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At least six people have been killed and a police station set ablaze following coordinated attacks by suspected bandits on communities in Niger State.

The assault, which began late Friday night, targeted Tungan-Makeri and Konkoso in Borgu Local Government Area (LGA). Residents said heavily armed attackers stormed Tungan-Makeri, shooting indiscriminately and burning homes, forcing many villagers to flee to nearby communities.

An eyewitness from Zagatina village along the attackers’ route said he saw dozens of motorcycles transporting the gunmen.

“I counted about 41 motorcycles, each carrying two or three people. Some even had women and children with them. When I noticed they were approaching, I quickly hid in the bush as they passed behind my house,” he recounted.

By the end of the raid on Tungan-Makeri, six people had reportedly lost their lives, several houses were razed, and many families displaced.

The attackers were said to have moved to Konkoso in the early hours of Saturday, where they allegedly set a police station on fire, destroying property and escalating tension in the area. Residents described the invasion as brazen, citing the absence of visible security personnel during the hours-long attack.

Some villagers reported sighting a Nigerian Air Force aircraft hovering around Tungan-Makeri after the initial assault, suggesting that aerial surveillance may have contributed to the bandits’ eventual retreat.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Niger State Police Command, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the command received reports that suspected bandits invaded Tungan-Makeri around 3:00 a.m. via the Shafachi district in Borgu LGA.

He confirmed that six persons were killed, several houses were burnt, and an unspecified number of residents were abducted. The attackers were also reported to have advanced toward Konkoso before fleeing.

According to the police, joint security teams have since been deployed to the affected communities to assess the damage, pursue the attackers, and rescue the abducted victims.

The latest violence underscores ongoing security challenges in parts of Borgu LGA, as residents call on authorities to strengthen security presence in vulnerable communities to prevent further attacks.

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The Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Yaba, has launched a probe into the mysterious deaths of two Nollywood production crew members discovered inside a parked vehicle at a filming location in Lekki Phase 1.

The deceased were identified as Godstime Imeh, a lighting director and CEO of GeeTee Light, and Walter Odediran, a creative video director popularly known as Director Carrinqton.

Their lifeless bodies were found on the evening of Saturday, February 7, 2026, inside Imeh’s tinted Nissan vehicle. The movie project was reportedly directed by former Big Brother Naija housemate Boma.

According to sources, the duo had arrived early at the location to set up lighting equipment. After completing their work around mid-morning, they reportedly rested inside the vehicle while awaiting further instructions. Around 11 a.m., a crew member delivered breakfast—yam and omelette—to them.

They were last seen reclining in the car with the air-conditioning running. Concern grew when repeated phone calls went unanswered by noon. It was not until later that evening, after filming had concluded, that colleagues found them unresponsive inside the vehicle.

Kola Odediran, elder brother of Walter, described the tragic loss as devastating. He said both men had planned to shoot a medical scene at Evercare Hospital earlier that day before taking a break in the car.

“Food was delivered to them; that was the last time anyone saw them alive,” he said. “When they were discovered around 7 or 8 p.m., my brother was seated upright with foam in his mouth, while GeeTee was slumped, bleeding from his nose, eyes, and mouth. It appeared whatever happened occurred suddenly.”

He also expressed dissatisfaction with the initial handling of the case at Maroko Police Station, noting that it was later escalated to SCID, Yaba, where it was officially documented as an unnatural death requiring investigation and autopsy.

Police have confirmed that the producer, Boma, the food vendor, the staff member who delivered the meal, and hospital management have all been questioned. The food vendor remains in custody.

Investigators are exploring multiple possibilities, including environmental exposure, food-related causes, or mechanical issues such as generator fumes, particularly as heavy-duty industrial generators were reportedly positioned above the parking area.

Authorities say forensic examinations including autopsy, toxicology analysis, vehicle inspection, and CCTV revieware ongoing, with all possibilities still under consideration pending laboratory results.

The incident has left the families of the deceased in deep mourning. “It has been very difficult for our family. My mother is devastated. He was the last-born. We were just two male children. This has been extremely painful for us,” Kola Odediran added.

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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has raised fresh concerns over the rising spread of Lassa fever, revealing that two healthcare workers have died and 15 others have been infected in the current outbreak.

