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Submit sermons for approval: Reactions as Niger State Governor Bago defends controversial law

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Submit sermons for approval: Reactions as Niger State Governor Bago defends controversial law

Governor Umar Bago of Niger State is defending a new, highly controversial regulation requiring preachers to submit their sermons for government approval before they can be delivered.

In an interview on TVC’s Politics on Sunday, Governor Bago insisted the policy is a necessary step to prevent messages that could incite unrest or undermine the government. He said the measure is not a ban on preaching but a form of regulation.

“For everyone going to sermon on Friday, he should bring his scriptures for review, and it’s normal. Even in Saudi Arabia, this is done,” Bago said. “We cannot say because you have been given the opportunity to be a cleric, you will go out and preach the gospel that is anti-people, anti-government and you think it’s normal.”

The governor added that the policy is a security measure and that his administration is working with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to review the sermons.

The new directive has been met with a mix of support and strong opposition from religious leaders in the state.

The Director General of Niger State Religious Affairs, Umar Farooq, confirmed that preachers have two months to obtain a license. “Any preacher who wants to preach must secure a licence between now and the next two months,” he stated.

However, the Chief Imam of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Bashir Yankuzo, said that while the government can and should address preachers who cause security threats, it cannot dictate what is preached. “The government cannot dictate who to preach to and who not to preach,” he said.

This sentiment was echoed by Islamic scholar Uthman Siraja, who called the ban a clear “infringement of freedom of worship and religion.” Siraja suggested that the government should penalize specific preachers who incite the public rather than imposing a blanket policy on all religious leaders.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state, through its secretary Raphael Opawoye, said it had not been officially informed of the new regulation and would release a statement once it had more details.

Nigeria Suspends new customs charge amid business outcry

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Nigeria Suspends new customs charge amid business outcry

The Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has suspended a newly implemented 4% Free on Board (FOB) import charge collected by the Nigeria Customs Service. The decision follows widespread criticism from businesses and trade stakeholders who warned that the fee would worsen economic hardship.

The suspension, effective immediately, was announced in a letter dated September 15, 2025, and signed by O. Omachi, the Permanent Secretary for Special Duties at the Ministry of Finance, on behalf of Minister Wale Edun.

According to the letter, the government recognized that the 4% charge posed “significant challenges to the Nigerian trade facilitation environment and economic stability.” Businesses had raised concerns that the levy would increase costs, fuel inflation, and harm the country’s trade competitiveness.

The government stated that the suspension will allow for “comprehensive stakeholder engagement and a thorough review of the levy’s framework and its broader economic implications.” The Ministry of Finance and Customs Service are expected to work together to develop a more equitable and efficient revenue structure that supports both economic stability and growth.

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In Ondo, Woman arrested for allegedly killing sister over 800 Naira Debt

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In Ondo, Woman arrested for allegedly killing sister over 800 Naira Debt

A middle-aged trader, Bosede Iluyemi, has been arrested in Akure, the capital of Ondo State, for allegedly killing her elder sister, Omowumi Tewogboye, in a dispute over a debt of just 800 Naira (less than $1).

According to police, the altercation began when Iluyemi demanded payment from her sister for tomatoes and pepper purchased on credit. The argument quickly turned violent when Iluyemi allegedly grabbed Omowumi’s clothes, causing her to fall and sustain fatal injuries.

Omowumi was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that Bosede Iluyemi is in custody and that a full investigation is underway. The command’s spokesperson, DSP Olusola Ayanlade, assured the public that justice will be served in the case.

Nigerian Government files cybercrime charges against Activist, Omoyele Sowore

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Nigerian Government files cybercrime charges against Activist, Omoyele Sowore

The Department of State Services (DSS) has filed five criminal charges against activist Omoyele Sowore and two tech companies, X and Meta (Facebook), alleging they published false and defamatory posts against President Bola Tinubu.

The charges, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, accuse Sowore of using his social media accounts to spread false information intended to incite public unrest.

The Allegations

The core of the government’s case centers on a specific post made by Sowore on August 25. The post read: “THIS CRIMINAL @ OFFICIAL PBAT ACTUALLY WENT TO BRAZIL TO STATE THAT THERE IS NO MORE CORRUPTION UNDER HIS REGIME IN NIGERIA. WHAT AUDACITY TO LIE SHAMELESSLY!”

The DSS alleges that by posting this on his official X and Facebook pages, Sowore violated several laws, including:

  • Cybercrimes Act, 2024: The first two counts charge Sowore with disseminating a message he knew to be false for the purpose of causing a “breakdown of law and order,” especially among those with differing views on the president.
  • Criminal Code Act: The final three counts accuse Sowore of publishing defamatory material against the president’s “personality and reputation” and of creating public fear with false information.

