The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

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  • Tinubu Seeks New Laws For NDLEA, NSIB, National School Of Government

    Tinubu Seeks New Laws For NDLEA, NSIB, National School Of Government

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    President Bola Tinubu has forwarded three executive bills to the House of Representatives, seeking to reform the legal framework governing the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), expand the mandate of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and establish a National School of Government to replace the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON).

    The bills, dated October 12, 2026, were conveyed in separate letters read by the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, during Thursday’s plenary.

    In the letters, received by the Speaker’s office on October 13, Tinubu invoked Section 58(2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and urged lawmakers to give the proposals “expeditious consideration.”

    The NDLEA Bill, 2026, seeks to repeal the existing NDLEA Act and the Indian Hemp Act, replacing them with a consolidated legal framework for combating drug-related offences.

    According to the President, the proposed law would strengthen enforcement against the cultivation, processing, sale, trafficking and use of hard drugs. It would also empower the agency to investigate individuals suspected of involvement in drug-related activities.

    The second proposal, the NSIB Bill, 2026, seeks to amend the bureau’s Establishment Act of 2022 to expand its responsibilities beyond aviation accidents and incidents.

    Under the proposed amendment, the NSIB would become an independent, multimodal safety investigation authority covering rail, maritime and other transport-related occurrences.

    Tinubu said the bill would also transfer supervisory oversight of the bureau to the Presidency and strengthen its institutional, operational and administrative capacity.

    The third bill seeks to repeal the ASCON Act of 2004 and establish the National School of Government, Nigeria, as a national institution focused on leadership development, policy delivery and executive capacity building.

    The proposed institution is expected to strengthen the skills of public officials and improve the implementation of government policies.

    ASCON currently provides management training, research and consultancy services to public- and private-sector organisations.

    The proposed legislation would establish a new statutory framework for leadership and executive training across government.

    The three bills will now proceed through the legislative process at the National Assembly, where lawmakers will examine their provisions before deciding whether to approve them.

    The proposals will not take effect until they complete the required legislative and constitutional processes.

  • INEC Inaugurates Logistics Committee Ahead Of 2027 Election

    INEC Inaugurates Logistics Committee Ahead Of 2027 Election

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to inaugurate its logistics committee for the 2027 general elections on Thursday in Abuja.

    The inauguration will be followed by an inaugural meeting between the commission’s leadership and members of the committee at INEC’s headquarters.

    The committee is expected to coordinate logistics and distribution arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the forthcoming elections.

    Its membership includes representatives of transport and maritime organisations, aviation authorities, security agencies and paramilitary services.

    Among the organisations listed are the Nigeria Road Transport Union, Maritime Workers Union, Nigeria Airport Authority and Road Transport Owners Association. The police, Nigerian Air Force and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps are also represented.

    INEC is expected to brief members on their responsibilities and outline the measures required to ensure the timely and efficient movement of election materials.

    The initiative forms part of the commission’s preparations to strengthen operational coordination and prevent logistical challenges during the 2027 general elections.

  • Senate Declares Akpabio’s Position Secure Amid Political Attacks

    Senate Declares Akpabio’s Position Secure Amid Political Attacks

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Senate has unanimously declared that there is no vacancy in the office of its President, reaffirming its support for Godswill Akpabio amid controversy over his comments on a bill seeking to decriminalise attempted suicide.

    The resolution followed remarks by Akpabio during Thursday’s plenary, where he said his comments on the proposed legislation had been misrepresented in public discussions.

    The Senate President argued that his position on the bill should not be interpreted as hostility towards any religion, noting that his aide-de-camp of 19 years was a Muslim.

    He also maintained that terrorists had no religion and that those destabilising the country should not be associated with any faith.

    Akpabio cautioned television commentators against distorting statements made during legislative proceedings, adding that the Senate presidency had become a target of political attacks after the offices of the President and Vice-President had been settled.

    Supporting the resolution, Senator Fasuyi backed a motion moved by Senator Monguno, affirming that Akpabio remained the recognised occupant of the office.

