Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reportedly decided to forgive individuals he previously regarded as his offenders, including prominent political figures, and withdraw all ongoing legal actions he had initiated against them. This development notably includes the high-profile defamation lawsuit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. According to his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio’s decision was profoundly influenced by the sermon delivered during a New Year church service. Eyiboh, in a statement he personally signed, revealed that the resolution followed a sermon preached at the New Year Mass at Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The priest, Reverend Father Donatus Udoette, delivered a homily emphasizing the themes of forgiveness, letting go of resentment, and prioritizing peace over personal grudges. “At a point during the sermon, the Senate President recognized that the message was addressing him directly,” Eyiboh said. Immediately after the service, Akpabio publicly announced that he had resolved to forgive all those who had wronged him, making it his New Year resolution for 2026. “He resolved not just to forgive verbally but to take actionable steps. This is why he instructed that all pending defamation suits he had filed be officially withdrawn,” Eyiboh explained. Among the cases affected is the ₦200 billion lawsuit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, which stemmed from allegations repeatedly denied by Akpabio and formally challenged in court. Eyiboh clarified that approximately nine defamation cases, including some involving Akpabio’s close aides, will no longer be pursued. “In Nigerian politics, it is common for leaders to leverage the courts to defend their reputations. However, this time, Akpabio opted for forgiveness over prolonged litigation,” Eyiboh noted. Faith-Inspired Leadership Eyiboh emphasized that the decision to forgive should not be perceived as a weakness, but rather as an expression of principled leadership rooted in faith. “Senator Akpabio is a devoted Christian. His faith is consistent and sincere, not seasonal or performative. He sees power as a trust from God, which comes with moral responsibilities.” In Nigeria, faith in politics is widespread, yet steadfast adherence to ethical principles is rare. Akpabio’s Christianity, Eyiboh explained, has significantly shaped his perspective on authority and governance. “For him, power is not merely seized or negotiated; it is entrusted. What is entrusted carries a moral obligation. This is where forgiveness moves beyond sentiment and becomes a framework for political philosophy.” Eyiboh highlighted that this approach has also influenced Akpabio’s leadership style in the Senate. “Under his guidance, the Senate has remained unusually productive and calm. More than ninety-six bills have been passed in two years, with over fifty-eight assented to by the President. In a chamber often characterized by theatrics, this stability is deliberate and reflects a leadership that values restraint, consensus, and constructive governance over spectacle.” Forgiveness as Political Strategy Eyiboh noted that withdrawing the defamation suits is both spiritually and politically strategic. “Legal battles consume focus and energy. By letting go, Akpabio is reclaiming emotional bandwidth necessary for institutional leadership. Forgiveness allows him to recommit to national priorities, promoting unity and nation-building.” He acknowledged that some critics might perceive forgiveness as a privilege for the powerful. “But this is precisely why it matters. When leaders demonstrate restraint, they set a precedent. Not every offense warrants retaliation, and not every disagreement must culminate in court.” Eyiboh further emphasized that Akpabio’s decision comes at a time when Senate unity is critical, amid circulating rumors of internal disagreements. “Opting for reconciliation rather than escalation strengthens institutional cohesion and enhances leadership credibility without relying on intimidation.” Public Lesson for Nigerians According to Eyiboh, Akpabio views forgiveness not just as a personal virtue but also as a lesson for the Nigerian populace. “By prioritizing forgiveness over litigation, Akpabio demonstrates that leadership can be exercised with generosity, credibility, and moral authority. True leadership does not demand constant confrontation; not every insult necessitates a legal response. Forgiveness involves risk—it may be misinterpreted as weakness—but it is a deliberate act of example.” Eyiboh added that Akpabio’s gesture challenges the false dichotomy often seen in Nigerian politics: leaders who deliver results but erode trust, and leaders who speak ethically but govern ineffectively. “The real test will be the sustainability of forgiveness. Its success will be measured by whether it reduces tensions, encourages reciprocal restraint, and fosters a culture of accountability and reconciliation.”