The charges, signed by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation, Mohammed Babadoko Abubakar, come two weeks after the DSS reportedly sent a letter to Sowore and the tech companies demanding the posts be taken down.

No date has been set for the arraignment of the defendants. The case marks a significant legal challenge in Nigeria’s ongoing debate over freedom of speech and government power.

Peter Obi had claimed his family members would “die” if ever left APGA – Bwala claims

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Peter Obi had claimed his family members would “die” if ever left APGA – Bwala claims

Daniel Bwala, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has publicly criticized former presidential candidate Peter Obi for his history of switching political parties.

In a recent podcast, Bwala recalled how Obi, who was once a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), had reportedly stated he would never leave the party, claiming his family would “die” if he did. Bwala noted that Obi later left APGA for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and then moved on to the Labour Party.

“Peter Obi’s interest has nothing to do with the interest of the people,” Bwala said, alleging that most Nigerian politicians have changed parties at least three times. He claimed that when Obi joined the Labour Party, he referred to his former party, the PDP, as a “structure of criminality.”

Bwala also questioned Obi’s commitment to public service, alleging that the former governor has never donated more than N50 million to a cause. He went on to deride some of Obi’s charitable efforts, including a borehole project he claimed was poorly designed.

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Bandits abduct 40 worshippers from a Mosque in Zamfara State

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Bandits abduct 40 worshippers from a Mosque in Zamfara State

Suspected bandits have kidnapped around 40 worshippers from a mosque in Gidan Turbe village, in the Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The abduction happened early Monday morning as the victims were performing dawn prayers.

According to local residents, the gunmen surrounded the mosque and forced the worshippers into a nearby forest.

In a separate attack, another group of bandits raided Dogon Daji village, in the same local government area. The assailants killed the village head after he resisted their attempt to abduct him.

The police have not yet confirmed the incidents, as the Zamfara Police Command’s spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment.

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Nigerian National sentenced in U.S. for International Fraud Scheme

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Nigerian National sentenced in U.S. for International Fraud Scheme

A Nigerian national, Ehis Lawrence Akhimie, has been sentenced to more than eight years in a U.S. federal prison for his role in a transnational fraud network that targeted hundreds of elderly Americans. The 41-year-old was sentenced to 97 months on September 11 after pleading guilty to a conspiracy charge related to a fraudulent inheritance scheme.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, Akhimie and his co-conspirators defrauded over $6 million from more than 400 victims across the United States. The victims, many of whom were elderly or vulnerable, were sent letters purporting to be from a bank in Spain. The letters falsely claimed the recipients were entitled to a multimillion-dollar inheritance from a deceased relative.

To receive the fictitious inheritance, victims were instructed to send payments for “fees,” “taxes,” and other charges. The money was then funneled through a complex network of U.S.-based individuals who were manipulated into forwarding the funds to the fraudsters. Prosecutors confirmed that no victim ever received the promised inheritance.

“Schemes like this steal not only money but dignity from our seniors,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones. “Our Office stands with victims, ensures their voices are heard, and will relentlessly pursue those who prey on them.”

The sentencing marks the eighth conviction in the case. Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division highlighted the importance of international cooperation in combating such crimes, acknowledging the support of international partners in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Portugal. In a related case in April, a co-conspirator, Okezie Bonaventure Ogbata, who was extradited from Portugal, also received a 97-month prison sentence.

Buba Galadima warns of “Civil War” Over Rumored INEC Appointment

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Buba Galadima warns of “Civil War” Over Rumored INEC Appointment

A chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Buba Galadima, has issued a stark warning that Nigeria could face civil unrest if the federal government moves forward with an alleged plan to appoint a retired Court of Appeal judge as the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Speaking on Arise Television, Galadima claimed that a “notorious” retired judge is being considered for the role. “If that man becomes the chairman of INEC, be rest assured that this government is inviting a civil war in this country,” he said.

Galadima’s comments reflect a deep-seated distrust in the nation’s electoral system. He accused the current administration of a disregard for the rule of law and claimed that the current leadership of INEC is already compromised in favor of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

He alleged that the current INEC chairman was previously a party official for the APC and was rewarded with the position after the party’s election victory. According to Galadima, if the rumored appointment goes through, it would be another sign that the government is trying to manipulate the electoral process.

“If this man is appointed INEC chairman, then forget about elections in Nigeria. Because there would be no elections in this country, and it will create chaos,” he warned.

Galadima called on Nigerians to be vigilant and prevent individuals with questionable records from overseeing the nation’s elections.


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Nigerians don’t need separate TIN for Bank Accounts

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Nigerians don’t need separate TIN for Bank Accounts

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has moved to debunk widespread rumors that Nigerians will be required to obtain a separate Tax Identification Number (TIN) to operate or open a bank account starting in January 2026. The misinformation had caused public concern over new bureaucratic hurdles for citizens.

