The Bakaro/Dangikka Primary School Old Boys Association has called on Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, currently the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, to contemplate a run for the governorship of Bauchi State in 2027. In their official communiqué, delivered by Secretary-General Umar Musa, the alumni stressed that Pate’s extensive background in health governance and policy would be invaluable in addressing the state’s developmental challenges. They highlighted his prior roles—Director-General of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Minister of State for Health, and consultant with the World Bank—as evidence of his capacity to spearhead impactful change, both domestically and internationally. The group pinpointed several critical sectors in need of urgent revitalization in Bauchi: healthcare, education, agriculture, housing, water infrastructure, security, and employment. “Our appeal stems from his proven delivery and capability—not partisan loyalty,” the statement clarified. While acknowledging that the decision ultimately lies with Prof. Pate, the association expressed hope that he would give the matter serious consideration as preparations for the 2027 election advance.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has provided a detailed explanation for appointing Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for proper airport security and passenger conduct. This decision was made following the ValueJet aircraft obstruction incident that led to the veteran musician’s flight suspension. Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, addressed the public to clarify the rationale behind this move. His statement came amid heated public debates and criticism over the perceived implications of the ambassadorial title. Earlier on Wednesday, Keyamo confirmed that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had agreed to reduce KWAM 1’s six-month flight suspension to one month. The reduction was tied to the artist’s commitment to collaborate with the NCAA in public awareness campaigns aimed at educating passengers on acceptable behavior and compliance with airport security protocols. The controversy began after KWAM 1 was initially penalized for blocking the movement of a ValueJet aircraft, a violation of aviation safety procedures. Following the reduction of the penalty, some Nigerians questioned why he was appointed an ambassador instead of facing the full length of his ban. Responding on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Keyamo drew parallels to a globally recognized practice where a repentant offender is assigned the responsibility of publicly advocating against the exact misconduct they previously engaged in. He described the move as similar to community service, emphasizing that it is unpaid and voluntary. “For further clarification, it is common practice all over the world that a repentant offender is made to preach publicly against the exact conduct from which they have repented. It is akin to community service. It is not paid for, and it is a voluntary service,” Keyamo stated. He further noted that in Nigeria, there is often a misconception that the term “Ambassador” automatically implies a lucrative position with benefits. He clarified that this is not the case and stressed that such corrective ambassadorial roles have been used by previous Nigerian governments and will likely continue in the future.
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The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially imposed a seven-year suspension on the creation of new federal tertiary educational institutions across Nigeria. This major policy decision was reached and approved during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with President Tinubu presiding. According to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the moratorium will apply to all categories of tertiary institutions, including federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Reason for the Ban Dr. Alausa explained to State House correspondents that the current problem facing Nigeria’s higher education sector is no longer about access to tertiary education, as the country already has a significant number of institutions. Instead, the challenge lies in quality, infrastructure, and staffing. The Minister noted that the unchecked duplication and proliferation of tertiary institutions across the country has resulted in serious deterioration of school facilities and a shortage of qualified personnel. “If we do not act decisively now, the continued duplication of tertiary institutions will cause a marked decline in educational standards and erode the international respect Nigerian graduates enjoy,”— Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education. Impact on the Education Sector The Federal Government’s decision is aimed at consolidating resources, ensuring better infrastructure development, and improving academic quality in existing institutions before considering the establishment of new ones. Educational experts have noted that the move could help channel more funding and manpower to revamp existing federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education, thereby improving their competitiveness on a global scale.