In an advisory issued on Monday, the agency said surveillance data up to Epidemiological Week 7 shows a troubling increase in infections among medical personnel. The cases have been recorded across several states, including Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Taraba, Ebonyi, and Benue—areas already identified as high-burden zones for the disease.

The NCDC noted that it investigates every confirmed infection involving healthcare workers to determine how exposure occurred and to prevent further transmission. However, recent assessments uncovered gaps in infection prevention and control (IPC) practices, as well as overlooked exposure risks in certain hospital departments. According to the agency, these weaknesses have led to IPC measures that do not fully match actual risk levels, contributing to the fatalities.

Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness transmitted primarily through contact with food or household items contaminated by the urine or faeces of infected Mastomys rats. The disease remains endemic in Nigeria and other West African countries.

The World Health Organization explains that, in addition to rodent-to-human transmission, the virus can also spread from person to person, particularly in healthcare settings where adequate infection control measures are lacking.

Since the major outbreak in 2016, Nigeria has continued to record seasonal surges in cases, prompting renewed calls for stricter adherence to safety protocols within medical facilities and improved public health awareness nationwide.

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The Federal Government has entered a three-count charge against the former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, alleging that he unlawfully intercepted the phone communication of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu.

In the charge the FG lodged before the Federal High Court in Abuja, through the Department of State Services (DSS), the former governor, who also served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, was said to have committed the crime with some persons who are currently on the run.

FG told the court that the defendant had, on February 3, when he appeared as a guest on Arise TV station’s Prime Time program, admitted his complicity in the crime.

He was accused of committing an offence under section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act 2024.

In count two of the charge, the former governor, who is a frontline member of a coalition of opposition politicians dissatisfied with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, was said to be aware that someone unlawfully intercepted the NSA’s communications but failed to report the crime to the relevant security agencies.

It was further alleged that by using technical equipment to intercept the NSA’s calls, the defendants endangered public safety and national security, and instilled “reasonable apprehension” among Nigerians, an offence in breach of section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003.

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Abuja, Nigeria – In commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026, ASo Multi Media and Partners proudly announce the Her Excellence Conference and Awards 2026, scheduled to hold on Sunday, 8th March 2026, at the prestigious Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments, Asokoro, Abuja, by 4:00pm prompt.

The high-profile event is designed to celebrate, honour, and amplify the achievements of women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, resilience, and impact across diverse sectors in Nigeria. This year’s edition will recognise 50 Outstanding Women of Excellence, carefully selected for their remarkable contributions to national development and societal advancement.

The 2026 theme, “Balance and Scales,” reflects the crucial role of women in creating equilibrium in leadership, governance, enterprise, family, and community development. The conference will spark meaningful conversations around gender balance, inclusion, and sustainable progress, while inspiring the next generation of female leaders.

Speaking ahead of the event, the organisers emphasized that Her Excellence Conference and Awards is more than an awards ceremony; it is a platform for dialogue, empowerment, collaboration, and legacy-building, bringing together accomplished women, policymakers, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers from across the country.

The event promises an atmosphere of elegance and purpose, featuring keynote addresses, panel discussions, special recognitions, and networking opportunities, all within a celebration of excellence and impact.

Participation, nominations, sponsorship opportunities, and table reservations are currently open to the public.






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The Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, on Sunday paid a condolence visit to the popular Singer Market in Fagge Local Government Area of Kano State following a devastating fire that destroyed goods and properties estimated at over N5 billion.

Barau, who was received by the market chairman, Alhaji Junaidu Zakari, alongside thousands of affected traders, announced a donation of N100 million to support victims and help cushion the impact of the inferno.

Speaking during the visit, the Deputy Senate President expressed deep sympathy over the incident, describing it as a tragedy not only for the traders but for the entire people of Kano and the country at large.

“This fire outbreak and the massive losses recorded have affected all of us. It concerns the entire Kano community and the nation. Commerce is the backbone of Kano, so we are deeply saddened by this development,” he said.

Barau, who also serves as First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, further pledged to facilitate the establishment of a modern fire control system in the market to prevent future occurrences.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Singer Market, Alhaji Junaidu Zakari, revealed that the market had experienced two major fire incidents in recent times, leading to losses exceeding N5 billion. He thanked the senator for his visit and continued support.

“We are proud to receive you in Kano. We sincerely appreciate your consistent support and everything you have done for us,” he said.

