Taiwo Oyedele Denies Claims That New Tax Law Guidelines Were Halted

Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Tax Reform Committee, has refuted reports suggesting that the Federal Government has suspended the issuance of implementation guidelines for Nigeria’s new tax laws. The clarification came on Thursday via Oyedele’s X account, in response to a report claiming that uncertainty over the final versions of the tax laws had forced a pause in government action. The report alleged that Oyedele had directed the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) and the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) to delay issuing the guidelines, amid doubts about whether the circulating copies of the laws reflected the official final versions. It further claimed that printed copies were withheld after the National Assembly reportedly retained all gazetted copies for internal review, raising concerns about discrepancies between versions. Oyedele dismissed the report outright, writing simply: “Fake news.”

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Abuja Court Strikes Out Criminal Case Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

An Abuja High Court on Thursday struck out the criminal charges brought by the Federal Government against the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, ending a high-profile case that sparked widespread national debate. The charges were withdrawn after the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation filed a Notice of Discontinuance, leading the court to formally strike out the criminal defamation and related counts earlier filed against the lawmaker. The case stemmed from comments Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly made during a televised interview and had drawn significant public attention, with debates focusing on freedom of expression, political accountability, and the limits of prosecutorial powers in a democratic society. The Notice of Discontinuance, dated December 12, 2025, brought proceedings in suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/195/2025 to an end. Justice C. N. Oji, who presided over the matter, acknowledged the notice and struck out the case. In his remarks, the judge said the development highlighted the need for restraint in the use of prosecutorial authority, expressing hope that it would encourage respect for the rule of law and promote healing within the democratic process. Counsel to the Federal Government confirmed the withdrawal of the charges in court, explaining that the decision was taken in line with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and in the overall interest of justice and public confidence in the legal system. Reacting after the court session, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the ruling as a vindication of her position. She said the outcome reaffirmed her belief in the rule of law and pledged to remain committed to serving her constituents and defending democratic rights. The striking out of the charges follows months of legal controversy and sustained public discourse, with civil society groups and rights organisations previously condemning the case as an attempt to suppress free speech and political engagement.

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Vice President Shettima Represents Tinubu at 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day

Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Tinubu at the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD) ceremony held at the Cenotaph of the Unknown Soldier, Eagle Square, Abuja. President Tinubu is in the United Arab Emirates attending the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW). The AFCRD, organised annually by the Ministry of Defence, honours Nigerian military personnel who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. This includes those who died during the First and Second World Wars, the Nigerian Civil War, peacekeeping missions, and internal security operations, particularly in the fight against terrorism. The event also celebrates living veterans and provides an opportunity to rally financial and moral support for their welfare, as well as for the families of fallen service members. While Remembrance Day is observed worldwide, Nigeria’s commemoration has a unique history. Initially marked on November 11 in line with other Commonwealth nations, the date was later moved to January 15 to mark the end of the Nigerian Civil War and reflect the country’s own historical journey. The 2026 ceremony comes at a time of notable security gains by the Armed Forces in the North-East and other regions. It recognises the courage, professionalism, and sacrifices of officers and soldiers working to maintain peace and security for Nigerians. The Federal Government reiterated its appreciation for these gallant personnel and called on citizens, organisations, and the private sector to continue supporting service members, especially wounded soldiers and families of fallen heroes.

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Nigerians To Pay 7.5% VAT On Mobile Transfers, USSD Transactions From January 19

Starting January 19, 2026, Nigerians will begin paying a 7.5 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on selected banking services, including mobile transfers, USSD transactions, and card issuance fees, following a government-mandated directive. Moniepoint informed its customers on Wednesday that the new VAT charges would take effect on certain electronic banking services, in line with instructions from the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS), formerly the Federal Inland Revenue Service. The notice read: “From Monday, 19 January 2026, we are required to collect a 7.5% VAT, to be remitted to the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS).” Moniepoint clarified that not all transactions would attract the tax, noting that “interest on deposits and savings” would remain exempt. The company also emphasized that this is not a price increase, but a regulatory obligation. “This is not a price increase by Moniepoint. Moniepoint is required to collect and remit VAT to the Nigerian Revenue Service. VAT applies only to banking or service fees, not interest,” the notice said. Customers were assured that all VAT deductions would be clearly itemized on transaction reports and statements. The new VAT policy is set to affect millions of Nigerians who use mobile banking and USSD services for daily financial transactions.

