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Operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have arrested Abdulazeez Gbadebo, a station manager with Emadeb Energy Service Limited, over allegations of diverting company funds amounting to N500 million.

The arrest followed a petition by the energy company after an external audit allegedly uncovered fraudulent practices.

According to the petition, Gbadebo was accused of illegally diverting and selling bulk petrol, with proceeds reportedly channeled into his personal bank accounts.

Preliminary investigations by the EFCC revealed that the suspect allegedly sold petrol and diesel in bulk directly to private individuals while manipulating pump meters to cover his tracks.

The anti-graft agency said these schemes enabled him to bypass company accounts and conceal the scale of the alleged fraud. During the operation, EFCC operatives reportedly recovered high-value assets suspected to be proceeds of crime.

Among the items seized were an ash-coloured Mercedes Benz, three Mini Coopers, a white Mercedes Benz GLK, property documents linked to the Kaduna Geographical Information System (KADGIS), a certificate of occupancy, a three-bedroom detached bungalow, and three landed properties.

The EFCC confirmed that Gbadebo is currently in custody and would be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

The commission reiterated its commitment to tackling fraud and financial crimes.

Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has called on Nigerians to unite and take collective responsibility in addressing insurgency and insecurity, warning that military operations alone cannot bring an end to the Boko Haram crisis.

Musa appealed on Friday during the presentation of ‘SCARS: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum,’ a book authored by former Chief of Defence Staff General Lucky Irabor, in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the defence chief stressed that only 25 to 30 per cent of the solution to Nigeria’s insurgency problem lies in military action. At the same time, the rest depends on the will of the people to embrace peace, unity, and nationhood.

‘For us as a nation to move forward, we must look at this faithfully, truthfully and clearly in order to find solutions. It is not only a military solution. From my experience, the military solution is just 25 to 30 per cent,’ Musa said.

He cautioned that without love, tolerance, and deliberate efforts at building national cohesion, insecurity will persist.

‘As long as we don’t love ourselves as Nigerians, and we don’t look at ourselves as our brother’s keepers, this will continue.

‘If we want this to end, we must learn to live together as brothers and sisters. It is not magic; it must be deliberate,’ he added.

Citing Singapore as a model of resilience and transformation, Musa urged Nigerians to consciously commit to building a stronger country.

‘Countries have evolved because they looked at their challenges and resolved to overcome them. Singapore, with all the challenges it had, stood and said: It’s either we stand and die, or we work and develop. They have worked, and they have developed,’ he said.

The CDS described Boko Haram as an asymmetric conflict that differs from conventional warfare, noting that the insurgents often hide within communities.

‘In conventional warfare, you are dealing with states. Asymmetric warfare means the enemy is within. It could be your father, brother or mother. Because you are dealing with ideology, it is not written on the forehead; it is within the mind.

‘You must find solutions to the mindset of those doing these things and also look outward,’ he explained.

He warned that external actors were also fueling instability in Nigeria and Africa at large, stressing the need for Africans to take responsibility for their own security.

‘There are also people from outside who are ready to ensure they continue to succeed and the country continues to fail. We must not allow them to succeed. I am sure, working together, we will continue to win.

‘We as Africans need to face these challenges ourselves without waiting and relying on others to do it for us,’ he said.

Musa also commended Irabor for his enduring contributions to the Nigerian military and his continued efforts in retirement to tackle national security issues.

‘His footprint across our nation’s military is indelible, particularly in the fight against insurgency and terrorism. Even in retirement, he continues to add his quota to solving the security challenges facing us as a country,’ Musa said.

A Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has ordered the Nigeria Police Force to suspend its ongoing nationwide enforcement of the tinted glass permit, a move that has sparked relief and jubilation among motorists across the country.

The order, issued in suit No. FHC/WR/CS/103/2025, was delivered by the court in a case filed by lawyer John Aikpokpo-Martins against the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Nigeria Police Force.

The suit challenges the legality of the ongoing enforcement drive, which has seen vehicles seized and motorists detained in several states.

The decision came just hours after police officers in Delta impounded the vehicle of a judicial officer, despite a similar pending lawsuit filed by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) last month seeking to halt the exercise.

News of the ruling sparked widespread celebration on social media, with many Nigerians accusing the police of showing ‘insensitivity’ by enforcing the policy amid the country’s harsh economic realities.

Some motorists also decried the difficulty of completing the registration process via the official portal, possap.gov.ng, describing it as unreliable and exploitative. Others alleged that the exercise was a disguised tool for extortion and harassment by officers on the road.

However, a section of Nigerians backed the enforcement, arguing that tinted permits remain a vital security measure against kidnapping and armed robbery.