Barau was accompanied by the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, the Kano State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Malam Salisu Sagir Takai, members of the Kano State House of Assembly, special advisers, and other aides.

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The Presidency has responded strongly to former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over his claim that the Office of the National Security Adviser planned to procure a toxic substance.

In a letter dated January 30, 2026, addressed to the National Security Adviser in Abuja, El-Rufai requested clarification regarding alleged plans to import about 10 kilograms of thallium sulphate from Poland. He shared the letter publicly on his X account, stating that he was seeking reassurance over reports available to opposition figures.

However, the Presidency dismissed the allegation, insisting that there was no government procurement or importation of thallium sulphate through the Office of the National Security Adviser.

In a statement posted on X, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, accused El-Rufai of attempting to mislead the public. He claimed that El-Rufai had already received a response from the NSA’s office and challenged him to make it public.

Ajayi further alleged that the former governor’s actions were aimed at stirring political tension and diverting attention from corruption allegations he is currently facing in Kaduna State. He argued that El-Rufai was trying to portray himself as a victim while nationalising his personal political challenges.

The Presidency also referenced ongoing investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commissionover alleged financial misconduct amounting to ₦432 billion during his tenure.

El-Rufai, who recently returned from Egypt, has confirmed he will honour invitations from both anti-graft agencies. His lawyer, Ubong Esop Akpan, said he would appear before the EFCC as scheduled.

In his letter, El-Rufai described thallium sulphate as a highly toxic and tightly regulated substance and asked for details about its intended use, supplier identity, regulatory approvals, storage plans, and coordination with agencies such as the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.

He maintained that his inquiry was made in good faith to promote transparency and public safety.

Meanwhile, a coalition of concerned Nigerians criticised El-Rufai’s claims, describing them as reckless and capable of causing public panic. The group insisted that allegations of such magnitude should be backed by credible evidence and handled through proper institutional channels.

As of the time of reporting, the Office of the National Security Adviser had not issued a public response to the letter.

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The Federal Government has dismissed claims that a 25% tax has been imposed on building materials under the Nigeria Tax Act 2025.

According to Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, the Act has already taken effect and does not introduce a 25% tax on construction funds, bank balances, or business expenses.

In a statement responding to a viral video, the committee described the claims as false. The video alleged that the new tax laws would only begin in 2027 and would introduce major levies on construction-related transactions. The committee clarified that both assertions are incorrect.

It emphasized that the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 does not place a 25% tax on building materials, construction funds, or money held in bank accounts. Instead, the law includes measures aimed at reducing the cost of housing, rent, and real estate development.

Key housing and construction reliefs

The committee explained that land and buildings are now exempt from Value Added Tax (VAT) under Section 185(l). Contractors are also allowed to recover VAT on assets and overhead costs where VAT applies to materials or services, thereby lowering overall construction expenses.

Additionally, the Withholding Tax rate on construction contracts has been reduced to 2%, helping developers maintain better cash flow. Individuals building owner-occupied homes can now deduct mortgage interest from their taxes. Property owners earning rental income are also permitted to deduct expenses such as repairs, insurance, and agency fees.

Support for renters

The Act provides rent relief of up to ₦500,000, representing 20% of annual rent, which is expected to increase disposable income for low-income earners. Rent is fully exempt from VAT, and lease agreements below ₦10 million per year, or 10 times the annual minimum wage, are exempt from stamp duty.

Incentives for investors

Individuals are exempt from Capital Gains Tax when selling a dwelling house or interest in one. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are also exempt from Companies Income Tax if they distribute at least 75% of dividends or rental income within 12 months after the financial year ends.

Manufacturers of building materials such as iron, steel, and domestic appliances may qualify for tax holidays of up to 10 years under the economic development incentive scheme. Large businesses may also see Companies Income Tax reduced from 30% to 25%.

Relief for workers and small businesses

The Act limits the taxable value of employer-provided accommodation to a maximum of 20% of an employee’s annual gross income, excluding rental value. Small companies that qualify will pay 0% Companies Income Tax, are exempt from charging VAT, and are not required to deduct Withholding Tax from invoices and payments.

Clarification on what the law does not include

The committee firmly stated that the Act does not tax money in bank accounts, does not impose taxes on transfers for purchasing building materials, does not introduce a 25% construction or business cost tax, and does not postpone implementation until 2027.