    Senator Babangida Hussaini also expressed support for Akpabio, citing his contributions to his state and endorsing his continued leadership of the Senate.

    Hussaini, however, raised concerns about the spread of hard drugs and substance abuse, calling for measures to address the problems and prevent them from contributing to criminality, banditry and terrorism.

    The controversy followed Akpabio’s remarks during Tuesday’s debate on a bill sponsored by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong seeking to decriminalise attempted suicide and establish a national framework for suicide prevention.

    During the debate, Akpabio was reported to have said that anyone who attempted suicide should succeed or face imprisonment, a position that drew criticism amid arguments over whether survivors should be prosecuted or receive medical attention.

    Presenting the bill, Ekpenyong argued that criminalising attempted suicide could discourage people in distress from seeking help and encourage survivors to conceal their experiences.

    He proposed replacing criminal penalties with medical assessment, treatment, referrals and continued support for survivors.

    The bill also seeks to establish coordinated suicide prevention services, including crisis helplines, referral systems and follow-up care.

    Ekpenyong maintained that people who survive suicide attempts should receive urgent clinical attention rather than face prosecution or imprisonment.

    Akpabio, however, argued during the debate that attempted suicide remained a criminal offence under the existing legal framework.

    The exchange highlighted the disagreement over how Nigeria should respond to suicide attempts, with the proposed legislation seeking to shift the emphasis from punishment to prevention, treatment and rehabilitation.

    The bill passed second reading on Tuesday and is intended to establish a coordinated framework for suicide prevention and support for people experiencing suicidal crises.

  • Mbah’s Legislative Adviser Urges Stronger Partnership Between Enugu LG Chairmen, Councillors

    Mbah’s Legislative Adviser Urges Stronger Partnership Between Enugu LG Chairmen, Councillors

     

    The Special Adviser to the Governor of Enugu State on Legislative Matters, Rt. Hon. Paul Nnajiofor, has called for stronger collaboration between local government chairmen and legislative councillors across the state’s 17 local government areas to improve grassroots governance and service delivery.

    Nnajiofor said a strategic and result-oriented partnership between the executive and legislative arms of local government administration was essential to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting accountability and accelerating sustainable development.

    He made the call in a press release, while advocating a governance framework anchored on mutual respect, constructive engagement and adherence to the constitutional and statutory responsibilities of both arms.

    According to him, effective local government administration depends not merely on the existence of the executive and legislative arms but on their ability to work together while respecting their distinct mandates.

    He noted that legislative councils play critical roles in lawmaking, representation, oversight and articulating the needs of communities, adding that these responsibilities could be better discharged through peaceful collaboration and productive engagement with the executive.

    Nnajiofor cautioned against unnecessary rivalry, political differences and institutional competition between local government chairmen and councillors, urging both sides to prioritise the welfare of the people.

    Calls for Regular Consultations, Capacity Building

    The governor’s aide advocated regular consultative meetings between local government chairmen and legislative councils to improve policy coordination, legislative effectiveness, budgetary cooperation and the implementation of approved development programmes.

    He explained that such engagements would enable the executive to communicate its policy priorities while allowing councillors to contribute through constructive legislative interventions, responsible oversight and effective representation of their constituents.

    Nnajiofor also called for capacity-building programmes for councillors and relevant local government officials to strengthen their understanding of legislative procedures, public financial management, oversight responsibilities and democratic accountability.

    He said stronger institutional capacity would enable legislative councils to scrutinise public policies more effectively and ensure that government programmes reflected the actual needs of residents.

    Partnership to Support Mbah’s Development Agenda

    Nnajiofor urged local government chairmen and councillors to align their governance practices with the broader development vision of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration.

    He said government policies should ultimately be assessed by their impact on citizens, particularly in improving living conditions, expanding economic opportunities, strengthening public institutions and promoting inclusive development.

    The former lawmaker urged elected representatives across the state to embrace measurable results, responsible leadership, institutional stability and people-oriented service.

