Category: Nigerian Tribune

Nigerian music legend, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has debunked viral reports claiming he was arrested in London over an alleged altercation with his wife, Natasha Osawaru.

The speculation was fueled by a controversial blogger who alleged that the singer missed his UK tour performance on Thursday because he had been detained on domestic violence charges.

Reacting in a video message, 2Baba clarified that his absence was due to a medical emergency, not an arrest.

He expressed gratitude to fans who showed up for the concert and assured them that plans were underway to make it up to them.

‘First of all, I want to say everyone that came out, I appreciate you. We had a medical emergency, it was tough. To the organizers and everyone that came out, we go regroup and make something beautiful happen. And please, if una no sabi something, make una no talk abeg. This allegedly, I don tire,’ he stated.

The singer, who traditionally married Natasha, an Edo State lawmaker, in July 2025 after ending his marriage with actress Annie Macaulay, has urged fans to disregard the false reports.

The Northern Youth Council for Asiwaju (NYCA) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of Barrister Aminu Junaidu as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

The appointment, effective from September 18, 2025, has been described as a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s capital market and boost investor confidence.

Junaidu, a former Attorney-General of Zamfara State, is set to serve a five-year term in this critical role.

The NYCA highlighted that Junaidu’s selection reflects the President’s commitment to appointing highly qualified individuals to sensitive government positions.

As a seasoned technocrat with extensive legal and administrative experience, Junaidu is expected to bring professionalism and integrity to the tribunal.

The organisation believes this appointment will significantly advance the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at fostering economic growth and stability.

The Investment and Securities Tribunal plays a pivotal role in resolving disputes within Nigeria’s capital market, ensuring that investors’ grievances are addressed promptly and fairly.

Junaidu’s leadership is anticipated to enhance the tribunal’s efficiency, further solidifying Nigeria’s position as a safe and attractive destination for investments.

Comrade Usman Usman, President of the NYCA, stated, ‘We wholeheartedly applaud President Tinubu for this well-thought-out appointment.

‘The selection of Barrister Aminu Junaidu is another evidence of the detailed research and diligence of the President’s team in identifying one of the finest minds from Northern Nigeria to lead a sensitive agency like the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

‘This decision reflects the administration’s dedication to competence and excellence.’

He added, ‘Junaidu is a seasoned technocrat whose expertise will undoubtedly add immense value to the Renewed Hope Agenda. His appointment is a clear signal that the President prioritizes merit in building a prosperous Nigeria.

‘We assure Mr. President of our unwavering support as he continues to make decisions that propel our nation forward.’

The NYCA emphasised that Junaidu’s extensive experience in law and governance makes him uniquely suited for the role.

As a former Attorney-General, the group said he demonstrated a commitment to justice and fairness, qualities that are essential for leading the tribunal.

His appointment is seen as a boost to the confidence of both local and international investors in Nigeria’s capital market.

Junaidu’s five-year tenure is expected to usher in reforms that will streamline dispute resolution processes within the tribunal.

The NYCA believes this appointment aligns with the broader goal of fostering economic resilience.

With Junaidu at the helm, the NYCA is confident that the agency will play a pivotal role in attracting more investments, thereby contributing to job creation and economic growth.

The organisation urged all stakeholders to support Junaidu in his new role.

Comrade Usman Usman further remarked, ‘Barrister Junaidu’s appointment is a masterstroke by President Tinubu.

‘His impeccable credentials and deep understanding of legal and financial systems make him the right choice to lead the Investment and Securities Tribunal.

‘We are confident that his leadership will strengthen investor confidence and enhance Nigeria’s standing in the global financial community.’

He continued, ‘The Northern Youth Council for Asiwaju remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu’s transformative agenda.

‘We call on all Nigerians to rally behind this administration and its appointees, like Junaidu, who are poised to deliver on the promise of a renewed Nigeria.

‘Our commitment to the President’s vision for 2023 and beyond is unshakable.’

The NYCA also noted that Junaidu’s appointment is a source of pride for Northern Nigeria, as it showcases the region’s pool of talented and capable professionals.

The organisation believes his leadership will inspire young Nigerians to strive for excellence in their respective fields.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, alongside Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, has commissioned the newly upgraded Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Kumo.

In Kumo, the First Lady received a rousing welcome as residents, youths, trade groups and students trooped out in their numbers, lining the streets to celebrate the historic commissioning.

In her remarks, Oluremi Tinubu lauded the Gombe State Government for its massive investment in healthcare, which laid the foundation for the hospital’s upgrade from a general hospital into a world-class Federal Medical Centre.