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Joanna, a housemate in Big Brother Naija Season 10, has declined a romantic approach from Victory, opting instead to maintain her independence. Victory, who has shown interest in Joanna, Gigi Jasmine, and Sultana, enlisted his friend Rooboy to mediate a relationship discussion with Joanna. Rooboy invited Joanna to join him and Victory in the garden and conveyed Victory’s feelings to her. Joanna questioned why Victory didn’t express his interest directly. Victory clarified that he didn’t want to group her with the other two women he’s pursuing. Joanna confessed that she reciprocates Victory’s feelings, but emphasized her desire to remain self-reliant in the house. Dialogue
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The Nigerian government has appointed Fuji music legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal—popularly known as KWAM 1—as an ambassador to champion proper airport security procedures. Simultaneously, authorities have reduced his flight suspension to one month, triggering renewed public interest. In a formal announcement made via X on Wednesday, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed the decision. The minister explained that KWAM 1’s expression of regret following the ValueJet incident was a key factor influencing the government’s response. Keyamo stated that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) will shorten the singer’s aviation ban to just one month. Moreover, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will collaborate with him in his new ambassadorial role, promoting adherence to airport safety guidelines. In a related move, NCAA will retract the criminal complaints previously filed against the artist with law enforcement. This gesture underscores a compassionate resolution rather than a punitive approach, while maintaining the government’s firm commitment to aviation security standards. The minister further emphasized that these steps were taken purely on compassionate grounds—not motivated by political or legal maneuvering. He clarified that the government will not yield to biased public sentiment or skewed legal interpretations when its laws have clearly been breached. To put things in context: on August 5, at Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport in Abuja, KWAM 1 was observed drinking from a flask while aboard a ValueJet aircraft. When a flight attendant raised concerns that the flask might contain alcohol, KWAM 1 insisted it held doctor-prescribed medication. He then advanced toward the aircraft’s front, apparently in an attempt to prevent takeoff. The altercation escalated visibly—video footage captured him standing before the plane and dodging its wing as the aircraft prepared for departure. These actions violated several aviation safety protocols. In response to the disruption, authorities initially imposed a six-month flight ban on KWAM 1 across both domestic and international routes originating from Nigerian airports. By reducing his ban and appointing him as a security-awareness ambassador, the government signals that individuals who acknowledge their mistakes and cooperate with safety oversight can still contribute positively to public campaigns.
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The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has officially instructed Ibom Airline to withdraw the criminal charges filed against Comfort Emmanson. He further confirmed that the Police will expedite the necessary proceedings to secure her release from Kirikiri Prisons within the upcoming week. Minister Keyamo also directed the NCAA (Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority) to reduce the flight suspension placed on KWAM 1 to just one month. Announcing these developments via a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Keyamo explained that the decision resulted from extensive consultations with key stakeholders in the aviation industry and all parties directly involved in the incidents. Valuable lessons have been gained by everybody affected. In addition, the Minister revealed that Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba of VALUEJET will have their licenses reinstated after serving a one-month suspension, conditional upon completing mandatory professional re-appraisal. “These decisions were guided purely by compassion,” Keyamo emphasized, “as the Government refuses to bow to politically motivated sentiments or warped legal interpretations when our laws have been clearly broken.”
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In a continued effort to protect and maintain order in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the City Sanitation Operation team has intensified its crackdown on illegal structures and unapproved shanties scattered across the capital city. This sweeping exercise, aimed at safeguarding lives and property, recently targeted a popular location known as Cashew Garden in the Apo district of Abuja. The demolition was supervised by the Director of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, who led the team to dismantle unauthorized constructions in the area. Speaking during the operation, Galadima reassured Abuja residents that the exercise was a crucial part of the administration’s strategy to eliminate criminal hideouts and ensure public safety. “You will recall,” he stated, “that we have previously carried out similar exercises in areas such as Zone 3, Wuse, and UTC, following directives from the FCT Security Committee. Today, our focus is Apo — removing shanties and dislodging individuals who pose security threats to residents.” Galadima clarified that the FCT Administration (FCTA) had never granted permission or approval for the structures demolished in Apo. He further warned that any land allocation used to harbor criminal activities would be revoked without hesitation. He explained that the Apo site was originally designated for residential purposes, with formal allocations already made to legitimate landowners. However, some allottees failed to develop their plots within the stipulated timeframe, leaving the area vulnerable to illegal occupation. “As directed by the FCT Security Committee, we are reclaiming the land. This area has already been planned with a properly defined road corridor, demarcated by a deep trench. We intend to take full possession of it,” Galadima emphasized. Also present at the demolition was Adamu Gwary, the Director of the FCTA Security Services Department. Describing the action as a vital clean-up exercise, Gwary noted that it would significantly reduce the operational space for criminals and discourage illegal activities in the territory. Representing the Secretary of Command and Control, Dr. Peter Olumuji, Gwary expressed concern that some individuals occupying these shanties were involved in illicit drug activities, posing a heightened security risk. He assured residents that the ongoing operations would continue until the capital city was free from such threats, making the FCT a safer environment for all.
