Ogun State Confirms Mirabel Safe, Receiving Medical Care As Investigation Continues

The Ogun State government has confirmed that social media content creator Mirabel, who recently alleged sexual assault, is safe and receiving comprehensive care at a state-run medical facility. State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye, made the announcement following a visit to Mirabel, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry and the hospital’s Medical Director. Adeleye said the visit was aimed at assessing the survivor’s condition firsthand and ensuring she is receiving appropriate medical and welfare support. She confirmed that Mirabel has been admitted and is undergoing thorough medical treatment, psychosocial care, and all necessary clinical procedures in line with protocols for handling alleged sexual assault cases. She added that the victim is responding positively to treatment. The Commissioner also commended the Ogun State Police Command for their swift and professional response after the case was transferred to the state. She praised the medical team and the Ogun State Ministry of Justice for their coordinated efforts. “This structured approach is designed to protect the survivor’s welfare while ensuring that investigations are conducted professionally, thoroughly, and strictly based on verifiable evidence,” Adeleye said. She noted that while clinical examinations continue, security agencies have commenced investigations into the matter. Reiterating the government’s position, Adeleye emphasized that Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration maintains a zero-tolerance policy on sexual and gender-based violence. “The welfare, dignity, and safety of every survivor are our top priorities. While we support survivors, we are equally committed to due process. Investigations must be evidence-based, transparent, and fair to all parties involved. Anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law,” she said. Adeleye assured the public that updates would be provided as credible findings emerge from the ongoing investigations and urged citizens to avoid speculation or sensational commentary that could undermine due process. She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to determining the truth behind the allegation.

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DSS Sets February 25 For Arraignment Of Ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai Over Cybercrime, Security Breaches

The Department of State Services (DSS) has set February 25 for the arraignment of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai over alleged violations of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024, and the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003. The case, assigned to Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court by Chief Judge Justice John Tsoho, is listed under suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/99/2026. Court filings show that the DSS filed a three-count charge against El-Rufai, accusing him of unlawfully intercepting the telephone communications of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. In the first count, prosecutors allege that during a February 13 interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time programme in Abuja, El-Rufai admitted that he and others intercepted the NSA’s communications without legal authority, an offence punishable under Section 12(1) of the Cybercrimes Act. The second count claims El-Rufai knowingly associated with an individual involved in the interception but failed to report the matter to security agencies, contrary to Section 27(b) of the same Act. The third count alleges that in 2026, in Abuja, El-Rufai and others still at large used technical equipment to intercept the NSA’s communications in a way that compromised public safety and national security, violating Section 131(2) of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003. The charges stem from statements El-Rufai made during the televised interview, in which he claimed to have overheard the NSA directing security operatives to detain him. He linked this alleged directive to an attempted arrest at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on February 12, shortly after returning from Cairo, Egypt. The arraignment comes as El-Rufai faces multiple legal challenges. He was previously detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over separate corruption allegations. Although granted administrative bail on Wednesday evening, he was immediately taken into custody by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). ICPC spokesperson John Odey confirmed that El-Rufai “is in the custody of the commission in connection with ongoing investigations.”

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ICPC Raids El-Rufai’s Abuja Residence Amid N423bn Probe

Operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have raided the Abuja residence of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, in a fresh twist to the ongoing investigation into alleged financial misconduct. The search, which took place at his Aso Drive home, was confirmed on Thursday by his media aide, Muyiwa Adekeye. Reacting to the development, his lawyer, Ubong Akpan, criticised the operation, arguing that it flouted established legal procedures and breached his client’s fundamental rights. The action comes shortly after el-Rufai was taken into custody by the ICPC on Wednesday night. Before his transfer to the commission, he had reportedly spent two nights in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and was subsequently held by the Department of State Services (DSS). El-Rufai had voluntarily honoured an EFCC invitation on Monday, appearing at its Abuja headquarters over allegations of financial mismanagement during his tenure as Kaduna State governor from 2015 to 2023. The allegations are tied to a 2024 report by the Kaduna State House of Assembly, which accused him of diverting N423 billion in public funds and engaging in money laundering. The assembly had recommended a full-scale investigation by anti-graft agencies. Security operatives had earlier attempted to apprehend him at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja following his arrival from Cairo. El-Rufai later alleged that the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, instructed the ICPC to involve the DSS in his arrest. In a televised interview, he claimed to have listened to a telephone conversation in which the National Security Adviser allegedly ordered his arrest, maintaining that the communication was intercepted. The DSS has since filed a three-count charge against the former governor, accusing him of unlawfully intercepting a telephone conversation involving the National Security Adviser.

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FCT Council Elections: Wike Declares Friday Work Free, Restrict Movement