    “The ultimate objective of governance is the welfare and development of the people. When the Executive and Legislative arms work together strategically, respect their respective mandates, and maintain open channels of communication, the result is stronger institutions, better policies, greater accountability, and more tangible development outcomes for our communities,” he stated.

    He reaffirmed his commitment to promoting constructive engagement, institutional cooperation and a deeper understanding of legislative governance in support of Enugu State’s development agenda.

    Nnajiofor concluded by urging stakeholders to work towards a governance system in which cooperation strengthens democracy, accountability builds public confidence and effective leadership translates government policies into visible and sustainable benefits for residents.

  • 2027: Obi-Kwankwaso Coalition Faults Report On Obi’s Policy Positions

    2027: Obi-Kwankwaso Coalition Faults Report On Obi’s Policy Positions

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Big Tent Coalition for Obi/Kwankwaso has faulted a THISDAY newspaper report suggesting that Peter Obi was absent from policy discussions ahead of the 2027 presidential election, insisting that the former Anambra State governor had consistently presented alternatives to address Nigeria’s challenges.

    The coalition, in a statement issued by its Director of Media and Communications, Charles Odibo, on Thursday, also demanded that the newspaper publish its response with the same prominence as the original report.

    THISDAY’s October 14 edition carried a lead story titled, “2027 Presidential Poll: Atiku Brings Tinubu into Policy Debate, Obi Missing.”

    However, the coalition described the report as misleading, arguing that Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), had repeatedly addressed national issues through interviews, television appearances and other public engagements.

    It maintained that the candidate had presented policy proposals on electricity, economic production, insecurity and healthcare, adding that his positions were available for public scrutiny.

    On electricity, the coalition said Obi had advocated increased investment in power generation, reforms of transmission and distribution infrastructure, and decentralisation where necessary to improve supply and attract private investment.

    The group said his proposed economic approach centred on shifting Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to one based on production, with greater investment in agriculture, manufacturing, solid minerals and value addition.

    It added that Obi had also called for incentives for productive businesses, support for small and medium-sized enterprises and the removal of barriers limiting local production.

    On insecurity, the coalition said Obi supported intelligence-led operations, community engagement and the use of technology to protect lives and livelihoods.

    It stressed that farmers must be able to return safely to their farmlands, arguing that the country needed practical security measures rather than repeated political promises.

    The group also highlighted Obi’s advocacy for stronger primary healthcare services, preventive care and investment in basic health infrastructure, describing them as essential to improving public health and productivity.

    The coalition further cited Obi’s October 11 criticism of the Federal Government’s 30-day petrol price reduction at NNPC Retail outlets, which it said he considered a temporary intervention with limited reach.

    According to the statement, Obi questioned the impact of the discount, noting that about 900 NNPC Retail stations represented less than four per cent of an estimated 24,000 petrol stations nationwide.

    The coalition said Obi had argued that support measures should extend beyond petrol prices to critical sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education and infrastructure, with the aim of reducing the cost of living sustainably.

    In the statement titled *“Right of Reply: THISDAY’s False Narrative on Peter Obi: Nothing Could Be Further from the Truth,”* the group said the newspaper’s report gave readers the impression that Obi had failed to engage with pressing national issues.

    It urged the media to ensure that political reporting reflected candidates’ positions accurately and provided voters with balanced information ahead of the election.

    The coalition said it expected THISDAY to publish its response with the same front-page visibility given to the original report.

    “We, therefore, demand that THISDAY Newspaper afford this ‘Right of Reply’ the same front-page prominence and visibility that it gave to the original story,” the statement said.

    It added that Nigerians deserved policy debates based on facts rather than selective accounts of candidates’ public statements.

    **Tags:** Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, 2027 Elections, NDC, Big Tent Coalition

  • Tinubu Inaugurates APC Campaign Council, Charges Leaders To Deliver 2027 Votes

    Tinubu Inaugurates APC Campaign Council, Charges Leaders To Deliver 2027 Votes

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated the All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 general election, urging party leaders and members to unite and mobilise voters nationwide for his re-election.

