Category: Nigerian Tribune

The Kano State Shura Council has suspended Sheikh Lawan Triumph from conducting preaching sessions in the state, pending the outcome of an investigation.

It will be recalled that the Kano State Government had, on 26 September 2025, directed that all petitions and counter-petitions concerning controversial remarks made by Sheikh Lawan Triumph be referred to the Kano State Shura Council for detailed review and advice.

According to the petitions, the remarks are considered blasphemous and offensive to the Prophet Muhammad, a figure held in the highest esteem by Muslims worldwide.

The Secretary of the Council, Alhaji Shehu Sagagi, who is also the State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, made this known on Wednesday while speaking with journalists on the outcome of the Council’s second meeting.

According to him, ‘The Council had also resolved to invite Sheikh Triumph in order to defend himself on several petitions and counter-petitions made against him concerning the controversial remarks he made during some preaching sessions.’

He noted that ‘Following the resolution reached by the Council to invite Sheikh Lawan Triumph to defend himself, the Council has set up a committee to invite him.’

Sagagi then emphasised that ‘the Council had also received reports on the video clips of Sheikh Triumph’s preaching sessions and analysed them, adding that he (Sheikh Triumph) will soon be invited to defend himself.’

‘The committee will soon write and invite him to come and defend himself. The committee will inform him where and when to present himself,’ Sagagi said.

He, therefore, assured residents of the state that the Council would ensure justice and fairness to all parties, as no individual or group would influence its decision.

He also assured the people of the state that the outcome of the meetings with Sheikh Triumph would be made public.

He, however, advised politicians and Islamic scholars to avoid acts or comments that could tarnish their image.

As Nigeria commemorates 65 years of independence, Keem Abdul’s Scorched Earth: Anatomy of the Buhari Years (2015-2023) offers a timely reflection on the life and presidency of Muhammadu Buhari, the former Head of State and President who left an enduring mark on the nation’s political history. The book examines Buhari’s journey from military ruler to elected leader, and the challenges he faced in office. It traces how his reputation for integrity shaped his political rise, and how his presidency navigated issues of governance, security, the economy, and national unity.

Abdul writes: ‘The story of Buhari is the story of a man who became the symbol of integrity in Nigeria, but whose government eventually became a byword for competence tested by enormous national challenges.’ (p. 9)

He later adds: ‘The Buhari years will be remembered not only for the change they promised, but for the lessons they leave behind for a country still seeking its democratic balance.’ (p. 313)

Through chapters such as ‘Baba Go-Slow,’ ‘A Giant with Feet of Clay,’ and ‘The Winter of Our Discontent,’ Abdul offers a thoughtful account of Buhari’s leadership. The book reflects on both his enduring reputation for honesty and the difficulties of governing a complex nation, presenting his presidency as part of the larger story of Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Keem Abdul, the author, is a Nigerian writer who focuses on politics, governance, and society. His work aims to encourage readers to reflect, not only on leaders themselves, but on the institutions and citizens that shape Nigeria’s path.

Scorched Earth is available on Mainstack and Selar.

The Convener, ISO/TC309/WG8 and the Chairman, SON NTC Governance of Organization, Prof. Oserheimen A. Osunbor on Tuesday stated that the world economy loses over $4.7 trillion to fraud yearly.

Speaking in Abuja at the launch of ISO 370032:2025, Osunbor said the formation for the new standard started on the sidelines of ISO TC 309 plenary in Sydney, Australia in November 2018 .

‘There was need to develop a standard to address fraud in organizations that would align with the strategic business plan of TC 309 following our presentation to plenary, an ad hoc group was by resolution constituted to ascertain the desirability of an ISO deliverable on fraud controls.

‘A global survey was designed and administered by the ad hoc group, and we received responses from a wide range of organizations, small, medium and large, covering commercial, government and non governmental organizations from diverse sectors.

‘The responses established key facts, namely; One, there was awareness of fraud risks in organizations. Two, there were existing fraud controls within the organizations, including internal fraud whistleblowing code of conduct, anti fraud policies as well as fraud training and management reviews to mitigate the impact of fraud.

‘Another element was that, despite the existence of these internal mechanisms and statutory regulations, there was a clear need for an ISO standard dealing with fraud control’.

