In a major breakthrough, the Abia State Police Command has successfully dismantled a notorious kidnapping ring operating within the state, neutralizing five members of the gang and recovering a cache of dangerous weapons, including six AK-47 rifles. This was officially confirmed on Monday, August 4th, 2025, by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Maureen Chinaka, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the state. According to the report, a coordinated operation was executed by the Command’s tactical units who raided a hideout located in Umuiku Obete Village, within the Ukwa West Local Government Area. The location had previously been identified as a hotspot connected to numerous kidnapping cases in the region. Fierce Gun Battle with Suspects The police statement indicated that the criminal gang launched an aggressive attack upon spotting the advancing officers. However, due to the well-planned tactical approach and superior firepower of the security operatives, five gang members were gunned down during the crossfire. During the sweep of the hideout, police recovered a substantial amount of arms and items, which included: DSP Chinaka emphasized that investigations are ongoing to track down other suspected members of the gang who escaped during the operation. She also urged residents of Abia State to promptly report any individuals found with gunshot wounds to the nearest police station or call the state’s emergency hotlines for immediate response. This latest action underscores the commitment of the Abia Police Command to intensify the crackdown on violent crimes, enhance community safety, and restore peace across troubled localities in the state.
In a decisive move to restore order on Lagos roads, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has begun an aggressive enforcement operation targeting event centres, nightclubs, lounges, and organisers of large social events that obstruct traffic and disrupt public order across the state. This directive was issued by the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, during a series of unscheduled surveillance exercises along traffic-prone zones in the Lagos metropolis. Road Obstruction by Events: A Growing Concern in Lagos The LASTMA chief expressed grave concern over the increasing trend of public road encroachment during social events, especially on weekends and festive periods. According to him, improper parking and crowd overflow onto public roadways are causing: “No one — regardless of their influence or status — is allowed to convert public roads into private parking spaces,” – Olalekan Bakare-Oki, LASTMA GM Government’s Position on Public Infrastructure Misuse The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward the misuse of public infrastructure, particularly roadways. According to Mr. Bakare-Oki, any event venue — whether a nightclub, wedding hall, or lounge — found guilty of causing traffic disruption through illegal parking or road blockage will be sanctioned and possibly prosecuted under existing traffic laws. ✅ Related Post: Understanding Lagos Traffic Laws and penalties Immediate Actions Being Taken by LASTMA To ensure effective compliance, the LASTMA GM has directed all zonal commanders and field operatives to: Public Involvement and Reporting Channels Citizens are strongly encouraged to report any traffic obstruction caused by events via LASTMA’s toll-free emergency line. Community participation is key to ensuring a safe and accessible city for all road users. You can also find information on how to report via their official website. What Event Organizers Must Do Going Forward Event hosts and hospitality venue owners are advised to: This is not just a compliance issue, but a civic duty toward ensuring public safety and order in Lagos. A Shared Responsibility Bakare-Oki emphasized that managing traffic during events is a shared responsibility between organisers, venue owners, and state authorities. Ignoring traffic protocols during events reflects poor planning and disregard for public safety. “We must all work together. The streets of Lagos are not private spaces for events,” he concluded. Why This Matters to You Whether you’re an event organizer, a commuter, or a concerned Lagosian, understanding these new rules can help: Final Thoughts The ongoing crackdown by LASTMA is a timely intervention aimed at curbing urban chaos and improving the daily experiences of millions navigating Lagos roads. As public infrastructure continues to be overstretched, it’s crucial that every stakeholder does their part to support the vision of a more organized, mobile, and livable Lagos. If you found this update helpful, check out our Lagos Governance and Civic Compliance section for more actionable insights and updates.
