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EFCC To Arraign Former AGF Abubakar Malami Over N8.7 Billion Money Laundering Case

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is set to arraign Abubakar Malami, SAN, former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday. Malami is expected to face Justice Emeka Nwite, where he will enter a plea alongside his co-defendants. The prosecution will be led by Chief J. S. Okutepa, SAN. According to the charge sheet obtained by Channels Television, the EFCC has filed a 16-count charge against Malami, his son Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami, and associate Hajia Bashir Asabe. The charges include large-scale money laundering and illegal acquisition of assets valued at over N8.7 billion. The case, filed as FHC/ABJ/CR/700/2025, alleges that the defendants conspired to conceal, disguise, and retain proceeds from unlawful activities. The commission claims that the funds were moved through multiple bank accounts, corporate entities, and high-value real estate transactions over a period of nearly ten years, primarily between 2015 and 2025, during Malami’s tenure as Attorney-General. The EFCC alleges that Malami and his son used Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited to hide N1.014 billion in a Sterling Bank account from July 2022 to June 2025 and deposited an additional N600.01 million between September 2020 and February 2021. They are also accused of holding N600 million in cash as collateral for a N500 million loan taken by Rayhaan Hotels Ltd, with the commission asserting that the funds were proceeds of illegal activities. Further allegations include controlling N1.36 billion via the Union Bank account of Meethaq Hotels Ltd between November 2022 and October 2025, which the EFCC says was acquired unlawfully. Several counts also relate to the purchase of high-end properties in Abuja and other locations to conceal the origin of the funds. Reported acquisitions include: A luxury duplex on Amazon Street, Maitama (N500 million) Property on Onitsha Crescent, Garki (N700 million) Property in Jabi District (N850 million) Real estate on Rhine Street, Maitama (N430 million) Properties in Asokoro District (N210 million and N325 million) Property at Efab Estate, Gwarimpa (N120 million) The EFCC claims that Malami also used N952 million in illicit funds to acquire multiple properties in Abuja, Kano, and Birnin Kebbi between 2018 and 2023, often through proxies and corporate entities to obscure ownership. Hajia Bashir Asabe, reportedly an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Ltd, is said to have facilitated these transactions on Malami’s behalf. The commission maintains that the alleged actions violate the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 (as amended) and the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. A list of witnesses, including investigators, bank officials, bureau de change operators, and company representatives, has been submitted to support the case.

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Yahaya Bello Declares 2027 Bid For Kogi Central Senatorial Seat

Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has announced his plan to contest the Kogi Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections. The declaration came during a visit to the palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, where Bello met with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders from the senatorial district. A video of the visit and his announcement was shared on his verified Facebook page on Monday. “I accept to run for the Senate in 2027,” Bello told the gathering. Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo attended the event alongside other political leaders. Reports from Peoples Daily indicated that Ododo urged Bello to consider the calls from party leaders and constituents encouraging him to represent Kogi Central in the National Assembly. The appeal was made in the presence of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and other influential figures. Bello, who governed Kogi State from 2016 to 2024, remains a leading figure within the All Progressives Congress in the state. The Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, Amoka Eneji, also commended Bello for declaring his senatorial ambition. Eneji praised the former governor’s efforts toward the unity and development of the Ebira people, noting that his leadership would remain a significant part of Ebiraland’s history. The Kogi Central Senatorial seat is presently held by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, elected in 2023. Akpoti-Uduaghan, a lawyer and former governorship aspirant, is the first woman to represent the district in the Senate.

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NAFDAC Raises Alarm Over Circulation Of Fake Kiss Condoms In Nigeria