The Jigawa State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has urged its newly commissioned cadet officers to demonstrate exemplary conduct and serve as positive ambassadors of the force in all aspects of their duties. This directive was highlighted in an official statement issued to LMSINT MEDIA, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer of the state command, SP Shiisu Lawan Adam. The statement reflects the command’s commitment to maintaining high standards of discipline, professionalism, and community-focused policing. According to the statement, the State Commissioner of Police (CP), Dahiru Muhammad, personally welcomed twenty-nine (29) newly graduated Cadet Officers from the Nigeria Police Academy, Wudil, Kano. These officers have now been posted to the command headquarters located in Dutse, Jigawa State, to begin their active service. During the welcome ceremony, CP Muhammad congratulated the cadets on their successful completion of rigorous training, emphasizing the importance of discipline, integrity, professionalism, and respect for human rights as foundational principles in their new roles. The CP further advised the officers to foster a spirit of teamwork, embrace intelligence-led policing, and actively engage with communities to strengthen trust and cooperation between the police and the public. He assured the cadets of the full support of the Jigawa State Command, encouraging them to be worthy ambassadors of the Nigeria Police Force. He also disclosed that the cadet officers will be strategically deployed to various divisions across the state to reinforce existing manpower and enhance operational efficiency. Highlighting the broader goal of the state command, CP Muhammad reiterated the commitment to ensuring the safety and security of citizens. He urged all officers to provide credible, actionable intelligence to security agencies, which is essential in combating crime and criminal activities across Jigawa State. This initiative aligns with ongoing national efforts to improve policing standards, foster community engagement, and reduce crime rates across Nigeria, ensuring a safer environment for all citizens. The Jigawa State Police Command continues to emphasize professional development, community trust, and operational excellence as core elements in the continuous growth and success of the Nigeria Police Force.
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Residents of Jalingo, the capital city of Taraba State, are expressing heightened concern and anxiety following the recent announcement of a planned power outage by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). The scheduled interruption, set to begin on Friday, January 9, 2026, has particularly alarmed small-scale business owners who rely heavily on a stable electricity supply to maintain daily operations. This development comes barely a month after Jalingo and parts of the neighbouring Adamawa State experienced prolonged blackouts ahead of the yuletide season, causing significant disruptions to both economic and social activities across the region. Many local businesses, households, and institutions are still recovering from the previous power outages, making the timing of this new schedule a major source of stress for residents. According to an official statement from TCN management, the power shutdown is planned to last until Wednesday, January 13, 2026. The exercise aims to facilitate critical infrastructure upgrades, including line stringing works and the energisation of a new 150MVA power transformer at the Jalingo Transmission Substation. The outage is scheduled to commence at 09:00 hours on Friday and conclude at 17:00 hours on Wednesday, during which the Jalingo 330kV Transmission Station will be deactivated, leading to power supply interruptions across multiple areas in the state capital. The announcement has triggered widespread dissatisfaction among residents, many of whom are fearful of repeating the economic hardships caused by previous outages. Small business operators, in particular, have expressed concerns that the planned shutdown could disrupt trade and income generation, further straining households and local commerce. One local business owner, Bala Ande, recounted the difficulties faced during the last power interruption. He noted that many businesses were forced to close due to the prohibitive cost of alternative power sources such as petrol generators. “We all remember the hardships during the previous outage. Many businesses had to shut down because we couldn’t afford fuel for generators, and some don’t even have backup power,” Ande said. Similarly, Madam Esther, a hairdresser based in Jalingo, shared her concerns over the impact on her family’s finances. She lamented that the outage threatens her plans to raise her children’s school fees within the coming week. “I was hoping to meet my children’s school fees obligations soon, but this outage has disrupted those plans,” she explained. Residents are urging relevant authorities, particularly the government, to work more effectively with TCN and the Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) to address the frequent power interruptions caused by maintenance activities. “It’s about time the government collaborated closely with TCN and YEDC to find a lasting solution to these recurrent outages,” Esther added. The Jalingo power outage highlights the ongoing challenges in electricity distribution in Nigeria, particularly in states where commercial activities depend on consistent electricity supply. For businesses and households, planning ahead, investing in backup power solutions, and staying informed about scheduled maintenance are now essential strategies for mitigating economic and social disruption.
