Category: PM News

The detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, has abandoned his earlier plan to call witnesses in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism offences, insisting there is no valid case against him.

Earlier, Kanu had filed a motion requesting the court grant him 90 days to prepare his defence, citing the number of witnesses he intended to call. In the motion, personally signed and filed before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja, Kanu listed 23 witnesses, divided into two categories: “ordinary but material witnesses” and “vital and compellable” witnesses, the latter to be summoned under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011.

mong those he had listed as compellable were high-profile figures including:

bubakar Malami, former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF)

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the FCT

en. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), former Minister of Defence

en. Tukur Buratai (rtd), former Chief of Army Staff

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State

Hope Uzodimma, Governor of Imo State

Dave Umahi, Minister of Works

Okezie Ikpeazu, immediate past Governor of Abia

hmed Rufai Abubakar, immediate past DG of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA)

Yusuf Bichi, former DG of the State Security Service

nd several others whose identities he did not reveal

The motion, titled “Notice of Number and Names of Witnesses to be Called by the Defendant and Request for Witness Summons/Subpoena and the Variation of the Time Within Which to Defend the Counts/Charges against the Defendant,” was filed on October 21, 2025 and marked FHC/ABJ/CR/383/2015.

The trial had been adjourned on October 24 to allow Kanu to open his defence. However, when the case resumed on Monday, Kanu told the court he had reviewed the case file and was convinced that the prosecution had no valid charge against him. He argued that, having been subjected to what he called an unlawful trial, there was no need for him to present a defence.

Justice Omotosho asked Kanu to file a written statement outlining his position and serve it to the prosecution. The judge also advised him to consult criminal law experts on the consequences of refusing to call witnesses.

The court was adjourned to November 4, 5, and 6 for the adoption of final written addresses, during which the defence will either proceed with Kanu’s position that the prosecution has failed to prove a case or formally enter a defence..

In the midst of a high-profile marital crisis that has gripped Nigerian social media, Nollywood star Regina Daniels has struck a defiant tone, sharing glamorous new photos with a Pidgin English caption that underscores resilience and unwavering prosperity: “Even when table turn, we go still Dey chop for the table.”

The 25-year-old actress, known for her roles in films like ‘Plantain Boy’ and her production ventures, posted the images on Instagram late Monday, showcasing herself in a form-fitting dress from @regaeofficial, adorned with sparkling diamonds courtesy of @markdajeweller.

Captured by photographer @reen.captures, the ensemble exudes elegance and unapologetic luxury, a stark visual counterpoint to the turbulence in her six-year marriage to 64-year-old Delta State Senator Ned Nwoko.

Daniels’ message arrives just days after a viral video surfaced online, in which she appeared to accuse Nwoko of domestic violence, sparking widespread outrage and speculation about the future of their union.

The footage, which quickly amassed millions of views, depicted an emotional Daniels in what many interpreted as a moment of vulnerability.

Nwoko, a polygamist with multiple wives and a reputation for opulent living, responded indirectly by assuring fans that “everything is under control.”

He further fueled the fire with a philosophical quip in a recent interview: “Having one wife is like standing on one leg,” alluding to his preference for polygamy amid the fallout.

The couple’s relationship, already a tabloid staple since their 2019 wedding, marked by a 39-year age gap and Nwoko’s vast wealth, has now escalated into a public spectacle.

Reports emerged of Nwoko being spotted with an alleged new romantic interest, while Daniels countered by flaunting a newly acquired mansion, signaling financial independence and a subtle declaration of self-sufficiency.

Her latest post, however, shifts the narrative from confrontation to composure, implying that no matter the relational upheavals, “when table turn,” she remains seated at the feast of success.

Public reaction has been swift and polarized, with the post garnering over 162,000 likes within hours.

Supporters flooded the comments with fire emojis () and affirmations of solidarity, but deeper dives reveal a chorus of unsolicited marital counsel rooted in cultural norms around loyalty and endurance.

One top comment, liked by hundreds, reads: “God bless your home forever pls stay loyal loyalty pass juju na wife wey dey loyal dey enjoy life pass .”

This sentiment echoes across replies, with users like one who warned: “Nice man go come your dm say your husband dey do you bad na lie he dey do caring man because of your pata after them see the pata no matter your matter no concern them again.”

By Richard Elesho1

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has assured of a fair, transparent and credible process in the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in Ekiti State.

The Governor, in a statement through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, promised to be fair to all stakeholders and ensure that the exercise reflects unity, peace, and internal democracy within the party.