The NBA, in its suit, argued that the renewed enforcement of the tinted permit violates citizens’ fundamental rights to privacy, dignity, and freedom of movement, noting that the regulation is rooted in a 1991 military decree that contradicts the 1999 Constitution.

Despite the pending legal challenge, the police proceeded with nationwide enforcement, citing the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, 2004, as their legal backing.

According to police, the measure helps curb crime and enhance public safety.

Iyiola Omisore, former deputy governor of Osun, has declared his intention to contest the 2026 governorship election in the state on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Omisore made the announcement on Saturday via his official X handle, adding that a formal declaration will hold on October 7, 2025, at the APC secretariat in Osogbo, the state capital.

The event, themed ‘Fix the Broken, Restore Our Dreams’, will mark the beginning of what he described as the ‘Osun Rescue Mission 2026’. Omisore, who represented Osun east senatorial district from 2003 to 2011, said his ambition is rooted in restoring hope and strengthening governance in the state.

‘This is not just my mission, it is a collective one. I believe strongly that together, we can restore hope, strengthen governance, and deliver a brighter future for every son and daughter of Osun,’ he wrote.

He urged party members and citizens to attend the event and support his vision for the state.

Nentawe Yilwatda, national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), on Saturday delivered a heartfelt speech at his mother’s funeral, celebrating her resilience and unwavering spirit.

In his speech, during the funeral service at COCIN church in Jos, the Plateau State capital, Yilwatda said, despite being diagnosed 47 years ago with a dire prognosis, his mother defied medical odds, surviving multiple surgeries and living decades longer than expected.

Yilwatda described his mother as a tireless worker who supported their family through selling akara, pap, and running a shop.

‘Even while battling illness, she worked relentlessly and quietly held the family’s finances, handing every kobo to her missionary husband without complaint or fanfare”. Yilwatda compared his mother’s strength to that of the late mother of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting her humble service and the profound impact she had on their community. ‘She may not have been publicly known, but her faithful service touched countless lives,’ he said.

Expressing deep gratitude to dignitaries, governors, and the people of Plateau State for their support during the funeral, Yilwatda thanked President Tinubu personally for believing in him despite his youth and non-governor background.

He recalled his mother’s final words, urging him to uphold the trust Tinubu placed in him.

In a moment of humour and political camaraderie, Yilwatda declared himself the president’s ‘son,’ playfully asserting his veto over a similar claim by the Governor of Niger State, emphasising his loyalty and connection to the APC leadership.

Yilwatda pledged to honour his mother’s legacy by maintaining the trust bestowed upon him by President Tinubu, underscoring his commitment to serve with integrity and dedication.

The Obidient Movement has raised concerns over a viral video showing Adekunle Mustapha, popularly known as Sego, the Lagos State Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), allegedly threatening voters ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In the video, Sego was heard speaking in Yoruba, warning that anyone who votes against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the coming election would ‘be dealt with.’ His comments have sparked widespread outrage among Nigerians, particularly members of the Obidient Movement, who view the remarks as a dangerous sign of potential election violence.

‘Anybody who makes mistakes in 2027 will be dealt with. Let them know that the APC is the party you’ll vote for. Anybody who refuses to do so will meet us,’ Sego said in the video.

Reacting to the clip, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, condemned Sego’s remarks and urged authorities to take immediate action. Tanko recalled that similar threats and acts of violence occurred during the 2023 elections in Lagos, especially against supporters of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate.

According to him, members of the NURTW and political thugs allegedly attacked voters during the 2023 elections, particularly in areas where Peter Obi enjoyed massive support. ‘We remember with sadness the violence unleashed by these same NURTW members and other thugs in 2023. Many of our supporters were beaten, injured, and even killed just for exercising their right to vote,’ Tanko said.

In a statement released on Friday, the Obidient Movement accused the ruling APC of using intimidation tactics to suppress voters and retain power. The group said the party had resorted to threats and violence because it had failed to deliver good governance that could win the people’s trust.

‘The APC realises it cannot win free and fair elections due to its failure to deliver good governance,’ the statement read. ‘What we are seeing now is a continuation of the same old pattern using fear to control the electorate.’

The group also demanded that President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and security agencies immediately arrest and prosecute Mustapha for his remarks, which they described as incitement to violence.

‘The NURTW is registered as a trade union, but it has for years been used as a tool of intimidation, violence, and political manipulation,’ Tanko said. ‘We are calling on President Tinubu, Governor Sanwo-Olu, the Police, DSS, and the Military to act now. This cannot continue. Lagosians and Nigerians must be free to vote for whoever they choose without fear.’