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The Jigawa State government has emphasized that resolving the recurring clashes between farmers and herders requires a joint effort from all stakeholders, including community leaders, farmers, herders, and government agencies. This statement was made by the Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, Engineer Aminu Usman Gumel, during the inauguration ceremony of the newly elected officials of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Jigawa State chapter, held in Dutse. Engineer Gumel stressed the importance of collective responsibility and sustained commitment from all parties involved to effectively address the persistent farmers-herdsmen conflicts that have affected communities across the state. He highlighted that the government is dedicated to fostering harmonious relationships and ensuring peaceful coexistence between farmers and cattle rearers. He specifically urged herders and farmers to work hand-in-hand with the state government in seeking long-term and sustainable solutions to these disputes. According to him, the administration of Governor Umar Namadi is fully committed to improving the welfare and livelihoods of Fulani cattle rearers. He noted that the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Livestock was part of the government’s strategy to tackle the challenges faced by herders and enhance agricultural productivity in Jigawa. The Deputy Governor also took the opportunity to congratulate the newly elected MACBAN executives, encouraging all association members to actively participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise. He described voter registration as an essential step for ensuring credible leadership and promoting community-driven development. Earlier, the National Chairman of MACBAN, Alhaji Baba Usman Nganjarma, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to collaborating with the government in fostering peace and development. He emphasized that the new executives are expected to carry out their responsibilities in strict adherence to the association’s constitution. He further warned that any official found neglecting their duties would be replaced to maintain accountability and efficiency within the association. The Jigawa State government’s proactive measures, coupled with MACBAN’s cooperation, reflect a growing effort to create a peaceful and prosperous environment for both farmers and herders. By fostering dialogue, collaboration, and responsible leadership, Jigawa aims to reduce the occurrence of conflicts and support sustainable agricultural and livestock development. Resolving farmers-herders conflicts is not solely the responsibility of government authorities; it requires active participation from local communities, traditional leaders, and stakeholders to promote peace and security across the state. With ongoing efforts and collaboration, Jigawa State is positioning itself as a model for conflict resolution in Northern Nigeria, demonstrating that collective responsibility is key to lasting peace and socio-economic growth.
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Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has openly commended the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, for implementing a policy that allows police officers to serve in their respective states of origin, describing the initiative as both thoughtful and highly beneficial. Governor Otti made this known on Thursday during a reception held in honour of 31 newly commissioned police officers of Abia State origin, who recently completed the 7th Regular Course at the Nigerian Police Academy and were officially deployed back to Abia State for service. According to the Governor, the decision to post officers to their home states is a practical and intelligent approach to policing, as it enhances efficiency, intelligence gathering, and community cooperation. He explained that officers who are indigenous to a state already possess in-depth knowledge of the environment, including its terrain, local customs, and social dynamics. Governor Otti further illustrated that officers posted to unfamiliar regions often face challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences, and prolonged adjustment periods, which may affect their performance in the early stages of deployment. In contrast, serving within one’s home state eliminates these obstacles and allows officers to function effectively from the outset. He noted that indigenous officers can easily understand conversations in local dialects and identify unusual movements within communities, thereby strengthening crime prevention and rapid response efforts. This, he said, gives the policy a strong advantage in addressing security concerns at the grassroots level. While expressing appreciation, Governor Otti formally acknowledged the IGP and his leadership team for introducing and sustaining the policy, describing it as a welcome development that aligns with modern policing standards. He reaffirmed Abia State’s support for the initiative and emphasized that the state is ready to cooperate fully with security agencies to maintain law and order. The Governor also reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to security, stressing that his government places high priority on safeguarding lives and property across the state. He assured the officers that the government remains attentive to all security-related developments within Abia. In his address to the newly deployed officers, Governor Otti urged them to remain disciplined, professional, and dedicated to their duties. He cautioned against any form of misconduct or unethical behaviour and encouraged them to uphold integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights while discharging their responsibilities. He further assured the officers that the state government would continue to engage relevant authorities to address welfare concerns affecting security personnel, recognizing that improved welfare contributes significantly to effective service delivery. Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Irozuru Somtochukwu Justice explained that the visit was a courtesy call to formally present themselves to the Governor following their commissioning and posting to Abia State. He expressed gratitude for the warm reception and pledged their commitment to serving the state diligently.
