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Margaret Obi, the Honourable Ms Justice Obi, has become the first African-born person appointed as a High Court Judge in England and Wales. Her elevation marks a milestone in a judicial system that has long faced calls for greater diversity.

She took up her appointment in the King’s Bench Division from October 3 2025, bringing 27 years of legal practice and seven years of judicial experience to one of the most senior courts in the United Kingdom.

Her path to the high bench has been defined by hard work, social commitment and a deep regard for justice. Born and raised in North London to Nigerian parents who arrived in Britain as international students in the 1960s, she attended local state schools before studying law at university. Her parents originally planned to return to Nigeria, but the outbreak of the Biafran war in 1967 persuaded them to remain in the United Kingdom, where they eventually settled and built a life. Obi often describes this family history as a quiet foundation of her public service values.

Her early legal journey was far from smooth. As a young graduate, she sent hundreds of applications for work experience without success. A chance opportunity in the accounts department of a law firm changed everything. It led to work in Crown Courts across London and the South East, then a training contract, and qualification as a solicitor in 1998. She became a partner just four years later.

Criminal defence shaped her early career and her principles. She has spoken passionately about the lawyers who inspired her, praising their belief that everyone, no matter their background or accusation, is entitled to a fair trial. That dedication to fairness has remained constant even as her work expanded into public international law and some of the most complex matters of human rights and war crimes.

Her portfolio career since 2014 has included advisory work for defence teams and international organisations, and several prominent regulatory roles. She has been Deputy Chair of the Financial Conduct Authority decisions committee, the first Service Police Complaints Commissioner, and a House of Lords standards commissioner. In 202,3, she served as an Acting Judge of the Supreme Court of the British Indian Ocean Territory and issued a notable ruling on asylum seekers in Diego Garcia that attracted national attention.

Within the judiciary, she has risen through key appointments as a Deputy High Court Judge, a Deputy Upper Tribunal Judge, and Chair of the Competition Appeal Tribunal. She is now one of only a handful of High Court judges who previously practised as solicitors. That background, she says, gives her a grounded perspective.

‘First, I am a solicitor judge which is relatively uncommon especially on the High Court bench,’ Obi once remarked.

‘What may appear to be worthless experience will turn out to be unbelievably valuable so take the opportunities that come your way. Hard work, determination and resilience will pay off but to be successful in your chosen career path you also need allies, mentors and sponsors as well as a little bit of luck.’

Warm congratulations have poured in from across the legal community. Oba Nsugbe, KC, head of Pump Court Chambers, described her as ‘naturally low key and entirely grounded; never once forgetting her Nigerian roots.’

Richard Atkinson, the outgoing president of the Law Society, praised her elevation as ‘a significant step towards a more inclusive judiciary’ at a time when Black judges make up just 1 per cent of the bench in England and Wales.

This appointment fills a vacancy created by recent elevations and confirmed retirements. It also delivers a profound message of possibility. Her story begins with immigrants who stayed out of necessity, a young woman told no again and again, and a lawyer driven by fairness. It now stands in one of the most respected courts in the country.

Obi arrives not only as a pioneering judge but also as an example to future generations of lawyers who can now see their own journeys reflected more clearly in the system they serve.

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, former president Olusegun Obasanjo and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu were among the prominent personalities that attended the service of songs and night of tribute for Christopher Kolade, a former Nigeria High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

At the well-attended event the leaders extolled the virtues of the deceased saying that he exhibited exceptional character while in public and private sector.

Kolade, who served as Managing Director and Chairman of Cadbury died on October 8 at the age of 92 years.

In his tribute to the late Kolade,Tinubu who was represented by his chief of staff, Femi Gbajabiamila extolled the virtues of the deceased, saying that he served the country with dexterity and integrity.

Tinubu described the late Kolade as a selfless and talented personality who served the country with distinction both in the private and public sector.

President Tinubu further stated that the late Kolade’s death was a great loss to Nigeria, stressing that he extended his legacies for those coming after him

He noted that he would be remembered for his exceptional character and through his foundation which he used to served humanity.

Tinubu prayed that God would grant his family the fultide to bear his death.

Similarly, in his tribute, former president Olusegun said the Kolade was a friend from way back.

He described the deceased as a very good friend.

