Category: PM News

Fresh questions are emerging over the prolonged leadership crisis at the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, Lagos, following allegations that efforts are underway to remove the institution’s Provost, despite multiple investigations failing to establish wrongdoing on his part.

Documents reviewed by PM News and interviews with individuals familiar with the matter suggest that a dispute that began as a disagreement over the interpretation of tenure has evolved into a broader battle involving union politics, governing council decisions, ministerial interventions, and competing reports produced over two years.

At the centre of the controversy is an unresolved question: why has a Special ministerial visitation panel report, completed in September 2025, not been publicly acted upon nearly a year after its completion?

According to records and sources familiar with the proceedings, the Federal Ministry of Education, led by Tunji Alausa, constituted a visitation panel in 2025 to investigate a prolonged period of instability, including concerns about the provost’s tenure and other administrative issues. The panel was specifically tasked to conduct a comprehensive investigation and recommend to HME’s office.

The panel was chaired by the former Governor of Bauchi State and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), His Excellency Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, plus nine other members, who were mandated to examine all the issues plaguing the institution and recommend solutions.

The 10-member panel was inaugurated on Tuesday, 29th July, 2025, in Abuja by Dr. Tunji Alausa. (Picture of inauguration attached).

During the inauguration, the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, was quoted in the media as saying: “The panel’s formation followed a report submitted by the Governing Council of the College, which documented a prolonged crisis that had severely disrupted academic and administrative operations at the institution. The Minister described the government’s action as a decisive step toward holistically addressing the crisis and restoring discipline, accountability, and effective governance at the College and at other tertiary institutions facing similar issues. According to the Minister, “This is not a fault-finding mission driven by sentiment. It is a structured intervention aimed at restoring institutional integrity and creating an environment conducive to learning and academic growth. “The panel has been given a two-week deadline to submit its findings and recommendations to the ministry,” he said. Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening institutional credibility under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Alausa urged members of the panel to approach their task with diligence, fairness, and a strong sense of national duty.

Responding on behalf of the panel, then Chairman Mohammed Abubakar, SAN, pledged a thorough and impartial investigation into the crisis at the institution. “I am accepting this knowing fully well that it is a very important responsibility. “I assure you that we will leave no stone unturned in getting to the root of the problem,” Abubakar stated. He commended the Minister for his foresight in constituting the panel and lauded the selection of experienced professionals to handle the assignment. He also assured the Minister, the National Commission for Colleges of Education, and all stakeholders that the panel would discharge its duties with integrity, objectivity, and professionalism.

The Terms of Reference of the Special Visitation Panel on FCE(T), Akoka were to:

Examine the historical background, nature, and scope of the crisis, including administrative, governance, and industrial relations dimensions.

Review the roles and actions of staff unions during the crisis period, including their impact on college operations, governance stability, and service delivery.

Investigate the conduct and performance of the former and acting Provosts, particularly in relation to delays in signing official documents and other administrative lapses.

Identify individuals or groups responsible for acts of misconduct, including, but not limited to, the physical locking of the Provost’s office, obstruction of administrative duties, and any other unlawful activities.

Assess the functionality and impartiality of the institution’s internal disciplinary mechanisms, including the roles of key officials such as the Registrar, internal Council members, and other implicated parties.

Evaluate whether due process and institutional regulations were observed in addressing complaints and disciplinary matters throughout the crisis.

Recommend appropriate disciplinary actions against all persons found culpable, including interdiction, dismissal, demotion, or referral to appropriate regulatory or law enforcement bodies.

Advise the Ministry on legal, administrative, and institutional reforms necessary to prevent future occurrences of similar crises in the College or other Federal Colleges of Education.

A source with direct knowledge of the proceedings told PM News that the panel sat for several weeks, interviewed numerous witnesses, reviewed documentary evidence and examined allegations ranging from administrative misconduct to financial impropriety.

“The panel was comprehensive. People appeared before it, documents were submitted, and all sides were heard,” the source said.

According to the source, the panel was meant to submit its report to the Federal Minister of Education on September 4, 2025.

However, nearly a year later, questions remain regarding the status of the report and why the report has not been received by the Minister, which would have led to the release of the Government’s White Paper on the recommendations of the Panel. With the calibre of professionals and technocrats that served in the panels, the Nigerian public would like to know why the delay in receiving the report by the Minister of Education.

