July 2025 | Page 3 of 48

Senate Gives NNPCL 21 Days to Explain N210 Trillion in Unreconciled Funds

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

The Nigerian Senate has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to provide explanations for N210 trillion in unreconciled financial records flagged in its audited accounts. The directive was handed down to NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Bayo Ojulari, on Monday during a session with the Senate Committee on Public Accounts. Ojulari appeared before the committee after previously failing to honor four separate invitations. Committee Chairman Senator Ahmed Wadada (Nasarawa West) disclosed that the discrepancies were identified in 19 audit queries raised by the Office of the Auditor General for the Federation. The flagged figures span the years 2017 to 2023 and comprise N103 trillion in liabilities and N107 trillion in assets. “The committee has not said the N210 trillion was stolen or missing,” Wadada clarified. “This is part of our constitutional mandate to examine the audited accounts of public institutions.” Ojulari, who has been in office for just over 100 days, apologized for his earlier absences and asked for more time to review the complex financial queries. He initially requested a four-week extension, but the committee granted him three weeks. “I still need time to do further digging,” he said. “Your explanation now changes my perspective about the issues.” He is expected to submit written responses and appear again before the committee, along with other top officials of the NNPCL. Lawmakers emphasized the gravity of the matter, stressing the importance of transparency in the operations of the national oil company. “NNPCL is in possession of Nigeria’s economic prosperity. We must ensure transparency,” said Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central). Senator Babangida Hussaini (Jigawa North West) described the audit findings as “germane and critical,” while Senator Tony Nwoye (Anambra North) called for a fair hearing, noting that some of the discrepancies might be due to errors in the audit process.

WAFCON 2025: Morocco Petitions CAF Over Officiating After Nigeria’s Comeback Win

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Tension continues to rise following Nigeria’s dramatic 3-2 victory over host nation Morocco in the final of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), as the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has officially lodged a protest with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over alleged officiating errors that they claim influenced the outcome. The FRMF’s petition centers on a pivotal moment in the 82nd minute when Nigerian defender Tosin Demehin was flagged for a handball in the penalty box. The referee initially awarded a penalty to Morocco, but after a VAR review, the decision was overturned — a move that Moroccan officials and fans have strongly condemned. “It was a small detail that cost us the game,” lamented Morocco’s head coach Jorge Vilda, who previously led Spain to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup title. While acknowledging that his players were physically drained in the second half, Vilda insisted that the reversal of the penalty was a major turning point. Morocco had taken a 2-0 lead in the first half, stunning fans at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat. But the Super Falcons launched a spirited second-half comeback with goals from Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamilusi, and Jennifer Echegini, who came off the bench to score the winner. Nigeria’s head coach Justine Madugu praised his players’ determination and credited tactical changes at halftime for the turnaround. “The substitutions made all the difference,” Madugu said. “But full credit to Morocco — they played an excellent first half.” The defeat marks a bitter moment for Morocco, making them the first host nation to lose back-to-back WAFCON finals. The FRMF insists CAF must review the officiating and has called for stronger accountability to preserve the tournament’s integrity. In the third-place match, Ghana’s Black Queens edged past South Africa’s Banyana Banyana in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regular time, claiming the bronze medal in a fiercely contested fixture.

Saheed Jamiu Osama and Uyime Godwin Udoekwere

TikTok Influencers Remanded for Accusing Mohbad’s Widow of Murder

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the remand of two TikTok content creators, Saheed Jamiu Osama and Uyime Godwin Udoekwere, for allegedly accusing Omowunmi Aloba, the widow of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, of being responsible for his death. The defendants were arraigned on charges of defamation, cyberstalking, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace following a protest where they held placards that read: “Wunmi Killed Mohbad! Period! E No Go Better For Wunmi!” The protest video, which went viral on TikTok and other platforms, attracted outrage and prompted a swift response from authorities. Justice Ibrahim Kala, presiding over the case, ordered the remand of the defendants at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending trial. The court scheduled the next hearing for September 25, 2025. The prosecution told the court that the actions of the accused amounted to character assassination, targeted harassment, and incitement against a private citizen without evidence. The arrest has sparked mixed reactions across social media. While some users defended the defendants under the right to free speech, others condemned what they described as “digital mob justice.” Legal analysts say the case could set a precedent in Nigeria’s evolving cyberspace regarding responsible online conduct and the limits of digital expression. Meanwhile, supporters of Omowunmi Aloba have called for justice and accountability against what they describe as “relentless online bullying.”

