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PDP Structure Collapses into APC as LG Chair, Wasiu Lawal Hails “Historic Homecoming” in Ado-Odo/Ota

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PDP Structure Collapses into APC as LG Chair, Wasiu Lawal Hails “Historic Homecoming” in Ado-Odo/Ota

PDP Structure Collapses into APC as LG Chair, Wasiu Lawal Hails “Historic Homecoming” in Ado-Odo/Ota

The Executive Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Hon. Lawal Adewale Wasiu, FCA, on Friday, warmly welcomed a large group of former People’s Democratic Party (PDP) members back into the APC, describing the move as a “historic homecoming” and a symbol of political unity.

The reunion event, held in the local government area, had the feel of a family gathering, as key political figures and supporters across various wards of Ado-Odo/Ota announced their return to the APC. The mood was jubilant, with chants, applause, and declarations of loyalty echoing through the venue.

Hon. Wasiu Lawal Executive Chairman Ado-Odo/Ota LG

Speaking on behalf of the decampees, Hon. Rotimi Muiz Ojugbele announced the full collapse of the PDP structure under Dr. Rotimi Ramon (ARUGBO) into the APC.

“We are proud to return to where we belong,” Ojugbele said. “The entire PDP structure under the leadership of Dr. Rotimi Ramon across Ado-Odo/Ota has now been fully integrated into the APC. We are ready to re-engage at the grassroots level and give our total commitment to the party’s goals.”

In his remarks, Hon. Lawal expressed deep appreciation to Dr. Ramon for what he described as a courageous and progressive move.

“I sincerely thank Dr. Rotimi Ramon for his bold leadership in dissolving his structure into the APC,” Hon. Lawal stated. “This development marks a new chapter of strength, inclusiveness, and readiness as we march toward future electoral victories.”

He called on the returning members to align with the transformative vision of Governor Dapo Abiodun, CON, and Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, FNSE, while also throwing support behind APC’s next gubernatorial candidate.

“Let us join hands to ensure the continued progress of Ogun State,” Hon. Lawal added. “Like our neighbours in Lagos, we must pursue a legacy of sustainable development and good governance.”

He concluded by urging all APC members—new and old—to embrace peace, unity, and collaboration, emphasizing that these values are key to consolidating the party’s strength and delivering effective leadership at all levels.

The defection marks a significant shift in Ado-Odo/Ota’s political landscape, positioning the APC for stronger grassroots dominance as the state prepares for upcoming electoral contests. Read More

Tinubu Appoints IBB’s Son, Muhammad Babangida, as Bank of Agriculture Chairman

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Tinubu Appoints IBB’s Son, Muhammad Babangida, as Bank of Agriculture Chairman

The appointment of Muhammad Babangida, scion of one of Nigeria’s most prominent political families, signals Tinubu’s continued strategy of blending elite pedigree with professional qualification in his administration’s institutional reshuffle

Tinubu Appoints IBB’s Son, Muhammad Babangida, as Bank of Agriculture Chairman

— Eight Others Appointed to Head Key Federal Agencies

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Muhammad Babangida, son of former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida, as the Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture.

Babangida’s appointment was announced on Thursday in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, as part of a sweeping round of leadership changes across key federal institutions.

Born in 1971, the 53-year-old Babangida holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s in Public Relations and Business Communication from the European University in Montreux, Switzerland. He also completed an Executive Programme on Corporate Governance at Harvard Business School in 2002, adding global pedigree to his profile.

Though the full list of the eight other appointees was not immediately made public in the statement, the presidency described the appointments as part of Tinubu’s commitment to reforming key government agencies with technocratic and experienced leadership.

The appointment of Muhammad Babangida, scion of one of Nigeria’s most prominent political families, signals Tinubu’s continued strategy of blending elite pedigree with professional qualification in his administration’s institutional reshuffle.

