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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested two employees of Metrodigital Television Limited, operators of SLTV, for allegedly engaging in the unlawful rebroadcast of DStv and GOtv content.

The arrests, carried out on Thursday at the company’s premises on No. 12 Order Street, Rumuola, GRA Phase IV, Port Harcourt, followed a Preservation Order issued by the Federal High Court empowering the EFCC and other law enforcement agencies to seize equipment and documents linked to the alleged piracy.

During the raid, EFCC operatives confiscated broadcasting machines, decoders, transmission equipment, servers, and documents believed to contain evidence of signal manipulation.

The arrested staff members, identified as Chinedu Nwaikwu, a director, and Uche Kanu, an engineer in the transmission unit, were allegedly caught with 22 decoders actively transmitting at the time of their arrest.

The court’s Preservation Order authorised the EFCC to secure and label all items associated with the unauthorised rebroadcast of DStv and GOtv channels, with the materials to be preserved as exhibits for trial.

A detailed seizure report, including photographs and serial numbers of the confiscated devices, is expected to be presented in court.

In a separate ruling, the court issued an injunction restraining Metrodigital Television Ltd, its Chief Executive Officer, Ifeanyi John Nwafor, and associated companies, Denna Rossi Limited, Kristal Food and Beverages, and QTV Plus Limited, from further accessing or transmitting the programme signals and channels belonging to DStv and GOtv pending the determination of the case.

The injunction also directed law enforcement agencies to enforce the order, shut down unauthorised signal feeds, and monitor compliance to prevent further breaches.

Additionally, a Post-No-Debit (PND) order was granted on several bank accounts linked to the alleged piracy proceeds. The affected accounts include those belonging to Metrodigital Television Ltd/SLTV, Ifeanyi John Nwafor, Denna Rossi Limited, Kristal Food and Beverages, and QTV Plus Limited. Banks have been instructed to freeze the accounts, furnish the EFCC with full details, and preserve the funds as suspected proceeds of crime.

The case has been adjourned to October 22, 2025, for plea and continuation of trial.

The court, however, refused the EFCC’s request for an arrest warrant or INTERPOL watch-list notice, citing the fact that the defendants have yet to be formally arraigned.

The EFCC confirmed that all seized materials have been properly secured and will be tendered as evidence at the next hearing.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling illegal broadcast networks and safeguarding the intellectual property rights of licensed content owners.

Nigerian military has listed killing of dozens of insurgents, arrest of 62 suspects and rescue of 30 kidnapped victims among the achievements of its troops across various theaters of operations in the past two weeks.

This was revealed by Defence Headquarters (DHQ) Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye on Thursday.

Kangye who was briefing newsmen on ongoing military operations across all theatres said the troops sustained sustained tempo of operation against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements across the country during the period.

In the North East, he said the troops of Operation HADIN KAI recorded major successes between Oct. 8 and 16 through coordinated land and air offensives in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States.

‘During the encounters, several terrorists were neutralised, 16 collaborators and informants arrested, and seven kidnapped victims rescued.

‘Troops also recovered assorted arms and ammunition, vehicles, fuel, and ?5.14 million cash, while terrorists’ hideouts were destroyed,’ he said.

In the North West, Kangye said the troops of Operation HADARIN DAJI killed several bandits, apprehended 14 suspects, and rescued six kidnapped victims.

He added that troops also apprehended a suspected gunrunner and two members of a drug cartel in Kaduna and Zamfara States, recovering 1,307 rounds of ammunition, vehicles, motorcycles, cannabis, and ?227,000 cash.

In the North Central zone, Kangye said the troops of Operations Enduring Peace and Whirl Stroke foiled terror attacks and intensified patrols in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States.

‘Troops arrested 11 suspects and recovered weapons and motorcycles, while four others earlier apprehended were convicted and sentenced to one-year imprisonment each for conspiracy and theft,’ he said.

Kangye added that troops of Operation Whirl Stroke neutralised several armed criminals, arrested 12 suspects, and rescued 17 kidnapped victims during offensive patrols in Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa and Kogi States.

‘In the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA arrested a notorious IPOB/ESN commander identified as Gentle and eight of his associates in Imo and Ebonyi States.

‘Troops also apprehended a female logistics supplier in Abia and three minors linked to a wanted IPOB leader, Maduabuchi Uwankwo, alias Emergency.