‘This facility is a clear demonstration of what visionary leadership can achieve. It will significantly improve access to quality healthcare services and stands as a testament to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,’ the First Lady noted.

She expressed optimism that Gombe would sustain its trajectory of progress and reaffirmed her commitment to amplifying the voices of the people at the national level.

‘I believe Governor Inuwa Yahaya, who has his people at heart, will continue to support our initiatives for the betterment of Nigerians, especially those at the grassroots,’ she said.

The First Lady further stressed the importance of traditional institutions in national development, calling on religious, traditional, and community leaders to partner with government in sustaining peace and driving grassroots growth.

Earlier, Senator Oluremi Tinubu paid homage to the Emir of Akko, Alhaji Umar Muhammad Atiku, at his palace in Kumo.

In recognition of her contributions to humanity and the developmental strides brought by the Tinubu administration to Akko, Gombe and Nigeria, the Emir conferred on her the revered traditional title of ‘Sarauniyar Yakin Akko.’

The Emir described the commissioning of the FMC as a historic milestone that opens a new chapter in healthcare delivery for the people of Gombe State.

Also speaking at the event, Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, Member representing Akko Federal Constituency, commended President Tinubu for the numerous interventions in Gombe.

He reiterated the position of Gombe as a stronghold of the APC and pledged continued support for the President’s administration, assuring the people’s readiness to back his re-election bid in 2027 to consolidate ongoing gains.

A 200 level student of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo and son of a member of the State House of Assembly representing Iseyin/Itesiwaju State Constituency, Hon. Bamidele Adeola is dead.

The deceased died after a brief illness on Friday.

The Oyo lawmaker son’s untimely passing has thrown the family, friends, and the university community into deep mourning.

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Et. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has paid a condolence visit to the bereaved family.

Ogundoyin during the visit described the incident as heartbreaking and deeply painful, especially for a young life with such promise and potential.

‘This is a painful loss not just for Hon.Bamidele Adeola and his family, but for all of us who are his colleagues, friends, and fellow parents. Words cannot capture the sorrow we feel at this moment,’ the Speaker said during the visit.

He extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the entire Oyo State House of Assembly and assured the bereaved family of the Assembly’s prayers and support during this difficult time.

Hon. Bamidele Adeola, surrounded by sympathisers, expressed appreciation for the Speaker’s visit and the outpouring of love from colleagues and the public.

Ahead of 2027 general election, the Director, Amnesty International, Kogi, Comrade Sunday Jatto has suggested that internal democracy should begin to be applied in nominating or selecting those who hold Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) or Judiciary, and the process should involve human rights organisations and the Nigeria Bar Association.

He made this call on Friday during a press conference to assess the performance of democracy in Nigeria and the way forward, 2015-2025.

He disclosed that failures in the conduct of proper elections in the political sector are threats and temptations to the judicial cycle, especially in the areas of corruption and insecurity of jobs.

‘Since litigation can be negatively influenced by the executive arm of government, with control over appointments and funds. We suggest or advocate that internal democracy should begin to be applied in nominating or selecting those who hold INEC or Judiciary in Nigeria, and the process should involve human rights organisations and the Nigerian Bar Association.

‘Democracy in Nigeria has room for improvement, and the electoral umpire needs more expertise in ICT Information in the area of automation systems for the proper conduct of elections to actualize growth, peace, and development in Nigeria.

We charge INEC to intensify efforts and exploits in the areas of modern automation means in the conduct of elections in Nigeria, where the power of technology will eradicate vote buying, thuggery, multiple voting, and excess spending in elections, and INEC’s ability to conduct elections that will take the nation to its citadel of democracy.

‘The political parties can be digitalised where every political party’s emblem has a specific code to click upon by voters from their phones and send online for automatic processing, and immediately the voters are made to see their votes count, and every citizen can know who is leading when the election is in progress, and who won after the election will be known immediately.

Comrade Jatto urged the executive arm of government to see democracy as government of the people by the people and for the people, and not to see democracy as personal belongings; the modules of democratic government do not run on dictatorship.

‘We advocate that women should be allowed to hold many leadership positions in offices. Gender equality in Nigeria has not fully taken its full course in Nigerian democracy. Any nation which do not consider women in the scheme of things, either politically or economically, hardly progresses.’

A former acting governor of Ekiti State, Tunji Odeyemi has emerged as the new state chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

Odeyemi was elected during the state Congress of the party held in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital which was attended by delegates and party stakeholders across the 16 Local Government Areas of the state. It was witnessed by security agencies

He scored 936 votes to defeat his challenger and a former state legal officer of the party, Sunday Olowolafe who garnered 290 votes.