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In the southern Gaza Strip’s Mawasi area, under intense summer heat, Palestinians are seen queuing for hours to collect limited quantities of drinking water — a stark image of the deepening humanitarian crisis in the region. This worsening situation has prompted Britain, Canada, Australia, and several European allies to issue an urgent appeal to Israel, demanding unrestricted access for humanitarian aid into the war-devastated Palestinian enclave. According to a joint statement released on Tuesday by the foreign ministers of 26 nations, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis has reached “unimaginable levels” and a catastrophic famine is “unfolding before our eyes.” The ministers stressed the necessity of “urgent action now to halt and reverse starvation,” warning that without immediate intervention, the death toll from hunger-related causes could escalate rapidly. The statement further urged Israel to authorise all international non-governmental organisation (NGO) shipments and remove operational barriers preventing humanitarian agencies from delivering aid. The ministers insisted that “all crossings and routes must be opened to allow a large-scale flow of aid into Gaza, including food, nutritional supplements, shelter, fuel, clean drinking water, medicine, and essential medical equipment.” In Gaza City, a heart-wrenching scene shows Palestinian mother Amira Muteir cradling her five-month-old baby, Ammar, whose frail body reflects severe malnutrition. The situation underscores the growing fears of famine in Gaza despite ongoing global calls for relief. Israel, while denying responsibility for the worsening hunger crisis, has accused Hamas of diverting and stealing aid shipments — an allegation that Hamas firmly rejects. In an attempt to ease international outrage, Israel announced measures late last month to facilitate more aid deliveries, including limited pauses in fighting in certain areas and the creation of protected humanitarian corridors for aid convoys. Despite these steps, Western governments insist that the measures are insufficient, with some countries resorting to conducting aid airdrops over Gaza to bypass ground delivery restrictions. The joint statement was endorsed by the foreign ministers of Australia, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Britain. Later that day, the European Union added Italy and Latvia as signatories. Notably, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and two European Commission officials also signed the appeal, although Germany and Hungary refrained from adding their support. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates continues to extend humanitarian assistance to Gaza’s residents. On Tuesday, the UAE completed its 69th aid airdrop under Operation Birds of Goodness, a part of Operation Chivalrous Knight 3. The mission, conducted in cooperation with Jordan and supported by Germany, Italy, Belgium, and France, delivered substantial quantities of essential food packages, sourced with the assistance of UAE-based charities. In addition to the aerial aid, 20 trucks carrying approximately 500 tonnes of food supplies entered Gaza through land crossings, reflecting the UAE’s ongoing dual strategy of air and land humanitarian relief. Egypt, serving as one of the key mediators alongside Qatar and the United States, announced that it is working to secure a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stated in a Cairo press conference that negotiations aim to include a temporary cessation of hostilities, the release of some hostages, the exchange of Palestinian detainees, and unrestricted humanitarian and medical aid deliveries. Diplomatic sources revealed that a senior Hamas delegation is expected to meet with Egyptian officials on Wednesday for renewed talks. This comes after several weeks of stalled negotiations following the breakdown of the last round of ceasefire discussions in July. During a televised interview on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel would permit Palestinians to leave the Gaza Strip, particularly from combat zones, and potentially exit the territory entirely if they wished. Netanyahu’s statement reflects a possible policy shift in Israel’s traditionally strict control of Gaza’s borders. The Committee to Protect Journalists, based in New York, reports that 184 Palestinian journalists have been killed since the outbreak of the current conflict, adding to the war’s devastating toll on both civilians and the press
