The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has alleged that former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, became critical of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu after being sidelined in the race for the vice-presidential slot.
Wike made the claim while addressing political developments within the All Progressives Congress (APC), stressing that Lawal’s recent attacks on Tinubu stemmed from personal grievances rather than genuine concerns.
According to the minister, Lawal had expected to be considered for the vice-presidential position but turned against the president after his ambition did not materialize.
When Mr President chose his vice-presidential candidate, I was one of those Babachir Lawal visited. He came to my house in Port Harcourt. What was his anger?
“His anger was that he thought Mr President would have chosen him as the vice-presidential candidate. Having not done that, he let loose,” Wike said on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Tuesday.
Lawal recently criticised the Tinubu administration for its performance and governance style.
According to Wike, Lawal’s discontent was evident from the way he reacted. “It was very clear, we are not kids. Even a child who is intelligent would know where your anger is,” the minister said.
Wike further faulted Lawal’s criticisms of the President and described his comments as disrespectful. He advised that if Lawal had issues with Tinubu, there was “nothing wrong” in addressing them directly with the president.
Wike said he had once respected Lawal but was disappointed by his recent outburst.
“There are people I have had respect for; you find out that you are just holding them in high esteem for nothing. While I was a governor, I used to think that people like Babachir Lawal are people you should have respect for, until I started observing things. I never knew that he is not a man you can take for his words,” he stated.
The minister faulted Lawal’s choice of words against the President, saying, “I watched the interview and the unpalatable words he used against Mr President, how he said that Mr President is full of himself. It is really unfortunate.
“A man will come out on national television not to genuinely criticise what Mr President has done wrong, but to accuse him simply because he had a relationship with Mr President before.
“That does not give him the latitude to come on national television to say a President of a country is full of himself. He doesn’t even call him ‘President’; he just says ‘Bola’. If you had a problem with Mr President before he became President, there is nothing wrong with finding a way to sort it out.”
Wike also stressed that governance is collective and urged Nigerians to engage ministers and advisers rather than expect direct access to the President.
“When you say Mr President is unapproachable, government is unapproachable, what do you call government? I am the minister in charge of the Federal Capital Territory. Must everybody reach Mr President? Is that the way the government runs?
“If everybody in this country refuses to reach out to ministers or special advisers and just wants to see Mr President, how many people can he attend to at a time? I am a minister. If you have a problem regarding activities in the FCT, have you tried to reach out to the FCT minister?”
When asked if the administration was approachable, he replied, “Of course.”
Wike’s comments followed Lawal’s recent description of Tinubu and his government as “unapproachable.” The former SGF, who has been a vocal critic of the administration, also said he would not have coped if he were in the cabinet, adding that he would have either resigned, been sacked, or even “killed”.
Lawal also faulted the government’s economic policies, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy in 2023, arguing that Nigerians had yet to benefit and alleging that the subsidy was still being secretly paid despite official claims to the contrary.
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Nigerian-born Beninese football star Razak Omotoyossi dies at 39
Former Beninese international striker, Razak Omotoyossi, has passed away at the age of 39.
His death was confirmed on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, by his former Swedish club, Helsingborgs IF, where he once played a key role in the team’s attack.
Omotoyossi, born in Lagos, Nigeria, before switching allegiance to Benin, made his mark as one of West Africa’s most prominent football exports.
In a tribute posted on X (formerly Twitter), the club wrote: “Helsingborgs IF is in mourning. We have been informed that our former player Razak Omotoyossi has passed away at the age of 39. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.”
Omotoyossi, who began his career in the Nigerian league before switching nationality to represent Benin, went on to become one of the most celebrated footballers in the country’s history.
He scored 21 goals in 55 international matches, cementing his place among Benin’s all-time top scorers.
He is especially remembered for his remarkable display during the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, where he scored all four goals in Benin’s 4-1 victory over Togo, finishing the campaign as joint top scorer alongside Samuel Eto’o.
He also made history as the first player to score for Benin at the AFCON finals.
At club level, Omotoyossi’s career took him across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, with spells in South Africa, Libya, Egypt, Syria, Moldova, Sweden, and France.
He enjoyed a particularly successful period at Helsingborgs IF, where he featured in the UEFA Champions League before moving on to French side FC Metz.
Omotoyossi’s passing marks the end of an era for Beninese football, with tributes pouring in from fans and former teammates who remember him as a prolific striker and a trailblazer for the sport.
Anambra Police Command Warns Vigilante Groups Quasi-security Outfits Against Brutality, Abuse Of Authority
The Anambra Police Command has warned vigilante groups and other quasi-security outfits against acts of brutality or abuse of authority against residents of the State.