He explained that’research findings from the literature published by reputable sources show that fraud costs the global economy about $4 trillion per year. In fact, the Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Thoracic Examiners put it at $4.7 trillion, so it’ is increasing.’

He noted that total loss amount to 7% of the annual turnovers of organizations based on the findings. ‘The leadership of TC 309 in 2022 approved the proposal and established Working Group to develop a fraud control management system standard after going through all the different stages of development, from working draft to committee, draft international standard to final draft international standard.

‘The document was published as an international standard on 29th May of this year. It has been adopted by SON as a National Industrial Standard in accordance with the Standards Organization of Nigeria act.

‘We are gathered here today to witness the formal presentation and launch of the standard ISO 37,003 is a response to global concern about the damaging effects of fraud.

Osunbor said the standard provides guidance for organizations for the development, implementation and maintenance of an effective fraud control management system, including fraud prevention, early detection of fraud and effective response to fraud events that have occurred or may occur in future.

‘By adopting and implementing ISO 37,003. along with the other TC 309 family of standards, ISO member countries and their organizations will boost their global competitiveness by sending a clear signal that they uphold the highest standard of governance and that it is safe to do business’ he reaffirmed.

Also speaking at the event, Sorrel Evans of the Justice and Home Affairs Affairs with the British High Commission in Abuja reiterated that ‘on behalf of the United Kingdom, I am honoured to stand here today alongside our Nigerian partners, united in a shared mission: to protect our economies and our citizens from the growing threat of fraud.

‘Fraud is not just a financial issue, it affects livelihoods, undermines trust, and in the most heartbreaking cases, it costs lives.

‘The scale of the problem is staggering:, there are an estimated 76 million victims of fraud each year’ she stated.

Evans noted that globally, scammers siphoned off an estimated $47 trillion in just 12 months. ‘A figure that exceeds the GDP of many nations.

‘In the UK alone, 10 million people have been affected, costing our 11 economy and individuals £15 billion over the past three years.

‘Financial institutions in Nigeria lost N52.26 billion to fraud in 2024 according to the latest report by the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS).

‘But even more worryingly – these trends are growing across the nation, the continent, and the world. This represents a significant increase of 295% compared to the N17.67 billion recorded in 2023′ she explained.

Sorrel Evans said in parts of Africa according to INTERPOL, scam notifications rose by 3,000% last year’, commending SON for adopting standard for fraud control.

‘I want to thank the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the British Standards Institution (BSI), and all stakeholders who contributed to this effort. ISO, one of the world’s longest-standing international organisations, continues to demonstrate its central role in shaping a safer, more secure global economy.

‘Over the next few days, you will hear from experts and peers about the many ways fraud impacts business viability and profitability. But I encourage you to also look around this room-for opportunities to connect, collaborate, and lead the next wave of change in this industry.

‘Nigeria’s publication of these standards is more than a technical achievement. It is a statement of leadership, engagement, and ambition to be a global pioneer in fraud prevention’ she stated.

Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, declaring that nowhere in Kwara will be safe for criminal elements, including kidnappers.

The governor made the statement after a security council meeting on Tuesday night, according to a release by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, on Wednesday.

Following the recent attack at Oke Ode, the governor travelled to Abuja to brief President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during which he reiterated his request for additional federal deployment to raid the hideouts.

‘The Army Headquarters has since relocated the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2nd Division to Ilorin as part of the renewed efforts to strengthen security operations in the state,’ he said.

‘On Monday night, combined forces of the Army, DSS and Police launched an offensive around Baba Sango, along the Kwara-Kogi border, neutralising about 15 armed bandits. The same operation continued on Tuesday. And yesterday night, I presided over the State Security Council meeting at Ahmadu Bello House, Ilorin, to integrate state and federal assets into a single strategy for both Kwara North and South.’

Governor Abdulrazaq assured Kwara residents that his administration would not relent in supporting security agencies to keep every community safe.

‘I have assurances of the security forces to smoke out and eliminate the criminals from their hideouts. We will fight insecurity with every resource at our disposal. Kwara will not be a hiding place for criminals. To any criminal who seeks to destabilise the peace in Kwara, you may run, but you cannot escape justice. Kwara belongs to its people, and their peace will be defended,’ the governor added.