Tanko further appealed to the international community to pay attention to the situation in Nigeria, warning that continued silence could lead to unrest. ‘If the government fails to protect its citizens, people may be forced to defend themselves, and that could lead to anarchy,’ he cautioned. Following public outrage, the Department of State Services (DSS) reportedly invited Mustapha for questioning. He was later released on bail after making a statement to security officials.

In response to the controversy, Mustapha denied threatening anyone, insisting that his words were taken out of context. He said his comments were directed only to union members and not the general public. ‘This afternoon, I was invited by the DSS over false allegations that I insulted some groups while addressing our members,’ he said in a statement after his release.

‘These rumours are baseless. I have always been a man of peace, and my messages are directed only to our members. Everyone has the right to associate freely and choose their affiliations, and I fully respect that.’

He also claimed that some people were trying to use the situation to discredit him and the NURTW in Lagos. ‘This is clearly an attempt to destabilise me and the NURTW. I remain committed to peace, unity, and the progress of our organisation,’ he added.

Mustapha urged media outlets and bloggers to be fair in their reporting and to verify information before publishing. ‘I appreciate online bloggers for informing the public, but I strongly warn you not to be biased. Verify information before posting about me or the NURTW,’ he said.

Meanwhile, the Obidient Movement has maintained its call for accountability, insisting that such statements cannot be ignored, especially given Nigeria’s fragile democracy and history of electoral violence. The group said the safety of voters must be a priority as the 2027 elections draw closer.

Analysts fear that statements like Sego’s could further heighten tensions in Lagos, where political rivalry often spills into violence. Civil society groups have also urged security agencies to act swiftly, saying allowing threats to go unchecked would embolden others.

For many Nigerians, the controversy is a reminder of the need to strengthen electoral security and ensure that every citizen can vote freely. As one Lagos resident put it, ‘We just want to vote without fear. Elections should not be a war.’

While Mustapha insists his words were misunderstood, the Obidient Movement is not convinced. The group has vowed to continue pushing for justice and accountability, saying the fight for free and fair elections must continue.

As the dust settles, the incident has reignited debate about the role of transport unions in Nigerian politics and the urgent need for reform. With 2027 still two years away, observers warn that how the government handles this case could set the tone for the next election season.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit filed against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, over the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/654/2025, was filed by Ovavu Illiyasu and nine others, challenging the legality of the six-month suspension imposed on the senator for alleged misconduct. The plaintiffs argued that the suspension denied the people of Kogi Central adequate representation in the Senate and sought her immediate reinstatement.

In a judgment delivered on Friday, Justice James Omotosho held that the plaintiffs lacked locus standi, the legal right to challenge the Senate’s decision and consequently dismissed the case for lack of merit.

Troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces have foiled oil theft valued at over ?112 million and arrested about 450 terrorists, bandits, extremists, and other criminals across the country in September, according to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ).

Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, who disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, said the military’s sustained nationwide operations have continued to yield significant results in the fight against insecurity and economic sabotage.

DHQ revealed that troops of Operation DELTA SAFE uncovered and disrupted illegal refining activities valued at ?112,175,220 in the Niger Delta region.

The seizures included 49,321 litres of stolen crude oil, 6,970 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel), 1,900 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene, and 1,475 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol).

It added that 41 illegal refining sites were destroyed during the operations.

‘These results reflect the troops’ commitment to ending the criminal exploitation of national resources.

‘For the month of September, about 450 terrorists, bandits, extremists and other criminals were arrested, 39 of them surrendered, while 180 civilians were rescued’, DHQ said. The military also recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition during the operations, including 63 weapons, 4,475 rounds of ammunition, and 294 assorted items such as grenades, improvised explosive device materials, handheld radios, motorcycles, and vehicles.

According to the DHQ, several automatic rifles, rocket-propelled grenade tubes, machine guns, locally fabricated firearms, and large quantities of live cartridges were also seized from criminal hideouts and terror enclaves across multiple theatres of operation.

In the North-East, the statement said troops of Operation HADIN KAI intensified counterterrorism operations against Boko Haram and Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgents in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.

DHQ noted that the joint ground and air operations , carried out in Konduga, Gwoza, Mafa, Monguno, Damboa, Biu, and Kukawa local government areas of Borno; Madagali, Hong, and Mubi South in Adamawa; and Gujba in Yobe, led to the elimination of several terrorists and the destruction of their camps and logistics bases.

‘Their efforts also supported the safe resettlement of displaced persons and unimpeded farming activities across the region,’ it added.

The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the ongoing counterinsurgency and anti-crime campaigns across all operational theatres, including Operation WHIRL STROKE in the North-Central and Operation DELTA SAFE in the Niger Delta.

It also assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces remain resolute in restoring peace and safeguarding the nation’s resources from criminal elements.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has approved the sale of Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited) to UAC of Nigeria PLC. The approval officially completes one of Nigeria’s most notable consumer goods transactions in recent years.