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The Rivers State House of Assembly has explained why its members turned down the Christmas cash gift sent by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, stressing that the decision was based strictly on constitutional and ethical grounds. The Assembly’s spokesperson, Hon. Enemi George, made this clarification during an appearance on Politics Today, a political programme aired on Channels Television. The interview was monitored on Thursday by LMSINT MEDIA. According to Hon. George, the lawmakers deliberately rejected the funds because accepting such money could expose them to serious legal consequences. He emphasized that the decision was not influenced by the amount involved but by the need to uphold the law and protect public office from abuse. It would be recalled that members of the Rivers State House of Assembly had earlier returned a sum of ₦100,000 that was paid into their individual bank accounts. The lawmakers described the payment as unsolicited, unauthorized, and not backed by any legislative approval. Explaining further, the Assembly spokesperson stated that the rejection was guided by principles rather than personal interests. He noted that there is no section of the Nigerian Constitution or any approved budgetary provision that permits the distribution of Christmas gifts to lawmakers using public funds. Hon. George questioned the legality of the payment, asking how such an expenditure could be defended when it was not captured in the state’s budget passed by the legislature. He maintained that neither the National Assembly nor any recognized legal framework provided room for such allocations. He also clarified that the rejection was not because the money was considered insignificant. Instead, he stressed that accepting it could amount to a violation of financial regulations, potentially leading to imprisonment. According to him, public funds must be treated with utmost responsibility because they do not belong to any individual, family, or private interest. Rather, such funds are the collective property of the people of Rivers State and must be managed transparently and lawfully. In his words, the lawmakers chose to return the money to avoid any action that could be interpreted as misuse of public resources or abuse of office. The Assembly, he said, remains committed to accountability, due process, and respect for constitutional provisions in handling government finances.
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The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has confirmed that 16 ships laden with petroleum products, food supplies, and other essential cargo have successfully docked at Lagos ports, including Lekki, Tincan Island, and Apapa. These vessels are currently awaiting clearance for the discharge of their shipments, which are vital for meeting both domestic and industrial demand across Nigeria. In its latest Shipping Position report, released and made available to journalists in Lagos on Thursday, the NPA stated that a total of 40 vessels carrying essential goods, petroleum products, and food items are scheduled to arrive at Lagos ports between January 8 and January 16, 2026. This development underscores Lagos ports’ continued role as a critical hub for maritime trade and supply chain management in West Africa. The incoming shipments include a wide array of cargo such as bulk diesel, petrol, crude oil, condensate, bulk gas, buckwheat, fresh fish, bulk urea, and several containerised goods. These commodities are crucial in ensuring stable supply levels, especially given the ongoing energy and agricultural needs in Nigeria. Currently, eight vessels are actively discharging their cargo at the ports. The discharged items range from containers carrying consumer goods to bulk diesel, urea fertilizer, and crude oil, demonstrating the variety of imports that Lagos ports handle daily. The NPA continues to monitor port activities closely to ensure the efficient handling of imports, which directly impacts national energy stability, food security, and the overall economy. Stakeholders in logistics, importation, and transportation are encouraged to stay updated with the NPA’s periodic shipping reports to optimize operations.