It described claims suggesting otherwise as misleading and urged Nigerians to rely on verified information. According to the committee, the new tax laws are intended to make housing more affordable and reduce rent, not increase it.

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The Senate has explained that its decision to make the electronic transmission of election results discretionary rather than compulsory was informed by data and prevailing national realities.

Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, disclosed this in a statement issued by his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs on Sunday. He emphasized that lawmaking carries significant responsibility and must not be carried out in a way that could negatively affect citizens.

According to him, the upper chamber’s stance was not driven by sentiment but by consultations with key stakeholders in Nigeria’s communications and power sectors. The Senate had earlier rejected Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Bill, 2026, which proposed mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV).

Although the clause was later reviewed, the Senate introduced a condition that where internet service fails, Form EC8A would serve as the primary method for result collation.

Bamidele noted that while mandatory electronic transmission could strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions such as the National Assembly and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), current infrastructure challenges pose serious limitations.

Citing statistics from the Nigerian Communications Commission, he said Nigeria achieved about 70% broadband coverage in 2025, with internet penetration at just 44.53% of the population.

He also referenced the Speedtest Global Index, which ranked Nigeria 85th out of 105 countries in mobile network reliability and 129th out of 150 in fixed broadband reliability. Nigeria’s mobile network speed stands at 44.14 Mbps—far below countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait. Fixed broadband speed is even lower at 33.32 Mbps.

On electricity supply, Bamidele stated that around 85 million Nigerians—approximately 43% of the population—still lack access to grid power. Although generation capacity is estimated between 12,000 and 13,500 megawatts, only about 4,500 megawatts can be distributed nationwide.

Given these communication and power constraints, he expressed doubts about the feasibility of enforcing real-time electronic transmission at this stage of national development. Making it compulsory, he warned, could trigger disputes and potential crises if technical failures occur.

He maintained that keeping the provision discretionary is a safer approach, noting that Section 62(2) of the Electoral Act, 2022 already provides for a National Electronic Register of Election Results

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The 2026 season of the Joseniho Kids Football League is set to kick off on February 15, 2026, marking the beginning of another year of grassroots football development in the Federal Capital Territory.

Established in February 2024 by Victor Isereke, CEO of Veekites Global Services, the league was created to commemorate the 10th birthday of his son, Jose Alabh Isereke, fondly known by his football nickname, Joseniho. 

Since its launch, the initiative has grown into a structured platform dedicated to nurturing young football talents and promoting discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship among children.

The 2026 tournament will kick off at the ACE Football Pitch, 3rd Avenue, Gwarimpa, Abuja. 

The inaugural edition featured seven developmental academies across Abuja, competing in a home-and-away league format. Teams that topped their respective standings at the end of the season emerged champions, setting a competitive tone that organizers say will continue in future editions.

While the maiden 2024 edition hosted four age categories ranging from U8 to U14, the upcoming 2026 league will expand and restructure its competition into five divisions: U7, U9, U11, U13, and U14. 

Organizers say the adjustment reflects the league’s commitment to inclusivity and early talent identification.

Beyond medals and trophies awarded to outstanding teams, the league earned praise in its first season for prioritizing participation and encouragement. 

All 420 players who took part in the debut edition received complimentary footballs in recognition of their involvement. Cash prizes of ₦1,000,000, ₦500,000, and ₦350,000 were also presented to the top three teams in each category, underscoring the organizers’ investment in youth sports.

According to the organizers, the 2026 edition will maintain the same competitive structure while strengthening its focus on youth development, talent discovery, and grassroots football excellence. 

The opening match in Gwarimpa is expected to draw families, academy representatives, and football enthusiasts eager to witness the next generation of emerging stars.

It is proudly sponsored by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and other partners.
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President Bola Tinubu will on Monday pay an official visit to Adamawa State, less than 48 hours after he made a similar visit to Kebbi.

During the one-day visit, President Tinubu will inaugurate completed projects and meet with top government officials and traditional rulers.

A statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President  on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday, said among projects billed for inauguration in the capital, Yola, and Jimeta, is the eight-lane Galadima Aminu Road linking Gimba and the capital.

The model school, comprising pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary classes, will also be inaugurated by the President.

Others include the new multipurpose hall, the remodelled High Court, the newly built officers’ complex, and the renovated Government House.

