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Folarin Kehinde

Uche Nnaji
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JUST IN: Tinubu’s minister dodges press briefing on forgery scandal

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The minister of science and technology, Uche Nnaji, on Monday failed to attend a press conference his office convened to address allegations of certificate forgery against him.

Journalists were invited to the event, scheduled for 2 p.m. at the ministry’s conference room in Abuja, with the invitation titled “Minister Speaks”.

The invitation suggested that Nnaji would personally respond to questions about an investigation that accused him of forging his University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) degree and National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate.

However, after over an hour’s wait, the minister did not show up.

The briefing eventually commenced at about 3:30 p.m. and was presided over by Nnaji’s spokesperson, Robert Ngwu, alongside other officials of the ministry.

Premium Times had on Saturday published findings from a two-year investigation alleging that Nnaji falsified the academic and service credentials he submitted to President Bola Tinubu and the Senate during his ministerial screening in 2023.

Allegations of certificate forgery have trailed the minister since July 2023, when Tinubu included him among the first batch of 28 ministerial nominees sent to the Senate for confirmation.

Critics have long claimed that Nnaji did not complete his studies at UNN and that the certificates he presented to federal authorities were forged.

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JUST IN: Many feared dead in Ogun tanker fire explosion

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

An unconfirmed number of people have died in a tanker fire accident that occurred at midnight along the Abeokuta–Sagamu Expressway.

The spokesperson for the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), Babatunde Akinbiyi, said the incident happened at about 1 a.m. on Friday. He explained that a 33,000-litre petrol tanker overturned due to excessive speeding, spilling its contents on the highway.

Speaking to newsmen, Akinbiyi said, “The case of an inferno caused by a 30,000-litre fuel-laden tanker which fell on its side and spilled its contents around 0100hrs today, along the Abeokuta–Kobape–Siun–Sagamu Interchange stretch of the PMB Expressway, due to excessive speed and loss of control, has been reported.

“The effect of the unfortunate incident also extended to the burning of a truck and a tow vehicle along the roadside, as well as the destruction of a PHCN cable supplying electricity to Mowe and environs.

“Though the casualty figures cannot be ascertained presently, rescue and emergency services made up of TRACE, Ogun State and Nestlé PLC Fire Service, FRSC, and the Police are still on the ground to restore normalcy and orderliness after quenching the fire and carrying out the decantation process.”

He urged road users to be patient and follow traffic diversions and re-routing measures put in place by TRACE, the police, the Ogun State Fire Service, FRSC, Amotekun, and the NSCDC.

“However, any inconveniences as a result of this unfortunate incident are highly regretted,” he added.

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JUST IN: Notorious kidnap kingpin Maidawa killed in Kwara

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The leader of a notorious kidnapping gang in Kwara state, Maidawa has been killed in an airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force, the state government has said.

It was gathered that Maidawa, whose gang specialises in terrorising Kwara and its neighbouring states was killed during an airstrike on the thick forests of Isanlu-Isin on Tuesday.

Ibraheem Abdullateef, the Senior Special Assistant on Communication to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq made this disclosure in a statement on Thursday.

According to Abdullateef, the NAF airstrike followed a recent attack on the Oke-Ode community in Ifelodun LGA and the killing of 11 forest guards and other residents by some suspected kidnappers.

He also stated that the attack on the kidnappers’ enclave followed an intelligence gathering by security agencies which led to the interception of communication between the criminals.

Abdullateef noted that through the process, the location of the gang members was revealed, leading to the killing of Maidawa and some of his foot soldiers.

“Security forces, spurred by new calls of the state government for urgent interventions, have ratcheted up efforts to dislodge the kidnappers who often launch cowardly attacks on civilian populations and abduct people for ransom.

“Our security agencies, supported by the government, are determined to crush these criminals. Kwara will not be a haven for bandits,” Abdulateef said.

He noted that the state government have also identified some locations, including places that have recently experienced incidents of criminal activity, as flashpoints.

In addition, he assured that the state government, in collaboration with joint security operatives, will continue to conduct phases of onslaught against criminals operating in Kwara State.