He said, ‘Chris and I were friends for a very long time friends. I don’t have many of them but the ones that I have are very good friends.

‘Chris doesn’t haggled for anything. I had to beg him to accept to be Nigeria’s High Commissioner. After a lot of persuasion, he agreed.’

Obasanjo revealed that that the pleaded with the late Kolade before accepting to become Nigeria’s ambassador to the United Kingdom during his tenure.

Extolling the virtues of the late Kolade further, Obasanjo pointed out that the late Kolade was an upright man who would remembered for service to the country and his generation.

In his tribute, Okonjo Iweala, former Nigeria’s Finance Minister and Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) said that the deceased exhibited shining example while in public and private offices.

The former Finance Minister who spoke virtually stated that the late Kolade would be remembered as a man of courage who served with conviction and discipline.

She further prayed for God to grant his family the fortitude to bear his loss.

During his sermon earlier, Yinka Akinlade, Bishop of the Diocese of Ife described the late diplomat as ‘not a perfect man, but a good man.’

‘Today’s sermon is not about the dead but for us, the living,’ he told the congregation, urging self-reflection and spiritual renewal.

The bishop challenged attendees to examine what governs their lives and have the fer of God while on earth.

‘What are you allowing to take control of you? Is it the Spirit of God, or is it self and the world?’ he asked.

He emphasised the need to let the Holy Spirit guide one’s life, saying, ‘When you allow the Spirit of God to heal you, even if you die physically, you live on in the spirit’.

‘Jesus said, the one who believes in me that’s the Christian even when this flesh dies, he lives on.’

Circuits, Africa’s premier virtual cinema and leading indigenous motion picture streaming platform, has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with Mount Zion Film Productions and Sozo Films to revive one of Nigeria’s most legendary Christian film series, Agbara Nla, (The Power of God).

Originally created in the 1990s by Evangelist Mike Bamiloye, Agbara Nla remains one of the most influential and spiritually charged gospel dramas in Nigerian history.

With its compelling themes of divine power, faith, and spiritual warfare, the series defined a generation of Christian storytelling and established Mount Zion as a pioneer in Africa’s faith-based film movement.

Now, decades later, the story is set to return in a modern reimagining titled Agbara Nla: The Return, co-created by Damilola Mike-Bamiloye and Joshua Mike-Bamiloye.

The revival marks a powerful collaboration between Mount Zion, Sozo Films, and Circuits – ushering in a new era of digital, faith-driven storytelling for African audiences and beyond.

Circuits, a proudly Pan-African company with a global footprint, has grown into the continent’s leading virtual cinema and streaming platform for indigenous motion pictures.

Accessible via web, mobile apps, and smart TV platforms, Circuits connects audiences worldwide with a rich catalog of African entertainment from films and documentaries to comedy specials and talk shows.

Speaking on the partnership, Imade Bibowei-Osuobeni, Chief Operating Officer at Circuits, said: ‘At Circuits, we believe in the power of stories that inspire hope, faith, and transformation. Partnering with Mount Zion and Sozo Films to bring back Agbara Nla is deeply symbolic it bridges Africa’s gospel film heritage with today’s digital storytelling landscape.

‘Our mission is to amplify authentic African voices and ensure that values-driven content reaches audiences everywhere in the world.’

Echoing the excitement, Damilola Mike- Bamiloye Co-Creator of Agbara Nla, The Return, added, ‘Everyone in the ’90s knew about the great series written by my father, Mike Bamiloye. Now, it’s making a comeback. Are you ready for the return of Agbara Nla? Yes it’s coming!’

With Agbara Nla: The Return, Circuits continues to blaze the trail in African digital entertainment, blending faith, culture, and technology to deliver stories that transcend borders and generations.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), seven days to file his final written address in his ongoing trial for alleged terrorism, following his decision not to present a defence.

Justice James Omotosho approved Kanu’s request for a week to submit the written argument after dismissing his earlier no-case submission.

Kanu had previously indicated plans to call 23 witnesses, including Nigerians and foreigners, to testify in his defence.

In a motion filed on October 21 and signed by him, he divided the witnesses into two groups those he described as ‘ordinary but material’ and others as ‘vital and compellable’ to be summoned under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011.