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The Kano State Fire Service has confirmed the death of two individuals who reportedly fell into wells in two different Local Government Areas of the state, sparking renewed concern over safety around uncovered wells in residential communities. According to the agency, the tragic events occurred in Madobi and Ghari Local Government Areas, where emergency rescue operations were carried out after distress alerts were received by the service’s control unit. In an official statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, ACFO Saminu Yusif Abdullahi, the agency disclosed that its headquarters control room responded to two separate emergency calls involving victims who had accidentally fallen into wells. Incident in Madobi Local Government Area The first rescue operation was recorded at approximately 12:15 p.m. in Kwankwaso town, located within Madobi Local Government Area. The fire service explained that the distress call was received from the Deputy Director of the Fire Service, Rabiu Garba Abdu, who alerted the control room about the emergency. Immediately after receiving the report, a rescue team was deployed from the agency’s headquarters to the location. Upon arrival, the responders discovered that a two-year-old child, identified as Sa’idu Ahmad, had fallen into a well within the community. Despite the swift response and the combined efforts of the rescue personnel, the situation took a heartbreaking turn. The child was eventually retrieved from the well in an unconscious condition. Although all possible efforts were made to revive him, the boy was later confirmed dead. The fire service stated that the remains of the victim were formally handed over to officers at the Madobi Police Division for further necessary procedures. Second Tragedy in Ghari Local Government Area The second incident was reported in Karofawa Yan Kifi village, under Ghari Local Government Area. Firefighters stationed at the Ghari Fire Station were mobilized to the scene following information that an adult had fallen into a well. On reaching the location, the team found a 28-year-old man, identified as Suleiman Sani, who had also accidentally fallen into the well. He was rescued from the well but was found to be unconscious. Sadly, he was later confirmed dead by his parents. Following confirmation of his death, the body was handed over to the Village Head of Karofawa, Alhaji Musa Aliyu, in line with local customs and procedures. Investigations and Safety Advisory The Kano State Fire Service noted that investigations are currently ongoing to establish the exact circumstances that led to both incidents. The agency expressed deep sympathy to the families affected by the tragedies and used the opportunity to remind residents of the importance of safety measures around wells. Members of the public were strongly advised to properly cover wells and ensure adequate protection to prevent accidental falls, especially in areas accessible to children and the general public.
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The Rivers State House of Assembly has reiterated that political negotiations may no longer be capable of stopping the ongoing impeachment process against Governor Siminalayi Fubara. This position was made public by the Assembly’s spokesperson, Enemi George, during a televised political discussion aired on Channels Television on Thursday and monitored by LMSINT MEDIA. According to George, attempts to frame the actions of the Rivers State House of Assembly as purely political undermine the integrity and independence of the legislative institution. He stressed that the lawmakers’ actions should not be dismissed as political drama but viewed through the lens of constitutional responsibility. The lawmaker maintained that the impeachment move is not driven by political rivalry but by repeated alleged violations of financial and constitutional procedures by the governor. He accused Governor Fubara of persistently handling public funds in a manner inconsistent with legal provisions, likening it to the use of government resources as personal assets. George explained that several political interventions had already been explored in the past, yet the same issues continued to resurface. He questioned the relevance of pursuing further political settlements when previous efforts failed to yield lasting compliance with the law. He emphasized that even political engagement must operate strictly within constitutional boundaries. According to him, once an elected official repeatedly breaches legal frameworks, such actions inevitably attract consequences that cannot be avoided through political sympathy or negotiation. The Assembly spokesperson further noted that the matter before the lawmakers is fundamentally legal rather than political. He insisted that the constitution remains supreme and that no individual, regardless of office, is above its provisions. George also referenced the role of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in earlier peace efforts, stating that the president had personally invested time and effort in bringing together relevant stakeholders to resolve the crisis. He argued that repeated violations after such interventions could be perceived as disregard for both the peace process and the authority of those who facilitated it. According to the lawmaker, expecting continued presidential intervention after alleged repeated breaches of agreements and constitutional norms is unrealistic. He concluded that respect for the rule of law must take precedence over political considerations, especially when governance and public trust are at stake.