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Amnesty International Nigeria has formally called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive and urgent action regarding the disappearance of Nigerian university lecturer and social media commentator, Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata, who vanished under mysterious circumstances in Kaduna State six years ago. The global human rights organization expressed deep concern over the prolonged silence and lack of credible investigation into the lecturer’s abduction, which occurred on August 2, 2019. Amnesty International urged the President to demonstrate leadership by addressing what previous administrations failed to resolve. Amnesty: Six Years of Government Silence Is Unacceptable While speaking to journalists at a press conference held in Kaduna, Isa Sanusi, the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, criticized the persistent inaction and seeming indifference of the Nigerian government in the face of an unresolved and suspicious disappearance. Sanusi stressed that six years is an agonizingly long period, especially for the loved ones of someone forcibly taken, and yet the authorities have made no transparent effort to uncover the truth behind Dadiyata’s disappearance. He emphasized that President Tinubu has a moral and constitutional responsibility to show commitment where his predecessor failed. Crackdown on Critics and Culture of Silence According to Amnesty’s findings and observations over the years, critical voices in Nigeria—like Dadiyata—have increasingly come under attack. Isa Sanusi noted that the past few years have witnessed unlawful detentions, harassment, and legally questionable actions against dissenting voices and government critics. He further pointed out that state actors have engaged in vexatious litigation and intimidation, all of which create an environment of fear, insecurity, and repression. This is why the government’s passive stance on Dadiyata’s case is not only alarming but symptomatic of a wider crisis in democratic expression and freedom of speech in Nigeria. Six Years, No Update—No Justice Sanusi lamented the fact that apart from unfulfilled and superficial promises by the police to investigate, there has been no concrete action or update six years after the incident. He stated: “The Nigerian police and security agencies have not made any meaningful progress or publicly disclosed any findings. This total lack of accountability deepens the pain of Dadiyata’s family and erodes public trust.” He added that enforced disappearances like Dadiyata’s are characteristic of societies where rule of law is weak, and such acts are explicitly prohibited under international human rights law. Enforced disappearances also infringe upon numerous fundamental rights including the right to liberty, security, and access to justice. Call for Transparency and Accountability Amnesty International insists that Nigerian authorities must close all speculative narratives surrounding Dadiyata’s fate by conducting a thorough, impartial, and credible investigation. The government must also make the findings public to bring closure to the victim’s family, friends, and the broader community affected by this tragedy. Sanusi reiterated that such unresolved abductions instill widespread fear, not only within families directly affected but also among communities across Nigeria. This, in turn, contributes to a climate of terror and silence, which is antithetical to democratic principles and human rights. Abduction Details: A Night of Horror in Kaduna To recall the tragic incident, Abubakar Idris (Dadiyata) returned to his Kaduna residence on the evening of August 2, 2019, after a long day. Just as he was about to lock his front gate, he was ambushed by unknown armed men, reportedly wearing masks and heavily armed. Eyewitness accounts from his family say the assailants forced him into his own vehicle and drove off, vanishing without a trace. Since that day, there has been no contact or demand, and the perpetrators have never been identified or apprehended. Amnesty International and numerous Nigerians believe that Dadiyata’s disappearance is likely connected to his vocal criticism of government policies and politicians on social media. The organization insists that no individual should be targeted for exercising their right to free expression.
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The Niger State Police Command has apprehended 24 suspected criminals in a string of coordinated operations aimed at dismantling major criminal hideouts in Minna, the state capital. This was revealed in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, who noted that the strategic operation was supervised by Commissioner of Police Adamu Abdullahi Elleman. The raids were carried out on July 30, between the early hours of 3:00 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., targeting specific locations including Unguwan-Roka, Kwari-Berger, Flamingo, and Tudun Wada within the Maitumbi axis of Minna. According to the police, some of the suspects arrested include Abubakar Nura (23), Auwal Mohammed (20), Suleiman Hassan (21), Alhassan Mohammed (19), and Usman Abubakar Bahaho (18). During the sweep, law enforcement agents recovered one pump-action firearm loaded with cartridges, cutlasses, a pair of scissors, and what appeared to be suspected illegal substances. In a separate but related operation, officers apprehended two gang members who were trying to escape from a shop linked to a suspected gang leader. Additionally, eleven more individuals were arrested in different locations under similar criminal suspicion. Commissioner Elleman urged the residents of the affected communities to stay calm, assuring the public of the command’s unwavering dedication to fighting crime and ensuring the safety of lives and property in the state.