The Command gave the warning on Tuesday in a statement by its Spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, on an alleged assault on a yet-to-be-identified female member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The assault was reportedly carried out by vigilante operatives at Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area of the State.
The Command while disclosing that the suspects involved have been identified, warned that any such misconduct will not be condoned.
“The Command, however, notes that the alleged victim’s unavailability has temporarily stalled the ongoing investigative process.
“Meanwhile, the Command has reiterated that assault in any form remains a criminal offence under the Nigerian Law and reserves the right to take necessary legal action to aid the court proceedings while waiting for the victim,” the statement said.
While reassuring Corps members serving across the State of its unwavering commitment to their protection, the Command urged them to always report incidents of harassment, intimidation, or abuse for prompt intervention.
Two drug kingpins Emami, Akpomuai convicted, sentenced to 10 years imprisonment
By Ebinum Samuel
Their conviction an indication NDLEA strategies are working, says Marwa
Two notorious drug kingpins: 37-year-old Ajetsibo Emami popularly known as ‘Warri Kinsman’ and 51-year-old Solomon Akpomuai have been convicted and sentenced to a combined 10 years imprisonment by a Federal High Court in Lagos.
Emami was arrested in Ikeja Lagos on Saturday 28th June 2025 after NDLEA operatives dismantled his drug trafficking network in a three-day operation leading to the arrest of three other suspects. Recovered from Emami’s network were 24 jumbo bags containing 681 pouches of Canadian Loud, a strain of cannabis weighing 414.2 kilograms.
The bust of Emami’s drug ring followed credible intelligence on his attempt to move the shipment to Lekki area of Lagos, from where it will be distributed to other parts of the state and across the country.
He was subsequently arraigned before Justice Deinde Dipeolu of the Federal High Court 8 Lagos in charge number FHC/L/636C/2025 bordering on dealing in illicit drugs. In his ruling delivered on Monday 18th August 2025, the trial judge convicted Emami on the one count charge filed against him by NDLEA prosecutor Assistant Commander of Narcotics Buhari Shuaibu Abdullahi and sentenced him to six years in prison with an option of N50million in lieu of jail.
In his case, Solomon Akpomuai was first arrested by men of Customs Service along Shagamu-Ijebu-Ode expressway with 2,197.8 kilograms of skunk, a strain of cannabis on 3rd June 2025 and transferred to NDLEA on 16th June after which he was arraigned in charge number FHC/L/635C before Justice Dipeolu for trafficking illicit drugs in large commercial quantity. Also delivering his judgement on the matter, the trial judge convicted and sentenced Akpomuai to four years in prison with an option of N50million fine.
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) described the conviction of the two drug kingpins as an indication that Nigeria will sooner than later surmount the menace of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking as a result of the positive outcomes of the current balanced approach to the Agency’s drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts. He commended the judiciary, NDLEA officers involved in the investigation and prosecution of the cases as well as other stakeholders for their commitment to the cause of a drug free country.
Abdul Oroh and a Durable Coalition for Hope in Nigeria-by Chidi Anselm Odinkalu
Abdul Oroh is an unlikely avatar of the Nigerian dream. An Afenmai from Ivbiaro in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State in the south-south of Nigeria, Abdul had the privilege of seeing Nigeria’s promise at independence and its descent to the edge of the proverbial precipice. Born in August 1960, he was less than two months old at the celebrations when the country attained independence on 1 October 1960.
Six and a half decades later, Abdul has worked his way through many careers, managing not to quit any. After a decade as a senior journalist and editor in some Nigeria’s leading newspapers (including the Guardian and Vanguard), Abdul spent the next decade leading Nigeria’s best known human rights organization, the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) during and after uniformed military rule. He then went into active politics, becoming elected as a member of the House of Representatives on the platform of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP). Thereafter, he joined the executive arm of government at the state level, becoming the longest serving commissioner in the administration of Adams Oshiomhole in Edo State. Abdul trained as a lawyer and remains in active legal practice.
President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Engr (Dr.) Jani Ibrahim, (left), being received by the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, (TETFUND), Arc Sonny Echono, OON, when he led a delegation to the organisation, today
Missing Nigerian woman found dead in United States
Authorities in Illinois, United States, have confirmed that human remains discovered in the Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve belong to Olasinmibo Abosede, a 42-year-old Nigerian woman popularly known as Sinmi, who had been missing since July 30.