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Olubadan Of Ibadanland Clarifies He Did Not Snub Alaafin At Interfaith Gathering

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has explained that he did not intentionally snub the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, at a recent interfaith gathering in Ibadan, Oyo State. Speaking to journalists, Oba Ladoja said the incident, which circulated widely on social media, was misunderstood and that his actions were dictated by the circumstances rather than disrespect. “There was no intention whatsoever. What happened was not deliberate. It has been misinterpreted, especially on social media,” he said. He explained that he arrived late to the event and was simply trying to reach his seat without disrupting proceedings. His seat was positioned between designated zones, requiring him to navigate through attendees, and by the time he arrived, other dignitaries had already moved. “My seat was sandwiched between Soun and Alaafin. I had to pass through some people to get there. I didn’t make any decision to avoid or ignore anyone,” Oba Ladoja added. The monarch also confirmed that communication had taken place between the two palaces and dismissed any claims of tension or offense. “I don’t think anyone was being offensive, and I don’t see the issue as an insult to anybody,” he said. Oba Ladoja called for peace and unity in Yorubaland, particularly among younger generations. “My goal is to unite the present generation and those coming after us. We must raise standards and focus on what truly brings progress to our society,” he said. The incident occurred on Monday during an interfaith event organized by the Oyo State Government at the Grand Space near the Oyo State House of Assembly.

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Two More Lawmakers Withdraw From Fubara Impeachment, Call For Dialogue

Barely a week after 26 lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly initiated an impeachment notice against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, two more legislators have withdrawn their support, urging a political resolution to the crisis. Hon. Barile Nwakoh of Khana Constituency I and Hon. Emilia Amadi of Obio/Akpor Constituency II called on their colleagues to suspend the impeachment proceedings, emphasizing that dialogue and diplomacy offer a better path for resolving tensions between the executive and legislative arms of government. At a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, Hon. Nwakoh said: “We speak for ourselves and not for the House of Assembly. While we initially joined the notice of allegation of gross misconduct against the governor and deputy governor, leaders and people of Rivers State have encouraged us to seek a political solution instead. This is not a sign of weakness but a commitment to constructive governance and reconciliation.” Hon. Amadi noted that commitments from the governor and his deputy to uphold constitutional provisions and honor previous agreements under presidential supervision could foster peace and stability. Their withdrawal raises to four the number of lawmakers who initially backed the impeachment but have since shifted toward a peaceful resolution, following earlier exits by Minority Leader Sylvanus Nwankwo of Omuma Constituency and Peter Abbey of Degema Constituency. The impeachment effort now faces uncertainty, with indications that more lawmakers could abandon the plot. The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, is scheduled to reconvene on Wednesday, January 15, 2026, to continue deliberations on allegations of gross misconduct against the governor and his deputy. Meanwhile, former Governor Dr. Peter Odili reaffirmed his support for Governor Fubara, declaring: “Your people are with you, and they have asked me to tell you that you are the political leader of Rivers State. Wherever you go, we will go with you. Wherever you stand, we will stand with you. You are standing on firm ground. Stand there and hold on to God.”

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US Suspends Visa Processing For Nigeria And 74 Other Countries

The United States has suspended visa processing for Nigeria and 74 other countries as part of a review aimed at tightening immigration screening and blocking applicants deemed likely to become a public charge. A U.S. State Department memo obtained by Fox News Digital instructs consular officers to refuse visas under existing law while the department reassesses its vetting and screening procedures. The countries affected include Nigeria, Somalia, Russia, Afghanistan, Brazil, Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Thailand, Yemen, and several others. The suspension, which takes effect on January 21, will remain in place indefinitely until the review of visa processing is complete. Somalia has received particular attention following a large-scale fraud case in Minnesota, where prosecutors uncovered extensive abuse of taxpayer-funded benefit programs. Federal officials noted that many of those implicated were Somali nationals or Somali-Americans.

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Anambra Govt Orders Church To Reduce Noise Disrupting School

The Anambra State government has directed churches near schools to avoid generating excessive noise that disrupts academic activities. The warning came from the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, on Wednesday, following complaints about a private school in Onitsha. The proprietress of the school, Lady Ngozi Udeh, petitioned the ministry against Divine Dominion Prophetic Ministry, located directly opposite the school. The petition stated that the church, which built its auditorium in 2024, has recently increased its activities, producing loud noise, particularly on Tuesdays when services reportedly run from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. “The noise has consistently distracted students and teachers, severely disrupting teaching and learning during official school hours. Despite several verbal appeals to the church leadership, the situation has not improved,” the petition said. Speaking to both parties, Chuma-Udeh emphasized that Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo would not tolerate actions that infringe on students’ right to learn in a peaceful environment. “Noise pollution is an offence under Nigerian law and is punishable once established. Religious institutions must ensure that noise from their premises is properly contained, especially when schools are within hearing distance,” she stated. She noted that the school had been in the area long before the church and urged the religious body to find ways to coexist peacefully, describing mutual respect as a core principle of Christianity. She instructed the church to reschedule weekday activities to start from 4:00 pm, after school hours, warning that failure to comply could lead to involvement from the Ministry of Environment and possible legal action. “While churches may hold activities throughout the day on weekends, external examinations such as WAEC, NECO, and JAMB must take priority, even on Saturdays,” she added. The Assistant Pastor of Divine Dominion Prophetic Ministry, Emmanuel Ukpabi, assured the ministry that the church would take steps to ensure harmony and peaceful coexistence with the school.

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