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Of course, no platform is perfect. While 1win.ng excels in areas like promotions and user experience, it currently supports fewer withdrawal methods compared to some local competitors. For users seeking maximum flexibility in cashing out their winnings, this may be a point of consideration, although it is far from a dealbreaker.

Ultimately, 1win.ng positions itself as a forward-thinking platform, blending modern features with strategic simplicity. As Nigerian users grow more discerning, platforms like 1win.ng that offer both value and ease of use are likely to shape the next phase of the country’s online betting evolution.

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That said, it’s also important to read the fine print and understand how rollover requirements and bonus conditions fit into your own betting style. While 1win.ng does a good job of making these terms accessible, informed decisions are always the best kind – and that’s where the platform truly empowers its users.

Looking closer: where 1win.ng falls short in a competitive betting market

Former Ekiti State Governor, Chief Ayodele Fayose has showered encomiums on his longtime associate and political ally, Lere Olayinka, describing him as a ‘man of wisdom, loyalty and relevance’ in a heartfelt birthday tribute.

In a voice note made public in a WhatsApp group on Wednesday, Fayose praised Olayinka’s journey from modest beginnings in Okemesi to becoming a respected public figure and household name in Nigerian politics and media.

‘To a great man; young, diligent, submissive and determined whom God has raised from Okemesi. A man of stature and relevance. A man of wisdom who knows his onions,’ Fayose said.

The former governor, known for his outspoken political style, described Olayinka as a loyal aide and dependable defender who has consistently stood tall in the face of challenges.

‘From humble beginnings, you have expanded your coast, protected your name and risen to become a respected figure, all to the glory of God,’ he added. ‘There is no regret in working with you.’

Fayose also highlighted Olayinka’s role as a shining representative of the Osoko Political Family, acknowledging his service, resilience and faithfulness.

‘Your name has become a household name in Nigeria and there is no going back,’ he said. ‘This is only the beginning. The future is indeed bright.’

He concluded the message with a personal and symbolic endorsement, referring to Olayinka as ‘my boy, my son, my follower, my brother, my defender,’ and extended warm birthday wishes on behalf of the entire Osoko Political Family Worldwide.

‘Happy birthday and many happy returns,’ Fayose said.

Lere Olayinka currently serves as the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and Social Media to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. He has long been a prominent media figure and political strategist, both in Ekiti State and across Nigeria’s political landscape.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike has described the nation’s capital, Abuja, as one of the most peaceful places to reside in Nigeria, citing both security measures and residents’ intolerance for insecurity.

This was contained in his Independence Day anniversary message to residents on Wednesday. Wike used the occasion to reflect on the nation’s journey, celebrate its unity, and catalogue his administration’s achievements in line with President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’.

The Minister, who emphasised the FCT’s symbolic role, describing it as Nigeria’s symbol of unity and nationhood, urged residents to continue to embody the faith that they are greater together and to ensure that the labour of the nation’s founding fathers is not in vain.

Wike noted that the anniversary was a time for sober reflection and stock-taking, necessary to look ahead with renewed hope towards a better future.

The Minister expressed gratitude for residents’ support for the President’s agenda, which centres on economic growth, national security, food security, sustainable development and infrastructure development.

He used the opportunity to lay bare his vision and the progress the FCT Administration had been able to make on several fronts under his watch.

‘The FCT Administration, with your unflinching support, will continue to work to provide first-class infrastructure and public utilities as demonstrated in the completion and commissioning of strategic roads.

‘It is our firm belief that no city can be said to be a city without a good network of roads, hence our focus on road construction.

‘We have reconstructed most of our schools and hospitals and provided much-needed equipment and personnel,’ he said.

He also pointed to support for farmers and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as part of efforts to empower the nation’s youths and women and reinvigorate the economy.

The Minister further addressed the upcoming Area Council elections in February 2026, marking the formal start of the country’s electioneering process.

‘I implore residents to go about campaigning for candidates of their choice in a peaceful and orderly manner and to vote for leaders who evidently have their interest at heart; leaders who have vision and capacity to attract development and prosperity to the people,’ he stated.

He assured residents of the Administration’s partnership with law enforcement to ensure security, law and order in the FCT at all times, while appealing to citizens to be watchful over their neighbourhoods and to report all suspicious movements to security agents.