The governor emphasized that his commitment is to oversee a process that will be acceptable to all stakeholders and party members, noting that the committee under his leadership will uphold the integrity and democratic values of the APC.

He assured that every stakeholder will be carried along in line with the guidelines of the party to produce a flag bearer for the forthcoming governorship election in Ekiti State.

Ododo, who chaired the APC Governorship Primary Election Committee in Ondo State in April 2024, expressed confidence that the Ekiti exercise will be peaceful and transparent in line with procedures for internal party democracy.

He stated that fairness and inclusiveness remain the guiding principles of the committee and reiterated his readiness to deliver a process that will strengthen the unity of the party in Ekiti State.

It would be recalled, that the APC, in a letter signed by its National Organizing Secretary, Sulaiman Muhammad Argungu, announced the appointment of Governor Ododo as Chairman of the Committee to oversee the consensus mode of the governorship primary in Ekiti state.

ccording to the letter addressed to the APC Chairman in Ekiti State, Hon. Sola Elesin, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, was appointed Deputy Chairman, while Rt. Hon. Taiwo Sunmonu will serve as Secretary.

Other members of the committee include Iyom Nikky Ejezie, Hon. Elis Ihijator Abraham, Hon. Rufus Bature, Hon. Latif Ibirogba, Dr. Chibuzor Nduaguba Agu, Chief Dr. Gabriel Oyibode, Chief Hope Dike, and Engr. Shehu Umaru Dange.

The APC consensus governorship primary election in Ekiti state is scheduled for Monday October 27, 2025.

Juventus are reportedly set to part ways with head coach Igor Tudor following a series of disappointing results that have left the club struggling in Serie A.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano first tweeted that the club was “on the verge of sacking Tudor” after a poor run of games and that formal steps regarding a new manager would follow soon. Later reports indicate the board has decided Tudor will leave, with Massimo Brambilla expected to take charge on an interim basis.

The Croatian coach, once hailed as a club hero, joined Juventus in March 2025 to replace Thiago Motta during a Champions League qualifying crisis. Despite a promising start, the team has gone eight games without a win, including a 2-0 defeat to Lazio over the weekend. Juventus currently sit in eighth place, eight points adrift of the top four.

Players reportedly struggled to respond to Tudor’s fiery approach, which had succeeded at Hajduk Split, and morale within the squad is said to have dropped. Star striker Dusan Vlahovic has scored only twice this season, while midfielder Manuel Locatelli has struggled to influence matches.

Club director Cristiano Giuntoli had publicly backed Igor Tudor just days ago, but the board appears to have agreed unanimously that a change is necessary to salvage the season. Juventus face Udinese next, now under interim management, as they attempt to turn their campaign around.

By Wale Edun

In this role, I often feel a mix of emotions: deep pride in our national journey, regret over the opportunities we failed to seize, and confidence in our direction of travel today. Despite some historical shortfalls and present-day challenges, I believe the most difficult phase of our economic journey is behind us. Nigeria has turned a decisive corner. The road ahead will demand hard work and discipline, but we are firmly on the right path.

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office in 2023, Nigeria’s economy was on the brink of fiscal collapse. Slowing growth, surging inflation, and market distortions like the fuel subsidy and multiple exchange rate regimes had created an environment that scared off investment. The President’s mandate was clear dismantle those market distortions, reward productivity, and create a climate where private investment can thrive.

From Crisis to Stability

Two years later, the results are evident at the macro level. GDP grew by 4.23 percent in the second quarter of 2025. Inflation, while still high, has moderated to 18.02 percent after six consecutive months of decline. The exchange rate has stabilised, and the gap between official and parallel markets has narrowed to about 1 percent, down from a peak of nearly 70 percent. Importantly, foreign reserves have risen above $43 billion, the highest since 2019. These are more than just numbers; they are the foundation for building inclusive growth that benefits every Nigerian.

Notwithstanding, we recognise that the economy is ultimately about people, not statistics. Millions of Nigerians measure progress by the cost of food, transport, and other necessities. I am keenly aware of this reality. Food inflation has been our heaviest burden since it surged after currency depreciation and the removal of fuel subsidies. However, targeted measures are beginning to ease the pressure. A bag of rice that cost about 120,000 last year now averages around 80,000. The prices of garri, pepper, tomatoes, and other essentials have also decreased.

t the same time, we are careful to ensure our smallholder farmers have enough incentives to return to farms next planting season. We are therefore implementing programmes that stimulate agricultural production by safeguarding smallholder farmers’ incomes.