According to the statement, “The President will return to Abuja after the inauguration and the interaction with the state’s indigenes.”

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Primate Elijah Ayodele, founder and spiritual head of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Oke Afa, Lagos, has unveiled a mosque he built and dedicated to Abibatu Mogaji, the late mother of President Bola Tinubu.

The mosque was inaugurated on Saturday during Ayodele’s annual thanksgiving programme held at Oke-Afa in Lagos.

The ceremony attracted guests from religious, traditional, political and entertainment circles, among them Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, the president’s first daughter, who was represented by delegates, as well as Agbu Kefas, represented by his special adviser on Islamic matters.

Addressing attendees, Ayodele described the project as a “direct divine instruction he could not ignore”, adding that the mosque is simply a “house of worship for God”, just like churches, and that he has no personal stake in its management.

He handed the mosque over to a Muslim cleric present at the event.

“Building this mosque isn’t because I want attention or anything from anyone; it was a divine instruction that I cannot ignore,” he said.

“I am only answerable to God, so whatever anyone says doesn’t matter to me as long as God is pleased with me.”

On the decision behind the mosque’s name, Ayodele said he had first intended to call it Folawuyo Mosque but later changed it following “divine direction”.

He dismissed claims of political motives or criticism over his past position on the APC and Tinubu, stressing that the gesture was not intended to secure favours or appointments.

Muslim clerics at the gathering hailed the move as a strong sign of interfaith harmony.

An Islamic cleric, who began his remarks with Christian hymns, cited Proverbs 3:3 while praising Ayodele, saying it demonstrated “we are one” and pledged reciprocity.

A representative of the chief Imam of Ikorodu Division described Ayodele as a genuine prophet sent by God, comparing his name Elijah to the Quranic figure, and urged Nigerians to shun religious conflicts in favour of unity.

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Suspected bandits have abducted the wives and daughters of Imam Abubakar Muhammad Digare, the Chief Imam of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), in Digare town, Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State, along with several other residents.

The incident, which took place on Saturday night, has heightened anxiety among residents and underscored the persistent security concerns in the area.

Security analyst Bakatsine said the attackers invaded the residence under the cover of darkness and forcefully took several victims to an undisclosed location. As of the time of reporting, security agencies had not released an official figure for the number of people abducted.

Residents said the attack has deepened fear in the community, with many people choosing to remain indoors and restrict their movements.

Bakatsine described the implications of the incident for the region’s security.

He said, “The attack on the residence of Imam Abubakar Muhammad Digare is a clear indication of the growing audacity of criminal gangs in the region. Such acts are designed to instil fear and demonstrate the weakness of local security arrangements.”

On the possible impact on community stability, Bakatsine noted, “Abductions targeting prominent religious leaders are particularly alarming because they can destabilise communal trust and provoke tensions within the community.”

He also stressed the importance of prompt government intervention.
“Authorities need to respond swiftly and effectively to prevent further escalation. This incident underscores the urgent need for coordinated security strategies in Bauchi and surrounding states,” he said.

Residents said several women and children were among those abducted, adding that the situation turned chaotic as the attackers quickly fled after seizing their victims.

The latest raid is part of a series of recent security incidents across Bauchi State, where communities have reported kidnappings, armed robberies, and other violent attacks in different areas.

(SAHARA REPORTERS)

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Men Missionary Union, MMU, of First Baptist Church, Gwagwalada Abuja has celebrated this year’s Emphasis Sunday.

The 2026 Emphasis Sunday themed “Restorer of Broken Walls” was drawn from the book of Nehemiah chapter 1 verse 1 to 9.

Delivering a sermon to mark the occasion, the Minister in charge of the Church, Reverend Deji Oyelami, admonished christians to rebuild whatever walls that have fallen in their service to God.

Reverend Oyelami, who expressed concern over the attitude of some christians towards the gospel, stressed the need for christians to be in the vanguard of rebuilding any fallen walls in their various denominations and society towards ensuring the betterment of the country.

He identified lack of family values, immorality, dishonesty, lack of transparency, patriotism among others as some of the broken walls that needed rebuilding towards repositioning the country for greatness.

According to the Clergyman, propagating the gospel of Jesus Christ and upholding the principles and guidance of the word of God must be strictly adhered to for building the broken walls either in Churches and the society in general.