Crisis traced to tenure dispute

Documents reviewed by PM News indicate that the crisis originated after the enactment of the Federal Colleges of Education Act 2023.

Four union leaders under the auspices of ‘Joint Action Committee’ led by Chairman, Nwachukwu Ikechi Augustine and Secretary, Kazeem Olasupo Quadri representing Senior Staff Union of Colleges of Education in Nigeria (SSUCOEN) and Chairman, Alonge Olasunkanmi Sefiu and Secretary, Odukunle Taiwo David representing the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) wrote to the Minister of Education’s office for the interpretation and clarification of Section 17 of the Act by the letter captioned ;u”Federal Colleges of Education Act, 2023: Request for proper and wholesome Implementation of the Federal Colleges Act, 2023 to avoid Crisis in the Colleges of Education Sector” believing that provisions contained in the new legislation affected the tenure of the institution’s principal officers, including the provost.

However, ministry records seen by PM News interpreted by the ministry’s legal department later issued an interpretation that did not support the position advanced by those challenging the provost’s tenure.

Despite the interpretation by the ministry in favour of the Provost’s second tenure in a letter with reference: SAF.36/S.511/T/143, dated 23rd May, 2024, agitation within the institution reportedly continued. Immediately after the clarification by the Ministry, the NASU Executives asked its members to go about their activities peacefully and not participate in any act that can disrupt the College activities.

A source familiar with internal developments said that after the tenure argument failed to gain traction, attention shifted toward allegations relating to administration, certificate processing, project execution and institutional management.

“The issues kept changing,” the source alleged. “First, it was tenure. Then it became non-signing of certificates. Then, financial allegations. Then, the administrative allegations.”

Ministry interventions fail to restore stability

The dispute, which led to protests, office closures, and disruptions within the institution since 27th May, 2024, continued.

Documents reviewed by PM News show that ministry officials were dispatched to Akoka in June 2024 to investigate the growing crisis.

Subsequent meetings involving ministry representatives, regulators, union leaders and college officials produced resolutions intended to restore normalcy was signed on the 4th July 2024. The resolutions which were sighted by the PM News were signed by Dr Uchenna Uba on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Education, the then Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr Adenuga Adeniyi Olatunde, Chairman of COEASU, Lawal, Sadik Ishola, Chairman of SSUCOEN, Nwachukwu Augustine, I. and Chairman of NASU, Alonge, O.S. The resolutions were to be complied with by the Provost, and the Union leaders were invited to the meeting.

Yet sources familiar with those meetings claim implementation proved difficult as divisions within the institution deepened.

The situation later deteriorated on the 29th July, 2024, when students destroyed cars and Provost’s Lodge, which eventually led to security interventions, temporary closure of the college and the establishment of multiple investigative panels. It was confirmed by this newspaper that some of the staff who instigated the protests and locked up the Provost’s office for months have been participating in the Governing Council meetings and decisions, and students who destroyed the College vehicles and properties are moving about freely, while some of them have graduated.

Allegations fail to produce criminal findings

Several individuals familiar with the various investigations told PM News that no criminal findings were ultimately established against the provost.

The allegations reportedly examined included claims relating to certificate processing, project execution, official accommodation and financial management.

A source who participated in one of the review processes said investigators repeatedly requested evidence to support allegations of financial misconduct.

“People made allegations, but investigators kept asking for documentary proof,” the source said.

PM News could not independently verify all claims made by sources. However, documents reviewed by this newspaper suggest that various review exercises examined many of the allegations over an extended period.

Focus shifts to the visitation panel report

The most significant issue now confronting stakeholders appears to be the fate of the 2025 visitation panel report.

Several sources familiar with the matter alleged that recommendations emerging from earlier reports were reviewed more than once before the ministry eventually established the visitation panel to provide a definitive assessment.

One source described the visitation panel as “the most comprehensive review of the entire crisis.”

“The expectation was that once the panel submitted its report, that would bring closure to the matter,” the source said.

Instead, according to multiple sources, uncertainty has persisted.

Questions are now being raised about whether actions currently being contemplated within official circles are based on recommendations contained in the visitation panel report or on findings from earlier investigations that were themselves subjected to review.