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In a shocking incident in Minneapolis, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent fatally shot a woman, Renee Nicole Good, during a tense operation in the city. The Department of Homeland Security described Good as a “violent rioter” who allegedly attempted to run over ICE officers. However, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned the incident, describing it as “an agent recklessly using power that resulted in somebody dying,” and directed ICE officials to leave the city in strongly worded remarks. This incident occurs as hundreds of ICE agents have been deployed nationwide as part of the White House’s intensified efforts to curb illegal immigration. Minneapolis has become one of the focal points of this nationwide operation, sparking heated debates on law enforcement accountability and civil rights. The Shooting Captured on Video Social media posts from eyewitnesses provide chilling footage of the moment the shooting occurred around 10:25 a.m. local time on Wednesday. From multiple angles, a maroon SUV is visible blocking a residential street in Minneapolis, surrounded by a group of protesters. Law enforcement vehicles and ICE agents are nearby, confronting the woman behind the wheel. The footage shows one agent attempting to open the driver’s side door, while another stands near the front of the SUV. The exact distance between the agent and the vehicle at the time of the shooting remains unclear, and initial video reviews by the BBC could not confirm whether the agent was struck by the car. As the SUV tried to drive off, the agent fired, hitting the vehicle. Three gunshots are audible, and the SUV loses control, crashing into a parked car along the street. Conflicting Accounts and Reactions Former U.S. President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social, described the incident as a “vicious” attack on an ICE officer, noting that the officer was seriously injured but survived. Trump further criticized the “Radical Left” for allegedly targeting law enforcement officials and ICE agents daily. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara explained that the driver was initially stationary, blocking Portland Avenue, before she began driving as a federal officer approached her. Meanwhile, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem characterized Good’s actions as attempts to “stalk and impede officers” and described her use of the vehicle as an act of “domestic terrorism.” Noem confirmed that the ICE agent returned fire in self-defense and was treated at a local hospital. Conversely, the Minneapolis City Council released a statement asserting that Good was “caring for her neighbors” at the time of the shooting, highlighting the conflicting narratives surrounding the event. Eyewitness Reports Emily Heller, who witnessed the incident from her home, told CNN that she saw ICE agents confronting protesters and the woman in the SUV. Heller recounted that an agent attempted to open the vehicle’s door, prompting Good to reverse her SUV. She then described the agent stepping in front of the vehicle and shooting at close range through the windshield. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also pushed back against federal claims, cautioning the public not to accept “propaganda” and promising a thorough investigation to ensure justice and accountability. Top Democratic leaders, including former Vice President Kamala Harris and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, criticized the Trump administration’s narrative. Harris described it as “gaslighting,” emphasizing the need for transparency and due process. Protests Erupt Across the City and Nationwide The fatal shooting prompted protests in several parts of Minneapolis, with residents demanding ICE withdrawal and accountability for the incident. Demonstrations centered near the shooting site, approximately one mile from the location where George Floyd was killed in 2020, an event that sparked global anti-racism protests. Other U.S. cities, including New Orleans, Miami, Seattle, and New York City, also witnessed demonstrations in solidarity. Minneapolis Public Schools announced that classes would be suspended for the remainder of the week due to safety concerns, following reports that federal agents had made arrests outside a local high school. Ongoing Investigations ICE operations in Minneapolis are set to continue, and the FBI has confirmed it will investigate Wednesday’s fatal shooting. Secretary Noem noted that the same agent involved had previously been hit by a vehicle in the line of duty earlier this year, underscoring the dangers faced by federal law enforcement officers. As investigations unfold, the event has reignited debates about law enforcement practices, use of deadly force, and the balance between federal immigration enforcement and community safety.