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In Kano State, a group of distressed women and young girls staged a public protest in the Kofar Mata axis, a region notoriously plagued by violent thuggery and frequent killings. The demonstration was a response to the ongoing bloodshed that has robbed many of their loved ones. On Saturday, the demonstrators—comprising mothers, sisters, and daughters—marched boldly through the streets, calling for an immediate and lasting end to the wave of violence sweeping through their communities. Chanting emotionally charged slogans and wielding placards, the protesters demanded urgent governmental intervention. “Our sons are dying for no reason. Every day, there’s a stabbing, a killing, or some violent fight,” a heartbroken mother cried out during the protest. Another woman, visibly frustrated, added, “This cannot go on any longer.” Kano has recently experienced a dangerous spike in urban violence. Street crimes such as thuggery, phone snatching, and gang clashes have become daily occurrences, fueling anxiety among residents. Disturbing incidents were reported on July 31st and August 1st, 2025, when rival groups clashed violently in the same troubled area. A local health worker, Sadiya Umar, shared her personal account with LMSINT MEDIA: “I passed through the area today. I heard the blast of tear gas and what I believe were gunshots.” Although she confirmed no reported fatalities, she emphasized the fear and trauma caused by the volatile environment. The deteriorating security has resulted in the tragic loss of young lives, as many teenagers and youths are increasingly caught in the deadly conflict among street gangs. One recent and shocking case emerged from Nassarawa Local Government Area, where a gang of phone snatchers, having just robbed victims at knifepoint, was hit by a vehicle while trying to escape. The incident was captured on video and widely circulated online, depicting the suspects being overpowered and brutally beaten by furious residents before being turned over to the police. Such community-led reprisals are becoming more common, fueled by frustration over the perceived inefficiency of law enforcement. In several instances, angry mobs have taken justice into their own hands, catching and severely punishing suspects before involving the authorities. Reacting to the alarming trend, the Kano State Police Command initiated Operation Kukan Kura in early 2025. This special security operation specifically targets criminal gangs involved in phone snatching and youth-related violence, particularly those associated with the local group known as ‘Yan Daba’. According to the police, Operation Kukan Kura has made measurable progress, resulting in multiple arrests and intensified security patrols across crime-prone areas. The public can view regular updates and successes from the operation on the Facebook page of the command’s spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa. Despite these efforts, many residents remain skeptical and insist that more consistent and strategic interventions are necessary to restore peace and protect innocent lives.
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In a strategic security move under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Nigerian military troops have neutralized a suspected bandit during a raid in the Mararaba Gbagi community of Benue State. This targeted clearance operation took place on Tuesday, July 30, 2025, following actionable intelligence reports pointing to the presence of criminal armed elements operating within the region. According to a statement released by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, who currently serves as the Acting Media Information Officer for OPWS, the troops were swiftly deployed to the identified location and engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle. “The troops encountered heavy resistance but maintained fire superiority. One of the armed criminals was neutralized, while others managed to escape into nearby areas with various degrees of gunshot injuries,” Lieutenant Zubairu confirmed. Following the successful engagement, troops uncovered a hidden weapons cache believed to be used by the armed group. The items recovered from the site included: In addition to the weaponry, the soldiers discovered and destroyed ritual charms and makeshift shrines used by the suspects, which were believed to offer mystical protection and perceived invulnerability during criminal activities. Major General Moses Gara, Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, commended the troops for their courage, tactical precision, and the seamless execution of the mission. He further reiterated the military’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability in Benue and surrounding states. “This operation sends a direct and stern message to all criminal actors: there is no refuge for banditry, insurgency, or violent crimes within our operational zones,” General Gara emphasized. He urged citizens to maintain active cooperation with security agencies by sharing reliable intelligence that can help thwart future threats. Background on Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) Launched as a strategic response to the rise in armed banditry, communal violence, and terrorism, Operation Whirl Stroke covers volatile areas across Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, and parts of Niger State. The mission continues to record notable progress in dismantling terror networks and restoring law and order in communities previously destabilized by conflict.