Ahead of the Saturday, February 21 Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Minister, Nyesom Wike, has announced work free day on Friday, as well as restriction of movement from 8pm on Friday to 6pm on Saturday. The Minister, who made this known in a special broadcast on national television and radio stations on Thursday, urged residents of the FCT to come out enmasse to vote for candidates of your choice. In the broadcast the Minister said; “On Saturday, February 21, we will all have a crucial opportunity to shape the future of our great Federal Capital Territory. The election of either new or returning Chairmen and Councilors for the six area councils is a momentous occasion, and I urge you to come out in your numbers to exercise your right to vote. “I urge you to go to the polls with a sense of purpose and responsibility. “As we exercise our democratic right, let us do so in an orderly and lawful manner. Let us respect the rules, respect each other, and respect the outcome of the election. We must show the world that we are a mature and responsible electorate, capable of conducting ourselves with dignity and decorum. “At this juncture, with the approval of the President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, I hereby declare Friday, February 20, 2026, as a Work Free Day to enable movement of residents to their various communities to participate in the elections. “Similarly, the President has approved the restriction of movement within the FCT from 8pm of Friday, February 20 to 6pm of Saturday, February 21, 2026. Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive. “Let me again use this opportunity to appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act Amendment bill 2026 into law. This demonstrates his commitment to strengthening our democratic institutions and ensuring that our electoral processes are free, fair, and transparent. “My dear residents, Democracy has always been a work-in-progress due to the evolving democratic process. However, we will keep getting better by always looking into the Electoral Act with a view to strengthening our democratic process. “To all FCT residents, I urge you to make your voice heard. Come out on Saturday, February 21, 2026 and vote for the candidates of your choice. “Our prayer, as an administration, is that the elections will facilitate the emergence of such quality leaders that will contribute meaningfully to development, peace and prosperity in the FCT. “Together, let us build a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and our territory.”

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At Least 35 Killed As Jihadists Attack Seven Villages In Kebbi State

Dozens of people have been killed and seven villages destroyed in Kebbi State after attacks by jihadist fighters, police reported Thursday. The raids, carried out by the Lakurawa group, struck villages in the Bui district of the Arewa northern region around 1:15 pm (1215 GMT) on Wednesday, according to Kebbi State police spokesman Bashir Usman. A security report seen by AFP indicated that more than 30 villagers were killed. Usman said, “Scores of people were killed as residents from Mamunu, Awasaka, Tungan Tsoho, Makangara, Kanzo, Gorun Naidal, and Dan Mai Ago mobilised to resist the attackers.” A resident of Kanzo said at least 35 people had died. “We were in our homes when we heard gunshots. People outside ran for shelter, and some were hit,” the resident said. Police confirmed that the attackers also stole cattle during the raids. Security forces, including police, soldiers, and local militias, were immediately deployed to the area to restore order.

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Kano Hisbah Board Arrests 10 For Breaking Ramadan Fast, Selling Food, And Loitering

The Kano State Hisbah Board has detained at least ten people for allegedly breaking the Ramadan fast, selling food during fasting hours, and loitering in various parts of Kano metropolis. The arrests came after an early morning operation on Wednesday, marking the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. According to a statement by the Board’s Director of Public Enlightenment, Auwalu Ado Sheshe, the raid was led by the Officer-in-Charge of Operations, Malam Hafizu Garba Adakawa. Eight youths were caught at different locations, including Kantin Kwari, Grand Central Hotel Street, Railway area, Unguwar Danmaliki, Ibrahim Taiwo Road, and Obasanjo Road, for allegedly not observing the fast. In addition, a food vendor, Murna Audu, and a sugarcane seller, Abubakar Tukur, were apprehended at Yan Rake, Kofar Kansakali, for selling food during fasting hours. Two young women, aged 16 and 20, were also arrested along Nassarawa Hospital Road for loitering. The suspects reportedly expressed regret, asking for forgiveness and vowing not to repeat their actions. The Hisbah Board warned residents to avoid immoral behaviour, particularly around motor parks, and said enforcement operations would extend to such areas. The Board also urged ward heads and the public to report any immoral activities in their communities, reaffirming its commitment to upholding moral conduct across Kano State throughout Ramadan.

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Rivers Senator, Barinada Mpigi Dies At 64

Barinada Mpigi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, has died at the age of 64. His death was confirmed on Thursday by close sources, though the cause has not yet been disclosed. The news has sent shockwaves through the National Assembly and political circles in Rivers State. Mpigi represented the Rivers South-East Senatorial District and was widely recognized for his strong advocacy on infrastructure development and addressing security challenges in the Niger Delta. Born on June 23, 1961, Mpigi began his political journey in the House of Representatives in 2011. He served two terms after being re-elected in 2016, before winning a Senate seat in 2019 under the Peoples Democratic Party, marking a significant step in his legislative career. During the Ninth Assembly, he chaired a special joint Senate committee tasked with investigating crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, playing a key role in national efforts to safeguard oil revenues and combat economic sabotage. As head of the Senate Committee on Works, Mpigi supervised federal road and infrastructure projects across Nigeria. Colleagues remember him as a dedicated lawmaker committed to accountability and excellence in public service. Tributes continue to pour in from lawmakers and political leaders, praising his service to Rivers State and the nation. The Senate is expected to officially announce his passing and carry out formal proceedings in his honour.

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Rivers Assembly Halts Impeachment Proceedings Against Governor Fubara

The Rivers State House of Assembly has paused the impeachment process against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, following earlier intervention by President Bola Tinubu. The decision was made Thursday during a plenary session at the Assembly’s resumed sitting in Port Harcourt. Earlier this year, the House had launched impeachment proceedings against Fubara and Odu over alleged gross misconduct. During the first 2026 session, Majority Leader Major Jack read out a notice listing accusations against the governor and his deputy, including the demolition of the Assembly complex, unauthorized spending, withholding funds intended for the Assembly Service Commission, and ignoring a Supreme Court ruling on legislative financial autonomy. The allegations were issued under Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). On January 16, 2026, the Assembly requested the state Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi, to set up a seven-member panel to investigate the claims. Justice Amadi, however, declined, citing a standing High Court order that prevented him from taking further action. Fubara and Odu had obtained separate injunctions from the High Court in Port Harcourt to stop the Chief Judge from constituting the panel, and the Chief Judge noted that the Speaker and the Assembly had appealed the restraining order.

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