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has warned Nigerians about the presence of counterfeit Kiss condoms circulating in several markets across the country, describing the development as a serious public health concern. The warning was contained in a notice published on the agency’s website on Monday under Public Alert No. 042/2025. NAFDAC said the alert followed a report from DKT International Nigeria, a non-governmental organisation involved in contraceptive social marketing and HIV/AIDS prevention. “The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control is notifying the public about the sale and distribution of fake Kiss condoms in various Nigerian markets,” the agency stated. NAFDAC explained that the information was provided by the Marketing Authorisation Holder, DKT International Nigeria, whose work focuses on making safe and affordable family planning options available to Nigerians. “The information was received from the MAH-DKT International Nigeria, a leading non-governmental organisation focused on contraceptive social marketing. Its mission is to provide Nigerians with affordable and safe options for family planning and HIV/AIDS prevention,” the statement added. According to the agency, the counterfeit condoms have been discovered in major commercial centres, including Onitsha Market, Idumota Market, Trade Fair Market, as well as markets in Kano, Abuja, Uyo, Gombe, Enugu and other locations nationwide. Kiss condoms are male latex condoms designed to prevent unwanted pregnancies and protect against sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, gonorrhoea and syphilis. However, NAFDAC cautioned that the fake versions fall far below required safety and quality standards. The agency warned that using counterfeit condoms could lead to condom breakage, exposure to infections, allergic reactions and ineffective protection, which may leave users with a false sense of security. NAFDAC said the fake Kiss condoms can be identified through clear differences in packaging and product quality. These include changes in colour shade, poor print quality, distorted designs, incorrect or incomplete manufacturer addresses, missing medical device information and inadequate caution instructions. It further noted that the counterfeit products often come in darker wrappers with barcode irregularities and are made from thinner latex, with reduced lubrication and a smaller teat end compared to the genuine product. In response to the development, NAFDAC said its zonal and state offices have been directed to intensify monitoring, surveillance and removal of the counterfeit condoms from the market. The agency urged distributors, retailers, healthcare workers and consumers to exercise caution and ensure that condoms and other medical products are purchased only from authorised and licensed sources. “Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicion of the sale of substandard and falsified medicines or medical devices to the nearest NAFDAC office, NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or via email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng,” the agency said. It also called for the reporting of adverse reactions linked to medical products. “Similarly, healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of medicinal products or medical devices to the nearest NAFDAC office, or through the e-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website, www.nafdac.gov.ng, or via the Med-safety application available for download on Android and iOS stores, or by email at pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.” NAFDAC added that the alert would be shared globally, noting that the notice would be uploaded to the World Health Organisation Global Surveillance and Monitoring System.

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Super Falcons Goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie Loses Brother

Chiamaka Nnadozie has announced the death of her brother, sharing the painful news with fans on social media on Monday. The Super Falcons goalkeeper posted a heartfelt message on Instagram alongside videos from the CAF Awards in Morocco, where her brother was seen holding her Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year trophy with pride. “Forever in my heart, big brother. Your laughter echoes in my soul. The bond we shared can’t be broken by time or distance. Your spirit guides us. Losing you is a pain like no other, but I’ll honour your life by living mine with courage. “Every star holds your light; every memory, a treasure. My rock, my friend, my guide. Rest easy, my brother,” Nnadozie wrote. Her post immediately drew an outpouring of sympathy from teammates, supporters and football stakeholders across social media. Super Falcons defender Michelle Alozie shared her support, writing, “May God be with you and your whole family.” The Super Falcons Show also sent condolences, saying, “With heavy hearts, we extend our deepest sympathies to Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, following the loss of her brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with Chiamaka and her family. “May they find strength, comfort and peace in this moment of profound grief.” Another tribute came from John Zacheus, who wrote, “May his soul rest in peace.” The loss has brought deep sorrow to a year that has otherwise been filled with major milestones for the goalkeeper. In 2025, Nnadozie left Paris FC to begin a new chapter with Brighton Women in England, quickly establishing herself as a key figure at the club. She also claimed her third straight CAF Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award and received nominations for The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper prize, as well as the International Federation of Football History and Statistics Women’s World Best Goalkeeper award, marking one of the most successful seasons of her career despite the personal tragedy.

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Tinubu Offers Condolences to Anthony Joshua After Ogun Road Accident Kills Two Associates

President Bola Tinubu has reached out to Nigerian-British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua following a devastating road accident in Ogun State that left the boxer injured and resulted in the death of two of his associates. A statement issued on Monday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that Tinubu personally called Joshua to express his sympathy and offer prayers after the incident. “I spoke with AJ on the phone to personally convey my condolences over the death of his two associates. I wished him well and prayed for him. He assured me that he is receiving the best care in the hospital”. The President also extended his concern to Joshua’s family, disclosing that he contacted the boxer’s mother to offer comfort and prayers during the difficult period. “I also spoke with AJ’s mother and prayed for her. She was very appreciative of my call.” Tinubu further assured that the Federal Government was closely monitoring the situation, noting that he had spoken with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was at the hospital where Joshua was receiving treatment. “Additionally, I spoke to Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was in the hospital with them. The Governor assured me that he will do everything possible to ensure AJ receives the best possible attention.” PUNCH Online reports that the President, who is currently abroad, had earlier taken to his official X account to mourn the tragic loss and express solidarity with Joshua and his family following the accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. “I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident. As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride.” Calling for unity in times of sorrow, Tinubu added, “In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.” He concluded by offering prayers for Joshua’s recovery and the deceased associates. “I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed.”

