Category: News

Contrary to reports suggesting that the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, described judges and lawyers as the “worst bribe takers and givers,” a review of the full text of his speech shows that no such assertion was made.

Excerpts from the address reveal that Osigwe neither labelled judges as the “worst bribe takers” nor lawyers as the “worst bribe givers.” Rather, he delivered a measured, data-driven call for reforms aimed at strengthening the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s justice system.

Osigwe spoke on February 6, 2026, on the theme “Judicial Corruption in Nigeria: A Menace to Democracy and Social Justice,” where he addressed corruption as a systemic challenge affecting democratic governance, public confidence and social justice.

At the outset, the NBA President acknowledged prevailing public perceptions of the justice system, stating that, “Many Nigerians have steadily lost confidence in the judicial system as it has been widely perceived as being riddled with corruption, inconsistency, and undue influence.”

He noted that this perception has grave consequences, adding that, “The judiciary, which ought to be the last hope of the common person, is increasingly seen as an arena where justice can be delayed, manipulated, or outrightly purchased by the highest bidder.”

However, Osigwe was careful to explain that corruption is neither peculiar to the judiciary nor the failing of a single professional group. He described corruption as a broader societal malaise, citing international authorities such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) and the World Bank.

Quoting UNCAC, he said corruption is an “insidious plague” that “undermines democracy and the rule of law, leads to violations of human rights, distorts markets and erodes the quality of life.”

In addressing the justice sector, Osigwe relied on empirical data rather than personal accusations. He cited a 2018–2020 survey by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which estimated that about ₦9.4 billion was paid as bribes within the justice sector, with lawyers accounting for the highest proportion of bribe-givers.

He also referenced a 2024 joint survey by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), which estimated that Nigerian public officials received about ₦721 billion in cash bribes in 2023, with judges listed among several affected public officials.

Osigwe, however, placed the statistics in context, warning against simplistic conclusions. Adopting the views of Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, he stated: “It takes two to tango. Where there is no ‘offeror’ there can be no ‘offeree’. In other words, corruption persists because there are corruptors and corruptees.”

He explained that corruption thrives not only because of compromised public officials, but also because citizens, lawyers and litigants sometimes seek to influence outcomes through inducement.

The NBA President also recalled earlier admissions within the profession to show that the issue is neither new nor concealed. He cited a 2012 statement by former NBA President, J.B. Daudu, SAN, who openly acknowledged corruption within the justice sector.

Quoting Daudu, Osigwe recalled: “I make no distinction here between the Bar and the Bench. Corruption is now a live issue that is threatening to tear apart the foundations and fabric of society.”

According to Osigwe, such past admissions demonstrate that the legal profession has long recognised the problem and must confront it with honesty and reform, rather than denial or sensationalism.

He further noted that public perception, even when exaggerated, can be as damaging as proven misconduct. Referring to remarks by the Sultan of Sokoto, he said: “Today, justice is increasingly becoming a purchasable commodity, and the poor are becoming victims of this kind of justice, while the rich commit all manner of crime and walk the streets scot-free.”

Osigwe said such perceptions reinforce distrust and inequality, stressing that restoring confidence requires deliberate institutional action.

Far from attacking the judiciary, the NBA President commended the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for her reform-driven posture. He quoted her admonition to judges: “Let your judgments be reasoned, impartial and courageous. The Judiciary, as the final arbiter of justice, depends on the credibility of its officers.”

He also acknowledged the role of the National Judicial Council (NJC) in disciplining erring judges, noting that suspensions, dismissals and compulsory retirements have followed proven misconduct.

Osigwe warned that judicial corruption undermines democracy, stating that “when courts become instruments for shielding the corrupt or punishing political opponents, elections lose meaning, governance becomes arbitrary, and the social contract fractures.”

He concluded by stressing that the fight against judicial corruption is a collective responsibility of judges, lawyers, institutions and citizens alike, declaring: “History will judge us not by our eloquence, but by our willingness to act.” Vanguard

The Enugu State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, PSC, has recorded another significant operational success in its sustained efforts to curb vandalism and other criminal activities across the State.