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Why Reselling is Booming in Nigeria The Nigerian e-commerce space has exploded over the last decade, with thousands of entrepreneurs tapping into the massive demand for affordable and trendy products. Reselling online — especially through mini importation — has become one of the most profitable side hustles and full-time ventures in the country. From phone accessories to fashion items, health gadgets, and beauty products, Nigerians are leveraging online marketplaces, social media, and direct sales to build sustainable incomes. But just like any business, success depends on strategy, sourcing, and smart marketing — not just luck. In this guide, you’ll learn practical steps to start your online reselling business in Nigeria, including importation tips that can save you time, money, and frustration. Step 1: Understanding the Reselling Model Reselling simply means buying products at a lower cost (locally or internationally) and selling them at a profit. The real power of online reselling comes from: Local Reselling vs Importation For higher profits and unique products, importation is often the smarter choice — but it requires careful planning. Step 2: Choosing the Right Products The biggest mistake new resellers make is importing what they like instead of what sells.To succeed, your product must: High-Demand Product Categories in Nigeria ? Tip: Use platforms like Alibaba or 1688 for research. On social media, track trends through TikTok hashtags and Instagram reels to spot what’s hot. Step 3: Sourcing Products for Importation When importing, the right supplier is your best business partner. Avoid randomly picking sellers; do due diligence. Where to Source Finding a Reliable Importation Agent For sites like 1688 that only accept local Chinese payments, you’ll need a trusted Nigerian-Chinese sourcing agent. They’ll help you: Pro tip: Always start with a small test order before investing heavily. Check product quality, packaging, and delivery time. Step 4: Calculating Cost and Setting Your Price Profitability in reselling depends on accurate cost calculations.Consider: Example:If you buy a gadget for ₦2,500, pay ₦1,000 shipping, and spend ₦500 on delivery to the buyer, your total cost is ₦4,000.Selling at ₦7,000 gives you a profit of ₦3,000 per unit. Step 5: Selling Platforms in Nigeria To succeed, you need visibility. Some of the best platforms to sell in Nigeria include: Step 6: Marketing Your Reselling Business Your products won’t sell themselves — you must create demand. Proven Marketing Tips Step 7: Building Trust and Retaining Customers In Nigeria’s competitive market, trust is currency. Step 8: Avoiding Common Mistakes in Importation Conclusion Reselling online in Nigeria, especially through importation, is a profitable and flexible business when done right. It doesn’t require huge capital to start, but it does require research, careful sourcing, and smart marketing. With the right products, reliable suppliers, and consistent promotion, you can build a sustainable business that grows beyond just side income.
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LAGOS — Comfort Emmanson Bob, the female passenger involved in the recent disturbance aboard an Ibom Air flight at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos, has now transitioned into life behind the walls of Kirikiri Prison’s female section. According to official reports, she was escorted into the facility around 6:30 p.m. on Monday by officers from the Airport Command in Ikeja, acting on a valid court remand order. The order will remain in force until October 6, marking the period she is to stay in custody unless further legal actions alter her status. NBA Decries Treatment and Lifetime Ban On Tuesday, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) strongly criticised what it described as “reckless and unlawful” handling of the matter. The legal body expressed outrage over viral footage showing the young woman’s sensitive body parts being exposed during the incident. The NBA further condemned the indefinite “no-fly” ban imposed on Ms. Emmanson by both Ibom Air and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), insisting the decision was unjust, arbitrary, and executed without affording her the right to a fair hearing. The Association also dismissed comparisons between this case and the ValueJet incident involving Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (Kwam 1). The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) echoed the NBA’s stance, clarifying that the two cases were fundamentally different. Life Behind Bars: First-Time Offender Processing A reliable source within Kirikiri Prison revealed that the 26-year-old, reportedly a student, was calm upon arrival and displayed no visible distress. She was classified as a first-time offender, which ensured she was kept separate from the general inmate population. The source explained: “She arrived with her personal luggage and was taken through the standard orientation process for female inmates. Our senior officers briefed her on prison rules and regulations, and she was informed of available skill-acquisition programs, which all inmates—whether convicted or awaiting trial—can participate in. We run vocational schools here to keep inmates productive and engaged, even if they are in custody for just a short time.” Prison officials confirmed that Ms. Emmanson has already received visits, though the identities of her visitors remain confidential, in line with facility policy. Eyewitness Account from the Flight One passenger, Olubunmi Balogun Shonubi, shared her account on Facebook, noting she was seated across the aisle