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Business activities remain at a standstill in Balogun Market, Lagos Island, as traders continue to express frustration over the prolonged closure of shops and blocked access routes following the fire outbreak at the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building on December 24, 2025. Several traders operating within the busy commercial hub say the Lagos State Government’s continued sealing of shops and restriction of movement have left them financially stranded, barely able to cater for their families. The tragic fire incident claimed the lives of eight individuals, including three members of the same family — Stephen Onyeka Omatu, Casmir Nnabuike Omatu, and Collins Kenechukwu Omatu. Despite the intervention of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the fire has not been fully extinguished, raising safety concerns within the area. As a result, hundreds of shops across the multibillion-naira Balogun business district remain closed, disrupting daily trade and economic activities. When observers visited the market recently, clusters of traders were seen holding discussions, mourning the deceased, and sharing concerns about their uncertain future. Traders Count Losses as Businesses Remain Shut One of the affected traders, Martin Amalos, disclosed that his shop had remained sealed since December 25, 2025. According to him, the situation has severely affected his ability to provide basic necessities for his household. He explained that he trades in children’s clothing and the incident occurred during what should have been a peak sales period. With his shop inaccessible, he said he had exhausted his savings and now struggles daily to survive. Another trader, Oduloye Bimpe, described the closure as sudden and lacking any form of government support. She lamented that traders arrived at the market only to find their shops locked without prior assistance or alternatives. She questioned the lack of intervention measures, noting that many traders have dependants relying solely on daily sales for survival. While acknowledging safety concerns, she argued that the affected building should have been demolished by now to allow business activities to gradually resume. Families Plunged Into Hardship A fabrics dealer, Maduabuchukwu Ifeakomili, stated that many traders have been pushed into severe hardship due to the shutdown. He emphasized that most Balogun traders depend on daily income and cannot afford extended business closures. He appealed to the state government to reopen unaffected sections of the market and other sealed areas to ease the suffering of traders. According to him, several residents were also rendered homeless after their homes were sealed following the incident. Ifeakomili revealed that he had to borrow ₦12,000 just to feed his family, highlighting the growing desperation among affected traders. He further urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to order the demolition of the damaged building to prevent further delays. Government Defends Closure Over Safety Concerns Reacting to the complaints, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotosho, explained that the government’s decision was based strictly on public safety considerations. He warned that the 25-storey GNI building could collapse at any time, posing serious danger to anyone within a 100-metre radius. According to him, prioritizing human lives over economic activity remains the government’s foremost concern. Omotosho added that the area had only been shut for about two weeks, yet reports had emerged of individuals entering the site during the fire to retrieve goods and never returning. He stressed that the government’s actions were not driven by insensitivity but by the need to prevent further loss of life, noting that over ten buildings were affected by the incident. Condolences From Anambra State Governor Meanwhile, Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the devastating GNI building fire. He described the incident as deeply tragic and extended sympathies to all affected parties.
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A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has granted bail to former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), in connection with an alleged ₦9 billion money laundering case instituted by the Federal Government. The ruling was delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite, who admitted Malami to bail in the sum of ₦500 million, pending the commencement of his trial. As part of the bail conditions, the former justice minister is required to present two sureties, each standing for him in the same financial amount. Justice Nwite specifically ruled that the sureties must be property owners within Maitama, Asokoro, or Gwarimpa, all located within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. The court further directed that all property documents submitted by the sureties must undergo verification by the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Federal High Court. In addition, the sureties are mandated to submit sworn affidavits of means to confirm their financial capacity. The court also placed strict travel restrictions on Malami. He is required to submit all international travel documents, including his passport, to the court registry and must not leave the country without explicit judicial approval. Furthermore, both Malami and his sureties were ordered to submit two recent passport photographs each. Prior to meeting the bail requirements, the former Attorney General had been remanded at the Kuje Correctional Facility. Justice Nwite extended the same bail conditions to Malami’s son, Abdulaziz Malami, his wife, and Hajia Asabe Bashir, an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, all of whom are standing trial alongside him. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed a 16-count charge against Malami, his son, and his wife, bordering on alleged money laundering offences amounting to ₦9 billion. During the proceedings, the presiding judge issued a stern warning to legal practitioners and litigants involved in the case. He cautioned them against attempting to influence the court or seeking personal favours, emphasizing that judicial independence would be strictly upheld. In a statement released after the court session, the EFCC disclosed that Justice Nwite made it clear that any display of leniency by the court should not be misinterpreted as weakness. He stressed that the rule of law would be applied firmly without compromise. Justice Nwite later scheduled February 17 as the date for the commencement of the trial. Addressing members of the bar and parties to the case, the judge emphasized that professionalism must guide all court interactions. He stated that lawyers best serve their clients by offering competent legal representation rather than attempting inappropriate engagements with the court. According to him, any effort to undermine his integrity or cast aspersions on his judicial role would be strongly resisted.