He had also requested 90 days to complete his defence due to the number of witnesses.

However, on Thursday, Kanu dismissed his legal team led by Kanu Agabi, SAN, and opted to represent himself. The court adjourned the case to Friday for him to begin his defence.

When the matter resumed, Kanu told the court that his former lawyers had not yet handed over his case file, prompting another adjournment until Monday.

Expecting him to begin his defence, the court reserved several seats labelled ‘summoned witness.’

At Monday’s hearing, Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, appeared for the prosecution, while Kanu represented himself. Awomolo noted that the day was scheduled for the defendant to open his defence.

Kanu, standing in the dock, said he had reviewed the case file and found no valid charge against him, arguing that the prosecution had no legal basis for the case.

‘There is no case against me. If there is no case, it would be pointless to present a defence,’ he told the court.

Justice Omotosho explained that once the prosecution closes its case, a defendant may make a no-case submission, present a defence if overruled, or rest on the prosecution’s case and file a final written address.

He further clarified that if a defendant chooses not to present a defence, they may file a written address to which the prosecution will respond before judgment.

Kanu maintained that there was no valid charge against him. The judge reminded him that his earlier ruling held that Kanu had a case to answer.

Kanu then asked for a week to file a written submission asserting that no valid charge existed and that his continued detention and trial were unjustified.

He also requested release or bail.

Awomolo argued that Kanu’s decision not to present a defence meant the case was effectively concluded.

He noted that Kanu had pleaded not guilty, cross-examined witnesses, and participated in the proceedings, but now declined to proceed further.

Awomolo urged the court to adjourn for judgment, stating that Kanu’s argument amounted to a legal defence based on points of law.

Justice Omotosho observed that Kanu’s position challenged the validity of the charge, which still constituted a form of defence.

He directed Kanu to present his arguments in writing and advised him to seek guidance from legal professionals before proceeding.

‘I urge you to consult people knowledgeable in criminal law,’ the judge said. ‘You are educated, but you are not a lawyer. This is a criminal trial; please seek proper advice.’

The judge noted that after Kanu dismissed his lawyers, he considered assigning the case to the Legal Aid Council or a lawyer willing to act pro bono, but Kanu refused and insisted on representing himself.

Omotosho said he had a duty to explain the implications of that choice.

The court granted Kanu four working days from Monday to file his written address and serve it on the prosecution, which will then file its reply.

The matter was adjourned to November 4, 5, and 6 for the possible adoption of final addresses or for Kanu to open his defence if he changes his mind.

Before the ‘Make in India’ policy was introduced in 2014, India’s automobile sector had been grappling with high taxes and regulatory hurdles that were stifling its growth.

However, since the launch of the policy shift that integrates digital technologies with traditional manufacturing processes, India’s automobile industry has undergone a remarkable transformation.

Tata Motors, India’s largest automobile manufacturer, is a success story of the Make in India policy. The policy has been a game-changer for Tata Motors, enabling the company to tap into the growing demand for affordable and sustainable mobility solutions.

The surge in the automotive sector has not only expanded India’s position in the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) suppliers’ market but has also attracted a remarkable 57% rise in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) equity inflow within the manufacturing sector from 2014 to 2022.

These investments have paved the way for technological advancements, setting the stage for a potentially remarkable $1 trillion manufacturing sector by 2025-2026 and firmly establishing India as a leader in the Industry.

‘The Make in India policy has been a successful initiative,’ Abhishek Singh, India’s high commissioner to Nigeria, said at the 5th Adeola Odutola Lecture, in a panel discussion.

‘We have graduated to become an alternative manufacturing destination for the world,’ Singh said.

‘There has been a great revolution in the age of doing business and because of that, the capacity of Indian manufacturing firms has increased tremendously,’ he added.

He urged Nigeria to learn from the Make in India policy and replicate it with the Nigeria First policy, noting that boosting local production is vital for a country’s self-reliance.

Similarly, the Made in Puerto Rico (Hecho en Puerto Rico), launched in 2005, is another clear example of how a country can boost its local manufacturing through deliberate policies.

The initiative has been a huge success, driving economic growth and promoting local entrepreneurship. It has transformed the country into the fifth-largest pharmaceutical manufacturing hub globally, with the industry generating over $3 billion in taxes and accounting for 50% of exports.