Delivering his acceptance Odeyemi commended the party leaders and delegates for the overwhelming support in leading the State Working Committee in the state, noting that the confidence reposed in him would not be betrayed.

He saluted the courage and commitment of all the contestants towards the growth and progress of the PDP, soliciting the support of all stakeholders in a bid to reposition the party for success during the 2026 governorship election. According to him, ‘ My emergence today is not about Tunji Odeyemi. It is about the PDP family in Ekiti reclaiming its rightful place as the true voice of the people, the hope of the common man, and the credible alternative for good governance. We must therefore put behind us the divisions of the past and focus on unity, discipline, and loyalty to the ideals of our party.

‘ Our state, Ekiti, is in dire need of rescue from maladministration, poverty, and neglect. The PDP must rise to this challenge and provide the leadership that our people are yearning for. We will strengthen our grassroots structures, empower our youths and women, and ensure internal democracy where every member has a sense of belonging.

‘ As your Chairman, I pledge fairness, inclusiveness, and transparency in all our dealings. I will run an open-door policy where all voices are heard, respected, and valued. Together with the State Working Committee, we will reposition PDP in Ekiti to win elections and deliver dividends of democracy to our people.

‘ Finally, I call on every member of our great party to close ranks. Let us speak with one voice, march with one spirit, and labour with one purpose,to return PDP to Government House, Ado-Ekiti, and restore prosperity, dignity, and hope to our people.’

Following an interim injunction filed against the 2025/2026 admission process of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), the Global President of the Great Ife Alumni Association, Mr Leye Bunmi Falode, has called on all stakeholders to remain calm as the matter is being handled.

The injunction was filed at the Federal High Court, Enugu Division, on September 30, 2025, by a group of candidates.

In a statement released by the Global Publicity Secretary of the association, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, Falode disclosed that he is in communication with the Vice Chancellor of OAU and has received assurances that the university is actively addressing the legal issue.

‘I have spoken with the Vice Chancellor, and I have been assured that there is no cause for alarm. Necessary actions are being taken to resolve the situation,’ Falode said.

He explained that the statement was prompted by widespread concerns from parents and applicants across the country who are anxious about the implications of the court case.

The legal action was initiated by five applicants, Chibuzor Success, Oyeleye Zainab Ayomide, Adedeji John Samuel, Monsura Aliat Aduragbemi and Bassey Daniel Nsikak.

The suit, filed as FHC/EN/CN/274/2025, names OAU, the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) as respondents.

The plaintiffs, acting on behalf of other candidates, are seeking a court order restraining the respondents from approving, uploading or finalising any admission list for the 2025/2026 academic session pending the hearing and determination of their motion on notice.

The Jigawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (JSPHCDA) said that it has intensifying Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilisation (ACSM) for the next round Mesealse-Rubella (MR) vaccination exercise.

The agency’s spokesperson, Mr Ya’u Muhammad, said in a statement in Dutse, on Wednesday that the effort was part of preparations for the 10-day state-wide exercise scheduled for October 6.

He said the 27 local government areas team had embarked on similar advocacy to sensitise influential persons, council chairmen, traditional leaders, community members and security agencies, to the exercise.

Muhammad said the ACSM activities will enhance awareness creation, dispel misconceptions, broaden acceptability and mobilise communities to achieve successful immunisation coverage.

‘The meeting, chaired by the state’s Health Promotion Officer, Mr Sani Yusuf-Kachi, was attended by top officials of the agency and development partners,’ he said.

Muhammad further said that the agency and partners will continue to play vital role in promoting health and safeguarding the wellbeing of children across the state.

On Tuesday, September 30, the energy was off the charts at Fired and Iced, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, as Spotify officially launched its Greasy Tunes Café. This three-week experiential pop-up celebrates the connection between Nigerian culture, food, and music. The venue, packed with a mix of media, influencers, podcasters, music artists, and fans, set the perfect scene for the brand’s immersive new experience.

This campaign is backed by new Spotify data showing that for Nigerian Gen Z, music and food are core pillars of daily life, with Afrobeats dominating their listening habits from morning to night. Greasy Tunes Café brings this insight to life: customers can order local Nigerian meals and instantly receive a personalised Spotify playlist or podcast, curated in real-time based on their food choices.

The evening featured two exclusive fireside chats that provided intimate insight into the campaign’s vision. Spotify executives Bea Theron, Experiential Marketing Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, and Victor Okpala, Artiste and Label Partnership Manager for West Africa, introduced the strategy, with Theron stressing that the café is an immersive experience built on the pillars of culture, music, and food. She emphasised that Spotify’s role is clear: supporting creatives and prioritising the hyper-local storytelling essential to celebrating the people of Lagos.