While admonishing the congregation to allow God to rebuild the broken walls in their lives, Reverend Deji Oyelami emphasized the need for Christians to shun unbiblical messages and false preachers to avoid missing the tracks.

Speaking on the theme of this year’s Emphasis Sunday “Restorer of Broken Walls”, the President of Men Missionary Union, MMU, of the Church, Engr. Aderemi Ajibade said the annual programme was to remind Christian Fathers most especially members of MMU in the Baptist family of what is expected of them in their service to God and humanity in line with the injunction of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, NBC.

Engr. Ajibade therefore advised members of MMU to put into practice the lessons of the Emphasis Sunday towards rebuilding broken walls in their lives and endeavours.

While wishing members of MMU of the Church a blessed Emphasis Sunday stated that the Union would continue to embark on programmes and activities that would strengthen the faith of members in God.

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Minister of Works Dave Umahi has said former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, should be clearly told that the time has not come for the Igbo to produce Nigeria’s president, cautioning that his ambition should not place the people of the Southeast at risk.

The minister also disclosed that the current administration met 2,068 ongoing projects valued at ₦13 trillion before the removal of fuel subsidy and the flotation of the naira.

Umahi made the remarks while speaking with journalists during an inspection of the reconstruction of the 56-kilometre Aba section of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway in Abia State.

According to him, President Bola Tinubu, through appointments and projects initiated in the Southeast since assuming office in 2023, has addressed the marginalisation previously experienced by the region.

During the inspection, which also covered the Alaoji Railway overhead bridge and the Obehie axis, the minister cited projects such as the Onitsha–Owerri and Enugu–Abakaliki corridors as evidence that the region is no longer neglected.

“Unless we are not telling ourselves the truth, there is no more marginalisation in the Southeast,” Umahi stated.

“We have never had a Minister of Works from this region until now. It is time for the Southeast to be strategic and support President Tinubu. We should tell our brother, Peter Obi, that it is not yet our turn.”

He added that the Southeast must build alliances with other parts of the country, noting that the 2027 general election offers an opportunity for the Igbo to reciprocate what he described as the President’s goodwill towards the zone.

“To have given Southeast the Minister of Works portfolio, we have never been Minister of Works, and you can see the product and the intention and good heart of the President, and so, it is time for a payback. You all know the amount of work from Port Harcourt to Enugu; there is no section of this work that is not going on for completion.

“Never in the history of Nigeria have we benefited as such. I was a Deputy Governor and then Governor for 8 years. No single project came to that state, but today, we can boast of a number of projects that are ongoing. We can boast of trillions of naira projects going on in the Southeast, like in other regions.

“The test legacy project of the President is in the Southeast. We have a service chief, we have key appointments and a lot that is going on in the Southeast under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. So, it is time to support the President; the people of the Southeast should support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We should not engage in sentiments. We should not engage in non-strategic moves. We should tell our brother, Peter Obi, that it is not yet our turn; when it is our turn, Nigerians and Southeast people will know when it is our turn.”

On the number of projects nationwide, Umahi said, “We inherited 2,068 ongoing projects totaling ₦13tn before the removal of fuel subsidy and naira flotation.

“To ensure these jobs don’t stop, we have migrated contractors like Arab Contractors to the Sukuk fund. They have ₦2bn to claim immediately, and with the 2025 budget allocations, they will have access to ₦4.7bn by the end of this month.”

At the Obehie axis, where work is being handled by CCECC and indigenous contractor JRB, the minister commended the performance of local firms. He also announced a new construction approach, introducing reinforced concrete pavement on the Port Harcourt-bound lane to guarantee durability for at least 50 years.

“We are building roads, not just constructing them. JRB has been mobilised on emergency grounds to fast-track the remaining sections.”

Umahi further directed contractors working on the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway to meet a May 15, 2024, deadline for the commissioning of the Aba to Imo River section by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Responding to criticism over transparency, he said: “They want me to be accountable, and I enjoy it. I am presiding over the funds of the Federation. If you have a petition, send it to the ICPC. Our projects are open for verification.”

(SUN)

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A former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has written to the Office of the National Security Adviser, requesting clarification over what he described as information circulating among opposition leaders about the alleged purchase of a toxic chemical.

In a letter dated January 30, 2026, and addressed to the National Security Adviser in Abuja, El-Rufai said he was seeking “clarification and reassurance” concerning reports that the office intended to import thallium sulphate.