The Island is home to over 80 pharmaceutical plants and the third-largest biotechnology manufacturer and the seventh-largest medical device exporter.

Its manufacturing accounted for a staggering 45.6% of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023, according to data from the World Bank.

From tax incentives to investment in infrastructure, Nigeria can learn from Puerto Rico and India’s manufacturing playbooks in its push for local manufacturing boost and import reduction.

Africa’s most populous nation launched the Nigeria First policy in May 2025 to prioritise local production and services, cut import dependence, stimulate economic growth, and create jobs.

The Nigeria First policy

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has stressed that effective legislation and implementation are crucial for the success of the ‘Nigeria First’ policy.

‘The Nigeria First agenda is not about closing our doors to the world; it is about opening the right doors to Nigerian-made solutions, Nigerian jobs and Nigerian ingenuity,’ Francis Meshioye, president of MAN, said at the 5th Adeola Odutola Lecture in Lagos.

‘Every industrialised country began its journey by nurturing local content and leveraging public and private procurement as an avenue for galvanising scale production and economic development. Nigeria must not go the opposite direction,’ Meshioye noted.

Critical issues such as FX volatility, high borrowing costs, inadequate infrastructure, policy inconsistency, and insecurity have left Nigeria’s manufacturing struggling for years and gasping for breath.

These problems have existed since the 80s and are remain many years later.

Puerto Rico and India’s industrial success have shown that building competitive manufacturing is the quickest way a country can climb the productivity ladder and raise living standards.

Successive governments in Nigeria have made several moves to boost local manufacturing without providing the enabling environment that drives industrialisation.

India and Puerto Rico’s industrial development is an example of how Nigeria can improve the economic lifestyle of its 200 million citizens, whose living standards have worsened in recent years by addressing critical issues stalling industrialisation.

Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), noted that growing the Nigerian manufacturing sector is a prerequisite for raising living standards and economic stability.

Nigeria’s manufacturing performance

Nigeria’s manufacturing real growth has remained sluggish in the last five years, averaging a growth rate of 1.95%.

The rebasing confirms that Nigeria’s economy is bigger but less productive and industrialised, according to MAN.

In 2024, according to MAN, 18,000 jobs were lost, with the North-East region accounting for 60% of businesses that shut down operations during the period.

Manufacturing exports accounted for only 5.5% of total exports, a figure that reflects the sector’s marginal integration into global and regional value chains.

‘The trend in the manufacturing sector is not the result of market failure. It is the outcome of an inclement macroeconomic environment, policy failure, regulatory tyranny, inconsistent implementation, weak enforcement and inadequate protection of the local industry,’ Meshioye said.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has called for a stronger partnership between the executive and legislative arms of government to reposition Nigeria’s automotive industry for global competitiveness.

The governor made the call on Monday while declaring open the retreat of the House of Representatives Committee on Industry and the National Automobile Design and Development Council (NADDC), held in Asaba. He was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo.

Speaking on the theme, ‘Building a Global Competitive Automotive Sector in Nigeria through Effective Executive-Legislative Partnership,’ Oborevwori, who was represented by Johnson Erijo, his Chief of Staff, commended the organisers for their foresight, saying the retreat was timely and strategic in the nation’s quest to diversify its economy and revive industrial production.

He noted that the automotive sector remains a key driver of economic growth, innovation, and job creation globally, citing examples from Europe and the United States where the industry supports millions of livelihoods and drives multiple allied sectors such as steelmaking, ICT, and petroleum refining.

‘The objective of this retreat resonates strongly with my administration’s vision of accelerating industrialisation in Delta State.

‘We believe that legislative backing for local manufacturing incentives, infrastructure funding, and skill development must align with the executive’s commitment to policy consistency, ease of doing business, and protection of local industries. Nigeria can and must build an automotive industry that is sustainable, globally competitive, and capable of empowering our youths while conserving foreign exchange.’

Oborevwori emphasised that subnational governments have a critical role to play in complementing federal efforts, particularly through investor-friendly reforms, simplified approvals, and policies that foster social cohesion.

According to him, under his MORE Agenda, Delta State is creating an enabling environment for industries to thrive through massive infrastructure renewal, public-private partnerships, decentralised power initiatives, and strengthened peace and security.

