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Kano govt suspends doctors who left scissors in patient’s stomach

by Folarin Kehinde January 14, 2026
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Kano State Hospitals Management Board has admitted that the death of Aishatu Umar, a mother of five, was caused by medical negligence at the Abubakar Imam Urology Centre in Kano.

In a statement, its Public Relations Officer, Samira Suleiman, said preliminary investigation ordered by the Executive Secretary, Dr. Mansur Mudi Nagoda, confirmed that surgical scissors were left inside the patient’s body after a procedure.

The Board announced the immediate suspension of three personnel directly involved in the case from clinical duties.

It also referred the matter to the Kano State Medical Ethics Committee for further investigation and disciplinary measures in line with professional standards and the law.

“The Board extends its deepest condolences to the family of the late Aishatu Umar and sympathizes with them over this painful loss. We reassure the public that negligence will not be condoned in any form,” the statement read.

Daily Trust had earlier reported how Aishatu Umar died after doctors allegedly abandoned surgical scissors in her stomach following an operation at the government-owned Urology Centre in Kano.

Her husband, Abubakar Muhammad, narrated that his wife suffered severe complications after the surgery, which eventually led to her death despite repeated complaints to the hospital.

The incident sparked outrage among residents and raised concerns about poor oversight and accountability in public health facilities.

Many Nigerians also took to social media to demand justice for the deceased and reforms in the healthcare system.

January 14, 2026 0 comments
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Headlines

Abuja Court arraigns Popular Senator for ‘Raping’ 13 Year Old Girl

by Folarin Kehinde January 14, 2026
written by Folarin Kehinde

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) sitting in Gwagwalada has arraigned a former senator representing Adamawa North, Ishaku Elisha Abbo, over allegations of rape involving a 13-year-old schoolgirl.

Abbo and a second defendant were brought before the court on Wednesday in a criminal matter filed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP). Both defendants pleaded not guilty to all counts.

The case, Charge No: CR/635/25, titled Inspector General of Police v. Senator Ishaku Elisha Abbo & Anor, is being heard before Justice I. Mohammed in Court 50 of the FCT High Court, Gwagwalada.

When proceedings commenced, the court confirmed that the matter was properly constituted and that all parties were present.

Counsel appearances were announced with J. B. Anzaku representing the prosecution, while M. J. Numa (SAN) appeared for Abbo. Sunusi Musa (SAN) represented the second defendant.

Two other lawyers, K. O. Otumala and Dahiru Ibrahim, were present to watch brief for the nominal complainant, but the arrangement immediately drew an objection from Abbo’s legal team.

Abbo’s counsel challenged the propriety of “watching brief” in a superior court of record, urging the judge not to recognise their appearance.

Justice Mohammed, however, cautioned the defence against escalating what he described as a minor issue, directing counsel to provide judicial authorities in support of the objection. The judge added that the appearance could be struck out if the authorities were convincing.

Despite the objection, the court continued with the arraignment as the charges were read to both defendants in open court.

Following their not guilty pleas, counsel for the two defendants informed the court that bail applications had been filed and sought permission to move them.

The court granted the request, after which Abbo’s counsel argued his bail application. The prosecution filed a counter-affidavit in response, though it did not oppose the application. Defence counsel, however, raised concerns over what he termed late service of the counter-affidavit.

The second defendant’s bail application was also moved, with the prosecution similarly responding through a counter-affidavit.

After considering arguments from both sides, Justice Mohammed stood the matter down briefly to prepare rulings. On resumption, the court granted bail to both defendants with conditions.

Abbo was granted bail in the sum of ₦50 million, with two sureties of good repute, and was ordered to surrender his international passport. The second defendant was granted bail in the sum of ₦40 million, also with two sureties of good repute.

The case was adjourned to February 11, 2026, for hearing.

The arraignment follows earlier reports that the Nigeria Police filed multiple charges against the former lawmaker, relating to allegations of rape and sexual assault involving a minor. Investigators reportedly concluded there was sufficient basis for the matter to be tested in court.

Abbo represented Adamawa North Senatorial District until he lost his seat after an appellate court decision in October 2023.

 

January 14, 2026 0 comments
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Headlines

Savings in bank accounts won’t be taxed, only profits — NRS boss

by Folarin Kehinde January 13, 2026
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr Zacch Adedeji, on Tuesday sought to calm public fears over the new tax laws, insisting that neither the old regime nor the new one empowers any authority to tax money sitting in Nigerians’ bank accounts.

“Whether old tax law or new tax law has nothing to do with your personal bank account, whether you’re a company or you are an individual.