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A petroleum tanker transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly referred to as petrol, was involved in another road accident within Oyo State, intensifying concerns over tanker safety in the region. According to verified information obtained by LMSINT MEDIA, the accident took place on Tuesday near the AIB Filling Station, situated in the Eleyele area of Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State. Eyewitnesses at the location reported that the tanker, bearing the registration number T21044LA from Lagos State, lost control and veered off the main road. As a result of the incident, the tanker plunged into a roadside ditch, causing a massive spill as the flammable petroleum contents surged out uncontrollably. Emergency services were swiftly alerted following the accident. The Oyo State Fire Service was notified and promptly responded to the emergency. In a press release provided to LMSINT MEDIA on Wednesday, the Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Honourable Maroof Akinwande, confirmed the occurrence and the agency’s response. According to the statement, a dedicated team led by Chief Fire Superintendent Olayiwola was immediately dispatched to the crash site. The team confirmed that the tanker was carrying a full load of 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) when it swerved off the road and crashed into the ditch, releasing its contents in large volumes. Akinwande further disclosed that the emergency response team was able to safely recover the tanker from the location. Vehicular movement and normal daily activities have since resumed along the affected stretch of road. This latest occurrence follows closely on the heels of a similar tanker incident that took place in Ogbomoso, also within Oyo State, just last week—prompting renewed conversations about safety measures and roadworthiness of petroleum transport vehicles in Nigeria.
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A sorrowful tragedy unfolded in Zangon Maje community, located in Taura Local Government Area (LGA) of Jigawa State, where a boat transporting 17 individuals—majorly young girls—overturned in the middle of a river, leading to multiple casualties and an ongoing search and rescue effort. According to a statement released on Tuesday by the spokesperson of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACSC) Badruddeen Tijjani Mahmud, the heartbreaking incident took place on Sunday. Reports confirmed that the ill-fated boat was conveying passengers from Digawa Village in Jahun LGA to Zangon Maje in Taura LGA when it capsized mid-river. Out of the 17 onboard, 16 were young girls between the ages of 10 and 13. The reason for their journey is yet to be officially stated, though they were believed to be returning from an errand or visitation. Rescue operations commenced immediately following the disaster. Seven of the girls were successfully pulled out of the river alive. However, four lifeless bodies were later recovered from the waters, and search operations are ongoing to locate the remaining five missing passengers. Authorities are yet to identify the precise cause of the incident. Investigations are currently in progress to determine the factors that led to the accident. The Jigawa State NSCDC Commandant, Bala Bawa Bodinga, conveyed his condolences and sorrow regarding the tragic loss of lives. “It’s heartbreaking to lose such promising young lives,” said Commandant Bodinga. “Our deepest sympathies go to the families of those who have passed. We will not rest until the missing individuals are found. Additionally, we are reviewing safety measures across our inland waterways to prevent future incidents of this nature.” The commandant also acknowledged the swift and courageous response from local volunteers and emergency responders, whose efforts were crucial in rescuing survivors and assisting with recovery operations.