Due process concerns emerge

Legal and governance experts contacted by PM News said the central issue is no longer simply whether allegations were made, but whether any disciplinary action complies with the procedures established under the Federal Colleges of Education Act. Is the Investigative Panel of Inquiry a replacement for the one stipulated in the Act? Was the Provost found guilty of misappropriation of funds that will warrant his removal?

As contained in the Federal Colleges of Education Act (2023) as amended, it does not give the Investigative Panel of Inquiry any modicum of right to decide the punishment against the person occupying those recognized roles such as the office of the Provost, Registrar, Bursar and College Librarian.

Several sources close to the matter argue that any decision affecting the tenure of a serving provost must strictly follow statutory procedures.

“The rule of law is what is at stake,” one source familiar with the dispute said.

“If there is evidence against any public officer, due process should be followed. But if panels have been established and reports and reviews submitted, stakeholders have a right to know what happened to those reports.”

FOI litigation adds a new dimension

Court records reviewed by PM News indicate that efforts have also been made to obtain access to the visitation panel report through the Freedom of Information Act (FOI).

The litigation has further intensified public interest in the matter, particularly among staff members, alumni and education stakeholders who believe transparency is necessary to resolve the crisis permanently.

Ministry yet to publicly clarify position

As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Ministry of Education had not publicly explained the status of the visitation panel report or whether its recommendations have been adopted.

Meanwhile, concerns have emerged over what some stakeholders describe as a long delay in the receipt of the visitation panel report by the Minister of Education, the eventual consideration and implementation of the recommendations contained in the report of the Federal Ministry of Education’s visitation panel.

Sources familiar with the matter alleged that the report did not recommend the removal of the Provost, a development they claim may have contributed to the delay in the receipt of the report for consideration.

The sources further alleged that there are ongoing efforts to pursue actions that are not reflected in the panel’s findings and recommendations.

A senior official who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to comment publicly on the matter said:

“The visitation panel was constituted to independently review the issues and submit its findings. From what we understand, the panel focused strictly on the facts presented before it and did not recommend the removal of the Provost. There are concerns among some stakeholders that actions being contemplated may not align with the panel’s recommendations.”

PM News has not independently verified these claims. Efforts to obtain comments from the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, and other relevant officials were ongoing as of the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, with a Governing Council meeting reportedly expected in the coming weeks and legal proceedings relating to the dispute still pending, stakeholders say the decisions taken in the coming days could have far-reaching implications not only for the leadership of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, but also for broader issues of due process, institutional governance, and accountability within Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.

President Donald Trump has accused Iran of shooting down a United States Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz and vowed that Washington would respond.

Trump made the claim on Tuesday in a post on Truth Social, saying he had been informed by the U.S. military that Iran was responsible for the crash.

According to him, the Apache helicopter was on patrol over the Strait of Hormuz when it was allegedly shot down.

“I have just been informed by our Great Military that last night the Iranians shot down one of our highly sophisticated Apache Helicopters while patrolling over the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump wrote.

He added that the two crew members involved were safe and uninjured, but insisted that the United States would retaliate.

“There were two pilots involved, both are safe and uninjured. Nevertheless, the United States must, of necessity, respond to this attack,” Trump said.

However, U.S. Central Command has not confirmed that Iran shot down the helicopter.

In a statement on Tuesday, Central Command said an Apache helicopter gunship went down on Monday while patrolling regional waters, adding that the pilot and gunner were rescued safely within about two hours.

The command said the cause of the crash remained under investigation.

A Central Command spokesman, Capt. Tim Hawkins, said the U.S. Navy deployed a remotely piloted surface drone to assist in rescuing the two crew members.

According to him, the drone picked up the crew members and moved them to another point on the water, where they were later hoisted into a helicopter for further transport.

The incident occurred near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most sensitive oil shipping routes.

It also comes after days of rising tension in the region, following military exchanges between Israel and Iran before both sides appeared to step back.

Trump’s threat of retaliation is expected to heighten concerns over a possible fresh confrontation between Washington and Tehran.

A support group, the Agbelebu Solidarity Forum (ASF), has inaugurated canvassers across wards in Agege Constituency I in Lagos to mobilise voters for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The group would also canvass votes for Mr Gbenga Abiola, popularly known as Agbelebu, the All Progressives Congress(APC) Candidate for Agege Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Director-General of ASF, Dr Jamiu Ademosu, described the “Street Captains” as the backbone of the forum’s grassroots political structure.