In addition, 8.1 million households nationwide have received direct cash support from the government to help meet basic needs. This is more than a safety net; it ensures that the impact of these necessary reforms is cushioned for the most vulnerable among us, even as we continue to resolve the identity verification issues required to reach our 15 million households’ target.

Hard Truths on Debt and Revenue

The progress we have made does not diminish the tough realities we still face. Debt service costs remain heavy, consuming a larger-than-ideal share of our revenues. This is the consequence of past borrowing and elevated interest rates. At the same time, Nigeria’s fiscal revenue-to-GDP ratio, at about 10 percent after rebasing, remains one of the lowest in Africa. This limits government resources for essential services like health, education, and infrastructure.

On 26 June 2025, the President signed the new Nigeria Tax Act and companion legislation, to take effect on 1 January 2026. These reforms aim to broaden the tax base, simplify compliance, and reduce leakages, while introducing a more progressive tax regime that shields lower-income earners and adjusts rates for higher earners. Together with structural revenue reforms such as the Revenue Optimisation and Assurance programme (RevOp), these measures will strengthen revenues, create fiscal space, and support greater investment in our people and infrastructure.

nchoring Growth in Real Sectors

stable economy is crucial, but stability alone is insufficient. To deliver inclusive prosperity, we must anchor growth in sectors that generate jobs and opportunities. We are providing necessary incentives to revive investments in the oil and gas industry. With improved security, oil theft is down, and production has rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day, including condensates. Refinery projects are setting the stage for a stronger downstream sector.

In agriculture, we are boosting food supply, reducing reliance on imports, and ensuring farmers have security and access to markets. We are encouraging investment in factories and strategic value chains, creating employment for our young and dynamic workforce. We are investing in technology and the creative sector to harness the energy of our youth and position Nigeria as a hub of innovation. In addition, we are expanding exports beyond oil by tapping into the global demand for critical minerals.

Infrastructure is the backbone of growth. Public funds alone cannot meet Nigeria’s vast needs, so we are attracting private capital through public-private partnerships. The AjaokutaKadunaKano gas pipeline, and Project Bridge’s 90,000 km fibre expansion are examples of how we are laying out the groundwork for industrialisation and nationwide connectivity.

Restoring Confidence at Home and Abroad

s I begin to conclude, the clearest sign that Nigeria is on the right path is the return of confidence. Investors both domestic and foreign, multilateral institutions, and ordinary citizens are starting to believe in the nation’s prospects again. But confidence is fragile. Sustaining it demands a predictable policy environment, disciplined fiscal management, and steady progress in reducing inflation.

Our medium-term target is 7 percent growth by 2027/28. Achieving this will require not only government action but the full participation of the private sector, entrepreneurs, and citizens. I am confident that if we work together, we will not only meet this target but surpass it. The task ahead, therefore, is to deepen resilience, broaden opportunities, and ensure that reforms translate into real improvements in daily life–better schools, affordable food, reliable power, accessible healthcare, and jobs for our youth.

Then, we can be assured that Nigeria’s next decade will be one of shared prosperity and renewed hope.

Edun is the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy

By Peter Uwumarogie

The Gombe government has expressed deep sadness over the death of five teenagers in tragic boat accident in a community in Nafada town area of the state.

The five teenagers identified as identified as Najib Ibrahim, 18; Hauwa’u Dogal, 15; Ummati Baraya, 16; Umaira Gidado, 16; and Amina Jaliya, 15 died in the tragic boat accident on Saturday, according to a statement by media aide Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Mr Ismaila Uba-Misilli.

Yahaya was quoted in the statement as describing the incident as painful and heart-wrenching, especially given the tender ages of the victims and the grief caused to their families in a condolence message to the bereaved families.

“This tragic incident has cut short the lives of promising young people,” the governor said, sympathising with their parents and the entire Nafada community.

He noted that the loss was not only a tragedy for the families but also for the entire state.

Yahaya prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest and give their families the fortitude to bear the loss.

He emphasised the need for strict adherence to water transport safety standards to prevent future mishaps.

The governor urged local councils, community leaders, boat operators, and regulators to enforce safety protocols across riverine areas.

He directed the State Emergency Management Agency and the Nafada Local Government Council to support the affected families.

The Gombe governor also instructed relevant agencies to strengthen safety awareness among riverine communities in the state.

“On behalf of the government and people of Gombe State, I extend our deepest sympathies,” he said.