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…Disputes Intensify on Tariff Subsidy and Regulation Autonomy The recent shift by several Nigerian state governments to assert authority over electricity market regulation in line with the amended Electricity Act 2024 has escalated tensions across the nation’s power industry, Business Hallmark has learned. The Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC), along with other state-based regulatory bodies, has begun setting independent electricity tariffs within their territories. This move has ignited fierce resistance from stakeholders in the power sector who are unhappy with the abrupt departure from the existing national pricing order. State regulators insist they are legally empowered by the new Electricity Act to manage electricity supply, pricing, and distribution locally. However, operators, supported by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), argue that these state-level actions overstep their bounds and contradict national policies. Industry experts warn that unless this dispute is swiftly resolved, it could derail federal efforts to reform Nigeria’s long-struggling electricity sector. Electricity Act 2024: Empowering States or Worsening Chaos? President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in February 2024, signed into law the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill 2024, which fundamentally restructured the Nigerian power system by granting states the authority to manage electricity generation, transmission, and distribution within their boundaries. Following its passage through the House of Representatives in July 2023 and the Senate in November 2023, the law came into force in mid-2024, allowing NERC to license state commissions. As of now, states like Enugu, Ondo, Ekiti, Imo, Oyo, Edo, Kogi, Lagos, Ogun, Niger, and Plateau have successfully secured regulatory rights to oversee electricity affairs within their borders, while others are still in the process of meeting NERC’s conditions. Enugu Sets a Precedent with New Electricity Tariff Emboldened by its regulatory mandate, Enugu State on July 19, 2025, through its Electricity Regulatory Commission, issued a new pricing order to MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited—successor to the former Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). Tariff Order No. EERC/2025/003 mandates MainPower to reduce the electricity tariff for Band A consumers from N209 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to N160/kWh, effective from August 1. The EERC defended its action, citing compliance with the Enugu State Electricity Law of 2023, which grants it the power to oversee energy distribution and pricing in the state. Subsidies and the New Tariff Model According to EERC Chairman Engr. Chijioke Okonkwo, the revised tariffs reflect the federal government’s ongoing electricity generation subsidies. He explained that the commission, using the 2024 Tariff Methodology Regulations and a tailored Distribution Tariff Model, derived an average cost of N94/kWh. This lower rate was possible due to an N45 federal subsidy out of an actual production cost of N112 for Enugu State. He noted, “We calculated a cost-reflective tariff based on the assumption that the federal government will continue subsidizing power generation.” FOCPEN Throws Its Support Behind EERC The move by Enugu State has drawn backing from other states. The Forum of Commissioners of Power and Energy in Nigeria (FOCPEN) expressed solidarity with EERC’s decision. FOCPEN leaders, Prince Eka Williams of Cross River and Omale Omale of Benue, stated that Enugu’s move aligns fully with the 1999 Constitution, the Electricity Act 2023, and relevant state laws. They emphasized that state regulators have the legal backing to determine fair electricity tariffs that balance consumer protection with investor interests. They also clarified that the tariff review process was rigorous, involving a detailed assessment of MainPower’s capital and operational expenditures as well as their regulatory asset base and customer classifications. Anticipation Among Consumers Spurs Confusion Across Nigeria, consumers are reacting to the anticipated drop in electricity prices. Many with prepaid meters are limiting their purchases, hoping to benefit from lower tariffs in August, while those on estimated billing are refusing to settle their current bills. One such consumer, Rafiu Adepoju, a cobbler in Agege, Lagos, shared, “I only bought N5,000 electricity this week. I heard the price is going down soon.” Despite being reminded that the new tariffs apply solely to Enugu, Rafiu insisted that Ikeja Electric would follow suit based on a yet-unconfirmed memo from the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC). Business Hallmark investigations revealed that these claims were not substantiated. National Electricity Stakeholders Push Back Major operators and regulators have rejected the idea of each state setting its own pricing, warning that it could severely destabilize the electricity market. The Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED) said that Enugu’s independent action has led to increased pressure on other distribution companies to cut their prices as well. ANED’s CEO, Sunday Oduntan, explained that many customers across Nigeria are threatening to stop paying bills, expecting similar tariff reductions. Oduntan criticized the EERC for issuing the order without consulting with NERC