He shared a copy of the correspondence on his official X handle on Sunday.

The former governor described the substance as dangerous and strictly regulated, noting that the situation required openness.

“I am writing as a concerned citizen to seek clarification and reassurance regarding information available to the political opposition leadership about a procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), reportedly from a supplier in Poland.

“Given that thallium salts are highly toxic and tightly controlled substances, I believe it is important – for public safety, democratic accountability and for maintaining public trust – to confirm the following details”, the letter partly read.

He identified six areas where he wants explanations, including “the intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate, the identity of the supplier and whether the importation followed due authorisation, the quantity and concentration involved, storage arrangements, and the regulatory oversight and coordination in place with NAFDAC, NCDC, and relevant public-health and environmental agencies.”

El-Rufai also asked, “whether any public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans have been developed, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.”

While stating that the request was not made with ill intent, he maintained that transparency would help strengthen public confidence in national institutions.

He also sought further engagement from the security office.

“I want to stress that this inquiry is made in good faith, solely to ensure that due processes, safety standards, and transparency are observed.

“Public confidence in the integrity of national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and managed.

“If possible, I would appreciate a response or a point of contact within your office for further engagement to reassure those of us that are Nigerian citizens in opposition,” the letter added.

He added that copies of the letter were sent to other relevant agencies.

“For completeness, I am copying this correspondence to NAFDAC and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), both of which play essential roles in chemical safety and public-health preparedness,” he said.

THE development comes shortly after security operatives attempted to arrest him at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Recall that El-Rufai, in an interview on Arise TV on Friday, alleged that he discovered a plan to arrest him upon his return to the country on Thursday through a leaked conversation from the NSA’s phone.

“Ribadu made the call because we listened to their calls. The government thinks that they’re the only ones that listen to calls. But we also have our ways. He made the call. He gave the order that they should arrest me”, he said in the interview.

The issue also comes amid growing debate over election cycles, national security operations and the role of oversight institutions, with opposition figures repeatedly calling for greater transparency in federal procurements.

As of the time of filing this report, the Office of the National Security Adviser had not issued any public response to the letter.

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The Citizens for Strategic Defence Cooperation (CSDC), a pro-security advocacy coalition, has expressed support for the Federal Government’s move to expand military cooperation with the United States Armed Forces, maintaining that Nigeria’s sovereignty has not been compromised.

In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, the group characterised the development as a “measured and strategic partnership” aimed at reinforcing the country’s campaign against terrorism, insurgency and transnational criminal networks.

The coalition stated that conversations around the presence of U.S. military personnel in Nigeria should be anchored on facts instead of emotional reactions.

“Our sovereignty is not for sale, and it has not been compromised,” the statement signed by CSDC Secretary, Abdulmajid Danladi read.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain in full operational control of all security activities within our territory. Any cooperation with foreign partners is structured, limited and governed by Nigerian law.”

CSDC noted that Nigeria has a history of defence cooperation with allied countries, particularly in training, intelligence exchange and capacity development. It added that the changing nature of security threats—ranging from terrorism and banditry to piracy and cybercrime—demands joint responses.

According to the group, deeper engagement with the United States Department of Defense would open access to advanced training, intelligence systems and modern operational practices.

“Modern warfare is technology-driven. Intelligence gathering, surveillance and counter-terror strategies are globalised. Refusing to cooperate with international allies would isolate Nigeria at a time when collaboration is essential,” the group noted.

The coalition praised the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces under the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, describing the decision as “forward-looking” and in line with the long-standing diplomatic and security ties between Nigeria and the United States.

It also stressed that the presence of foreign troops—where necessary—should not be interpreted as foreign dominance.

“There is a clear difference between cooperation and occupation,” the statement added. “Nigeria is not hosting foreign bases that override its authority. What exists is structured engagement designed to improve the capabilities of our own troops.”

CSDC called on citizens to assess the partnership from a national interest perspective rather than through partisan considerations.

“Our troops deserve every legitimate advantage in confronting violent threats. If collaboration with experienced global partners enhances their safety and effectiveness, then it is a responsible step,” the group said.

The coalition further urged the government to remain transparent and ensure all defence agreements align with constitutional provisions and the country’s foreign policy framework.

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