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Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court has withdrawn from presiding over two cases brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Abubakar Malami, Nigeria's former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. The recusal happened on Thursday during a court session when one of the cases a civil suit seeking the final forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly linked to Mr Malami was called for mention. Justice Egwuatu stated that he was stepping aside for personal reasons and in the interest of justice. The cases had recently been reassigned to him by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, after previously being handled by Justice Emeka Nwite during the court's Christmas vacation period.

Businessman and social commentator Isaac Fayose sparked controversy after a video surfaced on social media criticizing the perceived lack of support for detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu by Igbo leaders. In the video, Fayose said, “My wife is Igbo, so I’m partly Igbo. Igbos are the most gr£edy Nigerians. Sunday Igboho is at home. Sheik Gumi supports Fulani herdsmen. Nnamdi Kanu is in prison but Obi Cubana is wearing Tinubu cap instead of telling FG to release NK.” Citing other activists, he added, “We have Sunday Igboho who is back now and even about to receive a chieftaincy title. Even Gumi is still supporting the t+rrorists with the claim that they are not educated, but no Igbo man is standing for Nnamdi.” Fayose further criticized most Igbo politicians, saying that although they occupy corridors of power, they are unable to rally support for Kanu’s release. He also questioned the source of wealth of some wealthy figures, saying, “And I don’t know their source of wealth. Y...

PENGASSAN says the old Port Harcourt Refinery is 90% rehabilitated and can resume operations within a week if approved by NNPC Ltd. However, profitability concerns may be delaying its restart. Osifo, however, insisted that the refinery is technically ready to function and that the delay in restarting operations is tied more to profitability concerns than mechanical challenges. Full story on Gistlover 

The United States is preparing to deploy about 200 troops to Nigeria to train and support the country’s military in its fight against Islamist insurgents, according to a U.S. official. The move comes weeks after President Donald Trump ordered airstrikes on what he described as Islamic State targets in Nigeria.  Last week, the U.S. military confirmed it had sent a small team of personnel to Nigeria, though it did not disclose the number involved. This marked the first official confirmation of American troops on Nigerian soil since U.S. air operations were carried out on Christmas Day.  President Trump has indicated that further military action could follow. Reuters also reported that the U.S. has been conducting surveillance flights over Nigeria from Ghana since at least late November.  The planned deployment of 200 troops is expected to reinforce a limited number of U.S. military personnel already stationed in the country to assist Nigerian forces. U.S. Africa...

Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, and his son, Chimamkpa, joined the protest over the electronic transmission of election results in Abuja today. The protesters are calling for the approval of real-time electronic transmission of election results from polling units. Amaechi said, “Some people say we politicians encourage protests while our children are abroad. Here is my first son; I brought him to join the protest. He is a medical doctor. His duty is to treat anyone who may be injured.”

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will no longer intervene in the lingering political crisis in Rivers State, describing the President’s earlier involvement as a final effort to restore peace. Wike made the disclosure while addressing journalists, noting that Tinubu had already played a significant role in attempting to resolve the dispute between key political actors in the state. He urged the parties involved in the conflict to reach a lasting resolution without expecting further federal mediation. According to the FCT Minister, the President’s previous intervention demonstrated his commitment to stability and good governance in Rivers State. However, Wike emphasized that it was now the responsibility of stakeholders within the state to settle their differences and ensure peace in the interest of residents and development. The Rivers political crisis, which has generated tension within the state’s...

In a recent interview on Trust TV, former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai spoke on the dynamics of godfatherism in Nigerian politics, highlighting how relationships between political mentors and their protégés often evolve once office changes hands. He cited examples such as former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso and his godson Kabir Yusuf, as well as FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and his godson Siminalayi Fubara, to illustrate the realities of political succession in Nigeria. El-Rufai stressed his personal approach to leadership and succession, saying, “When I do a job, I move on; I don’t care about or want to control my successor.” He explained that unlike some political actors who attempt to maintain influence over their successors, he believes in allowing officeholders to exercise independence and make decisions in the interest of the public. Drawing from his own experiences as governor, El-Rufai argued that expecting loyalty or control from successors is unrealisti...