According to a joint statement released Thursday by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County and the Naperville Police Department, the body was located at about 1:55 p.m. near 83rd Street and Chandelle Drive. Officers responding to a call were guided through thick grass to the spot where the remains were found.
Investigators said the clothing on the body matched what Abosede was last seen wearing. Naperville Police Chief Jason Arres said, “While we believe the individual to be Sinmi, the final confirmation will be made by the DuPage County Coroner’s Office.
We are deeply saddened by this loss and extend our sincere condolences to the Abosede family during this difficult time. Thank you to everyone in our community who assisted with this investigation and for your care and concern. We ask that everyone keep the family in your thoughts and respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
Abosede was last spotted leaving her home west of Springbrook Golf Course for a morning walk. Her husband, Gbenga Abosede, said surveillance footage captured her walking away from their neighborhood. She was seen around 9:20 a.m. in the 2100 block of Sudbury Street, wearing a long-sleeved black Adidas jacket, gray sweatpants, a black headscarf, and black Crocs.
Police and volunteers, including canine teams, had been searching the forest preserve for weeks. Forest Preserve District Police Chief David Pederson added, “Our hearts go out to Sinmi’s family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Investigators say there is no sign of foul play, though an autopsy will be conducted by the DuPage County Coroner’s Office. Forest preserve police are leading the investigation with assistance from Naperville police.
Key takeaways from our tour of Enugu and Ebonyi states, by Bayo Onanuga
We returned to Abuja on Saturday after a three-day working tour of Enugu and Ebonyi States as members of the National Communication Team, led by Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation. During the visit, we engaged with the governors and key officials of both states, held town hall meetings with citizens, and delivered messages from President Bola Tinubu, highlighting his achievements and commitment to lifting Nigerians out of poverty, particularly through the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme. We also inspected a range of federal and state projects, both completed and ongoing.
Our first key takeaway was the unanimous acknowledgement by the governors and citizens that the Tinubu administration is actively executing various projects in both states, as in other parts of the country. It is reassuring to see that the South East, like other regions, has not been left behind, as President Tinubu has ensured equitable distribution of federal projects..
In Enugu, the Federal Government has established a world-class oncological centre for the treatment of cancer. Major ongoing road projects include the Enugu–Port Harcourt Highway, Enugu–Onitsha Highway, the reconstruction of the 9th Mile–Umulumgbe–Ukehe–Opi Junction, and the iconic Eke Obinagu Flyover in Emene, which would resolve longstanding traffic gridlock in the area.
Minister Idris highlighted that the Port Harcourt–Aba railway project has been completed, delivered, and is currently operational. Additionally, the Federal Executive Council has approved $3 billion for the completion of the 2,044km Eastern Rail Line, projected to unlock N50 billion in annual trade for the region. Furthermore, $508 million has been earmarked for the upgrade and modernisation of Eastern Port infrastructure.
In Ebonyi, portions of the Calabar-Abuja Super Highway have been completed, while work is progressing on the other parts of the road.
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi and Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu acknowledged that their states have never witnessed the level of federal intervention currently being experienced under President Tinubu. Governor Nwifuru noted that this is the first time since the creation of Ebonyi State in 1996 that the Federal Government has made such a significant impact.
Our visit coincided with the commissioning of several landmark projects in Enugu, including modern bus terminals and 100 CNG buses by Governor Mbah. While he did not formally invite us to the ceremony, at an earlier meeting with the National Communication Team, Governor Mbah expressed his gratitude to the Tinubu administration for increased revenue allocations resulting from the removal of fuel subsidies and the re-engineering of revenue collection by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
Governor Nwifuru shared a similar perspective, stating that his administration has been able to undertake many new projects without resorting to borrowing. Notably, he is establishing an ICT University in Oferekpe, developing several housing estates, and expanding the state’s road infrastructure, which he inherited from his predecessor. His signature project, the Vanco Flyover and twin underground tunnels in Abakaliki, is expected to be completed in 2026. This landmark project, the first of its kind in the Southeast—and indeed in Nigeria—is poised to become a tourist attraction.
Governor Nwifuru also emphasised that the iconic road project was awarded to a Nigerian construction company, indicating that the state was ahead of the Federal Government in supporting local businesses and buying Nigeria-made products.
The climax of our Ebonyi visit was the Town Hall meeting at the Ecumenical Centre in Abakaliki. The event, attended by a vibrant crowd—party faithful, including many women in colourful attire—transformed from a simple meeting into a lively carnival atmosphere. Minister Idris delivered the President’s message of renewed hope, while Governor Nwifuru outlined his achievements since assuming office two years ago.