or the wider industry. He warned that such disjointed policies could reduce payment remittances to the national grid and affect power generation companies (GenCos) and other stakeholders. Power Generators Reject EERC Tariff Model Echoing ANED’s stance, the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC), led by Joy Ogaji, denounced the tariff cut, stating that it’s based on flawed financial projections. Ogaji cautioned that if states continue to follow EERC’s lead, it could threaten national energy sustainability. She questioned whether Enugu expects the federal government to continue subsidizing its electricity or if it plans to independently manage accumulated sector debts and liabilities. NERC Warns States to Respect Wholesale Cost Realities NERC has issued a strong warning, stressing that states do not have the legal mandate to regulate power stations operating under federal licenses or interfere with national grid dynamics. The commission insisted that any deviation from wholesale pricing structures must be matched with adequate subsidies from the state to avoid destabilizing the electricity market. NERC cited Order No. EERC/2025/003 and criticized the reduction of Band A customer tariffs to N160.4/kWh, highlighting a risky assumption that N66.85/kWh of the cost will be subsidized. Citing Section 34(1) of the Electricity Act, NERC reminded stakeholders of their statutory obligation to promote a stable and viable electricity market, urging sub-national regulators not to make unilateral decisions that jeopardize market stability. Energy Experts Call for
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The current Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has publicly confirmed that the Commission is actively investigating 18 sitting governors across various states of Nigeria for financial-related misconduct. However, he emphasized a significant legal limitation: while investigations are ongoing, no legal prosecution can take place until the respective governors vacate their offices. Olukoyede stated, “We don’t wait until governors finish their term before commencing investigations. As of now, we are conducting thorough probes on 18 sitting governors. Once their immunity expires, we will move forward accordingly.” This was disclosed during a recent public engagement program, seemingly serving both as a notice and deterrent. Although the EFCC is empowered to investigate and prevent financial crimes, critics argue that merely investigating without immediate accountability is ineffective. This is often compared to locking the stable after the horse has already escaped. The inability to prosecute while a governor remains in power complicates anti-corruption efforts, especially when dealing with Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs). For this reason, there are growing calls for a constitutional review of the immunity clause shielding public officials. Back in 2007, during the tenure of the EFCC’s pioneering chairman, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, similar revelations were made. He had completed probes into several governors and awaited the end of their tenures to commence prosecution. Sadly, nearly two decades later, a majority of those cases have yet to reach any conclusive judgments. Ribadu’s reports included allegations such as money laundering, manipulation of local government allocations, and inflation of contract values. In some cases, the wives of governors were allegedly involved in laundering illicit funds. For example, a governor from the South-East region reportedly used family members—his wife, daughter, mother, and brother—to misappropriate N35 billion, which was allegedly used to establish a private airline, a pharmaceutical company, and a media house. In another shocking case, a different governor, along with four aides, was arraigned on a 16-count charge of misappropriating N60.85 billion in public funds. Some governors worked hand-in-hand with local government officials to siphon off state funds. In oil-rich South-South states, EFCC reports indicate that 13% derivation funds meant for development were funneled into foreign accounts. From the North-West, another governor allegedly diverted a N1 billion loan intended for developmental projects. The EFCC’s journey has been described as a “mirage”—the more you examine, the less tangible the results become. Public confidence in the agency has waned over time, with many Nigerians disillusioned by drawn-out court cases, ambiguous plea bargains, and inconclusive investigations. A few notable convictions stand out: Joshua Dariye and Jolly Nyame were sentenced but later received presidential pardons from Muhammadu Buhari. Former Delta State governor, James Ibori, was jailed in the UK for corruption, while Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, former governor of Bayelsa State, was also convicted. Alamieyeseigha was found with $1.5 million hidden in his London apartment and $2.7 million in a foreign bank account. These few high-profile convictions were mostly achieved with international cooperation. Following the exit of President Olusegun Obasanjo, whose administration took an aggressive stance on anti-corruption, many pending corruption cases lost momentum. Ribadu, once the poster face of the EFCC, also fled the country under political pressure. Obasanjo had shown firm political will. In 1999, after his electoral victory, Dr. Peter Eigen of Transparency International described Obasanjo