The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Monday upheld the Nigerian Senate's suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), ruling that the upper chamber acted within its constitutional powers to discipline members for misconduct. A three-member panel, led by Justice Abba Muhammed, delivered a unanimous decision stating that the suspension did not breach the senator's parliamentary privileges or fundamental rights. The court affirmed the Senate President's authority under Senate Rules to allocate seats and deny speaking privileges to members not in their assigned positions. It referenced a February 20, 2025, plenary incident where Akpoti-Uduaghan was denied the floor after sitting in an unallocated seat and reacting angrily to a seat reallocation. The appellate court also dismissed suggestions from a lower court to reconsider the suspension's length and struck out related aspects of the suit for lack of jurisdiction, as the Federal High Court cann...

On Saturday, February 8, 2026, renowned entertainment executive, media entrepreneur, and convener of the Faji Nite Carnival, Tambari Steve, paid a surprise visit to his country home in Kaani. The visit sparked conversations across the community due to the lasting impact of Tambari Steve’s contributions to entertainment, culture, and grassroots development. He was accompanied by ARISE TV reporter, Andy Omano-Omano. As part of the visit, Tambari Steve paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Highness, Mene Godwin Barikpoa Apere of Bua Kaani. The monarch commended Tambari Steve for his selfless service and continuous contributions to the growth and positive image of the community, particularly through the Faji Nite Carnival and sustained media engagement. His Royal Highness also expressed satisfaction with the 2024 edition of the Faji Nite Carnival and pledged his full support for the 2026 edition of the cultural event. The monarch further appreciated Tambari Steve for his consisten...

No fewer than 5,000 women across Rivers State will receive ₦100,000 each under the Rivers Women Support Stimulus (RWSS), a targeted empowerment programme designed to strengthen grassroots economic participation. The initiative guarantees that at least 200 women from each of the 23 local government areas will benefit, creating a broad and structured distribution framework that reaches communities across the state. The programme is being executed by Rivers Women Unite for SIM (RWUS) in partnership with the Governor Siminalayi Fubara-led administration. Beyond LGA-based beneficiaries, the scheme also accommodates market women and non-indigenes residing in Rivers State, reinforcing an inclusion-driven approach aimed at widening access to financial support for vulnerable and hardworking women. Officials say the stimulus is focused on improving household stability, enhancing small-scale productivity, and deepening women’s role in community development. The intervention underscore...

The Abia State Government has denied claims that it allocated N210 million for the purchase of a single photocopier for its Lagos Liaison Office, blaming it on a clerical error in the 2026 Appropriation Law. The Abia State Ministry of Budget and Planning, said the controversy arose from a "technical formatting error" during the final compilation of the budget, which led to the misalignment of project descriptions and their corresponding figures in one section of the document. It said the"N210,831,142" was appropriated for the "rehabilitation and repair of residential buildings and staff quarters" at the Lagos Liaison Office, while "N12 million" was budgeted for the "procurement of one Sharp photocopier and other sundry office equipment".

The Movement for the Survival of the Gokana People (MOSOGP) has strongly rejected recent statements credited to the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), declaring that the group has no authority or affiliation with Ogoni affairs or the ongoing environmental remediation in Ogoniland. In a statement signed by its President, Deenor Lucky, MOSOGP described as misleading and provocative calls allegedly made by a faction of the IYC, led by Dr. Alaye Tari Theophilus, for the removal of the Honourable Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, and the Project Coordinator of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Professor Nenibarini Zabbey. MOSOGP stated unequivocally that Ogoni is not part of the Ijaw nation, stressing that the Ijaw Youth Council has no mandate, authority, or recognized role in Ogoni matters, particularly the implementation of the UNEP Report on Ogoniland. According to the group, HYPREP remains a Federal Government intervention agency with a clear...

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has parted ways with South African side Chippa United after four years, the club confirmed on Thursday. Nwabali shared an emotional farewell message on Instagram, thanking his teammates, coaches, fans, and the club’s leadership. He wrote: “It was more than a family. To my teammates, coaches, amazing fans, and the best chairman in the world — thank you. As I say farewell, I carry with me memories of victories, lessons from setbacks, laughter, and tears. These moments will stay with me forever. To the club chairman, thank you for being a father figure and for the honor of letting me be part of this journey. I leave with gratitude and cherished memories. Until we meet again.” Nwabali, 29, joined Chippa United from Katsina United in the NPFL in 2022 and made around 70 appearances for the club.