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BREAKING: “Ooni of Ife tried to trap me with a woman” – Oluwo of Iwo Raises Alarm

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi, has accused the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, of allegedly plotting to set him up using a woman.

The monarch made the allegation in a video posted on his verified Instagram page on Tuesday, while speaking on the strained relationship between the two first-class monarchs.

He claimed that he played a role in helping Ooni Ogunwusi ascend the throne but alleged that the latter later turned against him out of fear that he might reveal certain sensitive information.

According to Oba Akanbi, a woman from Canada, whom he claimed not to know, was allegedly sent to entrap him and ended up living in his palace for three years. The monarch further alleged that the woman bore a child whose paternity remains unconfirmed pending a DNA test.

The Oluwo also claimed that he was poisoned twice and survived an assassination attempt during the period, accusing the Ooni of providing accommodation for the woman and questioning the circumstances surrounding her alleged meeting with the monarch in a hotel. However, he did not disclose the name of the hotel where the incident allegedly occurred.

The development is the latest in the ongoing tensions among prominent Yoruba traditional rulers.

Recently, a similar confrontation erupted between the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, over the controversial conferment of the title Okanlomo of Yorubaland on Ibadan businessman Chief Dotun Sanusi by the Ooni.

The Alaafin, through his media aide Bode Durojaiye, insisted that no traditional ruler other than himself had the authority to bestow a title covering the entire Yorubaland and issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Ooni to revoke the title or “face the consequences.”

In response, the Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare, dismissed the ultimatum, stating that the monarch had decided to leave the matter “in the court of public opinion.”

 

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Prostitutes will pay tax – Taiwo Oyedele

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Federal Government has said that ‘runs girls’ (commercial sex workers) will pay tax under the new laws.

Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, said this during an engagement session at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of David, Lagos.

The tax expert said: “If somebody is doing runs girls (sex worker), right, they go and look for men to sleep with. You know that’s a service. They will pay tax on it.”

According to him, the new laws do not differentiate between legitimate and illegitimate income sources.

“It just asks you whether you have an income. ‘Did you get it from rendering a service or providing a good?’ Then, you pay tax,” he explained.

Explaining further, Oyedele said money sent to relatives, friends or even strangers are not taxable, as they are considered as gifts.

He said: “You earn a certain amount of money and you have to send upkeep to your cousin, your brother, even a stranger, it doesn’t really matter.

“If the amount you are sending is money you are giving to them not because they have done something for you, then it is a gift. We call it a non-exchange transaction. That is not taxable.”

Recall that the new (reformed) laws are the Nigeria Tax Act, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act.

 

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Late Arise News Anchor Reportedly Jumps from Second Floor to Escape Armed Robbers

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

New details have emerged on the death of Arise News anchor Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who died on Monday, September 29, 2025.

Despite rife reports that she died due to a robbery attack, unconfirmed reports, Sommie, as she is popularly known, succumbed to her injuries from medical negligence.

According to the online portal, nationalupdate.ng the beauty queen reportedly sustained life-threatening injuries after jumping from the second floor of her Katampe residence in Abuja while fleeing armed robbers in the early hours of Monday.

Though rushed to a nearby hospital, insiders allege she was denied immediate treatment as staff insisted on a police report before administering care. The delay, sources say, proved fatal.

The same attack also claimed the life of her residence’s security guard, who was killed by the assailants.

Maduagwu, who only just returned from the UK after attending her parents’ 30th wedding anniversary, was described by Arise News as “a cherished colleague whose voice engaged and connected with millions.”

Her death has reignited public outrage over Nigeria’s failing emergency response system — from hospitals that demand police reports before treating victims, to the broader collapse of security that leaves citizens vulnerable.

Police authorities say investigations are ongoing, but media stakeholders and civil society groups are already demanding accountability, both for her killers and for the hospital that allegedly turned her away in her hour of need.

Maduagwu, a lawyer-turned-journalist, left behind a legacy of professionalism, warmth, and courage that colleagues say will be sorely missed.

 

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JUST IN: FG Cancels Independence Day Parade

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government has announced the cancellation of the 65th Independence Anniversary parade earlier scheduled for Wednesday, October 1, 2025.

