Fusengbuwa Ruling House Dismisses KWAM1’s Protest Over Awujale Selection As “Arrant Nonsense”

The Fusengbuwa Ruling House of Ijebu land has dismissed claims by popular Fuji musician Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM1, that he is being unfairly excluded from the selection process for the next Awujale of Ijebu land. In a letter dated January 8, 2026, written by his lawyer Dr. Wahab Shittu (SAN), KWAM1 alleged that the ruling house, next in line to produce the new Awujale, issued directives that contradict the Chieftaincy Declaration and the Obas and Chiefs Law of Ogun State, claiming these measures were intended to prevent him from contesting for the throne. Reacting to the protest, the Vice Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Prof. Fassy Yusuf, described KWAM1’s claims as “arrant nonsense” and said they had no bearing on the selection process. Speaking on Sunday, Yusuf said: “It is a misguided letter. Either Wahab Shittu is being misled or Wasiu Ayinde is being misled. The issue raised about the screening is illogical. We have over 20,000 members in the ruling house. How does he expect us to manage the crowd? What is being talked about is illogical. The letter was directed to the government, so they will respond appropriately.” Yusuf confirmed that the family had scheduled Monday for the nomination meeting of aspirants for the vacant stool. The selection process for the new Awujale has attracted more than 60 aspirants, with KWAM1 publicly declaring his interest in the throne. The ruling house, however, maintains that the musician is not a member of their lineage and is therefore ineligible to participate. KWAM1 had earlier approached the Ogun State High Court in Ijebu-Ode seeking an interim injunction to halt the selection process, but the court dismissed the application for lack of merit. He later withdrew the suit through his lawyer, without giving a reason. Following intervention by the state government, the ruling house temporarily suspended the nomination process and has since restarted it to ensure proper procedure is followed.

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Chimamanda Adichie, Husband Serve Legal Notice On Euracare Hospital Over Son’s Death

Chimamanda Adichie and her husband, Dr Ivara Esege, have taken legal action against Euracare Multi Specialist Hospital in Lagos following the death of their 21-month-old son, Nkanu Esege. The legal notice, dated January 10 and issued through lawyers led by Professor Kemi Pinheiro, accuses the hospital and its medical staff of negligence in the care provided to the child. The notice states that Nkanu was referred to Euracare from another medical facility for several diagnostic procedures, including a brain MRI, echocardiogram, lumbar puncture, and central line insertion, ahead of a planned medical evacuation to the United States. The family claims the child was sedated with propofol and suffered complications while being moved within the hospital. They allege that there was a lack of continuous monitoring, inadequate oxygen delivery, poor airway management, and insufficient medical supervision during the transfer between hospital areas. The notice demands that Euracare hand over all medical records related to Nkanu’s treatment within seven days. This includes consent forms, monitoring charts, procedural notes, ICU reports, and the identities of all medical personnel involved. The family also requested the preservation of all relevant evidence, including electronic records and CCTV footage, warning that non-compliance could lead to further legal and regulatory action. Euracare Hospital, while expressing sympathy for the family, denied any negligence. The hospital stated that Nkanu arrived in critical condition and that care was provided according to accepted medical standards. It also assured full cooperation with any investigation by regulatory authorities.

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Wike Says Only Tinubu Can Sack Him, Dismisses Calls For Removal As FCT Minister

Wike has responded to critics, saying only President Bola Tinubu has the authority to remove him as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), dismissing calls for his sack. The minister’s remarks come amid increasing pressure from political figures, especially within the All Progressives Congress (APC), who have linked their calls for his removal to tensions with his successor as Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. Groups such as the APC Leaders Forum (ALF) and the Tinubu/Shettima Solidarity Movement (TSSM) had issued an open letter urging Tinubu to dismiss Wike, citing alleged insubordination, anti-party activities, and threats to national unity. During a “thank you” visit to Obio/Akpor Local Government Council, Wike insisted that only the president can decide his fate. “If my appointor believes that I cannot offer anything again, he has the right. It’s not that you should tell him,” he said. Wike defended his performance in office, noting that the attention he receives is due to the results of his work in the FCT. “I am proud, and Rivers people are proud, and we can tell Nigerians that we have not disappointed them as far as FCT is concerned. If you are not doing well, nobody will talk about you. But because we are doing well, people must talk about us,” he added. He also criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his supporters who are positioning for the 2027 presidency, arguing that they lack the capacity to win based on past results. “Those who say they are coming from Atiku’s side—I don’t understand. People who couldn’t give Atiku Abubakar ten percent in 2023 are now claiming they can deliver the presidency. You want to deliver failure because he has never passed one day. “We are the ones who have been winning every election. Magnus can attest to that. How can somebody who failed come and lead their own campaign? What campaign will he lead? We have settled the issue of the presidency come 2027. The good thing is everybody is saying we support Tinubu. Let us wrestle this one here, and let’s see who will win.”