The senate minority caucus says lawmakers retained electronic transmission of election results during the passage of the Electoral Act (Amendment) bill. On Wednesday, the senate retained the provision for electronic transfer of election results as contained in the Electoral Act 2022. During the consideration of the Electoral Act (Amendment) bill, the red chamber also rejected proposals for real-time results transmission and a 10-year ban on vote buyers, opting instead to maintain existing sanctions of fines or jail terms. The clarification follows public criticism after reports claimed lawmakers rejected electronic transmission of election results and a proposed 10-year ban on vote buyers and other electoral offenders.

Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo has sparked widespread debate online following remarks made during a recent live broadcast, where he argued that tattoos are supported by biblical scripture. During the live session, the pastor referenced Isaiah 49:16, interpreting the verse as evidence that God symbolically bears tattoos. He stated that God has “indelibly imprinted” His people on the palms of His hands, which he described as a form of divine tattoo. “God himself has tattooed you. Christ himself has tattooed you,” Pastor Okonkwo said, insisting that the passage supports the idea that tattoos are not forbidden for believers. He dismissed arguments commonly drawn from the Book of Leviticus, describing them as misapplied, and stressed that he would not teach anything he does not fully understand, citing his age and long-standing Christian faith. The pastor also referenced the Book of Revelation, claiming it suggests that Jesus bears inscriptions, and urged believers not to conceal their...

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has invited and allowed representatives from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction backed by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike to attend its first quarterly stakeholders' meeting with political parties in 2026. The faction, led by Acting National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed and Acting National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, represented the PDP at the meeting held on Thursday, February 5, 2026. This development signals a potential shift in INEC's stance amid the party's prolonged leadership crisis. The move follows a Federal High Court judgment in Ibadan that upheld the legitimacy of the Wike-aligned National Caretaker Committee and reportedly directed INEC to recognize it. The PDP remains divided, with rival factions disputing national leadership. The Wike-backed group recently scheduled a national convention for March 28–29, 2026, while opposing governors and stakeholders have rej...

SaharaReporters' review of the Abia State 2026 approved budget has revealed that the state government, led by Governor Alex Otti, plans to buy a photocopier at N210 million. A photocopier (commonly referred to in Nigeria as a photocopy machine) is a machine that makes copies of documents and other visual images onto paper or plastic film quickly and cheaply. Otti assented to the 2026 Appropriation Bill of N1,016,228,072,651.99 in December 2025. Details contained in the budget document published by the state government show that N210,831,142.00 was budgeted to buy a photocopier for the Lagos Liaison Office. The contract was captured under Total Capital Expenditure, Reform for Government and Governance, Abia State Liaison Office, Lagos. In 2025, N2.5 million was budgeted for the purchase of the same item. The reason for the increase of over N208 million by the government remains unknown. A further review of the budget shows that N287 million is earmarked under Abia Policy...

The Nigerian Senate has rejected proposed amendments that would made electronic transmission of election results compulsory, opting instead to retain the existing provisions from the 2022 Electoral Act. During plenary session on Wednesday, senators considered the Bill for an Act to Repeal the Electoral Act No. 13, 2022, and Enact the Electoral Act, 2025. A key proposed clause (new Clause 60(5)) that would have required presiding officers to electronically transmit polling unit results in real time to INEC's IReV portal after completing Form EC8A was rejected. The Senate retained the 2022 framework, which mandates manual completion, signing, stamping, and distribution of results to party agents and security personnel, with results announced at polling units and transferred "in a manner as prescribed by the Commission" – without mandating electronic transmission. Senators also rejected Clause 47, which sought to allow electronically-generated voter identificatio...