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Social Media Influencer Lazywrita Pens Final Instagram Note Before Taking His Life

The death of social media influencer lazywrita has been confirmed following a suicide, with a deeply personal note left behind on Instagram explaining the decision and offering final words to loved ones. In the post, lazywrita urged friends and followers not to mourn excessively or blame themselves, describing a life filled with adventure but weighed down by exhaustion. “Don’t cry for me please o… I lived a full and adventurous life, people who know me can testify, I just don’t have the energy to continue anymore. Now, I am Happy, Unburdened and FREEEEEE !!! The only things i regret is not watching the new episodes of Stranger Things and not getting married to the LOML when I had a chance to till she moved on. She’s reading this. Please don’t cry and don’t shoulder any blame regardless of everything we went through.” The influencer also addressed a former partner directly, expressing gratitude and love while encouraging her to embrace life fully. “Through my happiest and saddest days, You were the best thing that ever happened to me. I wan’t you to LIVE, LOVE, LAUGH, MAKE BABIES and be HAPPY!” Explaining why the message was shared publicly, lazywrita revealed that all other social media accounts had been deleted and that the post was intended to prevent rumors or misrepresentation. “I deleted all my socials across all platforms. I have just this one left and I felt it was imperative my friends and loved ones see this message so no false narrative is written and so they know I’m good and in a better place.” The note also included farewells to close friends and chosen family, crediting them for making life meaningful. “I love you Nene, Mary, Israel, Wadi, Roy, I would choose you all to be my family over and over and over and over again. You made this journey of life better.” Lazywrita ended the message with a calm sign-off that has since left many followers heartbroken. “I love you all. Kiss kiss. Rest well Anda”

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Excessive Speed, Wrongful Overtaking Blamed For Anthony Joshua Lagos–Ibadan Crash

The Federal Road Safety Corps has confirmed that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking caused the crash involving British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on Monday. The accident occurred around 12pm near the Sinoma area close to Sagamu in Ogun State and involved a black Lexus SUV conveying Joshua and a stationary red Sinotruck parked by the roadside. According to preliminary findings by the FRSC Ogun Sector Command, five adult males were involved in the crash. Two occupants died at the scene, one sustained injuries, while two others escaped unhurt. Joshua was rescued alive with minor injuries. “The injured victim was evacuated for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were conveyed to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu,” the Corps said. It added that the Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division was notified for further investigation and documentation. FRSC explained that the Lexus SUV was suspected to have been travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit when it lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into the stationary truck. The Corps stressed that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking remain among the leading causes of fatal crashes on Nigerian highways. The Corps conveyed condolences from the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, to the families of the deceased and wished Joshua a speedy recovery. Motorists were also urged to drive responsibly, with the FRSC warning against speeding and dangerous overtaking, especially during the festive period, while reaffirming its commitment to safer roads through enforcement, rescue operations and public education.

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Femi Otedola Sells Majority Stake In Geregu Power For N1.088 Trillion

Femi Otedola has sold his controlling stake in Geregu Power Plc for N1.088 trillion, in a deal led by a consortium of banks headed by Zenith Bank Plc. The Nigerian Exchange (NGX) confirmed that Otedola’s Amperion Power Distribution Company Ltd, which held nearly 80 percent of the power company, has transferred control to MA’AM Energy Limited. Otedola, who is also chairman of First Holdco Ltd, the parent company of First Bank of Nigeria Plc, will now focus on expanding his banking investments, while retaining a minority stake in Geregu. He remains First Bank’s largest shareholder with 17.01 percent. Otedola began his business career in the energy sector with Zenon Oil in 2003, a diesel marketing company that quickly captured about 93 percent of the market. He later acquired African Petroleum, rebranding it as Forte Oil, before exiting in 2019 to concentrate on power generation. Under his leadership, Geregu’s output rose from 80MW to 435MW. In a filing with NGX, Geregu said: “Amperion Power Distribution Company Limited has undergone a restructuring of its ownership following a share sale and acquisition concluded on 29 December 2025. MA’AM Energy Limited has acquired 95% equity interest in Amperion, becoming the new controlling shareholder. Consequently, the indirect controlling interest previously held by Calvados Global Services Limited and Mr. Femi Otedola in Geregu Power Plc has been transferred to MA’AM Energy Limited. This transaction does not involve the direct sale of Geregu shares, so the company’s shareholding at NGX remains unchanged.” The ownership change affects the ultimate beneficial control of 77% of Geregu’s issued share capital and has also prompted board changes. Former senator Abdul-Aziz Abubakar Yari will replace Otedola as board chairman, while finance professional Abdulkadeer Babangida Njiddah joins as non-executive director.

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