‘Recovered items include arms, ammunition and vehicles, while investigations are ongoing,’ he said.

Kangye commended the troops for their professionalism and courage, assuring that the Armed Forces remain committed to eliminating terrorism, banditry and other security threats across the country.

Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced the reintroduction of Edo languages into the school curriculum across the State, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to preserving the State’s rich cultural heritage and promoting indigenous knowledge.

The Governor made the disclosure during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Esan Okpa Initiative to Government House in Benin City.

Led by its President, Rt. Hon. Mathew Egbadon, the delegation comprising technocrats, business leaders, and community stakeholders, commended Governor Okpebholo for the remarkable progress recorded in less than one year of his administration.

Governor Okpebholo who expressed gratitude to the Esan people for their support, described them as ‘critical pillar’ to guarantee his success in office.

Governor Okpebholo also revealed that his administration had directed the Ministry of Education to intensify school rehabilitation efforts.

‘I have told my Commissioner for Education, we have to provide seats and desks for schools. We will continue massive renovation and fencing, provide boreholes and toilets, and we will start installing solar lights in schools.

‘We are already working on a school access programme where our children can have hands-on experience in computer studies-so they can see and touch technology in real time.

‘On language, we must start from home, because charity begins at home. We will reintroduce vernacular into our school system. Let every tribe begin to learn and speak their language so that no language goes into extinction.’

Appreciating the visit, Governor Okpebholo noted: ‘When you see your people behind you, there is nothing to fear. The strength of a man lies in the backing of his people. With your continued support, I will succeed, by the grace of God.’

Okpebholo reiterated his determination to revive Ambrose Alli University (AAU), describing its restoration as ‘a victory for the people,’ with substantial progress already underway to return the institution to its former glory.

Highlighting key interventions, the Governor disclosed that his administration had embarked on extensive road rehabilitation and new construction projects across Edo State.

He revealed that 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses had been ordered to enhance public transportation across the three senatorial districts in the State.

In the health sector, 65 primary healthcare centres have been completed or rehabilitated, reinforcing the administration’s drive to deliver accessible, quality healthcare to every community.

On infrastructure, he cited ongoing work on the Ekpoma-Uromi-Ubiaja Road, noting that compensation is already being paid to affected property owners.

He said: ‘By the dry season, construction will be accelerated. When completed, you will be able to get to Auchi in 35 minutes from there.’

The Governor further spoke on security reforms in the State.

He noted: ‘We are working seriously on security. Very soon, you will not hear these incidents happening again. A few days ago, we purchased new equipment, and we are building a new mobile barracks in central which will soon be operational.

‘We are decentralising security operations. We trained over 2,000 personnel last time and we have placed them on the government payroll. We are also considering engaging local hunters to strengthen community security.’

Reiterating his development philosophy, Governor Okpebholo emphasized his focus on enduring, life-changing projects that will outlive his tenure.

He said: ‘My concern is legacy. What we will leave behind for our people. That is the true essence of leadership.’

Speaking earlier, the President of the Esan Okpa Initiative, Rt. Hon Mathew Egbadon, applauded the Governor’s achievements, underscored the urgent need to protect and advance Esan language and culture.

Egbadon noted: ‘Protecting and advancing Esan language, culture, and values is critical. Your Excellency, you now need to reintroduce the teaching of Esan language in schools. Esan language is far disappearing because many people of Esan extraction are not speaking it, and the language is not taught in schools. It should be reintroduced into the school curriculum.

‘This will align with the 2022 National Language Policy of the Federal Government, which mandates the use of indigenous or community languages as the primary medium of instruction in the first six years of primary education. So, it’s a natural policy.’

He reaffirmed that the Esan Okpa Initiative remains a non-partisan socio-cultural and intellectual movement dedicated to unity, progress, and the well-being of the Esan people.

He lauded the Governor’s achievements in education, employment generation, and infrastructure renewal, noting Edo’s inclusion in the Federal Government’s ?142 billion modern bus terminal project, the only state in the South-South region, as proof of the Governor’s visionary leadership.

‘Your Excellency, we have seen your work. New roads are being built, schools are being rehabilitated, and over 4,000 teachers have been regularised. You have returned Edo to the national development map.’

He further appealed for support for independent power generation in Esanland through private investment models similar to Ossiomo and Azura, and called for the establishment of agro-based industries and stronger support for security agencies to promote rural development and community safety.