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Lagos State Orders Investigation Into Death Of Chimamanda Adichie’s Son

The Lagos State Government has ordered an urgent investigation into the reported medical negligence that allegedly led to the death of Nkanu, the son of renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, at a private hospital in Lagos. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu gave the directive through the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) following public concern over the incident, which occurred on January 6, 2026, the statement was said. In a press release signed by Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, the government expressed deep condolences to the grieving family, describing the loss as “a profound tragedy,” the statement was said. “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, we commiserate sincerely with Ms. Chimamanda Adichie and her family over this painful and irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this extremely difficult time,” the statement was said. The government reiterated its zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating in Lagos State, the statement was said. “Lagos State Government places the highest value on human life and maintains zero tolerance for medical negligence or unprofessional conduct in any health facility operating within the State,” the statement was said. Dr. Ogunyemi added that HEFAMAA has already begun a thorough investigation and visited the facility involved, she was said. “The Governor has directed HEFAMAA to immediately commence a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, with a view to uncovering both immediate and remote causes of the death,” she was said. The investigation will include a detailed review of clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, and the responsibilities of all parties involved, she was said. HEFAMAA will also work closely with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and other regulatory bodies to ensure the process is credible and professional, she was said. “Findings of the investigation will be made public as soon as the process is concluded, in the interest of transparency and public accountability,” she was said. She further warned that any health facility or professional found culpable of negligence or regulatory violations would face the full weight of the law, she was said. The government urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the health, safety, and rights of all residents, the statement was said. “Lagos State remains committed to continuously strengthening oversight of medical practice to prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents,” she was said, extending condolences to Ms. Adichie and her family and assuring that justice and due process would not be compromised.

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Tinubu Arrives In Abu Dhabi Ahead Of 2026 Sustainability Week

President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to participate in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, which officially opens on Monday. The President’s aircraft landed at the presidential wing of Zayed International Airport at about 11:30 p.m. local time on Sunday. His arrival was confirmed in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga. Tinubu was received at the airport by the UAE Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Shakhboot Nahyan Al Nahyan, and the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi. Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, as well as officials from the Nigerian diplomatic mission in Abu Dhabi, were also present. Several Nigerian government officials later welcomed the President at his hotel. Among them were the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole; and the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed. The President arrived in Abu Dhabi from Europe, where he previously held consultations with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and French President Emmanuel Macron. The 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, themed The Nexus of Next, All Systems Go, will focus on issues relating to sustainable development, climate action, energy transition, and inclusive growth.

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Panic In Oyo Community As Suspected Bandits Drop Threatening Attack Notes In Ikoyi-Ile

Fear and uncertainty have taken hold in Ikoyi-Ile, a community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, after threatening messages believed to be from suspected bandits were discovered, prompting swift action from security agencies. The discovery sparked panic among residents after rumours spread that armed attackers were planning to strike the town. The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the incident on Saturday, noting that the messages had raised serious security concerns within the community. Ikoyi-Ile is located in the same local government area where five forest guards were recently killed near the Old Oyo National Park, a development that had already heightened anxiety among locals. Investigations showed that two separate notes were allegedly dropped at different sections of a building in the town, one at the front and another at the rear. Both messages reportedly warned of an attack planned for Tuesday, January 20, 2026. One of the notes, handwritten in Yoruba and unsigned, was reportedly titled “Lati Odo Bandit” and threatened that the town would be invaded on the stated date. The wording urged residents to prepare for the arrival of the attackers, using language described as hostile and intimidating. The second note, written in English, carried a similar warning. It claimed the writers had been “working” for three days and alleged they were sent by the government to Ikoyi-Ile, ending with a message telling residents to expect their arrival. Although the true origin of the notes and any confirmed link to bandit groups have not been established, their appearance has created widespread tension across the community. Reacting to the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed that investigations had commenced and security measures had been intensified. He disclosed that the individual who reportedly found the notes is currently being questioned. “The person who allegedly discovered the notes is presently undergoing debriefing, and the Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation to ascertain the origin and intention behind the messages. “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform members of the public that it has received credible information regarding a handwritten note, written in both Yoruba and English languages, allegedly dropped in front of a residential building in Ikoyi-Ile, Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The note is purported to have been authored by suspected bandits, threatening an attack on the Ikoyi-Ile community. “Upon receipt of this report, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Femi Haruna, PSC (+), immediately activated the Command’s intelligence, tactical, and operational response architecture. “The State Intelligence Department (SID), in close collaboration with tactical units, was directed to commence intensive debriefing of all persons connected with the discovery of the note, while operational assets were promptly deployed and repositioned within Ikoyi-Ile and its surrounding communities. “As part of deliberate and visible security actions, armed patrols, stop-and-search operations, intelligence surveillance, and strategic area domination have been significantly reinforced. “Police personnel are currently on 24-hour high alert, with sustained ground presence to deny criminal elements any opportunity to operate or exploit the situation. The Area Command has equally been directed to maintain constant supervision and continuous patrol coverage across the affected axis. “The Oyo State Police Command has launched a thorough and intelligence-driven investigation into the origin, authenticity, and intent of the said note. “The Command wishes to state unequivocally that every lead is being pursued, and no effort will be spared in uncovering the truth behind this threat and ensuring that any individuals or groups found responsible are decisively dealt with in accordance with the law.” The police assured residents that the situation is being treated with utmost seriousness and appealed for calm, stressing that security operatives remain fully deployed as investigations continue.