Ralph Nwosu: I Rejected Ministerial Offers to Derail ADC Coalition – Party Hands Over Leadership to David Mark

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago06 mins

Former National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ralph Nwosu, has revealed he was offered three ministerial slots by senior government officials in a bid to dissuade him from transforming the ADC into a coalition platform for Nigeria’s opposition. Nwosu made the disclosure during the final National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party, where leadership was officially handed over to former Senate President, David Mark, now serving as interim National Chairman. Also, former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, was unveiled as the party’s new National Secretary. According to Nwosu, the offer—reportedly from individuals linked to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)—was aimed at stopping the ADC’s transformation into a formidable opposition force. “Some people tried to discourage us with promises of automatic ministerial appointments,” he said. “They wanted to give me three ministerial slots—one for me and two to give away. But I said no. I chose the democratic future of Nigeria. Nigeria cannot be a one-party state after all we did to send the military back to the barracks.” Nwosu emphasized that the ADC’s decision to proceed with the coalition has made it Nigeria’s most populous opposition party, claiming over three million members, 28 senators, and more than 60 members in the House of Representatives. ADC Leadership Restructuring The NEC meeting was monitored by officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and served as the formal conclusion to the party’s internal restructuring. A motion was passed to dissolve the outgoing National Working Committee (NWC) led by Nwosu. The transition was finalized with all former NEC and NWC members stepping down. Zonal Chairman for the South-West, Razzaq Eyiowuawi, moved the first motion for the handover, while Zamfara State Chairman, Kabiru Garba, called for the recall of all members expelled in 2022. Both motions were unanimously passed. The new Caretaker Committee led by David Mark also announced key leadership appointments: The newly constituted committee members took an oath of office to signify their commitment to the party’s reformation goals. David Mark Pledges Internal Democracy and Inclusion In his acceptance speech, David Mark described his appointment as the beginning of a “new chapter” for ADC and pledged to uphold internal democracy, transparency, and merit-based leadership. “I pledge to serve this party with integrity, courage, and vision. This is not just the start of a new NEC, but a rebirth of ADC,” he said. Mark commended Ralph Nwosu and his team for building the foundation of the party and promised to institutionalize democratic principles, including a commitment to collective leadership, inclusive representation, and structured financing. “We will open the gates for the next generation. Our leadership will reflect genuine inclusion of youth and women, not just tokenism,” he added, noting that 35% of positions have been reserved for women and that younger members will also be prioritized. The party also announced plans to form a 50-member Policy Committee to redefine its manifesto and address key national issues across sectors such as health, education, technology, economy, and infrastructure. A Clear Vision for Opposition Mark concluded with a call to action for Nigerians seeking change. “ADC is the only party that guarantees equal opportunity to everyone regardless of age, gender, religion, or region. We will be a party defined not by personalities but by ideology, policies, and patriotic governance.

Tinubu Rewards 200 Outstanding NYSC Members with Jobs, ₦250,000 Each, and Postgraduate Scholarships

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

In a landmark move to honour exemplary service, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced automatic federal civil service employment for 200 outstanding National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members from the 2020 to 2023 service years. Each awardee will also receive a ₦250,000 cash prize and a postgraduate scholarship to any Nigerian university. The announcement was made at the NYSC Presidential Honours Award Ceremony held in Abuja. President Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, described the honorees as “the future of Nigeria.” In a particularly inclusive gesture, the President also approved immediate employment for 10 physically challenged ex-corps members who sustained injuries while serving the nation. “Your patriotism and integrity have earned you this national recognition. You are the future of Nigeria,” President Tinubu stated. Notable Awardees (Highlights): Male: Female: NYSC Allowance Increased to ₦77,000 In a further boost to youth welfare, Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, announced a significant increase in the NYSC monthly allowance—from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000. “This is not politics. It’s recognition of the value our youth bring to nation-building,” Olawande said. NYSC Impact in Numbers (2025): Tribute to Fallen Corps Members NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, paid tribute to four corps members who lost their lives during their national service. “They are heroes of national unity. You may no longer wear khaki, but you now wear something greater—the confidence of a nation,” he told the audience. The Presidential Honours Awards serve as a reminder of the continued importance of the NYSC scheme in promoting national unity, service, and youth development.