In a statement, the FIRS explained that its TIN framework is designed to integrate with existing national registries. This means that a person’s National Identification Number (NIN) or a company’s Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration number automatically serves as their tax identifier.

“The reality is that Nigeria’s tax system has evolved to integrate seamlessly with existing national registries,” said Aderonke Atoyebi, the FIRS’s Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media. “Every eligible individual or entity is automatically identifiable for tax purposes.”

She noted that the TIN is a 13-digit identifier that links a person or entity’s tax record to their existing national registry details. This integration is meant to streamline the tax process and ensure that individuals and businesses are automatically enrolled in the tax system without needing to apply for a separate number.

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Nigerian Government warns travelling for pilgrimage against absconding

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Nigerian Government warns travelling for pilgrimage against absconding

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has issued a stern warning to Christian pilgrims travelling to Israel and Jordan, cautioning them against abandoning their groups and urging them to uphold Nigeria’s reputation while abroad.

Speaking at a pre-departure orientation for more than 142 pilgrims, Mahmoud stressed the importance of representing Nigeria with dignity. “Stringent measures have been instituted to prevent abscondment and any act capable of bringing disrepute to the country,” she said, adding that the federal government has implemented proactive measures to counter such efforts.

The acting director of the FCT Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Gloria Dandam, echoed the minister’s zero-tolerance stance. She warned that the legal guarantors of any pilgrim who fails to return will be held accountable.

“We don’t anticipate any abscondment, but if it happens, the guarantors will be arrested and prosecuted,” Dandam said. “They signed legal documents and will be held responsible.”

The minister also called on the pilgrims to pray for President Bola Tinubu and his administration, asking for their support for the government’s efforts to improve national governance and unity. The FCT has mainta

Katsina State to provide more funding to repentant terrorists

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Katsina State to provide more funding to repentant terrorists

The Katsina State government has announced a new social reintegration program that will provide industrial tools and housing to repentant bandits as part of a broader effort to improve security and prevent a relapse into violence.

According to a statement from the governor’s office, Governor Dikko Radda made the pledge at a high-level security meeting, where he revealed plans to build 152 homes for families displaced by conflict in the Jibia Local Government Area.

“The state government is planning to provide 152 IDP homes in Jibia for displaced families, plus business support packages, cattle and industrial tools for repentant individuals preventing violence relapse,” the statement read.

Governor Radda reiterated that security remains the top priority in his development plan, which also includes a focus on education, agriculture, health, and job creation. The statement from his office acknowledged that while the government has received criticism, it remains open to constructive feedback.

The Deputy Governor, Faruk Lawal-Jobe, provided a detailed list of the administration’s achievements. He claimed that the government has created over 35,000 jobs through various initiatives, including teacher recruitment and the creation of a community watch program.

Among the key projects highlighted were:

  • Infrastructure: The government has invested N74.9 billion in urban renewal projects, including a 24-kilometer bypass and road reconstruction across several senatorial districts.
  • Education: 160 new classrooms have been built, 258 rehabilitated, and N6.18 billion was awarded in scholarships to over 174,000 students.
  • Agriculture and Rural Development: The administration has distributed 400,000 bags of subsidized fertilizer annually, acquired 400 tractors, and launched a goat-rearing initiative to empower women and herders.
  • Worker Welfare: N24 billion has been paid out in gratuities and other wage benefits.
  • Healthcare: 260 primary health centers have been built or upgraded, and a new dialysis and diagnostic center has been established.

The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Nasiru Mu’azu, offered an assessment of the security crisis, attributing the rise in banditry to a complex mix of “greed, envy, natural resource conflicts due to climate change, and long-standing social injustices.”

He noted that the problem, which was once contained in five local government areas between 2011 and 2015, has now spread to 25 areas following the collapse of a previous amnesty program. Mu’azu clarified that recent peace agreements in some areas were community-driven and not initiated by the state government.

Davido denies being slapped in Viral Video, blames security aide

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Davido denies being slapped in Viral Video, blames security aide

Award-winning Nigerian musician David “Davido” Adeleke has taken to social media to shut down claims that he was slapped during a recent outing in Warri, Delta State.

A viral video showed the singer being escorted through a crowd of fans and security personnel. In the clip, an object appeared to strike his head, leading to speculation that he had been hit by a fan. An X user, #AsakyGRN, amplified the claim with the caption: “Warri people no get joy oo. See dem sl@p Davido for head.”

Davido quickly responded on his official X account to clear up the confusion. “Mumu that was my security .. hit me by mistake,” he wrote, adding, “saddist,” a term of frustration he often uses.

The clarification has since put an end to the rumors, with many fans sharing the singer’s post to correct the misinformation.

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