as “a principled anti-corruption crusader” and called on the international community to support Nigeria’s reforms. Obasanjo had previously lamented that young Nigerians now idolized corrupt leaders, warning that unchecked corruption could destroy the nation’s future. Obasanjo’s policies led to the formation of the EFCC, with Ribadu playing a crucial role. Despite holding the relatively junior rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ribadu managed to prosecute high-profile figures like former Inspector-General of Police, Tafa Balogun, who was convicted for mishandling N5.7 billion. Ribadu famously claimed that he feared no man, only God. Between 2007 and 2015, the anti-corruption campaign lost vigor. Under Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, governance was hampered by health issues, while Goodluck Jonathan’s administration displayed little resolve to combat corruption. Funds designated for military operations in the North-East were reportedly diverted for political campaigns. Deziani Alison-Madueke, the former Minister of Petroleum, allegedly enjoyed unchecked access to public resources during this period. Jonathan’s lax anti-corruption posture gave opposition parties material to campaign with. The prevailing rhetoric was, “If Nigeria doesn’t kill corruption, corruption will kill Nigeria.” Despite actions against figures like National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki, the Buhari administration’s anti-corruption efforts became selective. Several politicians evaded EFCC investigations by switching allegiance from the PDP to Buhari’s APC. Those who supported APC campaigns enjoyed political cover. This pattern persisted throughout Buhari’s presidency. Notably, APC’s former National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, once infamously declared that defectors would have their “sins forgiven”—a statement he later attempted to deny, despite widespread public memory. Senate President Godswill Akpabio is a prominent example. Before joining APC, he was investigated by the EFCC for allegedly embezzling N108.1 billion while serving as Akwa Ibom governor. Later, as Niger Delta Affairs Minister, allegations of over N86 billion in contract fraud surfaced during his oversight of the NDDC. A National Assembly inquiry into N40 billion worth of questionable expenses followed. When invited by the EFCC in 2023, Akpabio claimed to be too ill to attend—diagnosed with pneumonia and cardiac arrhythmia. That was the end of the matter. Given this backdrop, one can sympathize with the current EFCC leadership. While the intention to investigate 18 sitting governors appears noble, past experiences offer little hope for meaningful outcomes. The issue is not necessarily EFCC’s commitment but the broader political environment, which often undermines justice. The case of Yahaya Bello, former Kogi governor, further illustrates the challenges. Rather than face corruption charges, he evaded law enforcement for months, eventually reappearing under convenient conditions. Authorities took no visible punitive action. Among the 18 current governors under EFCC probe, those outside the ruling APC may interpret the situation as an invitation to switch parties. PDP governors with 2027 ambitions are watching carefully. Only those who govern transparently and avoid corrupt practices
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A partial collapse occurred at Pentagon Lodge, a private three-storey residential building that accommodates students from the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike Ikwo (AE-FUNAI) in Ebonyi State, on Friday afternoon. The affected structure had reportedly exhibited visible cracks before it gave way, a situation that had already caused some residents—mainly university students—to evacuate the premises before the building failure. As of the latest updates, there have been no officially confirmed injuries or fatalities. However, reports suggest that many students’ personal items remained trapped inside the damaged structure, especially belongings of those who were away from campus at the time. Eyewitnesses within the university community disclosed that Pentagon Lodge consists of five separate blocks, and only one segment of one block collapsed during the incident. The collapse was verified by Elom Iyke Ubochi, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of AE-FUNAI, who spoke to LMSINT MEDIA in Abakaliki on Saturday. Ubochi shared his relief that the incident happened during school hours, emphasizing that the timing may have prevented a major tragedy. According to him, most students were attending lectures when the collapse occurred, which significantly reduced the potential for casualties. “In all the reports I’ve received so far, there’s been no report of injuries or loss of life. The incident occurred during academic hours when students were on campus attending lectures and other activities. Sadly, some of their belongings may have been affected,” he said. He further urged any student whose property was lost in the privately managed off-campus lodge to formally report the matter to the Dean of Student Affairs, so the school’s management could provide support or further guidance. “As it stands, no student has reported personal injury. If affected students in the off-campus accommodation can notify the school through proper channels, it will help the institution keep track of all issues arising from this unfortunate event,” he concluded.