The decision was disclosed in a statement issued Monday night by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).

“The cancellation is in no way a diminishment of the significance of this milestone anniversary, and the government remains committed to celebrating Nigeria’s 65th year of independence with dignity and enthusiasm,” the statement read.Nigerian real estate

It added that all other activities lined up for the Independence Anniversary would go ahead as planned.

“The Government deeply regrets any inconvenience caused by this cancellation,” Imohiosen said, noting that the Federal Government appreciates the understanding, support, and cooperation of all Nigerians, members of the diplomatic community, and invited guests.

He further urged Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda aimed at making Nigeria a greater nation.

 

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Armed Robbers Kill ARISENEWS anchor in Abuja

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The ARISE News has been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of one of its staff, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who was killed during an armed robbery at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.

Announcing her death, ARISE News said in a statement signed by Hadiza Usman-Ajayi on behalf of management: “Sommie was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers.

“We extend our deepest condolences to her parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time.

“Her voice is now silent, but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory. We remain in shock and call for a speedy investigation, apprehension, and prosecution of the culprits.” the statement added.

Maduagwu, fondly called “Sommie” by colleagues, was 29 years old.

She joined ARISE News as a vibrant and engaging broadcaster whose work connected deeply with audiences.

Beyond her media career, she was also a trained lawyer and described as a professional, supportive colleague and dear friend to many within and outside the newsroom.

 

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2027: Jonathan will contest presidency, return to Aso Villa — Jerry Gana

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Former Minister of Information and Orientation, Professor Jerry Gana, has disclosed that former President Goodluck Jonathan would contest the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Gana also expressed optimism that Jonathan would defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reclaim power after 10 years.

Recall that Jonathan, a sitting President was defeated by candiadate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) in the 2015 presidential election. His defeat ended PDP’s political dominance in the country after 16 years of the party being in power. Since then, the PDP has been battling with internal crisis and looking for ways to reclaim power.

Speaking to journalists shortly after the PDP Congress in Minna, Niger State, at the weekend ,Gana said Nigerians had experienced two other leaders after Jonathan and were now yearning for his return.

“In 2015, former President Goodluck Jonathan said his ambition was not worth the blood of Nigerians. After him, another President ruled for eight years, and now another has ruled for two years.

“Nigerians have seen the difference, and the difference is very clear. Nigerians are now asking us to bring back our friend, former President Goodluck Jonathan,” Gana said.

“I can confirm that Goodluck Ebele Jonathan will contest the presidential election in 2027 as PDP candidate, and we should be prepared to vote for him to return as President again,” he added.

 

 

 

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Wike endorses APC’s candidate for Abuja council chairmanship seat

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

FCT minister Nyesom Wike has declared support for Christopher Maikalangu, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the February 2026 Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) chairmanship election.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had last week cleared political parties to commence campaigns ahead of the council polls.

Maikalangu, who currently chairs AMAC, secured the APC ticket after polling 51 votes in the primary election held on June 26, 2025.

Speaking on Monday during the flag-off of road projects linking Tunga Madaki and eight other communities to the airport, Wike urged residents to rally behind the APC candidate.

He said: “Now that INEC has said area councils can go and campaign officially, you all know where we’re heading to.

“My dear people of Tunga Madaki, I have handed over Maikalangu to you. So that, when the election will be held in February, by June, Mr President will be here to inaugurate this road, and then we will all dance, and dance, and then Mr Maikalangu will come and do the needful after the election.”

The minister said President Bola Tinubu had approved full compensation for the communities affected by the construction of the second runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.

He noted that the road projects being executed were part of the residents’ demands in exchange for land released for the runway.

“One of the things that the communities asked for was that they have to be connected, they have to be linked up with roads.

“It is quite unfair that they are releasing their land for a second runway, but yet they have no access to even go to the airport. It does not make sense.

“Mr President said, whatever the settlement asks for, give it to them. Today, the 29th of September 2025, we are here to the glory of God and to fulfil the promise made by Mr President to the people of Tunga Madaki settlement,” Wike said.

He said the completion of the project in June 2026 would transform the communities, describing Tinubu’s administration as “a listening government that cares for the people.”

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