from Ms. Emmanson in an emergency row. She claimed that the initial air hostess who interacted with Ms. Emmanson was polite and professional, instructing her to switch off her phone for take-off. However, tensions reportedly arose when another flight attendant spoke in what the passenger described as a condescending manner. According to Shonubi’s account, Ms. Emmanson explained she could not turn off her phone because the power button was faulty and asked the attendant to assist. She allegedly added, “Please, take my phone and do it. I cannot read.” NBA’s Detailed Position on the Case In an official statement signed by NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, and Secretary-General Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, the Association condemned both the physical removal of Ms. Emmanson and the public exposure of her body, calling it degrading and unlawful. The NBA stressed that Ibom Air’s decision to impose a lifetime ban, supported by the AON, was procedurally flawed because Ms. Emmanson had not been given a proper platform to present her side of the story. They emphasised that only statutory aviation regulators have the legal authority to suspend or revoke a passenger’s flying rights. The statement further demanded that Ibom Air: The Association also vowed to provide Ms. Emmanson with pro bono legal representation. NCAA Explains Regulatory Boundaries Responding to public comments, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mike Achimugu, clarified that the regulatory body had not directed Ibom Air to prosecute or ban the passenger. He noted that Ibom Air acted independently, citing available evidence of physical altercations between the passenger and crew members. Achimugu acknowledged that while airlines can impose temporary or permanent bans during ongoing investigations, such measures may later be reviewed or lifted. He also drew attention to the human element, stressing that airline staff deserve the same respect and safety guarantees as passengers. Peter Obi Questions Selective Justice Former presidential candidate Peter Obi criticised the decision, describing it as an example of Nigeria’s justice system being harsher on the less privileged while sparing the influential. Obi questioned whether due process was followed and if reconciliation had been considered. He noted the irony that a young woman could be permanently banned from flying while more serious offenders in positions of power face no real consequences. Labour Party’s View on Unequal Treatment The Labour Party (LP) also condemned the incident, arguing that selective justice is no justice at all. The party compared the rapid disciplinary action taken against Ms. Emmanson with the seemingly lenient handling of the ValueJet incident involving Kwam 1. They described the treatment of Ms. Emmanson—being stripped, detained, and banned within 24 hours—as a violation of her constitutional right to personal dignity. Senate Promises Investigation In a final development, the Senate Committee on Aviation, chaired by Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, announced plans to investigate recent conflicts between airlines and passengers. The committee aims to close procedural gaps, ensure fairness in enforcement, and rebuild public trust in Nigeria’s aviation sector
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Fresh reports from the UK Mirror have revealed the salary details of two high-profile Premier League summer signings — Viktor Gyokeres at Arsenal and Benjamin Sesko at Manchester United. The figures show a significant wage gap between the two strikers, despite both securing lucrative contracts. According to the report, Benjamin Sesko, Manchester United’s newly signed forward from RB Leipzig, will be earning considerably less than Arsenal’s latest attacking addition, Viktor Gyokeres. Interestingly, Sesko turned down a more financially rewarding contract from Newcastle United in order to join Manchester United, signaling his desire to play for the Red Devils over accepting a bigger paycheck elsewhere. Manchester United have agreed to pay RB Leipzig a total package worth up to £74 million — comprising an initial £66.4 million fee and an additional £7.6 million in performance-related add-ons — to secure the 22-year-old striker’s services. Sesko’s contract spans five years, with weekly wages of approximately £160,000, translating to just over £8.3 million per year. On the other hand, Viktor Gyokeres made the switch from Sporting Lisbon to Arsenal in July, in a transfer deal valued at £64 million. The 27-year-old Swedish international also penned a five-year contract but will earn a significantly higher £200,000 per week, which totals around £10.4 million annually before any additional performance-related bonuses. Football fans could soon see the two strikers face off directly, as Arsenal and Manchester United are scheduled to clash in their opening Premier League match of the new season this Sunday. This early-season encounter promises to add extra intrigue, with both new signings keen to make an immediate impact for their respective clubs.