Other individuals appointed alongside Mr Babangida include:

  • Lydia Kalat Musa (Kaduna State) – Chairman, Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA)
  • Jamilu Wada Aliyu (Kano State) – Chairman, National Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC)
  • Yahuza Ado Inuwa (Kano State) – Chairman, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON)
  • Sanusi Musa, SAN (Kano State) – Chairman, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR)
  • Prof. Al-Mustapha Alhaji Aliyu (Sokoto State) – Director-General, Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa (DTCA)
  • Sanusi Garba Rikiji (Zamfara State) – Director-General, Nigerian Office for Trade Negotiations (NOTN)
  • Mrs Tomi Somefun (Oyo State) – Managing Director, National Hydro-Electric Power Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC)
  • Dr Abdulmumini Mohammed Aminu-Zaria (Kaduna State) – Executive Director, Nigerian Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC)

Visa Expiry Isn’t Your Exit Date — U.S. Embassy Cautions Nigerian Travellers on Common Misconception

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Visa Expiry Isn’t Your Exit Date — U.S. Embassy Cautions Nigerian Travellers on Common Misconception

Visa Expiry Isn’t Your Exit Date — U.S. Embassy Cautions Nigerian Travellers on Common Misconception

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has issued a public advisory to clarify a common misconception among Nigerian travellers: the expiry date on a U.S. visa does not determine how long a visitor can stay in the United States.

In a post shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) account on July 17, the embassy explained that the actual duration of stay is set by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry, not by the visa’s expiration date.

“Reminder! The length of time an international visitor is allowed to stay in United States is determined by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon your arrival, NOT your visa expiration date. To see how long you can stay, check your I-94 (admit until date) at i94.cbp.dhs.gov,” the embassy stated.

The U.S. visa, the embassy emphasized, only permits a traveller to approach a U.S. port of entry and request admission—it does not automatically guarantee entry or specify the length of stay.

To know the exact date by which they must depart the U.S., travellers are advised to check their I-94 form, a crucial document that shows the “Admit Until Date” as assigned by the CBP officer.

In response to a frequently asked question—“I have a U.S. visa. How long can I stay in the United States?”—the embassy reiterated:

“A U.S. visa allows you travel to a U.S. port of entry and request permission to enter. How long you are allowed to stay in the United States is not your visa’s expiration date. The CBP officer determines your ‘Admit Until Date’ upon your arrival and you can check the date by which you must depart online at i94.cbp.dhs.gov.”

The advisory forms part of ongoing efforts by the U.S. Mission to educate Nigerian travellers on proper immigration procedures and prevent visa overstays, which could harm future visa applications or international travel plans.

Travellers are encouraged to always verify their I-94 information immediately after arrival and to depart the U.S. on or before the specified date to remain compliant with immigration laws. Read More

NURTW Members Nabbed Smuggling Military Uniforms for Terrorists in Borno — Army Intercepts Major Terror Supply Chain

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NURTW Members Nabbed Smuggling Military Uniforms for Terrorists in Borno — Army Intercepts Major Terror Supply Chain

NURTW Members Nabbed Smuggling Military Uniforms for Terrorists in Borno — Army Intercepts Major Terror Supply Chain

In a major breakthrough against insurgency logistics, troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested two members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) accused of supplying military-grade items to Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State.

Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, confirmed the arrests during a press briefing on Thursday in Abuja, revealing that the suspects were intercepted while delivering a suspicious package believed to be intended for terrorists.

The suspects, Isah Abdullahi and Abdullahi Mohammed, were apprehended by troops at Liya in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State. They were reportedly receiving a consignment from a truck driver when the troops, acting on intelligence, intercepted the delivery. A search of the package uncovered 13 pairs of military uniforms, high-voltage batteries, and other sensitive equipment.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were acting on behalf of terrorist elements. The uniform and batteries were being transported under the guise of normal waybill logistics,” said Maj. Gen. Kangye.

He added that the military acted on actionable intelligence which indicated the items were meant for insurgents operating in southern Borno.

In a related operation, troops also arrested 65-year-old Shaibu Bulama at the Damasak Motor Park in Yobe State. Bulama is alleged to be a key logistics coordinator and financier for terrorist activities across the Lake Chad Basin region.

According to Kangye, the Defence Headquarters considers these arrests a significant success in its efforts to disrupt Boko Haram’s supply chain and deny the group freedom of movement and access to critical materials.

“These operations are yielding results thanks to improved intelligence sharing and vigilance by our personnel. The war on terror is being won not only on the battlefield but also by disrupting enemy logistics,” Kangye stated.

He further urged Nigerians—especially transport workers and logistics operators—to remain vigilant and report suspicious consignments, transactions, or passengers to security agencies.

“We call on all citizens, particularly those involved in transport and logistics, to be extra alert. Your cooperation is crucial in identifying and stopping the movement of dangerous materials,” he said.

The military reiterated its resolve to intensify surveillance, community intelligence collaboration, and swift response in the ongoing fight against terrorism across the northeast and beyond.