‘Tonight proves the power of the youth: they build the culture here in Nigeria. The Greasy Tunes Café is our future-facing model, blending the force of Afrobeats with the authenticity of local cuisine. This isn’t just a party; it’s a strategic move to establish the new cultural future of Lagos,’ said Theron.

Okpala expanded on the café’s programming, noting that it will serve as both a launchpad for local talent and a centre for education. He highlighted plans to spotlight diverse emerging artists, citing names like Fola and Adekunle Gold. Okpala also announced specific educational moments, including an October 11th screening of a documentary on Afro-Nigerian Afro-funk and the Eyo masquerade, underscoring its commitment to Nigeria’s rich culture and musical heritage.

Following the executives’ discussion, the spotlight shifted to two of the platform’s biggest recent names: Spotify RADAR and South African artist Thakzin, and Afrobeats artist Fola, who rank among the platform’s most-streamed emerging artistes of the 2020s.

Anchored by themes of authenticity and dedication, the artistes’ fireside chat offered raw insight into their creative journey. Fola shared that success was anything far from overnight, stressing that background doesn’t define the future. ‘You have to put in the work; that is my truth,’ he said. ‘Nothing about my journey is overnight. The love I’m receiving fuels me, and my goal is clear: I’m going to take Afrobeats to the next level.’

Thakzin, meanwhile, spoke about the importance of emotion in his sound. ‘For me, music is about translating real-time feelings into rhythm,’ he explained. ‘If you’re going to push new sounds, you have to go harder, always, because that’s how you break through and move people.’

After the fireside chats concluded, the atmosphere shifted dramatically as DJ Dami Osinubi kicked off the party with electrifying sets. Guests moved to the music, captured moments, and enjoyed a true taste of Nigeria through the local food and drinks. The launch served as the perfect kick-off for the campaign, setting a high bar for the celebration of music, culture, and community ahead.

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has assured Seplat Energy Joint Venture of the state government’s support and a conducive environment for its operations.

Speaking at the 2025 second edition of the Seplat Energy JV PEARLs Quiz competition for secondary schools in Imo State, held in Owerri, the governor, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. BTO Ikegwuoha, commended Seplat Energy and its partners for bringing the competition to Imo.

He said: ‘Seplat, let us do this again next year. We assure you of the backing of the state government, a conducive environment to operate and impact on the host community meaningfully as we are witnessing today.’

Addressing the students, Uzodimma advised them to see participation as an opportunity to learn rather than focusing only on winning.

Director of External Affairs and Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, represented by Grace Amadi, General Manager, Partner Relations, thanked the joint venture partners, the state government, and the schools for making the quiz a success.

She said: ‘This is a laudable initiative by the NNPC/Seplat JV, dating back to over 12 years. We are happy that this has got to Imo State.’

She explained that the programme aims to prepare students to compete globally, encouraging them to apply their knowledge in practical and innovative ways.

Chief Upstream Investment Officer, NUIMS, Engr. Seyi Omotawa, represented by Minanengiyeofori Loveday, described the quiz as a reflection of NUIMS’ commitment to education and intellectual growth.

He said: ‘We reflect on the journey since our inaugural edition, I am thrilled to see how this event has evolved into a significant platform for young minds to showcase their knowledge and skills.’

He urged the students to focus on learning and collaboration rather than just material rewards.

Similarly, Idi-Ada Itotoi, Managing Director of Eastern Asset, Seplat Energy, represented by Emmanuel Otokhine, congratulated the finalists, saying they had all gained confidence that could help them excel in future challenges.

At the grand finale, Avana Model Secondary School, Owerri, won the first prize of N5 million for school development. Each of the three student representatives received N100,000 in scholarships, and their teacher was awarded a laptop.

Delight International School, Owerri, came second, receiving N3 million for school development, with N75,000 scholarships for each student and a laptop for the teacher.

St John Leonardi Model Secondary School, Owerri, placed third, winning N1 million, with each student receiving N50,000 in scholarships and their teacher also taking home a laptop.

In addition to the PEARLs Quiz, Seplat Energy held a STEAM competition where six schools were rewarded with N250,000 each for innovative projects. The schools included Urban Secondary School, Federal Government Girls College, Mountain Press Secondary School, Benny Poly Max College, Alpha Junior Seminary, and Faith Academy.

Their projects ranged from electronic-driven vehicles and telescopes to artificial intelligence for career guidance, modern architectural designs, oil drilling machines, and digital business platforms.