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Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski has identified two club colleagues—Lamine Yamal and Raphinha—as his top contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Lewandowski praised Yamal’s standout campaign and Raphinha’s superb contributions following Barcelona’s domestic treble. The duo collectively amassed an impressive 100 direct goal contributions last season, underpinning their candidacies. Both wide men were named among the 30 nominees on the Ballon d’Or shortlist—released early August ahead of the ceremony scheduled for 22 September 2025 in Paris Reflecting on Yamal’s impact, Lewandowski told the BBC: “His season was extraordinary, but ultimately it depends on what’s most important. He still has plenty of time—if not this year, then perhaps next.” The Polish forward also highlighted Raphinha, adding: “Raphinha too delivered a remarkable season. We have players capable of being favourites for this honour.” However, competition remains fierce. PSG’s Ousmane Dembélé—fresh from a treble-winning season—stands out as a major favourite, alongside teammate Vitinha . Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah, credited with 29 goals and 18 assists in Liverpool’s title run, and Barcelona’s Pedri also command strong consideration As the football world awaits the ceremony at the Théâtre du Châtelet, the race for the prestigious golden ball is broader and more open than in the Messi–Ronaldo era
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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared its unwillingness to remain silent following allegations that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is deliberately targeting prominent figures within the opposition ahead of the highly anticipated 2027 general elections. This latest outrage erupted after the EFCC, on Monday, reportedly arrested and interrogated former Sokoto State Governor and serving senator, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, over accusations involving questionable cash withdrawals amounting to an estimated ₦189 billion. Tambuwal, a strategic and influential member of the united opposition coalition, served as governor of Sokoto State from 2015 to 2023, and his political influence remains significant on the national stage. According to LMSINT MEDIA, this development has reignited national conversations about the independence and impartiality of Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies. Many fear that, as election season approaches, allegations of political interference in the EFCC’s operations may intensify. EFCC Becoming APC’s Political Weapon – ADC In its reaction to Tambuwal’s arrest, the ADC accused the EFCC of conducting selective, politically-driven investigations aimed squarely at intimidating and discrediting opposition politicians. Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, signed an official statement alleging that the EFCC had, in recent months, reactivated old corruption cases against senior members of the opposition coalition without presenting any fresh evidence. The statement further claimed that investigations into certain influential members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) were quietly abandoned once those individuals defected to the ruling party. “The EFCC was established to act as a fearless protector of public trust, applying the law fairly to all citizens, regardless of political affiliation. Sadly, that vision now appears compromised. Instead of operating as an independent commission, it has started functioning like a unit of the APC—targeting critics and opposition voices to accomplish politically-motivated goals that cannot be achieved through open democratic debate,” the statement read. The ADC urged Nigerians, civil society organizations, and the media to actively demand institutional independence for anti-graft agencies, warning that allowing political interference would erode democracy. The party also pointed to EFCC actions targeting other prominent figures, including former Senate President David Mark and former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha. According to the ADC, leaked EFCC correspondence showed that the agency had requested information from the Imo State Government regarding Ihedioha’s brief tenure from May 29, 2019, to January 14, 2020. Similarly, records from Mark’s Senate presidency between 2007 and 2015 were reportedly under review. Atiku: Tambuwal’s Detention Is Politically Motivated Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned Tambuwal’s detention, describing it as part of a broader scheme by the Bola Tinubu administration to weaken the opposition before the 2027 elections. Posting a statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Atiku accused the federal government of weaponizing the anti-corruption war to coerce political leaders into joining the APC. “Anyone aligned with the opposition seems to become a target for fabricated corruption allegations. Yet, once they align with President Bola Tinubu’s political agenda, their so-called ‘sins’ are forgiven. This is neither institution-building nor genuine anti-corruption work—it is political manipulation that undermines the fight against corruption,” Atiku wrote. As one of the political figures instrumental in the creation of the EFCC, Atiku expressed deep concern over what he perceives as its partisan deployment. He warned that this trajectory risks turning Nigeria into a one-party state and urged both local and international stakeholders to resist such politicization. Tinubu and APC Using State Institutions to Intimidate Opposition – Paul Ibe Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, in an interview with LMSINT MEDIA, accused the president and the APC of using state apparatus to harass and pressure opposition figures into joining the ruling party. According to Ibe, the arrest of Tambuwal is only one step in a calculated strategy to dismantle opposition unity and tilt the 2027 electoral playing field. He described the current climate as “worse than military rule,” alleging that freedom of speech, rule of law, and freedom of association have been undermined. Ibe dismissed claims that the ADC is a sectional or regional party, insisting it is a truly national political platform with members from every region, religion, and socio-economic background. Tanko: Tinubu Administration Out to Destroy Democracy Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Interim National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement and former spokesman for the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Organisation, also issued a stern warning. Speaking to LMSINT MEDIA, Tanko described the government as “vicious” and intent on eroding democratic structures. He alleged that anyone who joins the APC is treated as “redeemed,” while those in opposition are labelled criminals, regardless of the ruling party’s own misconduct. Tanko emphasized the importance of building strong grassroots political structures to resist state repression. Analyst Questions EFCC’s Credibility Nduka Odo, a Public Affairs Analyst at Peaceland University, Enugu, argued that the EFCC has allowed political interference to tarnish its credibility. He questioned the timing of Tambuwal’s arrest, linking it directly to his move to the ADC and the formation of a credible opposition coalition. Odo also criticized past EFCC inconsistencies, citing the case of former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, who remains free despite public corruption allegations. He called for reforms that would make the EFCC independent from presidential control.