Popular Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Toyin Abraham, has opened up on why she cannot speak her native Edo dialect despite hailing from Auchi in Edo State.

Speaking during an interview with TikToker Jarvis at the premiere of her new movie Ginger, the award-winning actress explained that her inability to speak Edo is because she was born and raised in Yoruba land and is married to a Yoruba man.

‘I can’t speak Edo. You know I was born and brought up in Yoruba land. And I married a Yoruba man. So I’m practically Yoruba. I can’t even speak Edo – not one bit. But there’s no Yoruba I can’t speak,’ Toyin said with a smile.

Born in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, Toyin Abraham grew up deeply immersed in Yoruba culture in Ibadan, Oyo State, where she began her early education.

She later attended Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, and Ibadan Polytechnic before fully venturing into acting.

The police in Lagos, on Thursday, charged two men before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court, for allegedly stealing gold worth ?6.1 million.

The defendants: Friday Okem, 22, and Abdulmumin Mohammed, 30, are standing trial on a three-count charge of conspiracy, stealing and receiving stolen property. They each, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The prosecutor, SP Josephine Ikhayere, told the court that the defendants committed the offences on Aug. 25, at No. 51 Aladeola St, in the Ikosi Ketu area of Lagos.

She alleged that Okem and others now at large, stole gold rings, chains and pendants valued at ?6.1 million. The jewelry is said to be owned by a complainant, one Mr. Yusuf Musbau.

Meanwhile, the prosecution alleged that the second defendant (Mohammed) dishonestly received part of the stolen items from Okem (first defendant) knowing that they were stolen.

The offences contravene the provisions of sections 287(7), 328 and 411 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

The Magistrate, Mr. L. A. Owolabi, granted the defendants bail in the sum of ?600,000 each, with two sureties each in like sum. He adjourned the case until Nov. 25, for hearing.

Mai Mala Buni, Yobe State governor, has approved the payment of outstanding gratuities for retired local government workers.

This approval was announced in a statement signed by Ibrahim Adamu Jajere, the Yobe State Commissioner for Local and Chieftaincy Affairs.

The governor also ordered that the payments be merged with the monthly financial schedule, to ensure that the fees are paid regularly. He approved a sum of ?2.1 billion to offset the outstanding payment.

‘On behalf of the state government. I described the move as a demonstration of the Governor’s compassionate and people-centered leadership, aimed at providing financial relief and dignity to senior citizens. The Ministry has commenced arrangements for the transparent and immediate disbursement of the approved funds to all eligible retirees’, the Commissioner said.

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passing of the renowned unionist and rights activist, Comrade Abiodun Aremu, describing him as a fearless, courageous and passionate patriot.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, sympathised with the labour movement and the civil society organisations on the passing of the late Comrade Aremu.

Sanwo-Olu, who also condoled with the family, friends and associates of the departed labour activist, described Aremu’s death as shocking and a great loss to the country.

He said: ‘It is with a deep sense of sorrow that I commiserate with the family, friends and associates of the late Comrade Abiodun Aremu. He was undoubtedly a great Nigerian, a passionate rights activist, a respected unionist and a champion of a true Nigeria.

‘Comrade Abiodun Aremu was a fearless, courageous and bold activist. As an uncompromised unionist, he lived a fulfilled life by making a positive impact in the lives of the ordinary people during his lifetime. He spent his life in the service of humanity and particularly for the emancipation of the Nigerian people.

‘He was a committed fighter, an advocate of good governance and better welfare for the citizens. During his lifetime, he devoted his time, energy, and resources to the empowerment of workers and fought tirelessly in defence of the masses and the interests of the downtrodden.

‘On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, I express my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, associates and members of the civil society movement and labour unions in Nigeria. I pray that God will give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and grant Comrade Abiodun Aremu eternal rest.’

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi has been honoured with the Golden Legends Honour Medal at the Allstar Charity Awards.

Taking to her Instagram page, the box-office star shared photos of herself proudly displaying the medal, expressing gratitude for the recognition.

She described the award as one given to individuals who continue to uplift and impact lives positively.

In celebration of the honour, Toyin announced her donation of five bags of rice towards the charity’s cause, noting that it was her way of keeping the spirit of giving alive.