“Your Support Symbolises Great Honour to My Father’s Memory” — Buhari’s Son Tells Tinubu

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“Your Support Symbolises Great Honour to My Father’s Memory” — Buhari’s Son Tells Tinubu

“Your Support Symbolises Great Honour to My Father’s Memory” — Buhari’s Son Tells Tinubu

An emotional Yusuf Buhari, son of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration for the dignified state burial accorded to his father, describing the gesture as a profound honour to his memory.

Speaking on Thursday at a special session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) held in Abuja in honour of the late statesman, Yusuf fought back tears as he paid tribute to the overwhelming show of solidarity from the Nigerian government and people.

“It has shown that he (Buhari) was regarded far more than a politician, but regarded as a friend and a father,” Yusuf said.

He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, members of the Federal Executive Council, and other dignitaries who played pivotal roles in honouring the late leader during his final rites.

“To all members of the Federal Executive Council, for the care and befitting burial accorded to our late father, we appreciate you all,” he said.

Yusuf also extended his gratitude to the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and all members of the National Assembly, acknowledging their roles in giving the former president a respected farewell.

“I also wish to thank the Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and all the distinguished and honorable members of the National Assembly for honoring the memory of our late father during the state burial in Daura,” he said.

He further thanked Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda, other state governors, and Nigerians from all walks of life for their visits, prayers, and words of comfort.

“Your visits, calls, and prayers symbolise a great honour to the memory of our late father, and we’re sincerely grateful for all the support and solidarity extended to the family. May Allah continue to bless us all,” he added.

In an emotionally charged moment, Yusuf turned to President Tinubu, saying:

“Thank you, daddy. Thank you, Daddy. Thank you, Daddy. May Allah continue to bless, provide, and protect you throughout your tenure.”

State Burial for Former President Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at a medical facility in London at the age of 82.

His remains were flown back to Nigeria and received by President Bola Tinubu, before being interred on Tuesday, July 15, in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State.

Buhari served as Nigeria’s democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, and earlier as military Head of State between 1983 and 1985. His passing marks the end of an era in Nigeria’s political and military history.

President Tinubu led the nation in paying final respects, describing Buhari as “a patriot who served Nigeria with unwavering commitment and discipline.” Read More

EFCC Witness: Achimugu Sought $12m Cash Deal via SunTrust Bank to Buy Oil Block

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<h1>EFCC Witness: Achimugu Sought $12m Cash Deal via SunTrust Bank to Buy Oil Block</h1>

EFCC witness reveals $12 million cash-for-oil-block deal allegedly facilitated through SunTrust Bank; key executives in court

EFCC Witness: Achimugu Sought $12m Cash Deal via SunTrust Bank to Buy Oil Block

A prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of top executives of SunTrust Bank has told a Federal High Court in Abuja how $12 million was moved in cash through the bank within just 10 days—allegedly to help businesswoman Aisha Achimugu secure an oil block.

Suleiman Ciroma, a former bureau de change (BDC) operator and businessman, gave this account on Thursday while being led in evidence by EFCC counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, in the trial of Halima Buba, the Managing Director and CEO of SunTrust Bank, and Innocent Mbagwu, the bank’s Executive Director and Chief Compliance Officer.

According to Ciroma, the cash movement occurred between March 10 and March 20 across branches of SunTrust Bank in Lagos and Abuja. He submitted documents in court detailing the tranches of payments, all totaling $12 million.

“I was contacted by Aisha Achimugu to help with a forex exchange,” Ciroma testified. “I called Halima Buba, and she confirmed she was aware of the arrangement.”

On the same day the request was made, Ciroma said he was contacted by a bank staff member named Iliya from the Abuja branch, who informed him that $1 million in cash was ready for pickup. Ciroma said he then sent Tijjani Adamu to collect the funds on behalf of Ashrap Ltd., a company owned by his associate, Hassan Dantani.

“On that same day, another $1 million was collected by Abdulkadir Mohammed, and $2 million was picked up in cash by someone named Kabiru,” Ciroma added.

He further revealed that the funds were later converted and transferred in tranches to the Zenith Bank account of Oceangate Energy Oil & Gas Ltd., a company he claims is owned by Achimugu. Ciroma said he profited N15 million from the transaction.

When asked about the purpose of the transaction, Ciroma said: “Aisha told me she needed the money to buy an oil block.”

He also testified that while Buba coordinated the transactions in Abuja, Mbagwu handled those in Lagos.

WhatsApp conversations between Ciroma and Buba were tendered in court alongside a certificate of identification. Although defence counsels—Johnson Usman and M.S. Ibrahim—objected to the admissibility of the documents, they deferred their arguments until their final written address.