According to him, the step is aimed at strengthening voter engagement across communities in the constituency.

He said the group would galvanise support for Tinubu’s re-election and Dr Obafemi Hamzat, the Lagos State APC Governorship Candidate.

Ademosu said: “The success of any political movement lies in the strength of its grassroots structure. As Street Captains, you are the first point of contact with the people.

“You must remain accessible, committed and proactive in engaging residents, communicating the achievements of our leaders, and mobilising support for the party’s vision and candidates.”

He said the canvassers would serve as a critical link between the people and the leadership of the APC.

According to Ademosu, the inauguration is part of efforts to build an effective grassroots political structure capable of reaching voters at all levels.

He said the structure would engage voters at ward, street, household and individual levels across Agege Constituency I.

The mobilisation efforts, he said, would promote the achievements of APC-led governments at the federal, state and local government levels.

He added: “The success of any political movement lies in the strength of its grassroots structure. As Street Captains, you are the first point of contact with the people.

“You must remain accessible, committed, and proactive in engaging residents, communicating the achievements of our leaders, and mobilising support for the party’s vision and candidates.”

Ademosu urged them to uphold the values of loyalty, discipline, dedication and service.

He said the forum also supported economic growth and inclusive governance in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Ademosu expressed confidence that the team would contribute significantly to APC’s electoral success.

The event featured the presentation of appointment letters to the “Street Captains”. (NAN)

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Operatives of Kano Police Command arrested 187 suspects engaged in various criminal activities, including armed robbery and drug peddling during a three-day coordinated operations across the state.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Adamu Bakori hinted this to journalists during a press briefing at the Bompai Police headquarters.

Mr. Bakori said, “Kano’s role as a commercial and cultural hub requires a policing approach that is proactive, intelligence-led, and closely aligned with communities.”

In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, the Kano State Police Command has intensified targeted operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks, intercepting weapons, and disrupting drug supply chains.

According to him, acting on credible intelligence and community reports, the Command conducted a coordinated clearance operation across all 44 Local Government Areas.

“The three-day operation ran from Friday 5th June to Sunday 7th June 2026, with a focus on identified black spots, criminal hideouts, and drug distribution points,” he added.

Mr. Bakori said, “the outcomes underscore both the scale of the challenge and the effectiveness of our strategy.”

During the operations police arrested 187 suspects, including suspected thugs, drug peddlers, and persons found with offensive weapons.

All suspects are undergoing investigation and will be prosecuted where evidence warrants

Police also recovered 270 dangerous weapons, including knives, cutlasses, clubs, and other implements used to perpetrate violence.

Police seized a substantial quantity of suspected illicit substances, including Cannabis Sativa, Exol tablets, and the lethal mixture known locally as “Suck and Die”.

These seizures directly reduce the capacity of criminal groups to harm law-abiding citizens and destabilize communities, across the state.

The Command’s Operation Kukan Kura has remained active statewide, as it has enhanced visibility policing, reduced response time to distress calls, and denied criminal elements the space to regroup in flashpoints.

The Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit, (VCRU) recently launched by the Commissioner of Police, has sharpened tactical response to armed violence and gang activity, as its intelligence and rapid-deployment functions have improved the police ability to act swiftly on actionable information.

Mr. Bakori insisted that no form of criminality will be entertained in Kano State, as the Command will continue to apply the law firmly and fairly against thuggery, drug trafficking, and violent offending.

According to him, available data and feedback from communities indicate that crime is reducing across several areas of the State.

The progress, he said, is the result of sustained operational pressure, better intelligence flow, and the professionalism of our officers.

Mr. Bakori appreciated the Kano State Government for its consistent support and cooperation, which have strengthened our operational capacity.

He thanked the people of Kano for their trust, vigilance, and willingness to share information. Public support is the bedrock of policing, and it is making the difference we are now seeing.

He urged the public to continue reporting suspicious movements and criminal activity to the nearest Police formation or through our emergency lines.

“All information will be treated confidentially and acted upon promptly,” he added.

The Kano Police boss insisted that: “To those who profit from violence and illicit drugs: Kano is no longer a safe operating environment. The 187 suspects in custody will face due process. The Command will maintain sustained pressure through raids, intelligence operations, and prosecution until criminality becomes untenable.