In two separate operations, four (4) male suspects were arrested, while vandalised iron bridge components loaded in a 40-foot trailer and pieces of suspected carbon steel oil and gas pipes were recovered.

On 6th February 2026, at about 6:45 p.m., operatives of the Command serving in the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Squad, while on routine patrol along the Sagem/Amaechi–Idodo axis of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, intercepted a white MAN Diesel 40-foot trailer conveying vandalised iron bridge parts.

Three male suspects, identified as Agbo Okwudili (aged 45), Emmanuel Onyemachi (aged 18), and Evans Ovie Monday (aged 29), were immediately arrested in connection with the incident. Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects and their cohorts currently at large vandalised the bridge parts at Eziama Bridge, Amechi-Idodo, in Nkanu East Local Government Area.

In a second operation on the same date at about 11:56 p.m., the same SWAT operatives, while on patrol along Owoh/Ubahu Road in Nkanu East Local Government Area, intercepted and arrested a male suspect, Orjiakor Hyacinth (aged 50), who was found assembling vandalised suspected carbon steel oil and gas pipes. Several pieces of the pipes and one (1) gas cylinder were recovered from him.

Investigative efforts are ongoing to arrest other suspects currently at large, while the cases will be prosecuted in court once investigations are concluded.

The Commissioner of Police commends the operatives for their vigilance, prompt arrest of the suspects, and the recoveries made, and reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property across Enugu State.

He warns vandals, whose criminal activities cause serious social and economic setbacks, to desist forthwith, as the Command will not relent in its efforts to track down and bring all perpetrators to justice.

The family of Hon. Billy Chukwuemeka William Nwoye has announced his passing unto glory, which came as a shock and great tragedy to his family, friends, colleagues, supporters, and loved ones.

Hon. Nwoye, who hailed from Isiogbo-Nara in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State, was reported to have been ill and receiving medical attention in the United States of America from some of the country’s best doctors. He was surrounded by the love and prayers of his family and loved ones until it pleased God to call him home.

Nwoye will be remembered as an active sports enthusiast, a proponent of a healthy diet, a businessman, a politician, a devoted family man, and a committed Christian. He was soft-spoken, intelligent, and maintained strong friendships.

He served in the United States government in various capacities. He also contested and was elected as a Member of the City Council in Altadena, Los Angeles. He was described as the first African or Nigerian to hold such executive positions in a Governor’s or Deputy Governor’s office in the United States. He was a strong supporter of the then PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

His burial has been scheduled for 26th February 2026, at the Victory Bible Church, Pasadena California, USA.

Billy Nwoye is the son of the Founder of Christ Ascension Church, Worldwide, Apostle O.N Godwin.

United States (US) President, Donald Trump, has confirmed that the US collaborated with Nigeria to conduct air strikes on ISIS targets in Sokoto on Christmas Day.

Speaking at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, Trump said, “On Christmas Day in close coordination with the government of Nigeria, we worked with them, but they’ve got to get tougher.”

He explained that the strikes, carried out at Nigeria’s request, resulted in the deaths of “multiple ISIS terrorists” and were intended to “decimate the ISIS terrorists who have been slaughtering Christians in that country by the thousands.”

Trump further emphasised the significance of the timing, stating, “We hit them so hard they still don’t know what the hell happened. And we were going to do it on a different day. I said no, do it on Christmas. So they understand it.”

“I specifically told Pete, I said hit them on Christmas Day, not earlier and not later. And man, did he hit them. So then we hit them again recently. We hit them again pretty hard,” Trump said.

According to the US Department of Defense, the strike was carried out at the request of Nigerian authorities, resulting in the deaths of “multiple ISIS terrorists.”

However, Trump had previously announced on December 26, 2025,that “powerful and deadly” strikes had been launched against Islamic State militants in northwestern Nigeria after he warned the group to stop targeting Christians.

Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, on Thursday commended the pace of transformation and quality of governance in Enugu State under Governor Peter Mbah administration, describing the governor as “a new sheriff in town.”

Air Marshal Aneke made the remarks during a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Enugu, as part of his working tour of the state,.

He noted that the visit marked his first official trip to Enugu since his elevation as Chief of the Air Staff by President Bola Tinubu.