‘Honoured to receive the Golden Legends Honour Medal at this year’s @allstarscharity – awarded annually to individuals who continue to uplift and impact the lives of others positively.

To keep the spirit alive, I’m donating 5 bags of rice towards the cause. Together, we say #GameOnHungerOff,’ she wrote.

The actress, fondly called Oversabi Aunty, added that she remains grateful for the recognition and opportunity to inspire others through her work.

Just days earlier, Toyin shared a message on social media, saying she needed God’s strength and direction now more than ever. She also declared herself a ‘prophet,’ explaining that her movies serve as a form of therapy and inspiration for many.

Earlier this year, Toyin’s movie Alakada Bad and Boujee ranked as the fifth highest-grossing Nollywood release of all time..

In March, she also received the Trailblazer Award at the Silverbird Man of the Year event

Two suspected kidnappers were killed while two others were apprehended in a gun-battle that led to the rescue of a family of an officer of the Nigeria Customs Service and others at Bukan-Ari area of Kurikyo Road in Lafia, Nasarawa State

The General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CGsSIS) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were involved in the gun-battle, NSCDC Spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, revealed on Thursday

Quoting the head of the operation, Appollos Dandaura, Afolabi said that the successful rescue followed five hours intelligence-based coordinated operation using advanced technological and intelligence gathering techniques.

‘The CGsSIS engaged the kidnappers and subdued them due to superior and intense firing power, which resulted in the arrest of two kidnappers.

‘ Two others were neutralised while one escaped with severe injuries from gunshots, but made away with an Ak-47 rifle,’ he said.

Dandaura said that the following items were recovered as exhibits at the scene of the crime: one AK-47 assault rifle, one magazine, 40 rounds of 7.62 mm special ammunition.

Others are, ‘five different types of mobile phones, two knives. a cash of N7,500 and some substances suspected to be charms’.

The CG’s SIS commandant assured that efforts are ongoing to ensure the fleeing suspect and other syndicate members are arrested and brought to justice.

Dandaura said further that the suspects arrested were currently cooperating in the ongoing investigation and have confessed to their different levels of involvement in the series of kidnappings carried out in Nasarawa.

He reiterated the NSCDC’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of people and their properties across the nation.

The officer urged Nigerians to promptly report strange movements within their vicinities to the nearest security agencies.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, accusing him of turning every issue into politics and propaganda.

Speaking on Thursday during the commissioning of newly completed roads Esther Bali Street and Kez Udezue Street in Mabushi District, Abuja, Wike said leadership should be about results, not showmanship or public relations.

His remarks came after Obi’s recent visit to the LEA Primary School in Kapwa, Abuja, where the former governor expressed disappointment over the school’s poor condition and the absence of toilets.

Wike faulted Obi for making public comments instead of privately notifying him or relevant authorities about the issue, emphasizing that genuine leaders solve problems, not dramatize them.

‘It’s not everything you must turn into politics,’ Wike said. ‘Peter Obi, you governed Anambra State for eight years. If you had completed all the necessary projects then, nobody would still be talking about development in Anambra today.’

Wike accused Obi of neglecting the people of Anambra while keeping public funds in the bank to generate interest.

According to him, ‘Instead of using Anambra’s money to improve schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, you kept it in Fidelity Bank, where you had a significant stake. You made profit while the people suffered. That’s not leadership.’

The FCT Minister went on to compare his two years in office with Obi’s eight years as governor. ‘We’ve spent just two years in the FCT, and Nigerians can see the progress we’ve made. Compare that with your eight years in Anambra. Can you honestly say you love Nigeria or Ndi-Anambra? Certainly not.’

He advised Obi to focus more on contributing meaningful ideas rather than seeking public sympathy through symbolic gestures like visiting internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.

‘If I were you, I would stay quiet,’ Wike said. ‘You can’t become President just because you attend IDP camps or birthday events. Doing your birthday in an IDP camp doesn’t mean you love Nigeria.

When you were governor, did you ever celebrate your birthday there? It’s now, after leaving office, that you suddenly want to appear compassionate? Who are you deceiving?’

Wike concluded by saying that leadership should not be about publicity stunts but about tangible results that improve lives.

He urged politicians, especially those aspiring to lead the country, to focus on solving problems rather than seeking attention.

‘Enough of this drama,’ he said. ‘True leaders are remembered for what they build, not for where they take pictures.’