“The Kano State Police Command remains focused on protecting lives and property, upholding the rule of law, and sustaining the downward trend in crime. Operation Kukan Kura will continue, the VCRU will be further strengthened, and our engagement with communities will be deepened.”

The Edo State Police Command has uncovered an elaborate kidnapping hoax masterminded by Mrs. Oluchi Ugbowan and her accomplices in a bid to extort 50 million from her family, leading to the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of a firearm used to produce fake ransom videos.

According to the police, Mr. Ugbowan reported that on May 28, 2026, he received a call from an unidentified number demanding 50 million for his wife’s release.

The investigation led to the arrest of 28-year-old Israel Ability at Ramat Park, Benin City. During the operation, officers recovered the mobile phone belonging to the purported victim from the suspect.

Police said that during interrogation, Ability confessed that he had been recruited by Mrs. Ugbowan to act as a negotiator and communicate ransom demands to her family while presenting her as a kidnap victim.

The breakthrough prompted investigators to extend their operation to Delta State, where Mrs. Ugbowan was eventually tracked and arrested on June 5 at a hotel in Ukwuani Local Government Area.

According to the command, the suspect allegedly admitted during questioning that she staged her own kidnapping as part of a plan to obtain money from her relatives.

Police investigations revealed that the residence served as the location where videos purportedly showing the victim in captivity were produced and circulated to family members to support the ransom demands.

The command further disclosed that Uwadia’s 18-year-old son, Chibuzor Ochukwudem, allegedly participated in the scheme and was the individual seen in the videos pointing a firearm at Mrs. Ugbowan’s head to create the impression that she was being held by kidnappers.

All four suspects have since been arrested in connection with the alleged conspiracy.

A search conducted at the premises resulted in the recovery of an automatic pump-action gun believed to have been used during the production of the ransom videos.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for what he described as a thorough and professional investigation that exposed the alleged deception.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to treating every reported kidnapping case with urgency and seriousness, noting that significant resources are often deployed to rescue victims and apprehend criminals.

The police commissioner also warned members of the public against engaging in fake kidnapping schemes, stressing that such actions constitute serious criminal offences and divert security resources away from genuine victims in need of assistance.

“The Command remains committed to ensuring that all individuals involved in criminal activities are brought to justice. False kidnapping claims not only create unnecessary panic but also undermine efforts to combat real security challenges,” he said.

The Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District in the 2027 general election, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has felicitated the First Lady of Oyo State, Her Excellency, Mrs Tamunomini Olufunke Makinde, on the occasion of her birthday, describing her as a virtuous woman whose compassion and humanitarian disposition have positively touched many lives across the state.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, Ajadi congratulated the First Lady on attaining another year, praying that God would grant her more wisdom, sound health and abundant grace to continue serving humanity.

“On behalf of my family, political associates and supporters across Oyo Central Senatorial District, I heartily congratulate Her Excellency, Mrs Tamunomini Olufunke Makinde, on the occasion of her birthday. I pray that Almighty God grants her sufficient grace, excellent health, long life and continued happiness. May her new age usher in greater fulfilment and more opportunities to impact humanity,” Ajadi said.

The renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist noted that the First Lady has remained a dependable partner to Governor Seyi Makinde and has consistently demonstrated a passion for the welfare of women, children and vulnerable members of society.

According to him, Mrs Makinde’s humility, motherly virtues and commitment to social causes have made her an inspiration to many families and young women in Oyo State and beyond.

“Her Excellency has exemplified the virtues of compassion, humility and selfless service. Through various humanitarian and advocacy initiatives, she has continued to complement the efforts of the Oyo State Government in promoting the welfare of women, children and the less privileged. Her dedication to humanity deserves commendation and celebration,” he stated.

Ajadi also acknowledged the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, whom he described as one of Nigeria’s most progressive governors, noting that the administration has continued to record remarkable achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agribusiness and economic development since assuming office in 2019.

He said the governor and his wife have continued to provide exemplary leadership and partnership aimed at improving the quality of life of residents of the state.

“Governor Seyi Makinde has shown that governance is about delivering tangible dividends to the people. The support and encouragement of the First Lady have no doubt contributed to the successes recorded by the administration. Together, they have demonstrated commitment to the development and prosperity of Oyo State,” Ajadi added.

The APM senatorial candidate further prayed for divine protection and strength for the First Lady, expressing optimism that she would continue to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the state and the nation.