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Following the implementation of the Tax Reform Act, which officially took effect on January 1, 2026, the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS) has announced a temporary halt to the issuance of new tax assessments by revenue consultants across the state. The decision was communicated through an official statement released on January 6, 2026, directing all consultants involved in state revenue collection to immediately suspend assessment activities related to state taxes and levies. According to the Service, this suspension will remain in place until further notice. CRIRS explained that the move is part of a broader effort to ensure full compliance with the Nigerian Tax Administration Act, 2025, especially as it relates to the appointment, conduct, and operational scope of tax agents and professionals engaged by the state government. The agency noted that pausing the assessment process will allow adequate review of existing procedures, ensuring that all tax collection mechanisms align strictly with the newly introduced legal and administrative framework. This review process is also expected to significantly reduce revenue leakages and eliminate irregular practices within the system. Speaking on the development, the Executive Chairman of CRIRS, Prince Edwin Okon, described the directive as a vital component of the state’s ongoing tax reform agenda. He emphasized that the reforms are designed to strengthen transparency, accountability, and overall efficiency in revenue administration across Cross River State. Prince Okon further explained that the reform measures will promote the harmonisation of taxes and levies, address the long-standing issue of multiple taxation, and enhance record-keeping through improved data management systems. As part of the new operational structure, CRIRS formally announced the discontinuation of cash-based tax payments. Taxpayers are now required to make all payments exclusively through approved digital platforms or by depositing funds directly into officially designated government revenue accounts. The Service also issued a strong warning to residents, advising them not to make tax payments into personal or corporate bank accounts belonging to revenue consultants, tax agents, or officials, stressing that such practices are no longer recognised under the new framework. While acknowledging concerns from members of the public, CRIRS reassured taxpayers that the reforms are not intended to be punitive. Instead, the Service stated that the measures aim to simplify tax processes, promote fairness, and create a more transparent system that benefits both the government and citizens. FOREST PROTECTION EFFORTS INTENSIFIED IN CROSS RIVER In a separate but related development, authorities in Cross River State have intensified efforts to safeguard the Cross River National Park amid growing threats posed by illegal mining activities and other forms of forest encroachment. Concerns have risen over the increasing pressure on protected forest areas, prompting renewed enforcement actions. As part of this response, park rangers and forest guards are currently undergoing specialised training designed to strengthen their capacity to prevent illegal activities within the park and its surrounding buffer zones. The refresher training programme was conducted at the Erokut Base Camp, located within the Akamkpa axis of the national park. The initiative focuses on enhancing the operational readiness of frontline officers who regularly patrol areas identified as high-risk zones. Conservation groups have raised alarms over escalating cases of unlawful mining, unauthorized farming, and wildlife-related crimes, all of which pose serious threats to the forest ecosystem. The training was organised by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) with financial support from the European Union (EU). It concentrated on improving ranger safety, enforcement strategies, operational effectiveness, and community engagement approaches. Addressing participants at the closing ceremony, the Cross River Landscape Director of WCS, Anthony Atah, explained that the programme was specifically designed to tackle emerging challenges confronting the park. He noted that illegal extraction activities continue to degrade forest resources and undermine long-term conservation efforts in the state