We concluded our tour of the states with a courtesy visit to the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, who provided additional insights into the extensive road and bridge projects being undertaken by the Tinubu administration across the South East and the nation. He clarified recent online reports, stating: “What I brought to the Federal Executive Council was a technical report on the state of the Third Mainland and Carter Bridges in Lagos, and proposals for their preservation. We will soon invite construction companies to submit suggestions on how the Federal Government can best safeguard these critical assets.”
Our tour of Enugu and Ebonyi reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive development and underscored the visible progress being achieved under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
-Onanuga is Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy
Security Expert Commends AIG Fayoade, CP Lateef, DCP Akinbisehin
By Ebinum Samuel
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG, in charge of Zone 2 in Lagos, Mr Adegoke M. Fayoade and the Deputy Commissioner of Police,DCP, heading the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Mr Dayo Akinbisehin have been extolled by a Security Expert for their untainted policing methodology just as the newly elevated Commissioner of Police, Mr Ahmed Lateef has been congratulated by the expert.
Commending Fayoade, Dr. Joseph Adebowale, the expert, stressed that the re-orientation of policemen and women by AIG Fayoade in this past one year have actually proved the mantra of ‘Police Is Your Friend’ a reality.
The expert said while that mantra was just in the lips of some senior officers in the past without ensuring that action was taken , Fayoade has ensured that the police is really people’s friendly.
“It is worthy of notice that brutality, extortion and other barbaric conduct of the police in the past at the zone has been addressed holistically by Fayoade. He has also improved tremendously the rapport between members of the public and the men and women of the force. This rapport has led to people giving useful information and tip-off to the police” the expert disclosed.
On the officer in charge SCID in Musuliu Smith Street (.formerly Panti Street), Adebowale said as that department has always been blessed by proactive officers being posted there, Akinbisehin, he said has in the past 3 months reformed the place to the peoples delight.
“The current DCP in charge of SCID, Akinbisehin has borrowed a leaf from his Predecesor, newly promoted commissioner of police, Mr Ahmed Lateef, ensuring that suspects are not kept in the cell facilities more than necessary”
Congratulating Lateef who is currently the Principal Staff Officer, PSO to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Adebowale disclosed that the elevation of the versatile officer to the rank of commissioner of police is one promotion that is well deserved by the recipient.
“AIG Fayoade, CP Lateef and DCP Akinbisehin are all disciplinarians with strict disposition to their surbodinates . They both detest misconduct and extortion by men and women of the force. They are both
good in communication skills, team work and excellent relationship with the public” Adebowale said.
The expert disclosed that in community policing, thorough investigation and giving fair hearing to all parties , Fayoade, Lateef and Akinbisehin are worthy of emulation by the colleagues in the force. He enjoined them not to relent in their unwavering commitment in ensuring that justice is done to cases reported to them.
Edo Police Nabs Inspector, Others Over Robbery, Extortion, Brutality
By Ebinum Samuel
The Edo State Police Command, according to its spokesman , CSP Moses Joel Yamu, said it has uncovered and dismantled a criminal syndicate involving a serving police officer and civilians engaged in acts of extortion, brutality, and robbery against innocent citizens in Benin City.
This follows a viral video in which a victim alleged that he was abducted by policemen, his phone and belongings forcefully taken, and subjected to intimidation. Acting on this complaint and other related reports, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, directed that the perpetrators be identified and arrested without delay.
Yamu revealed that on 15th August 2025, operatives of the Ugbowo Surveillance Team successfully intercepted the suspects with a silver Colored Toyota Yaris and other incriminating items. A serving Police Inspector later identified as Ojo Oloruntobi was arrested alongside three civilian accomplices namely Charles Onah, Joseph Ohis and Enoma Agho, who had been collaborating with him to terrorise residents of the city through acts of extortion and harassment.
The image maker said that the Edo State Police Command strongly condemns this shameful and criminal conduct. The arrested officer and his collaborators will face the full wrath of the law. CP Monday Agbonika has made it clear that there will be no hiding place for rogue elements within the Force, reiterating the Command’s zero tolerance for corruption, abuse of office, and unprofessional conduct.
The Command further issues a stern warning to all officers: any policeman found engaging in misconduct, extortion, brutality, or any form of corrupt practice will be swiftly dismissed, arrested, and prosecuted in line with the laws of the land.
The Command calls on members of the public—particularly the victim in the viral video—to come forward and assist investigators with credible information to ensure justice is served.
The Edo State Police Command remains unwavering in its duty to protect lives and property, restore public trust, and uphold the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.