He prayed that God forgives the victims’ shortcomings and grants them paradise. (NAN)

The Federal High Court in Abuja will, on Dec. 15, commence its annual judges’ conference to mark the new legal year.

The Director of Information of the court, Dr Catherine Christopher, in a statement on Monday in Abuja, said the event, according to a circular by the Chief Judge, Justice John Tsoho, would come to an end on Dec. 18.

“The Federal High Court of Nigeria announces its 2025/2026 Legal Year and Annual Conference.

“The annual conference serves as a pivotal forum for reflection, evaluation and strategic planning towards improving the administration of justice and enhancing judicial efficiency.

“It also marks the ceremonial opening of the New Legal Year.

“A detailed notice regarding the vacation period will be issued in due course.

“The Honourable Chief Judge extends his warm regards to all judges and wishes them a successful conference and a productive new Legal Year ahead,” the statement read.

(NAN)

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) and a coalition of over 75 civil society organisations under the aegis of the Coalition of National Civil Society Organisations (CNCSOs) have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what they described as a bold and long-overdue decision to remove the underperforming Service Chiefs.

In a joint statement signed by Comrade James Ezema, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the CNPP, and Alhaji Ali Abacha, National Secretary of the CNCSOs, the groups said the persistent insecurity across Nigeria under the former Service Chiefs was evidence of policy failure and incompetence.

They lamented that from the forests of Zamfara to the highways of AbujaKaduna and the creeks of the Niger Delta, insecurity thrived unchecked.

ccording to the coalition, the nation witnessed a surge in kidnapping, banditry, insurgency, and piracy, leading to widespread displacement and economic losses.

“Their removal was not just necessary, it was inevitable,” the statement read.

While commending President Tinubu’s decision, the CNPP and CNCSOs urged the newly appointed Service Chiefs to deliver measurable results and restore public confidence.

“The President’s action rekindles hope that political will is finally being matched with decisive leadership. Nigerians will no longer celebrate mere appointments but expect visible improvements in safety across the country,” they stated.

The coalition, however, demanded an immediate probe into the tenure of the sacked Service Chiefs, alleging mismanagement of defence funds and poor accountability.

They called on President Tinubu to set up an independent panel to investigate defence procurements and command decisions, adding that Nigerians deserve to know how trillions of naira allocated for security were spent as violence escalated nationwide.

“There can be no meaningful reform without accountability. Those who failed the nation must explain why Nigerians remained unsafe despite huge investments in the defence sector,” the statement noted.

The groups also urged a complete overhaul of the nation’s internal security framework, emphasising the need to reposition the Nigeria Police Force as the primary institution for maintaining internal security.

They advocated the strengthening of community policing through constitutional amendments to make security more people-driven and intelligence-based.

Reaffirming their commitment to supporting government reforms, the CNPP and CNCSOs said Nigerians had suffered too long under insecurity.

“President Tinubu has taken the right step by removing those who failed. The next step is to probe their stewardship, rebuild the police, and empower the new security leadership to restore peace and unity across the nation,” they said..

Nigerian politician and businessman, Senator Ned Nwoko, has once again stirred social media controversy after openly defending polygamy and expressing sympathy for men who choose to marry only one wife.

Speaking in a recent interview on Channels Television, the husband of Nollywood actress Regina Daniels described having just one wife as “standing on one leg,” claiming it is neither comfortable nor balanced.

Standing on one leg is very difficult, but standing on two, three or more is balanced. I feel sorry for those who marry one wife because it is difficult to stand on one leg,” Nwoko said.

Former Labour Party chieftain, Kenneth Okonkwo, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using intimidation to stop opposition parties from organizing ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Monday, Okonkwo said the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has suffered several attacks during its meetings in different states. “ADC is under attack.

The APC is using all kinds of tactics to intimidate and scatter the plans of opposition parties,” he said. Okonkwo mentioned incidents in Kaduna, Lagos, and Ekiti States where ADC gatherings were reportedly disrupted by thugs working with security officers.

He accused the APC of using security agencies to weaken other parties, which he said goes against the Electoral Act that guarantees equal protection for all political groups.

Despite the challenges, Okonkwo expressed optimism that the ADC would win the 2027 elections, saying the APC is already collapsing from within.

“ADC will form the next government of Nigeria. We are working hard and will defeat the APC.

The party is already falling apart; those endorsements they boast about are just from sycophants,” he said.

DC will form the next government of Nigeria. We are working hard and will defeat the APC.