Mrs Tamunomini Olufunke Makinde, wife of Governor Seyi Makinde, has over the years championed initiatives aimed at promoting social inclusion, family values and support for vulnerable groups. Governor Makinde, who was first elected in 2019 and re-elected in 2023, has overseen major investments in roads, education, healthcare, security and economic expansion, earning recognition within and outside Oyo State.

Ajadi wished the First Lady many more years of fruitful service and prayed that her life would continue to be marked by peace, prosperity and God’s unfailing favour.

By Oluwaseun Nubi

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on Tuesday sealed the Lagos office of CASCO Electronics Co. Ltd. over alleged refusal to honour regulatory summons and compliance directives issued in connection with a consumer complaint

Mrs Olubunmi Otti, South-West Zonal Coordinator, FCCPC, said during the enforcement that the action followed a complaint lodged with the commission on Jan. 16, 2025, concerning the sale of an allegedly defective solar battery.

She said the commission began an investigation and subsequently invited the company on several occasions to respond to the allegations.

According to Otti, CASCO Electronics failed to honour the invitations, a summons and a compliance notice issued pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), 2018.

She said the compliance notice outlined the nature of the alleged violation, the remedial steps required, the timeline for compliance and the consequences of non-compliance.

“I would like to invite this undertaking, CASCO Electronics, to come before the commission to answer questions. CASCO Electronics refused.

“Again, the commission issued a summons and subsequently a compliance notice, but the company still refused to appear before the commission,” she said.

Otti said the commission’s action was based on Section 150(4)(a) of the FCCPA, 2018, which empowers the FCCPC to seal premises where an undertaking fails to comply with a compliance notice.

“Consequently, in exercise of the powers of the FCCPC under Section 150 of the FCCPA 2018, the commission has today proceeded to seal these premises.

“This enforcement action is not punitive in the first instance, but protective and corrective,” she said.

She said the premises would remain sealed until the commission was satisfied that the alleged breach had been remedied.

“The sealing will remain in force until the commission is satisfied that the prior breach has been fully remedied, at which point a compliance certificate will be issued under Section 150(3) of the FCCPA 2018,” Otti said.

She advised consumers to exercise caution when purchasing products and to always obtain receipts and transaction records.

“We urge consumers to ensure they buy from reputable organisations, collect their receipts and follow due process before committing their money,” Otti said.

She also urged businesses to respond promptly to correspondence from regulatory agencies.

“When you receive a letter from the FCCPC or any regulatory agency, you should appear and cooperate.

“The FCCPC is not against any business in Nigeria, but we want businesses to operate ethically so that consumers are satisfied while businesses continue to thrive,” she said.

Reacting to the development, President of the Industrial Material Dealers Association, Mr Opara Uchenna-Martins, said he could not fault the commission for carrying out its statutory responsibilities.

“I cannot stop the government from carrying out its duty. Whatever led to the FCCPC action, I know it has to do with protecting consumers, and consumers deserve to feel protected,” he said.

Uchenna-Martins said CASCO Electronics had built a reputation in the market but expressed concern over its alleged failure to respond to the commission’s invitations.

“CASCO is a reputable company, but I believe there may have been one or two issues. The problem, as I understand it, is that it refused to come and answer the FCCPC,” he said.

He urged traders and business owners to cooperate with government agencies whenever they receive official correspondence.

“Every businessman should comply whenever they receive letters from regulatory agencies.

“If any government agency contacts you, it is important to respond and resolve issues through the appropriate channels,” he said.

Uchenna-Martins added that the development was unfortunate and called for an early resolution of the matter.

“It is embarrassing for any company to face this kind of situation. I believe the matter should be resolved quickly and amicably,” he said.

(NAN)

Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy have made World Cup history as their official 2026 tournament anthem, ‘Dai Dai’, surpassed 100 million views just hours before the FIFA World Cup kicks off.

Released two weeks ago, the video has generated massive global attention ahead of the tournament, hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

At 49, Shakira now holds the distinction of being the most successful music artist in World Cup history, having contributed songs and performances to four editions of the tournament.

She performed a remix of ‘Hips Don’t Lie’ at the 2006 Germany final, released ‘Waka Waka (This Time For Africa)’ for South Africa 2010, and ‘La La La’ for Brazil 2014.

The latter video has amassed 1.3 billion views, while Waka Waka has been viewed over 4.5 billion times, placing it among the world’s most-watched music videos.