    Tinubu inaugurated the council on Wednesday at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, charging members to work collectively and ensure the party secures votes across wards, local government areas and states.

    The President reminded party leaders that their previous electoral victories would mean little without success in the forthcoming election.

    “I thank all of you for the last election, but no one gets credit for an incomplete assignment until you deliver the next election, until you deliver your electoral wards, until you deliver the votes,” he said.

    The inauguration marked the start of a coordinated effort to promote the administration’s record, communicate its policy priorities and strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of the polls.

    APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, urged campaigners to explain government policies clearly and demonstrate how reforms could improve Nigerians’ daily lives.

    Tinubu also stressed that electioneering must not distract his administration from governance, saying the country’s economic obligations and need to attract investment required continued attention.

    “Nigeria needs more attention now than ever before. The responsibility of this office does not pause,” he said, according to reports of the event.

    Former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari, who was appointed Director-General of the campaign council, said the campaign would focus on the administration’s achievements and plans for the future.

    He urged members to set aside personal interests and work towards a common goal.
    “It’s no time for ego. We are all one in this business. We have only one agenda. What is that agenda? To ensure that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu returns as President,” Yari said.

    The council is expected to coordinate campaign activities across the states, local government areas and electoral wards, while engaging traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders.

    The inauguration also attracted politicians from outside the APC, including Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, who expressed support for Tinubu’s re-election bid.

    The 2027 general elections are expected to be a major test for the ruling party as it seeks a second term for Tinubu amid public concerns over the cost of living and the effects of the administration’s economic reforms.

  • FG Approves Eastern-Western Grid To Tackle Power Collapses

    FG Approves Eastern-Western Grid To Tackle Power Collapses

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Federal Government has approved plans to develop new eastern and western electricity grids as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s persistent power grid collapses.

    The Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, disclosed this at a recent HBSAN energy conference in Lagos, saying the government was preparing to begin procurement for the projects.

    He said Nigerians could begin to experience the benefits of the planned infrastructure within two to three years.

    According to Tegbe, the government has divided the country into three energy zones to help prioritise interventions, with particular attention to major demand centres such as Lagos and the Abuja corridor.

    The minister explained that improving electricity supply in these areas would address a significant portion of the country’s power challenges, but stressed that stronger transmission infrastructure was also necessary.

    He said President Bola Tinubu had approved the grid expansion plans, while procurement procedures were being pursued.

    Tegbe also disclosed that a nationwide technical audit of electricity infrastructure was underway to identify faults and determine which facilities required urgent repairs or replacement.

    He said the exercise would help the government direct resources towards the actual causes of transmission failures rather than spending money on equipment that did not require immediate intervention.

    “We have started a technical audit across the entire country to say where do we have issues, and what issues specifically do we have,” the minister said.

    He added that the audit would be completed within a few weeks, after which the government would focus on priority areas.

    Tegbe attributed some of the persistent challenges to ageing infrastructure, noting that several transmission facilities had been in use for decades.

    He said some transmission towers and lines dated back to the period when the Electricity Corporation of Nigeria operated before the establishment of the National Electric Power Authority.

    “This government has inherited a problem of 50 years,” he said, recounting that he had seen transmission facilities bearing the ECN logo during a visit to an infrastructure site.

    The minister maintained that the age and deteriorating condition of some facilities underscored the need for a comprehensive assessment and targeted investment to strengthen the national transmission network.

  • Ondo Crash: NAF Recovers Additional Aircraft Wreckage

    The Nigerian Air Force has recovered additional components from its ATR 42-500 aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as multi-agency teams sustain search and recovery operations at the accident site.

    The Air Force disclosed this in a statement posted on its official X handle on Wednesday, noting that specialist divers from the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau were continuing underwater search and recovery operations in collaboration with its recovery team.