“Don’t forget that tax is a percentage of your profits. So if you have an asset, the asset is not to be taxed. We only tax the profits. We only tax the return,” Adedeji said on Journalists’ Hangout, a programme aired on TVC.

His comments come amid widespread rumours and anxiety around the reforms that took effect on January 1, 2026, including claims that transfers, account narrations, or savings balances could trigger automatic deductions by tax authorities.

Adedeji dismissed such claims as miscommunication, adding that there is “no law that allows anybody to go into your bank account and tax you because you transfer money or you keep money.”

According to him, personal transfers, gifts, and intra-account movements do not fall under the tax net by default.

“If you transfer money from your account to my brother, that is a personal transaction between both of you. It has nothing to do with tax authority, whether at the state level or at the federal level,” he said.

He also pushed back against the idea that banks can be instructed to debit accounts for tax simply because of the existence of funds or the description attached to a transfer.

“There’s no such provision in any tax act. Whether you describe it or you don’t put any description, tax law, both the old law or even the new law that we have now has not given anybody any right to come into your personal account and tax you and instruct the bank to debit you,” he said.

Adedeji used the interview to frame the transition from the Federal Inland Revenue Service to the Nigeria Revenue Service as more than a change of name, describing it as an institutional overhaul designed to simplify compliance and modernise collection.

He said the transition provisions were embedded in the law signed in June, with commencement on January 1, 2026, based on the national tax policy principle that major changes should allow adjustment time for businesses and administrators.

Adedeji claimed early market signals supported the direction of the reform, though he did not cite figures.

He argued that beyond “rumours”, Nigeria had begun seeing positive responses reflected in market activity and broader sentiment.

He also urged Nigerians to assess the new laws “based on facts and data, not on rumours, pointing to the absence of any widespread incident since the commencement date.

 

January 13, 2026 0 comments
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Headlines

I have nothing against you” – Governor Okpebholo tells 52 arrested AAU students

by Folarin Kehinde January 13, 2026
written by Folarin Kehinde

The governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo has debunked claims that he is against those who protested the rising killings and abductions of students in Ekpoma.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the governor who met with the management of the Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma in Edo State said he is working with the institution to review the recent security situation in the area and the state as a whole.

Recall that 52 students were arrested and detained by the Edo State government over their involvement in a protest that rocked Ekpoma over growing insecurity within the area.

However meeting with the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration of AAU, Professor Andrew Eromonsele, the President of the Student Union of Ambrose Alli University, Osadebamen Michael, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to the students, parents and the AAU community.

His words, “I want to reassure students, parents, and the entire AAU community that my administration has nothing against the students. In fact, we have done more for the AAU community than any previous administration in the history of Edo State.”

He further directed that any confirmed student of the institution who has been unlawfully arrested in the process of restoring order will be promptly identified and released.

“The destruction of markets and property in Ekpoma is condemnable, and anyone found sponsoring or using hoodlums to destabilise our communities will be brought to justice, regardless of status or affiliation.

“The relevant security agencies, using technology-driven operations, are combing the bushes, leading to the arrest of suspected kidnappers and the recovery of firearms. We will continue to dismantle these criminal networks across Edo State.

“My government remains fully committed to restoring peace in Ekpoma and ensuring that Edo State is not held hostage by criminal elements,” Okpebholo said.

 

January 13, 2026 0 comments
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Wike and APC
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Tinubu to Wike: Focus on Abuja Duties or Face Sack

by Folarin Kehinde January 13, 2026
written by Folarin Kehinde

President Bola Tinubu has given wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, a stark warning to prioritize his responsibilities in Abuja or risk losing his position.

The directive was conveyed by Mr. Ibrahim Ya’u Darazo, Special Adviser to the President on Political and Intergovernmental Affairs, during a press briefing in Abuja.

According to Darazo, no political office holder, including Wike, should engage in activities that “heat the polity” in Rivers State or elsewhere, especially when it distracts from official duties.

The Presidency emphasized that the move aims to promote proper conduct, dedicated service, and uphold the integrity of ministerial appointments.

Wike, a former Rivers State Governor, has been embroiled in a political standoff with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, sparking concerns about his focus on FCT responsibilities.

The minister has, however, expressed confidence in his performance, stating that President Tinubu has the right to sack him if he deems it necessary.

The development underscores the administration’s commitment to ensuring accountability and effectiveness in governance.

 

January 13, 2026 0 comments
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wike
Headlines

Only Tinubu can sack me – Wike

by Folarin Kehinde January 12, 2026
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has insisted that political power is earned through strength and strategic action, warning that Obio/Akpor Local Government Area remains a decisive force in Rivers State politics.