The service chief said he was struck by the visible changes in the state, even before landing, stressing that Enugu had undergone remarkable transformation compared to his previous visits.

“We are here because of the transformational , visionary leadership you are giving for this state. Even from the air, what I was seeing is not what I saw the last time I came to Enugu. From the air it was so clear that a new Sheriff is in town.

“I am so proud to have someone like you as a governor in my state and I am here to work with you to achieve the purpose of government,” he added.

He praised the Governor for the consistent support extended to the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies, noting that such cooperation had significantly enhanced operational effectiveness and contributed to the peace, safety, and stability currently enjoyed in the state.

“Enugu State and the Nigerian Air Force have enjoyed a long-standing partnership. We appreciate the support your administration has given us. We are here with open arms to deepen collaboration so that Enugu remains safe and becomes a thriving business hub.

“I am fully at your service to ensure that the people of Enugu continue to enjoy peace and security,” the CAS added.

In his response, Governor Mbah described the CAS as a worthy son of Enugu State, who had distinguished himself in national service.

“When a son has discharged his duty with honour and excellence, both in career and service to the nation, it is only fitting to welcome him with pride. We are extremely proud of you,” the Governor said.

He recounted how Air Marshal Aneke had demonstrated exceptional commitment to national security, recalling his swift intervention in Enugu.

“I remember calling you during a security challenge, and the speed of your response was remarkable. By the next day, you were already asking if the situation had been resolved. That passion and sense of duty make us very proud,” he stated.

The Governor also acknowledged the strong cooperation between the state government and Air Force personnel stationed in Enugu, revealing that joint security operations had led to the dismantling of criminal hideouts that could have evolved into major camps for criminal elements.

He disclosed that areas previously threatened by criminal activities were now being converted into large-scale farm estates as part of the administration’s strategy to combine security with economic productivity.

“Our approach is clear: forests and idle lands must not become havens for criminals. We would rather have farms and economic activities thriving there. Security and development must go hand in hand,” Mbah stressed.

The governor further assured the Nigerian Air Force of the state’s readiness to expand collaboration, including the provision of land for resettlement homes, farming projects, and other initiatives to support officers and personnel who have served the nation.

He commended the Air Force leadership for the renewed momentum in the fight against insurgency and banditry, pledging sustained cooperation to ensure lasting peace and inclusive development in Enugu State.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday described Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, as a very respected woman.

The Senate Minority Caucus clarified on Thursday that the Senate did not reject the electronic transmission of election results before passing the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, contrary to widespread media reports.

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has appealed the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which convicted and sentenced him to life imprisonment for terrorism.

The Independent National Electoral Commission disclosed that it has approved the registration of two new political parties, the Democratic Leadership Alliance and the Nigeria Democratic Congress, as it intensifies preparations for the 2027 General Election.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, announced the decision in Abuja on Thursday at the commission’s first regular consultative meeting with political parties for 2026.

Giving a detailed narration of how the commission arrived at its decision, Amupitan said only DLA met all statutory requirements after a rigorous screening of a total of 171 associations that sought registration.

“You will recall that the commission received a total of 171 letters of intent from associations seeking registration as political parties.

“The associations were assessed in line with Sections 222 and 223 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), Sections 75 and 79(1), (2) and (4) of the Electoral Act, 2022, as well as Clause 2 of the commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties, 2022,” Amupitan said.

He added that of the 171, only 14 associations satisfied the initial prequalification and were subsequently invited to proceed to the next stage.

“Of these, eight successfully uploaded their documents on the commission’s dedicated portal. They are the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), Citizens Democratic Alliance (CDA), Abundance Social Party (ASP), African Alliance Party (AAP), Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA), Green Future Party (GFP), National Democratic Party (NDP) and the Peoples Freedom Party (PFP).

“Out of the eight above, only two qualified for final assessment and verification of due compliance with the Constitution and the Electoral Act.

“After due consideration, only the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) was found to have complied fully with the requirements of the law. Accordingly, the Commission has decided to register the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA) as a political party, effective from today, 5th February 2026,” the INEC chairman announced.

He added that INEC would also comply with a Federal High Court order directing the registration of NDC.