    The recovery efforts involve hydrographic surveys, satellite-based search-and-rescue imagery, mud excavation and the pumping out of excess water to provide access to areas of interest.

    The NAF said the teams were working day and night to locate and retrieve relevant materials for documentation and preservation in support of the ongoing investigation.

    “Additional aircraft components have been recovered as efforts continue to locate and retrieve relevant materials for documentation and preservation in support of the ongoing investigation,” the statement said.

    The latest development comes as investigators continue efforts to recover relevant evidence from the crash site to support the investigation into the accident.

    Okpebholo mourns pilot

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has described Squadron Leader Mahmoud Aburime as a courageous officer, saying his death is a painful loss to Nigeria.

    Aburime, an indigene of Edo State, was the pilot of Nigerian Air Force aircraft NAF 931, which crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on October 5, 2026, killing all on board.

    In a statement he signed on Wednesday, the governor mourned Aburime, saying his thoughts and prayers were with the deceased’s wife, daughter, parents and everyone affected by the tragedy.

    “The death of Squadron Leader Mahmoud Idanegbe Aburime, a proud son of Edo State and an officer of the Nigerian Air Force, is a painful loss to his family, our state and the country.

    “As governor of Edo State, I mourn the loss of one of our own. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, daughter, parents and everyone affected by this tragedy. While no words can ease the pain of losing a loved one, I want his family to know that Edo State grieves with them.

    “Aburime hailed from Uwessan in Esan Central Local Government Area, my home community. His death is, therefore, a painful loss not only to Edo State and Nigeria but also to a community that can no longer celebrate the presence of one of its sons who served his country with dedication.

    “As someone who shares roots with him, I feel this loss deeply. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Uwessan community at this difficult time.

    “What also stands out about his life is his humility. While studying Mass Communication at the University of Benin, he did not flaunt his military rank. His classmates remembered him as a quiet, gentle man who often sat at the back of the lecture hall.

    “I find this particularly touching. Aburime showed that a person can carry great responsibility without arrogance.

    “Despite his demanding military career, he continued his education and sat a make-up examination at the university just days before the crash.

    “His determination to keep learning speaks volumes about his character. Sadly, his future has been cut short,” Okpebholo said.

    He condoled with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force, Aburime’s colleagues and coursemates, and the families of all those who died in the crash.

    “To the young people of Edo State, Aburime’s life offers an important lesson. His commitment to service, education, discipline and humility is an example worth following. He served his country while continuing to improve himself and helping others prepare for their own responsibilities,” he added. Punch

  • Vatican: Pope’s Lung Surgery Completed Successfully

    Pope Leo XIV has successfully undergone surgery to remove a “small, localised nodule” from his lung.

    This was disclosed in a statement by the Holy See Press Office, published on the Vatican website, on Tuesday evening.

    The 71-year-old pontiff entered the hospital smiling and waving on Tuesday morning, hours before the operation to remove the growth, which was described as resembling a coin on the lung.

    “The procedure was successfully completed, within the expected time and in the planned manner,” the Vatican said in a brief statement.

    “The Holy Father has returned to his room,” it added, saying further details would be provided later.

    The surgery was done at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in Rome.

    “Further information will follow,” the statement read.

    Recall that Catholics around the world offered prayers and sent goodwill messages on Sunday following the announcement by Pope Leo XIV that he would undergo surgery during the week to remove a lung nodule.

    Addressing Catholics gathered for the Angelus at the Vatican on Sunday, the Pope disclosed that his doctors had discovered a “localised nodule” in his lung and recommended surgery.

    He said the nodule was detected at a very early stage and was well localised.

    Following the discovery, he said his doctors had advised him to undergo surgery and that he had decided to follow their recommendation.

    The Pope called for prayers ahead of the surgery.

    He said, “Dear friends, during some recent medical examinations, the doctors found a small, localised nodule in my lung. It was detected at a very early stage and is well-localised.

    “The doctors believe that it is best to intervene, so, following their advice, I have decided to undergo surgery to remove it.

