white Christians all over the world. These historical atrocities associated mostly with white Christians either through Christian institutions or other avenues are once again rearing their ugly heads up. The pervasiveness of this nonsense is bewildering, questioning the essential meaning of Christianity and the emblem of shame and derogation it has carried for centuries. It signals the demise of true Christianity. The recent re-emergence of white Christian Nationalism is not good news for the world, and it is a terrible tragedy for Christians no matter where they may find themselves. It is obvious that their actions threaten the teachings of Jesus Christ about the absolute value imbedded in the reign of God’s justice, love, equity and equality for all no matter their colour, tribe, race, nationality or tongue. For the powerful religious authorities, their corrupt accomplices in the political strata, and with all the white people who perpetrate these atrocities under the banner of Christ, and also with those who are today perverting these sins against God and man, and being comfortable doing it, let it be made clear to you all, that the tragic memory of your sins await you all somehow, somewhere. •Okey Anueyiagu is a Professor of Political Economy. Essayist, Columnist and Author of Biafra, The Horrors of War, The Story of A Child Soldier

THISDAY • TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026

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MINISTER OF WORKS INSPECTS ONGOING CONSTRUCTION OF LAGOS CALABAR COASTAL HIGHWAY...

L-R: Controller, Federal Ministry of Works in Lagos, Mr. Olufemi Dare; Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi; Director, Highways, Bridges and Design, Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Musa Saidu; and Managing Director, HITECH Construction Company, in charge of the Lagos Calabar Coastal Highway, Mr. Dany Abboud, during an inspection of the ongoing construction of the Lagos Calabar Coastal Highway, in Lagos …recently

TUESDAY WITH REUBENABATI abati1990@gmail.com

The Knee On EFCC’s Neck

“T

he knee on his neck” reminds us of the case of the American citizen, George Floyd who was murdered in Minneapolis, Minnesota on May 25, 2020 by a policeman, Derek Chauvin, a white police officer who pressed his knee on Floyd’s neck for 9 minutes, 29 seconds. Floyd’s last words were: “I can’t breathe.” He died. Cause of death: “cardiopulmonary arrest due to neck compression”. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of Nigeria, the body empowered to investigate financial crimes in Nigeria, money laundering, corruption, economic sabotage and prosecute offenders, is in a similar situation. It is being accused of committing a crime itself and its adversaries are pressing its neck. They are choking it, and like Floyd, the EFCC is crying out loud and proclaiming its innocence. Those who have their legs on this legal, rightful institution are pressing very hard. The only difference in the Floyd analogy is that the EFCC is a creation of law: the EFCC Establishment Act of 2004, and except that law is repealed or abrogated, the institution should

EFCC Boss, Olanipekun Olukoyede continue to live. Nonetheless, institutions can die if they lose their relevance, value and respect in the

eyes of the public. Those who are trying to kill the EFCC are trying to achieve that objective. Any institution, no matter its legal justification, is only as useful as it is accepted by the society it serves. It is therefore understandable that the EFCC, thus finding itself in the eye of the storm, has been all over the media defending its reputation in the last few weeks. Wilson Uwujaren, the EFCC spokesperson, was on Arise News. The Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, Esq. was himself on Channels TV this last Sunday. This tit for tat between EFCC and its critics is not new. Long before now, informed Nigerians, notably Nuhu Ribadu and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, had argued that corruption always fights back. The latter in a book of the same title, in fact concluded that “fighting Corruption is Dangerous”. The current EFCC Chairman is having another round of baptism, linked directly to the reluctance of the Nigerian elite to accept that corruption deserves to be investigated and tackled. The reason for this is both cultural and human. Most Nigerians believe that Nigeria is a huge pie, a well-made cake, that is not shared fairly

OKEYANUEYIAGU

and whoever gets a chance to steal a slice of that cake either at a personal, corporate or institutional level and not get caught, to redress the imbalance, or inequity in the country is a very smart person indeed. In other words, cheating, fraud, theft, greed, more or less, constitute a national ethic. Even so-called religious figures steal. It does not matter what the Holy Books say. Some of the biggest thieves in this very religious country are the clerics, be they Christian, Muslim or animist. Civil servants are not civil in any way, public officers do not serve the public, they serve themselves, traditional institutions would rather honour persons whose source of wealth is unknown, the universities have now joined them, honour is now a commodity that can be bought. Nigeria has always been affected by this reputation in the international sphere. By 2002, Nigeria was listed along with 23 other countries that were notorious for financial crime and money laundering. The Paris-based Financial Action Task Force on Continued on page 31

GUEST COLUMNIST

Christian Nationalism and The Demise of True Christianity

he defining feature of Christian Nationalism is of an ideology steeped in the quest for unquenchable power and influence by which many Christians perceive, view and adapt their puritanical roles in society. This pattern of behaviour is not new, and has assumed a global dimension that is as frightening as it has become dangerous. This movement has its dangerous roots in the perceived myth by the practitioners, especially those in America, that the world should revolve around Christianity, and that the religion holds a privileged place in a world that requires complete strict moral or religious acquiescence binding everyone regardless of their beliefs and faith. Also that we must all fall in line with the rules made by white Christians whether they conform or not with the norms of the real doctrine as preached by Jesus Christ. They have used this term of Christian Nationalism as a tool and an underpinning object to advance White Supremacy and other racist ideologies. These inclinations include xenophobia, patriarchy, authoritarianism, theocracy and other vices used in

CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh the consolidation of power in the hands of a few men who must be white and Christians. Many have referred to this movement as “christofascism” by citing what the Nazis did in Germany in

the 1930s when it was called “positive Christianity.” For 400 years, the churches and their preachers have preached political ideologies from pulpits that have no value in the teachings of Jesus Christ, but have been all about control, hate, power and wickedness over people that are not white, and this became the roots of Christian Nationalism. Many decades ago as an undergraduate student in a Political Philosophy class, l encountered a poem that embraced religious revolution written by Langston Hughes, a black poet who was deservedly referred to as the poet laureate of black America. Hughes had written so many provocative poems that largely drew tremendous attention to the many religious contradictions that existed within the white churches and American democracy. He incurred the wrath of many white Christians who detested the controversial nature of his poems. His poems were meant to be some sort of protest against the domination of whites using the instruments of Christianity to exploit black and brown people. One of Hughe’s earth-shaking poems that captured my mind then and still remains very relevant today

was titled: “Goodbye Christ” This particular poem disturbed many Christians especially the white evangelicals. This poems went thus: Listen, Christ You did alright in your day, l reckon But that day’s gone now. They ghosted you up a swell story, too, Called it Bible But it’s dead now. The popes and the preachers’ve Made too much money from it. They’ve sold you to many Kings, generals, robbers, and killers Even to the Tzar and the Cossacks, Even to Rockefeller’s Church, Even to THE SATURDAY EVENING POST. You ain’t no good no more. They’ve pawned you Till you’ve done wore out. Hughes vacillated between owning his words Continued on page 31

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