“Furthermore, the Federal High Court sitting in Lokoja, Kogi State, in Suit No. FHC/LKJ/CS/49/2025 between Barr Takori Mohammed Sanni & Ors v. INEC ordered the commission to register Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party.

“The commission has decided to comply with the order and is being registered as a political party. Certificate of Registration will be handed over to the two new political parties in due course,” he said.

The INEC boss, however, warned parties against internal leadership squabbles and excessive litigation.

“These infightings create uncertainty, erode public trust and divert the commission from its primary mandate. We urge party leaders to prioritise constructive dialogue over divisive disputes and focus on policy development and community engagement rather than internal strife,” Amupitan said.

On voter participation, he called on parties to mobilise supporters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards before the February 10 deadline for the ongoing distribution in the FCT while he sternly warned political parties against vote buying.

“Vote-buying is a subversion of the democratic will and a violation of the law. Any individual or group found engaging in this practice will face the full weight of the law,” Amupitan warned.

Amupitan also disclosed that INEC has finalised the timetable for the 2027 elections in line with the Electoral Act, noting that a nationwide voter revalidation exercise will soon begin to clean up the register.

“A credible register of voters remains the bedrock of free, fair and transparent elections,” he said, adding that anomalies such as duplicate and non-citizen registrations undermine confidence in the process.

Looking ahead, he urged the National Assembly to fast-track amendments to the Electoral Act to ensure legal certainty well before the polls.

“INEC under my leadership will continue to be guided by the Constitution, the Electoral Act, our regulations and the practice directions of the courts. This is a collective responsibility, and each one of you plays a vital role in fostering democracy in Nigeria,” Amupitan said.

The Inter-Party Advisory Council in its remarks, called on INEC to remain firm, impartial and transparent as Nigeria heads toward the 2027 General Election, warning that the credibility of the process will once again be judged by the integrity of the electoral umpire.

IPAC National Chairman, Dr. Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, congratulated Amupitan, on his appointment as INEC Chairman and urged the Commission to provide a level playing field for all contestants.

“INEC bears a profound constitutional duty. The Commission must remain independent, neutral, fair, firm and decisive in conducting elections that are free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive,” Dantalle said.

He also addressed the recurring leadership crises in political parties, urging INEC to strictly follow party constitutions when recognising party executives.

“Such recognition confers legitimacy and determines the official leadership with which the Commission engages.

“Adhering to this principle will dispel perceptions of bias, complicity or interference in internal party affairs and reduce the litigations that have disrupted party activities and prevented some parties from fielding candidates,” Dantalle said.

He further advised party leaders to embrace IPAC’s internal dispute-resolution mechanisms rather than rushing to court. He recalled that the Supreme Court has consistently held that it lacks jurisdiction over internal party leadership disputes.

“This situation is detrimental to sustainable democracy and national development,” he added.

On electoral reforms, IPAC urged the National Assembly to fast-track the harmonisation of Nigeria’s electoral legal framework ahead of 2027 and to make real-time transmission of results to the IReV portal mandatory.

“Citizens expect an improved framework that restores trust and confidence in the democratic system, one in which every vote counts and the people’s mandate is respected.

“The sanctity of the ballot is the foundation of durable democracy, and we must defend it,”Dantalle said.

He pointed to the forthcoming FCT Area Council election as a test of public confidence in INEC.

“It remains the only council election conducted by the Commission that has consistently produced competitive outcomes,”

He noted, contrasting it with polls conducted by State Independent Electoral Commissions.

“IPAC therefore reiterates its position that SIECs be scrapped and INEC empowered to conduct all elections nationwide, given its institutional expertise and capacity,” Dantalle said.

He also advocated for the conduct of all elections on the same day to reduce costs and voter fatigue.

He said the FCT Area Council election, as well as the Ekiti and Osun governorship polls, would send a strong signal regarding expectations for the 2027 General Election.

He vowed that as the umbrella body of all registered political parties in Nigeria, IPAC will continue to collaborate with INEC and other stakeholders in deepening democracy and fostering political stability. Punch

 

…Lauds Tinubu for Establishing SEDC as Catalyst for Regional Development

 

The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has called for the creation of a common market and stronger cooperation among the five South-East states as Vice President Kashim Shettima launched the Vision 2050 blueprint aimed at accelerating the region’s economic development.