    “The operation is already scheduled to take place in the coming days. I thank you for your spiritual closeness and entrust myself to your prayers.”

    Catholic faithful, Christians and people of other faiths across different countries responded to the Pope’s call, with prayers and goodwill messages circulating on social media from Sunday till Tuesday that the surgery held.

    The surgery marks Pope Leo’s first hospitalisation since he became head of the Catholic Church on May 8, 2025. Punch

  • Keyamo Accuses Atiku Of Hypocrisy Over Nigeria Airways Collapse

    Keyamo Accuses Atiku Of Hypocrisy Over Nigeria Airways Collapse

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has criticised former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar over his comments on Nigeria’s economic challenges, accusing him of failing to take responsibility for the collapse of Nigeria Airways.

    Keyamo, in a post on his X account on Wednesday, said the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, in which Atiku served as vice-president, liquidated the national carrier in September 2004, leaving thousands of workers without jobs and unpaid pensions and gratuities.

    “Your Excellency, Atiku Abubakar, this is hypocrisy at its peak! Let me just talk only about the sector that I head, Aviation,” the minister wrote.

    He alleged that former employees of the airline had struggled for years to receive their entitlements, with many dying before the outstanding payments were settled.

    Keyamo said President Bola Tinubu had approved and released ₦36bn to clear the liabilities owed to the former workers, adding that some beneficiaries had started receiving payment alerts.

    “Over a month ago, Mr President approved and released the total sum of ₦36bn to bring succour to these families. They have started receiving alerts and praying for Mr President,” he said.

    The minister added that the workers’ union had presented an award to Tinubu in recognition of the intervention.

    Keyamo also accused Atiku of attempting to mislead younger Nigerians unfamiliar with the history of the defunct airline.

    He argued that the former vice-president took credit for achievements of the Obasanjo administration when politically convenient but distanced himself from its decisions at other times.

    “When it is convenient for you, you claim some credit for the Obasanjo-Atiku government, and when not convenient, you say Obasanjo was in charge and not you as Vice-President,” Keyamo stated.

    Atiku had earlier criticised the rising cost of living and insecurity in the country, pledging to make life more affordable and improve security if elected president.

    In a post on his official X account on Wednesday, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate also urged registered voters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 general election.

  • Appeal Court Dismisses Defamation Case Against Saraki, Says No Offence Established

    Appeal Court Dismisses Defamation Case Against Saraki, Says No Offence Established

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    The Court of Appeal sitting in Ilorin, Kwara State, has dismissed a criminal defamation and cyberbullying case instituted by the state government against former Senate President Bukola Saraki, ruling that the charge and evidence failed to establish any offence.

    In a unanimous judgment delivered on Tuesday, the appellate court held that the statement at the centre of the case did not show that Saraki had incited violence or encouraged a breakdown of law and order in the state.

    Justice Ridwan Maiwada Abdullahi delivered the judgment on behalf of two other members of the panel, Justices Gabriel Omoniyi Kolawole and Abdu Dogo.

    The case arose from comments by Saraki alleging that Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq had not completed secondary education and that his educational background was affecting his judgment.

    The court found that the evidence and witness statements presented by the prosecution did not establish that Saraki’s comments had caused any breach of the peace. Rather, the evidence indicated that some witnesses were dissatisfied with his remarks.

    It held that the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, the Kwara State Penal Code and the laws on cybercrime and cyberbullying were not designed to protect individuals from statements merely because they found them offensive or uncomfortable.

    The appellate court also cautioned that although state and federal attorneys-general have broad powers to institute criminal proceedings, those powers must not be exercised in an oppressive or prejudicial manner or in violation of citizens’ fundamental rights.

    It consequently ruled that the case filed against Saraki at the Kwara State High Court could not stand because the charge did not disclose an offence or establish the statutory elements required to sustain the prosecution.

    Reacting to the judgment, Saraki’s Press Officer on Local Matters, Abdulganiyu Abdulqadir, said the former Senate president had been vindicated in his belief that no individual, regardless of political influence, could successfully silence dissent.