Presiding Judge Emeka Nwite admitted the evidence as Exhibit P1 and adjourned the trial to July 18 for continuation.

The EFCC is prosecuting Buba and Mbagwu on a six-count charge of money laundering involving $12 million. The anti-graft agency alleges that the duo facilitated the illegal cash movement in breach of Nigeria’s anti-money laundering laws, as the transactions were not routed through proper banking channels.

Both bank executives pleaded not guilty and have met their bail conditions.

Meanwhile, the EFCC is also enmeshed in a related controversy involving the transfer of N11 billion belonging to Felak Concept Group Ltd.—a company linked to Achimugu—from its account at SunTrust Bank to the anti-graft agency’s recovery account at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Insiders say the EFCC failed to produce a valid court order before demanding the transfer and allegedly disrupted bank operations nationwide while detaining Buba. The bank eventually complied “under coercion and threat,” after which Buba was released.

Following these events, Achimugu filed a fundamental rights suit (FHC/CS/ABJ/626/2025) against the EFCC, citing harassment and intimidation over what she maintains were “legitimate business transactions.”

The bank’s executives also filed a separate rights enforcement case (FHC/ABJ/CS/802/2025), seeking protection from what they described as “threats, attempted arrests, and coercion” by the EFCC. Although that suit has now been withdrawn, another case (FHC/CS/856/2025) filed by Felak Concept Group Ltd. remains active, challenging the legality of the N11 billion debit and requesting a refund.

Hearings in the Achimugu and Felak cases are scheduled for July 17 and July 25, respectively. Read More

Adron Group CEO, Adetola Emmanuelking Pays Tribute to Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari

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Adron Group CEO, Adetola Emmanuelking Pays Tribute to Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari

In a heartfelt condolence message, Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuelking KOF, the Group Chairman of Adron Group, has joined the rest of the nation in mourning the death of former President, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, describing his passing as the departure of a patriot, a soldier, and a statesman whose legacy will remain indelible in Nigeria’s history.

In the statement released to the press, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking expressed his deep sorrow over the death of the former Head of State and President, calling it a moment of “national grief and solemn reflection.”

“His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, was more than a leader, he was a symbol of discipline, duty, and commitment to national integrity. His life, marked by sacrifice and stoic patriotism, leaves behind a legacy that will resonate far beyond his years.”

The business leader and philanthropist praised the late Buhari’s journey from the military trenches to the highest civilian office in the land, noting the rare courage and conviction with which he navigated leadership in both roles.

“From the battlefields as a gallant general to the seat of power as a democratically elected President, he served with honour. He was austere, yet compassionate; firm, yet loyal to the unity of Nigeria,” Aare Adetola Emmanuelking remarked.

He extended his deepest sympathies to the family. “You have not only lost a patriarch, but the nation has lost a father figure, a sentinel of moral strength, and a resolute defender of the Nigerian dream”, he stated.

He urged Nigerians not to mourn as those without hope, but to reflect on and uphold the values of discipline, resilience, and unity, which were embodied by the former President.

“Though his voice may now be silent, the echoes of his convictions for a greater Nigeria will continue to inspire generations to come,” he concluded.

The former President, who served as Nigeria’s military Head of State from 1983 to 1985 and later as a two-term civilian President from 2015 to 2023, passed away leaving behind a storied legacy of service to the nation.

Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuelking’s tribute joins a chorus of voices across the nation and the world, honouring a man whose life was an attestation of loyalty, sacrifice, and enduring national purpose.

Otudeko Bows Out: N323bn Block Deal Shakes Up First Holdco Ownership

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Otudeko Bows Out: N323bn Block Deal Shakes Up First Holdco Ownership

Otudeko Bows Out: N323bn Block Deal Shakes Up First Holdco Ownership

In a seismic shift within Nigeria’s oldest banking group, First Holdco Plc, billionaire businessman Oba Otudeko has exited his long-held stake in the institution through a massive N323.33 billion block trade.

The deal, executed on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), involved the transfer of 10.43 billion ordinary shares — representing approximately 25 per cent of the banking group’s total shareholding — at an average price of N31 per share. The negotiated off-market transaction is one of the largest single-day equity trades in recent Nigerian financial history.

“This is a well-known issue around the market that it would happen,” a senior investment banker and multiple-asset stockbroker told The Nation. “It’s a new beginning for the group.”