Wike also dismissed calls for his removal, stressing that the power to sack him lies solely with the President.

Wike spoke on Sunday during a thank-you visit to Obio/Akpor, where he addressed party leaders, traditional rulers, women, and youths.

PUNCH Online reports that the minister has been touring the state’s 23 local government areas to appreciate residents for their support in the 2023 elections and to canvass continued backing for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 polls.

Addressing the gathering, Wike stressed that politics should be guided by interest, not sentiment.

“There is no sentiment, there is no emotion. Politics is an interest; the interest of your people. Power is not given; we struggle for it. After all, if Donald Trump did not have power, would he go to Venezuela to pick a president? He wouldn’t. Because he has power, that’s why he can act,” Wike said.

“So for the people of Obio/Akpor, we have the power to dictate who becomes governor. All these people commenting from the sidelines, ask them if their local government, which produced only 5,000 votes, can challenge one that produced 40 per cent of the votes? Let us see how it will work.

“We will use our strength to punish them. Nobody has become governor in this state without Obio/Akpor making the pronouncement. Nobody has become the senator of Rivers East without Obio/Akpor deciding. So, if you like abusing us, after abusing us, come and look for the votes—and we will punish you with the votes.”

The former Rivers State governor also dismissed calls for his removal from office, stressing that such decisions rest solely with the President.

“Don’t bother about people who say ‘sack him.’ If my appointor believes I cannot offer anything again, he has the right, not that you should tell him. I am proud that the people of Obio/Akpor, the people of Rivers State, and Nigerians know we have not disappointed them in the FCT,” he said.

Earlier, the Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council, Gift Worlu, praised Wike’s political influence, describing him as a major asset to the council, the state, and the nation. He commended Wike’s performance across various offices, including chairman, chief of staff, governor, and minister, and stressed the council’s loyalty to his leadership.

“When it comes to who should be President of Nigeria in 2027, we know where to go. As for the governorship of Rivers State, we know where not to go. We will not go the way of ingratitude, disappointment, or disloyalty,” Worlu said.

 

January 12, 2026 0 comments
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Chimamanda Adiche
Headlines

Lagos Government Suspends Doctor as Probe Begins Into Death of Chimamanda Adichie’s Son

by Nelson Ugwuagbo January 12, 2026
written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

The Lagos State Government has suspended the anaesthesiologist involved in the treatment of 21-month-old Nkanu Nnamdi, the son of acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and her husband, Dr. Ivara Esege, following the child’s death at Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, Lagos.

The toddler died on January 7, 2026, after reportedly suffering cardiac arrest during routine medical procedures carried out a day earlier. These included sedation for an MRI scan and the insertion of a central line.

Announcing the suspension, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, said the action would remain in force pending the outcome of a comprehensive and independent investigation into allegations of medical negligence. She reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance stance on any lapses in patient care, particularly in paediatric cases.

According to the family, Nkanu was stable prior to the procedures and was scheduled for medical evacuation to Johns Hopkins Hospital in the United States the following day. They have alleged that excessive administration of the sedative propofol, poor patient monitoring, and delayed resuscitation efforts contributed to the child’s death.

In response, solicitors representing Adichie and Dr. Esege issued a legal notice to Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital on January 10, demanding the preservation and release of all relevant medical records, including drug administration logs and patient monitoring data.

Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital has confirmed that it has commenced an internal review of the incident and is cooperating fully with regulatory authorities.

Meanwhile, investigations by the Lagos State Ministry of Health and the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria are ongoing.

January 12, 2026 0 comments
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Tinubu and Senate
Headlines

Tinubu Seeks Senate Confirmation of 21 Nominees for NUPRC, NMDPRA Boards

by Nelson Ugwuagbo January 5, 2026
written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

President Bola Tinubu has forwarded letters to the Senate seeking confirmation of 21 nominees for the boards of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

The disclosure was made on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

In one of the letters, Tinubu nominated former senator Magnus Abe as chairman of the NUPRC board. Abe, who represented Rivers South-East in the Senate for two terms, previously served on the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and currently chairs the National Agency for the Great Green Wall.

Also nominated as non-executive commissioners for the NUPRC board are Engineer Paul Yaro Jezhi, a former chairman of the Trade Union Congress in Kaduna State, and Mr Sunday Adebayo Babalola, a former deputy director at the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR).

The President further proposed a list of executive commissioners, including Muhammed Sabo Lamido (Finance), Edu Inyang (Exploration and Acreage), Justin Ezeala (Economic Regulation and Strategic Planning), Henry Darlington Oki (Development and Production), Indabawa Bashari Alka (Corporate Services and Administration), and Mahmood Tijani (Health, Safety and Environment).