    Saraki also expressed appreciation to the judiciary for what he described as its commitment to truth and justice.

    He urged his supporters to remain calm, describing the governor’s actions as temporary inconveniences.

    The former Senate president further stated that he would continue to speak on matters of public interest, including the governor’s educational background, if the need arose.

    He argued that the current administration had only seven months left in office and expressed confidence that the people of Kwara State would reject the political tendencies he criticised.

  • Tinubu Urges Judges To Close Legal Gaps Used To Delay Corruption Trials

    Tinubu Urges Judges To Close Legal Gaps Used To Delay Corruption Trials

    Precious Nwonu, Enugu

    President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerian judges to address legal and procedural loopholes exploited by politically exposed persons and organised crime groups to delay or frustrate criminal trials.

    Tinubu made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the eighth annual capacity-building workshop for judges and justices, organised by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the National Judicial Institute. He was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

    The President urged the judiciary to review prosecution strategies, reconsider outdated legal precedents and assess existing laws against emerging forms of financial crime.

    He said the fight against corruption should not be treated as the responsibility of the executive alone, noting that its effects cut across the judiciary, legislature, public institutions and the wider society.

    “We must no longer permit legal pyrotechnics and procedural pedantry to shelter criminality,” Tinubu said, describing the fight against corruption as essential to the country’s survival.

    He maintained that courts must uphold the spirit of the law and prioritise public interest over attempts by individuals to exploit technicalities to escape justice.

    Tinubu added that meaningful progress against corruption required an independent and reform-minded judiciary, pledging the executive’s support for efforts to strengthen justice delivery.

    The workshop, themed “Investigation and Prosecution of Economic and Financial Crimes in a Digital Age,” focused on the growing challenges posed by technology-driven criminal activities.

    Tinubu said the emergence of blockchain technology and artificial intelligence had made financial crimes more sophisticated, requiring law enforcement agencies and judicial officers to continually improve their skills.

    He commended the EFCC for its efforts against cryptocurrency-related fraud, citing recoveries and forfeitures linked to digital asset investigations.

    According to the President, the commission secured the forfeiture in 2025 of $22,417.91 in Bitcoin, 1,001,301.87 USDT in digital assets and $5.6m connected to the CBEX scheme.

    He also disclosed that 192 foreign nationals arrested over alleged cyber-terrorism and cryptocurrency fraud were prosecuted and deported.

    Tinubu further said the EFCC filed 14,476 cases and secured 10,872 convictions within the first 34 months of his administration, representing a conviction-to-filing ratio of 75.1 per cent.

    He added that the commission recorded 1,370 convictions from 1,889 cases filed in the first half of 2026.

    The President said the EFCC also recovered ₦1.233tn, $684.48m, £373,905.78 and €9.34m in monetary assets during the period under review.

    He urged the judiciary to strengthen its capacity to handle digital evidence and complex financial crime cases, while commending Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for her judicial reform efforts.

    In her remarks, Kekere-Ekun said technological advances had transformed how digital evidence was obtained and documented, making effective case management increasingly important.

    She added that continuous judicial training had contributed to improvements in the conduct of judicial officers, particularly in managing cases.

    The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, Emmanuel Udende, described the workshop as timely, citing the increasing sophistication of financial crimes and the delays associated with cases involving politically exposed persons.

    Udende pledged the National Assembly’s support through legislation aimed at strengthening the fight against corruption.

    The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, represented by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Rotimi Oyedepo, said tackling corruption required cooperation among all arms of government.

    He urged judges and lawyers to use the workshop to improve investigations and ensure more diligent prosecutions.

    The Administrator of the NJI, Justice Babatunde Adejumo, described the EFCC-NJI partnership as an important part of efforts to combat financial crimes.

    EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede also described the workshop as a national necessity, saying the commission had recorded significant convictions and recoveries under his leadership.

    Olukoyede assured participants that recovered funds and property would be managed transparently and responsibly.