The exit of the Otudekos marks the end of a long-standing chapter in First Holdco’s corporate history. Otudeko, a key figure in the bank’s evolution over the decades, had been enmeshed in an increasingly public battle for influence with other major shareholders, including billionaire businessman Femi Otedola and seasoned insurance executive Tunde Hassan-Odukale.

While the identity of the buyer remained undisclosed at the close of business, regulatory guidelines provide a grace period for full disclosure and documentation of such ownership changes. According to insider sources, the shares traded belonged to the Otudeko family, who have been in a series of legal and commercial disputes with the bank in recent years.

Otedola, now the chairman of First Holdco, had earlier acquired the largest individual stake in the group. Since his entry, First Holdco has undergone sweeping reforms, including boardroom shakeups, leadership changes, and aggressive legal moves to recover debts owed by stakeholders.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will be required to screen and approve the new significant investor, as any holding above five per cent must undergo regulatory scrutiny.

The market responded positively to the deal, with First Holdco’s share price climbing to about N32, pushing its market capitalisation beyond N1.3 trillion. The transaction also lifted total turnover on the NGX by a staggering 807 per cent, as 11.67 billion shares worth N363.41 billion changed hands.

Analysts say the transaction may provide the fresh momentum First Holdco needs to accelerate its ongoing turnaround.

“This could be the turning point the bank needs,” one analyst noted. “With the exit of legacy interests and clarity of direction, reforms can now move faster.” Read More

Atiku Dumps PDP as Frustration with Party Grows Amid Years of Unfulfilled Presidential Ambitions

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Atiku Dumps PDP as Frustration with Party Grows Amid Years of Unfulfilled Presidential Ambitions

Atiku Dumps PDP as Frustration with Party Grows Amid Years of Unfulfilled Presidential Ambitions

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a familiar figure in Nigeria’s presidential races, has once again found himself at a crossroads in his political journey.

Since 1993, Atiku has pursued the presidency six times under various party platforms, including the Social Democratic Party (SDP), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Action Congress (AC), and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Despite formally returning to the PDP in the lead-up to the 2019 general elections, Atiku’s confidence in the party has waned significantly in recent months. His growing frustration is tied to what many close to him describe as the party’s persistent internal crisis and failure to reinvent itself as a formidable opposition force after its defeat by the APC in the 2023 elections.

“He’s increasingly disappointed with the direction the party is going,” a party insider revealed. “The leadership has struggled with post-election reconciliation, and the zoning controversy only deepened the cracks.”

Atiku’s disillusionment stems from what he perceives as the PDP’s inability to present a united and strategic front, particularly in the aftermath of a critical election loss. According to sources, he had hoped for more decisive action from the party’s hierarchy to rebuild and strengthen its structures nationwide.

While Atiku has yet to formally indicate his next political move, his deepening rift with the PDP leadership continues to fuel speculation about his future role in Nigerian politics. Read More

Oyo Govt Schedules JSS1 Placement Screening for July 17, Warns Against Exam Malpractice

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Oyo Govt Schedules JSS1 Placement Screening for July 17, Warns Against Exam Malpractice

Oyo Govt Schedules JSS1 Placement Screening for July 17, Warns Against Exam Malpractice

Ibadan, Nigeria – July 16, 2025

The Oyo State Government has announced that the 2025 Screening and Placement Exercise for admission into Junior Secondary School One (JSS1) will hold on Thursday, July 17, 2025, across designated centres in the state.

This announcement was contained in an official statement signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, who confirmed that the screening will commence promptly at 7:00 a.m. in all centres.

According to the commissioner, the placement exercise is compulsory for all pupils in public and approved private primary schools seeking admission into JSS1 in the state’s secondary school system.

“All participating pupils are expected to come along with their writing materials. Principals and heads of the various screening centres must ensure adequate preparation and effective monitoring throughout the exercise,” Hon. Olayiwola said.

He further disclosed that officials from the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, alongside members of the Examination Ethics Committee, will be on ground to supervise the process and maintain its integrity.

“The Ministry will not tolerate any form of examination malpractice. Candidates must conduct themselves properly, while parents and guardians are strongly advised to avoid loitering around the screening centres. Only registered candidates and authorised personnel will be granted access,” the commissioner warned.

The Ministry’s Media Officer, Omotoso Olukemi, also reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring a transparent and credible placement process, stressing that the exercise forms a critical part of the state’s broader education reform initiatives.

Parents, school administrators, and candidates are advised to take note of the date and comply with all instructions for a smooth and successful screening exercise. Read More

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