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A Federal High Court in Kaduna has sentenced eight young men to prison over their involvement in internet fraud and financial crime, in a major legal crackdown spearheaded by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Presiding over the matter was Justice R.M. Aikawa, who issued the verdict after the Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC successfully prosecuted the case against the suspects. The individuals convicted are Abdulrasheed Dayyabu, Abdulrahman Salim, Abubakar Ali Uba, Falalu Tanko, Ishaq Haruna, Muhammad Faisal, Muhammad Sani Ahmed, and Hassan Umar. Each of the accused faced individual charges centered on cybercrime activities, including identity theft, unlawful fund possession, internet-based financial scams, and aiding others in retaining proceeds of criminal acts. For instance, the charge read in court against Abdulrasheed Dayyabu stated: “That you, Abdulrasheed Dayyabu, sometime in the year 2024, at Kaduna, within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, did aid one Buhari to commit an offence, to wit: retention of proceeds of criminal conduct and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 21(a) of the Money Laundering (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 20(b) of the same Act.” Another case presented against Falalu Tanko noted: “That you, Falalu Tanko, sometime in June, 2025 in Kaduna within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court retained the total sum of $3,000 which you knew formed part of proceeds of an unlawful act, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention & Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act.” All eight defendants admitted guilt to the charges leveled against them. Following their guilty pleas, EFCC legal representative, Fortune Amina Iminabo Asemebo, presented the facts before the court and urged Justice Aikawa to rule in accordance with the evidence and relevant legal provisions. Justice Aikawa delivered the rulings accordingly. Furthermore, the court imposed asset recovery measures: As for Falalu Tanko, the judgment was slightly different due to the nature of his crime, which involved digital scams. He was handed a three-year sentence with an option to pay a N300,000 fine. In addition to the sentence, the court ordered the forfeiture of his BMW 3 Series (2008 model) and an iPhone 13 Pro, both considered proceeds of his illegal online dealings. According to EFCC investigations, seven of the accused were arrested after TAJ Bank submitted a formal petition. The bank had uncovered a significant breach in its agency banking platform, with over ₦1 billion siphoned through a well-orchestrated network of fraudulent transfers targeting both bank and fintech systems. Meanwhile, Falalu Tanko was tracked down and apprehended in the Babar Saura axis of Kaduna after intelligence linked him to cyber-related crimes. The EFCC stated that this operation is part of a broader and ongoing clampdown on internet-based financial crimes. The Commission emphasized that its digital forensic capabilities and intelligence operations are rapidly expanding to outpace increasingly sophisticated cybercriminals.
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A Nigerian driver, identified by the first name Kingsley, has been declared missing and is presumed drowned after being dragged under by intense sea waves at Tarkwa-Bay Beach, situated in Lagos State. The unfortunate incident took place on Sunday afternoon when Kingsley was accompanying two Indian expatriates, reportedly working with Dangote Group at the Lekki Free Zone, on a recreational visit to the popular beach. According to credible police sources, the two expatriates formally lodged a report at the Tarkwa-Bay Police Division, narrating that their driver had joined them on the trip to relax and unwind. Around 4:00 p.m., he ventured into the ocean, but sadly, the relentless currents overpowered him, causing him to vanish beneath the turbulent waters. A police officer disclosed:“Every attempt made to recover his body has proved futile up to this moment.” In immediate response to the distress report, operatives from the Tarkwa-Bay Police Division swiftly proceeded to the location and commenced intensive search and recovery efforts. Despite these measures, the driver’s body had yet to be retrieved as of the time of filing this report. The authorities further clarified that only the driver’s first name has been established, and ongoing efforts are being made to ascertain his full identity for proper documentation and notification of family members. This incident adds to the growing concerns about safety protocols and the need for improved lifeguard presence at Nigerian recreational beaches, especially in coastal regions like Tarkwa Bay, where unpredictable ocean currents are common.