Manhattan Shooter Targeted NFL But Took Wrong Lift – Mayor Eric Adams

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

A gunman who killed four people in a New York skyscraper was attempting to attack the NFL headquarters but mistakenly took the wrong elevator, according to New York City Mayor Eric Adams. The attacker, identified as 27-year-old Shane Tamura from Las Vegas, entered 345 Park Avenue—home to several high-profile firms including the NFL, Blackstone, and KPMG—on Monday evening with an M4 rifle. Mayor Adams told MSNBC: “We have reason to believe he was focused on the NFL agency located in the building, but he entered the wrong elevator.” Among the victims was NYPD officer Didarul Islam, 36, who was married with two children and a third on the way. Also killed was Blackstone Senior Managing Director Wesley LePatner. The investment firm described her as “brilliant, passionate, and deeply respected.” A female NFL staffer was seriously injured and remains in hospital. According to authorities, Tamura had a documented history of mental illness and left a note expressing frustration about his mental health issues being linked to his high school football background. Investigators suspect he believed he had chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain condition associated with repeated head trauma. CCTV footage showed Tamura arriving in a black BMW just before 6:30 p.m., entering the lobby, and opening fire. After fatally shooting multiple people, including a security guard, he ascended to the 33rd floor where he killed another victim before turning the weapon on himself. The tragic event has raised questions about building security, mental health intervention, and the impact of contact sports on long-term brain health.

Lionesses Celebrate Euro 2025 Win with Burna Boy at Buckingham Palace Parade

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

England’s Lionesses were given a hero’s welcome in London as thousands of fans lined the streets to celebrate their UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 victory with an open-top bus parade and rally outside Buckingham Palace. The triumphant team, led by head coach Sarina Wiegman, lifted the trophy high as they toured the capital before taking the stage for a celebratory event featuring music, cheers, and emotional speeches. One of the most memorable moments came when Wiegman joined Afro-fusion superstar Burna Boy on stage, singing and dancing along with her favourite artist to the delight of fans. The surprise collaboration marked a joyful climax to the team’s historic win. The Lionesses secured their Euro 2025 title following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Germany in the final, cementing their place as one of the most successful women’s football teams in the world. Draped in flags and medals, the players addressed the crowd, thanking supporters and pledging to continue inspiring the next generation of female athletes. The celebration marked not only a sporting achievement but also a powerful moment of unity and national pride.

Estate Developer Gifts Nnadozie, Lookman Plots of Land in Abuja

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

A well-known estate developing company, Jedo Investment Company Ltd has donated plots of land worth 400 square metres each, within the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja to Super Falcons’ goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and reigning Africa Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman. The land is situated inside the Jedo Mega Estate in Ushafa, Abuja. In a letter signed by its General Manager (Human and Business Relations), Anthony Onwuma, Jedo Investment said it was “particularly inspired” by Nnadozie’s performance as Super Falcons’ goalkeeper at the recently-concluded 13th Women Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. “Your efforts not only helped secure the championship but also served as a shining example of dedication and excellence for millions of Nigerians and football lovers around the world.” With regards to Lookman, the reigning Africa Player of the Year, the company noted: “Your outstanding performance, resilience, and excellence on the pitch have not only brought immense pride to Nigeria but have also cemented your position as one of the finest in the world today. Your achievement is a testament to hard work, discipline, and an unyielding commitment to excellence values that resonate deeply with our brand.” Nnadozie, who is also the reigning Africa Goalkeeper of the Year (retaining the title she won in 2023), was selected as the Best Goalkeeper of the 13th Women AFCON, and has had a fabulous past three years at club level in Europe. Both star players have been offered the position of Brand Ambassador for Jedo Investment company.