Ms Olayemi Adeboyejo was also nominated to serve as Secretary and Legal Adviser to the commission.

According to the Presidency, some of the nominees, including Lamido and Adeboyejo, were initially appointed under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, while Alka was appointed by President Tinubu in 2023. Others on the list are fresh nominees by the current administration.

The nominations are subject to confirmation by the Senate.

January 5, 2026 0 comments
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Headlines

AI used to improve quality of Tinubu-Kagame Paris meeting – Presidency

by Folarin Kehinde January 5, 2026
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Presidency has debunked reports claiming that a photograph of President Bola Tinubu and Rwandan President Paul Kagame taken in Paris, France, was generated using artificial intelligence.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, described the reports and subsequent social media commentary as a “misrepresentation of facts.”

Ajayi insisted that the photograph was genuine, explaining that both leaders met and shared meals on Sunday during their engagements in Paris.

He said, “The narrative that the picture of Presidents Bola Tinubu and Paul Kagame taken in Paris yesterday was AI-generated is not correct.”

He added, “Both President Kagame and President Tinubu met in Paris and had lunch together on Sunday. The two leaders later had dinner with President Macron the same evening.”

According to him, the controversy stemmed from the poor quality of the original phone photograph, which was later enhanced using the Grok tool.

“The picture was taken with a phone and obviously had poor quality. The photographer only later used Grok to improve the picture quality. That is not a reason to conclude it was AI-generated,” Ajayi said.

He criticised reports suggesting otherwise, saying journalists should have verified the information before publication.

“The writer or editor should have asked questions before this wrong conclusion,” he added.

It was earlier reported that a photograph released by the Presidency showing Tinubu in a meeting with the Rwandan President in Paris had drawn attention after users on X (formerly Twitter) flagged it as artificially generated.

The image, which bore the watermark of Grok, an AI tool developed by Elon Musk’s xAI company, circulated widely on social media on Sunday.

It showed Tinubu and Kagame seated together during what was described as a private engagement in the French capital.

The photograph appeared on the President’s official X handle, where Tinubu said the discussions centred on international developments and the future of the African continent.

“This afternoon, I had a private lunch with H.E. President Paul Kagame of Rwanda to discuss the current state of world affairs and advancing Africa in an ever-changing global landscape,” the President wrote.

His Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also shared the same image, adding, “President Bola Tinubu at a private lunch in Paris with the President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, discussing world affairs and advancing Africa. Sunday, January 4, 2026.”

However, a Community Note added to the President’s post suggested the picture might not be authentic.

It read, “While a meeting between Mr Tinubu and President Kagame is reported to have been held in Paris, the image in this post appears to be AI-generated, given the GrokAI badge.”

Grok, the AI system referenced, is capable of producing text, generating images, and running real-time online searches.

The controversy has triggered conversations about the appropriateness of using AI-processed images in official government communications, particularly where international engagements are involved.

Tinubu has been in Europe since December 28, having left Lagos for an end-of-year break.

January 5, 2026 0 comments
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Headlines

BREAKING: Boko Haram IEDs Kill Nine Soldiers, Injure Several Others in Borno

by Folarin Kehinde January 5, 2026
written by Folarin Kehinde

An IED planted by Boko Haram terrorists near Gubio in Borno State has reportedly killed at least nine Nigerian soldiers.

According to a report on Monday, the explosives were planted by Boko Haram. The soldiers were travelling from Maiduguri when the deadly incident occurred.

“While coming from Maiduguri town on Saturday, they stopped at a camp on the road to continue their journey on Sunday,” the source said.

Several soldiers sustained injuries in the blast, with fatalities rising after the initial explosion. “Eight died yesterday (Sunday) among those injured, while one more died this morning,” the source added.

Clarifying the nature of the attack, the military source emphasized that it was not an ambush by gunmen but a blast caused by planted explosive devices.

“The incident happened at Gubio, not an ambush. It was caused by explosive devices,” he said, adding that casualties were high, with many sustaining serious injuries.

The affected soldiers were from “145 Damasak under 5 Brigade, Maiduguri, Borno State,” and the incident reportedly occurred towards Sunday evening.

Video and photographs show the aftermath of the blast, depicting several Nigerian Army personnel lying lifeless, some with severe injuries consistent with powerful explosions, including severed body parts.

This incident is the latest in a string of deadly attacks targeting Nigerian troops in the North-East, where Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) continue to launch coordinated assaults on military formations and patrols using both gunfire and explosives.

As of the of time filing this report, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement or provided further details on the circumstances surrounding the explosion.

January 5, 2026 0 comments
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