Operatives of the Ozuoba Police Division have arrested Frimpong Samuel for allegedly removing the roof of his tenant, Tochukwu Anozie, along NTA Road, Port Harcourt. Samuel reportedly took the action after Tochukwu failed to vacate the property two weeks after his rent expired. Speaking on the incident, the Spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, CSP Grace Iringe Koko, said the landlord will be arraigned in court upon completion of the investigation. Meanwhile, the tenant, Anozie, said his landlord served him a notice in December, asking him not to renew his rent.  According to him, his landlord said he plans to renovate the apartment. Anozie explained that his rent was due to expire in January 2026. He explained that he appealed to the landlord for a 14-day grace period to enable him move into a new apartment he had already paid for.  Anozie expressed shock that, before the expiration of the 14 days, his landlord came to the apartment with a carpenter an...

A new investigation has shown how a Nigerian crime syndicate led by socialite Nzube Ikeji defrauded a Romanian woman of more than $2.5 million. The investigation was conducted by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) and published on Monday. The scam was primarily carried out by Mr Ikeji, who posed as a Dubai Prince under the name, Sheikh Hamdan Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and his associate, Martins Abhulimhen, who posed as a financial manager with the name Matthew Cros. According to OCCRP, Mr Ikeji contacted the Romanian businesswoman, who asked to be identified only by her first name, Laura, on LinkedIn, expressing interest in funding humanitarian initiatives in her home country. The prince sought her guidance on which Romanian humanitarian organisations were most deserving of investment and financial support. Then began a lengthy professional interaction that eventually evolved into a personal one. Over time, it morphed into an online romantic ...

Popular relationship coach and pastor, Kingsley Okonkwo, has challenged long-held religious beliefs that condemn tattoos, describing them as baseless and h@rmful to societal growth. Speaking during an interview on News Central, Okonkwo said there is no biblical or scientific evidence that makes tattoos sinful or a sign of bad character. He argued that many religious leaders and worshippers impose personal opinions, church policies, or individual convictions on others without solid justification. “There is no scripture that says a child of God cannot have a tattoo,” he said. “People keep shouting that tattoos are bad, yet nobody can explain why. There is no scriptural proof, no scientific proof, just assumptions.” He criticized the tendency to link outward appearance to moral failure, noting that such thinking limits progress. According to him, blaming tattoos, clothing, or lifestyle choices for criminal behaviour is illogical and outdated. Okonkwo illustrated his point by c...

Nigerian entertainment executive and media entrepreneur, Tambari Steve, has taken to Facebook to celebrate renowned environmental activist, Teeh Celestine Akpobari. His appreciation follows weeks of widespread social media attention surrounding the activist, who has been trending for his strong stance against injustice in Ogoniland and his opposition to the resumption of oil activities in the area. Tambari, in his post, wrote: I write this piece in deep appreciation of a truly great man, Teeh AkpoBari Celestine, a renowned environmental activist whose impact is felt across Ogoniland, the Niger Delta, and beyond. My first physical encounter with Teeh Celestine Akpobari was in 2024 during the Ken Saro-Wiwa Candle Night at the popular Aggrey Road. That night, my team and I were actively promoting the Faji Nite Carnival across Ogoni platforms. Due to his very busy schedule, I couldn’t get the opportunity to properly connect with him. Little did I know that he had collected the ...

Renowned American gospel singer, songwriter, and worship leader Ron Kenoly has passed away at the age of 81. Kenoly’s death was confirmed by several artists on their social media pages.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reportedly directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to stop the ongoing impeachment move against Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. According to sources, the President also advised Governor Fubara to recognize Wike’s influence in Rivers politics, describing him as the leader of all political tendencies in the state, despite not being a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The development has triggered widespread reactions across the country, with many Nigerians questioning Wike’s true political alignment and asking whether he belongs to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or the APC.

A cloud of grief has enveloped the community following the tragic death of a young woman, identified as Don Christabel, who reportedly took her own life after her fiancé allegedly called off their planned wedding. According to a Facebook User Vivian Ifeoma Idoko within the area, the wedding had been scheduled to take place soon before it was abruptly cancelled under circumstances that are still being pieced together. Friends and neighbours described the deceased as deeply affected by the development, noting that she appeared emotionally distressed in the days leading up to her death. Don Christabel was later found unresponsive and was rushed for medical attention, but was confirmed dead shortly thereafter. Authorities have since commenced preliminary inquiries to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident, while the family has been thrown into mourning. Source: 9NewsNigeria