In a statement released on Friday, UAC said the transaction marks a major milestone in its expansion strategy within the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. The acquisition gives UAC ownership of some of Nigeria’s most popular beverage and dairy brands, including Chivita juice and Hollandia milk.

The approval follows an earlier announcement made on July 30, 2025, when both parties confirmed that an agreement had been reached for the sale. With the regulatory process now concluded, both companies are set to begin a transition that will see CHI Limited integrated into the UAC group.

Eelco Weber, Managing Director of Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited), said the team is pleased to have secured regulatory clearance for the deal. ‘We look forward to a smooth transition and to seeing Chivita|Hollandia thrive under UAC’s ownership,’ he said. Fola Aiyesimoju, Group Managing Director of UAC, described the acquisition as a strategic step for the company. He said the addition of Chivita|Hollandia strengthens UAC’s leadership in the Nigerian consumer goods market. ‘We are excited to officially welcome the Chivita|Hollandia team and brands into the UAC family,’ Aiyesimoju said. ‘We look forward to building on their strong legacy and market leadership.’

The acquisition also marks a new chapter in the evolving ownership of CHI Limited. In 2016, Coca-Cola Company acquired a 40 percent minority stake in CHI Limited, later taking full ownership in 2019.

What the UAC deal means for the market

The acquisition allows UAC to strengthen its presence across several FMCG segments. These include dairy, beverages, snacks, and packaged foods. The company plans to leverage its wide distribution network, retail partnerships, and manufacturing capacity to drive new growth.

Analysts view the deal as part of a growing trend in Nigeria’s business landscape. Local conglomerates are increasingly reclaiming ownership of consumer brands once controlled by multinational corporations. By taking over CHI Limited, UAC restores Nigerian ownership to one of the country’s most recognisable beverage brands. In recent years, local manufacturers have become more competitive. They have improved product quality, expanded production facilities, and built stronger distribution networks. Many are also connecting more effectively with Nigerian consumers through pricing and cultural relevance.

A clear example is Planet Bottling Company, a homegrown firm behind American Cola. The brand has gained significant ground in a market once dominated by global soft drink giants.

Rite Foods Limited has also disrupted the non-alcoholic beverage category. Its Bigi Cola brand continues to win market share in the carbonated drinks segment. The company’s Fearless Energy Drink has also grown rapidly, competing directly with major international labels in the energy drink market.

These shifts underscore the increasing prominence of Nigerian-owned brands. Local firms are no longer just participants; they are shaping the future of the consumer goods industry. Analysts say UAC’s acquisition of CHI Limited strengthens this momentum. It positions the company at the centre of a new phase of growth, innovation, and competition led by Nigerian businesses. Gala and Super Bite under one umbrella

Interestingly, CHI Limited and UAC Foods have a shared history of competition. Both companies operated in one of Nigeria’s most recognisable on-the-go food categories, the beef sausage roll market.

CHI introduced its Super Bite brand as a challenger to UAC Foods’ iconic Gala sausage roll. For more than five decades, Gala has maintained a dominant presence in Nigeria’s snack segment, becoming a staple for commuters and quick-service consumers.

Analysts believe the new ownership structure could reshape competition in this category. The deal may lead to brand consolidation or a strategic repositioning within UAC’s snack portfolio.

With Super Bite and Gala now under one corporate umbrella, UAC is expected to explore synergies across production, distribution, and pricing. These efficiencies could help the company strengthen its leadership in the convenience snacks market.

Arsenal moved to the top of the Premier League with a confident 2-0 victory over West Ham at the Emirates Stadium, thanks to goals from Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka.

Rice opened the scoring in the first half, finishing smartly after Eberechi Eze’s shot was parried by Alphonse Areola. The former West Ham captain, who was jeered by the travelling fans, later left the pitch with back pain in the closing stages, while Martin Ødegaard was also forced off earlier in the game – the third consecutive home match in which the Arsenal captain has had to be withdrawn.

Despite the injury setbacks, Mikel Arteta’s side dominated throughout, with West Ham limited to long-range efforts. Saka doubled the lead from the penalty spot after Jurrien Timber was brought down by El Hadji Malick Diouf. The goal marked Saka’s 55th in the Premier League on his 200th appearance, continuing his excellent form. Arteta had named an ambitious midfield trio of Rice, Ødegaard, and Eze, part of a refreshed lineup following a £250m summer spend. Although that midfield was disrupted by injury, the Gunners remained in control, extending their strong start to the season, having lost just once so far.

The result puts Arsenal ahead of Liverpool at the top of the table, at least until the Reds face Chelsea later on Saturday.