With Burna Boy joining her on Dai Dai, Shakira has further amplified the tournament’s global and African appeal. The collaboration has already drawn strong engagement from fans worldwide, with the video expected to gain further traction as the World Cup begins.

Shakira described her connection with football as “unbreakable,” calling the World Cup “magical” and saying the 2026 edition would serve to unite people during a socially and politically sensitive period. She added that the song carries a message for young people, encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite hardship.

The anthem’s release precedes Shakira’s performance at the World Cup 2026 final half-time show on July 19, where she will co-headline with Madonna and K-pop group BTS.

By Richard Elesho

Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have launched a fresh attack on Odo Ere, the sleepy headquarters of Yagbawest Local Government Area, LGA, Kogi State, killing a security officer and abducting his daughter.

The breach happened on Monday evening, 8 June 2026, forcing residents to quickly retreat to their houses with fears enveloping their minds.

According to sources, the victim, simply identified as Mr. Ayo, an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), was shot in the head during the attack.

A source confirmed that the victim was rushed to a medical facility but was declared dead on arrival. His remains have since been deposited in a mortuary as a “Brought-In-Dead” case.

The attackers reportedly abducted his first daughter before fleeing the area, further deepening fears among residents and people in nearby communities.

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies have yet to issue a statement on the incident.

The attack has heightened concerns over the growing insecurity in Yagba West and surrounding communities, with residents calling for urgent intervention by security authorities.

The well-armed kidnappers believed to be Fulani militants have renewed their attacks on Okunland, Kogi west senatorial district in recent times.

It would be recalled that exactly a week before the Odo-Ere attack, the hoodlums attacked Aiyegunle-Igun, Kabba-Bunu LGA, killing two people and abducting 30 others.

Similarly, two wives and three children of Professor Wonder, the paramount ruler of Odai, a community health worker, and his wife abducted from their homes in Iluke also in Kabba-Bunu are among those who have been in captivity in unknown criminal cells in Okunland.

Last week, the Kogi State Police Command, in conjunction with the state government, inaugurated Violent Crime Response Unit, VCRU, with a promise to end the rampage of criminals in all parts of the state.

Fuji music icon, Wasiu Alabi Ajibola Odetola, popularly known as Pasuma, has issued a 14-day cease-and-desist notice to several music and entertainment firms, alleging the unauthorised use and exploitation of his intellectual property.

In a notice dated June 5, 2026, the veteran musician warned that legal action would be taken against individuals and organisations found to be using his works, image, likeness, sound recordings and other intellectual property assets without his express written consent.

The document, titled “Notice to Cease and Desist from Infringing and Declare Proof of Authorization on the Intellectual Property of Wasiu Alabi Ajibola Odetola P/K/A Pasuma,” was addressed to interested parties and the general public.

Pasuma stated that his intellectual property rights cover, among others, sound recordings, musical works, visual recordings, image rights, name and likeness. He alleged that some entities have been exploiting these rights through various digital platforms and internet-based services without obtaining proper authorisation.

According to the Fuji star, the alleged infringement spans streaming platforms, video-on-demand services, app stores, lyrics websites, blogs, gaming platforms, closed digital communities and virtual aggregation sites.

He maintained that such activities amount to illegal exploitation of his intellectual property and constitute violations of the Nigerian Copyright Act 2022.

Among the demands outlined in the notice, Pasuma directed the affected parties to immediately cease all unauthorised use of his intellectual property, remove infringing content, halt the distribution or promotion of materials linked to the disputed works, and provide a statement of account detailing any exploitation of his intellectual property.

He also requested that any party claiming authorisation should submit copies of valid written agreements within the stipulated timeframe.

The singer warned that failure to comply within 14 days of the publication of the notice, with a deadline of June 19, 2026, would leave him with no option but to pursue legal remedies.

He noted that potential actions could include applications for injunctive relief, claims for damages and other remedies available under Nigerian law.

The notice was signed by Pasuma and copied to several organisations and individuals in the music and entertainment industry, including High Kay (Q) Dancent Ltd, Sarolaj Music and Films International, Role Model Entertainment Ltd, NextXtar, Stability Production, UMIDam, Moh Saheed, OgaNla TV, Monya Shau Films and Records (Q), and G3 Entertainment Limited.