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Taiwo Oyedele Defends Nigeria’s New Tax Laws, Says KPMG Misunderstood Policy Intent

The Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, has clarified the intent and structure of Nigeria’s newly gazetted tax laws in response to concerns raised by KPMG Nigeria, insisting that most issues highlighted by the firm stem from misunderstandings or differences with deliberate policy choices. In a statement released on Saturday, Oyedele said while some points raised by KPMG were useful—particularly regarding implementation risks and minor clerical or cross-referencing issues—the bulk of the report mischaracterised the objectives of the new tax framework. “The majority of the publication reflected a misunderstanding of the policy intent, a mischaracterisation of deliberate policy choices, and, in several instances, presentation of opinion and preferences as facts,” Oyedele said. He added that many issues described as “errors,” “gaps,” or “omissions” were either incorrect conclusions, taken out of context, or areas where the firm preferred different outcomes from those intentionally adopted. Oyedele provided detailed clarifications on key provisions flagged by KPMG: Shares and stock market taxation: The framework applies rates from 0% to 30%, set to reduce to 25%, with 99% of investors eligible for unconditional exemption. He dismissed concerns of a market sell-off, noting that disposals in December 2025 could have benefited from reinvestment exemptions or enhanced deductions. Commencement date of the laws: Strict alignment with accounting periods overlooks the complexity of transitioning to a new tax system, which involves multiple periods, audits, deductions, credits, and penalties. Indirect transfer of shares: The provision aligns with global best practices and BEPS initiatives, designed to close loopholes exploited by multinationals. Insurance premiums: These are not subject to Value Added Tax because insurance is not a taxable supply under Nigerian law. Definition of “community”: The statutory definition applies throughout the law unless context requires otherwise, with “includes” indicating a non-exhaustive list of taxable persons. Dividend taxation: Dividends from foreign companies cannot be franked as no Nigerian withholding tax would have been deducted, while dividends from Nigerian companies are treated differently by deliberate policy choice. Non-resident obligations: Non-residents are not automatically exempt from tax registration even if their income is subject to final withholding tax, as returns serve broader compliance purposes. Other clarifications addressed foreign exchange deductions at parallel market rates, linking tax deductibility to VAT compliance as an anti-avoidance measure, and noted that the Police Trust Fund expired in June 2025. The statement also pointed out that small company exemptions predate the new laws under the Finance Act 2021. Minor clerical inconsistencies and cross-referencing gaps are being addressed through administrative guidance. Oyedele described the reforms as a “bold step toward a self-sustaining and competitive Nigeria” and called on stakeholders to move from “static critique to dynamic engagement” to support effective implementation. The clarification follows KPMG Nigeria’s report, which had flagged potential errors, gaps, and inconsistencies in the new tax laws, warning that issues such as share taxation, dividend treatment, non-resident obligations, and foreign exchange deductions could impact businesses and taxpayers. Oyedele emphasised that the reforms are deliberate, comprehensive, and aimed at enhancing fairness, competitiveness, and revenue generation.

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Court Orders NARD To Suspend Strike Planned For January 12 Pending Hearing

The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) in Abuja has prohibited the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and its members from going on strike starting January 12. The order was issued on Friday by Justice Emmanuel Subilim following an ex parte application filed by the Federal Government and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF). The defendants in the suit (NICN/ABJ/06/2026) include NARD, its National President Dr. Mohammad Usman Suleman, and Secretary General Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim. The court said the restraining order will remain in force until the suit is determined and adjourned the matter to January 21 for hearing. The Federal Government has been directed to serve the order on the defendants, who may apply to vary or discharge it within seven days of receipt. Justice Subilim said the court took into account the FG’s submissions, led by Mrs. Maimuna Lami Shiru, Director of Civil Litigation at the Federal Ministry of Justice, as well as the supporting affidavits and annexures. He ruled: “An interim order of injunction is hereby granted restraining the Defendants Respondents, their members, servants, agents, privies, and/or any other person acting on their behalf or at their directives from calling, directing, organizing, participating in or embarking upon any form of industrial action, including but not limited to strikes, work stoppages, go-slows, picketing or any other form of industrial protest or disruption; as well as taking steps preparatory to or in furtherance of any industrial action, from the 12th of January, 2026, until the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.” The court added that it was satisfied the case warranted an interim injunction. NARD had announced plans for an indefinite strike, citing the Federal Government’s failure to implement agreed welfare demands. The announcement came after an Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting held on January 2. The association had earlier suspended a 29-day strike on November 29, 2025, after the FG promised to meet its demands within four weeks—a deadline that passed without visible progress.

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