The Minister praised President Tinubu as a leader who is intentional about prioritising the well-being of the citizens and called for continued collective effort to ensure that the ‘FCT’s potentials and our collective aspirations are realised to the fullest.’

‘Amidst the various challenges we face as a nation, we are very optimistic that the future is brighter,’ he said.

The people of Anni, Egbetua, Ikpena and Udurebho communities in Ososo, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State have called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to intervene in the leadership crisis rocking the clan.

They specifically asked the governor to set up an administrative panel to look into the headship crisis, with specific reference to the leadership of the Olososo over the other communities in the clan.

The leaders of the communities made the call after an emergency meeting where they accused the Olososo, Chief Bamidele Obaitan, of not being the recognised ruler, as they said the five communities, with Okhe being the fifth one, that make up Ososo have their various chiefs.

They accused him of highhandedness and that he was interested in businesses and harassment of the people in the face of insecurity and kidnappings in the area.

After the meeting, one of the elders, Chief Aiyero Omokhojie, stated that Ososo customs and traditions ‘are older than anyone alive, and they are handed to successive generations in their pristine forms.’

He said the issue of chieftaincy conferment remained strictly a matter for the kindred, as no central authority had power to confer such titles.

Chief Peter Iduoremeh, on his part, asserted that each community in Ososo reserved the right to their lands ‘because right from time immemorial, each community is vested with the right to administer its land. This position was further confirmed by a federal high court judgment in May 2004.’

A youth who spoke on the condition of anonymity said insecurity had become pervasive in Ososo as different cult gangs continued to unleash terror on hapless residents.

When contacted, Obaitan dismissed the claim that the clan has no central authority headed by the Olososo.

‘Those people are not telling the truth. Ososo is made up of quarters that have chiefs and that form the Ososo Council of Traditional Rulers. I am the gazette paramount ruler of Ososo.

‘These are trouble makers, as every quarter has their chiefs, but I am the paramount ruler. It has always been like that from. There is no autonomous community; these people have been causing problems, and some of them are having issues with the EFCC,’ Obaitan reiterated.

The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has expressed dissatisfaction with the state of Nigeria’s independence, describing it as another means of bondage.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele stated that the country has not become better and that people who fought for the nation’s independence have not been fully appreciated.

He stated that there are several differences in the country on different grounds, most especially politically, which have not allowed Nigeria to experience what it means to be independent.

‘At 65, we are still not better; those who fought recklessly for our independence have not been fully appreciated. They need to be appreciated by Nigeria getting united, but as it stands, we are not yet fully independent because of our several differences as a nation, especially politically.’

‘Our independence is bondage for us; we are in a serious situation where there is no rest of mind and peace, for how long do we continue to pass through all of these?’

He frowned at people ruling the country the way they want it, which includes not appreciating those who worked tirelessly for where the country is at the moment.

‘It’s unfortunate that the country is being run just the way people want; leaders are not appreciated, and people who have worked tirelessly have not been allowed to gain ground.’

Furthermore, the cleric advised Nigerian leaders to work on five major things for the nation to experience what it means to be independent.

He noted that the nation is sitting on a time bomb due to the issues in the country involving citizens.

‘These are the five things we need to work on as we clock 65: insecurity, increase in production, utilisation of our mineral resources, agriculture, and true federalism. It would be a fantastic independence.

‘A lot of people are praying for separation; they have seen the government as without direction, there is tribal war, and I doubt if we are improving because we are not committed. Nigeria is in a very difficult independence moment, and we are sitting on a time bomb,’ he added.

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to work harder and remain committed to building a greater nation.

She gave the advice in Abuja on Wednesday in her message to citizens on the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

Quoting from Gebran Kalil Gebran’s 1925 essay The New Frontier, she said, ‘Are you a politician, asking what your country can do for you or a zealous one, asking what you can do for your country? If you are the first, then you are a parasite, if the second, then you are an oasis in a desert.’

The First Lady also referenced the Jan. 20, 1961 inaugural address of U.S. President John F. Kennedy, urging Nigerians to embrace virtue and service.

‘My Fellow Citizens, ask not what your country can do for you – Ask what you can do for your country.

‘My fellow citizens of the world, ask not what America will do for you but what together we can do for the freedom of Man.

‘Let us all play our part to build a Nigeria we all want to see. Your sacrifice will never be in vain,’ she said.