The South East Vision 2050 (SEV2050) was officially declared open on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at a regional stakeholders’ meeting organised by the SEDC. The meeting, themed “Charting a Shared Path to Sustainable Prosperity for South-East Nigeria,” took place at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Enugu.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of the SEDC, Mark Okoye, described the occasion as significant for the South-East, not merely because of the presence of dignitaries, but because it marked a conscious effort to coordinate previously fragmented regional conversations and assets.

He expressed appreciation to the governors of the South-East states for their cooperation, as well as to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the SEDC.

“Your presence and leadership send a powerful signal of unity, purpose, and long-term development to the South-East. For the creation of the South East Development Commission, and to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, thank you for creating SEDC and also for approving the South-East Investment Company Limited -a forward-moving vehicle designed to invest in diaspora capital, domestic sales, the capital market, and to develop financial institutions across the region.” he said.

On implementation, Okoye noted that planning alone does not transform regions, stressing that execution and access to capital are the real drivers of development. He said discussions must go beyond planning to include financing strategies, project viability, and investment mobilisation.

He outlined a collaborative execution framework, urging South-East states to align their priorities around shared interests, calling on private sector players and financial institutions to engage early as investors, and emphasising discipline, transparency, and cooperation within the commission.

Vice President Shettima, while declaring the forum open, said the South East Vision 2050 represented a clear departure from previous short-term development approaches that failed to deliver expected results.

He reaffirmed that the SEDC was designed to drive structural transformation rather than routine administrative functions, adding that Nigeria is strongest when its regions thrive.

“Let me be clear. This is not another layer of bureaucracy. It is a delivery institution, focused on tangible outcomes that translate into jobs, productivity, and growth,” he said, noting that the South-East bears a unique historical burden that makes deliberate regional planning necessary.

Shettima also announced that President Tinubu had approved the establishment of the South East Investment Company Limited, which will work in synergy with the SEDC to address post-war infrastructure gaps and enhance long-term regional competitiveness.

The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, said the South-East could no longer afford to operate as five parallel states. He commended President Tinubu for establishing the SEDC, describing it as evidence that regional development does not happen in isolation.

“Today, I propose the birth of the South East Common Market – a bold, borderless unification of our commerce, our talent, and our industrial grit.

“By fusing our five distinct economies into one powerhouse, we are no longer just negotiating for a seat at the table; we are building the table ourselves.

“This is more than a policy shift; it is the awakening of an economic giant, transforming the South East into a single, seamless theatre of enterprise where our shared heritage fuels our collective prosperity,” he said.

Mbah noted that global economic dynamics were changing, adding that regions that organise themselves, integrate their markets, and build systems at scale would thrive, while those that fail to do so would remain consumers of other people’s value.

He described the South East Vision 2050 as a tool to solve problems that individual states cannot address alone, but stressed the need for immediate action, beginning with a region-wide feasibility and project preparation phase to be jointly funded and governed.

He also lamented that despite shared identity and interconnected markets, the region still suffers fragmentation, saying Vision 2050 provides an opportunity to build a framework for action starting now.

Also speaking, the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, urged the SEDC to align its ambitions with reality, guided by existing assessments. He questioned whether the initiative would become “just another plan,” considering the factors that hindered similar efforts in the past.

Soludo advised the commission to focus at least 70 per cent of its efforts on projects that are realistically achievable, leaving 30 per cent for ancillary initiatives. He identified priority areas including regional railways and highways linking major cities and state capitals, pipelines, seaports, and security infrastructure.

The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, assured residents of the South-East that the proposal would receive due consideration. He emphasised cooperation over competition among the states, describing collaboration as the most practical approach to development. He added that operating as a unified market would significantly boost industrialisation in the region.

The event was attended by the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, while the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, was represented.

Ministers, representatives of international development agencies, captains of industry, and heads of federal and state agencies were also in attendance.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has lIsted seizure of 6,954 bags of foreign parboiled rice and interception of 1,431 kg of cannabis and other seizures value at N3.3bn in the among recent achievements of its operatives in Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’