He highlighted Delta’s comparative advantages, including its abundant natural resources, coastal location, and four seaports, which provide immense logistical benefits for manufacturing and export-oriented industries.

‘Beyond our mineral wealth, Delta’s strategic geographic position linking the South-South, South-East, and South-West regions makes it a natural gateway for commerce and industry,’ he noted.

Oborevwori expressed optimism that the deliberations from the retreat would chart a new course for Nigeria’s automotive sector, pledging to give due consideration to its recommendations.

While declaring the retreat open, he urged participants to take advantage of their stay in Asaba to explore the city’s tourist attractions and enjoy the hospitality of its people.

‘Together, we can build a future where our automotive industry becomes a source of national pride, technological advancement, and sustainable prosperity,’ the governor concluded.

Earlier, in his opening remarks, Enitan Badru, chairman of the House Committee on Industry, underscored the importance of the retreat, which he said was aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s automotive sector through executive-legislative synergy.

Nigeria’s U17 women’s team, the Flamingos, will face a tough test against high-flying Italy in the Round of 16 at the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco on Tuesday.

The crucial clash will take place at Pitch 2 of the Football Academy Mohamed VI in Rabat, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.

Both teams are meeting for the first time at this stage of the competition. Italy arrived in Rabat in superb form, having topped Group A with three straight wins: a thrilling 4-3 victory over Brazil, a 3-1 win over hosts Morocco, and a 3-0 triumph over Costa Rica.

Nigeria, meanwhile, advanced as one of the best third-placed teams after a challenging group campaign.

The Flamingos suffered early setbacks, a 4-1 defeat to Canada and a 1-0 loss to France, before bouncing back strongly with a 4-0 win over Samoa to seal their spot in the knockout round.

Coach Bankole Olowookere’s side will aim to build on that momentum and secure a second consecutive quarter-final appearance, having reached the semifinals in India 2022.

However, the Italians, powered by Giulia Galli, the tournament’s top scorer with five goals, will be confident of extending their unbeaten run.

The high-stakes encounter kicks off at 8 p.m. (Nigerian time) and promises to deliver fireworks as both teams battle for a coveted place in the last eight.

FIFA has officially launched the second phase of ticket sales for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, putting over one million additional tickets up for sale as anticipation builds ahead of the historic tournament in North America.

The new phase, which began on Monday, will run until Friday, featuring a domestic exclusivity window for residents of the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Fans whose entries are selected in this draw will have priority access to single-match tickets for games hosted in their respective countries.

Massive Global Interest in World Cup Tickets

According to Heimo Schirgi, FIFA’s Chief Operating Officer for the 2026 World Cup, interest in tickets has been ‘massive’ both globally and within the host nations.

‘This second phase, with its host country exclusivity time slot, allows us to thank local fans while ensuring a fair opportunity for global supporters as well,’ Schirgi said.

Fans from the host nations have until Friday to enter the draw. Selected winners will receive a purchase window between November 12 and 15. A global sales round will then open from November 17, with further ticket phases expected in 2025.

Fans from 212 Countries Already in the Mix

So far, residents from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico lead in ticket purchases, followed by supporters from England, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Colombia, Argentina, and France. FIFA revealed that over one million tickets have already been sold to fans from 212 countries.

Record-Breaking Tournament Ahead

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams, 104 matches, and an estimated 7.1 million available seats across 16 venues.

Ticket prices start at $60 for select matches, while premium seats, including those for the U.S. opening match in Inglewood, California, are priced between $560 and $2,735.

In a first for the World Cup, FIFA will employ dynamic pricing, meaning ticket costs could rise or fall based on demand. Some resale listings for premium matches have already exceeded $60,000.

A New Era for Global Football

The tournament kicks off on June 12, 2026, marking the start of a new era in global football as the World Cup returns to North America for the first time since 1994.

Air Peace Limited has launched its maiden direct flight from Abuja to London Heathrow Airport, signaling a major advance for both the airline and the Nigerian aviation industry at large.

The check-in area at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja), was transformed into enthusiastic passengers, where travellers received special souvenirs and celebratory treats as part of the carrier’s inaugural into Heathrow.

In attendance were the airline’s management team, including Alice Onyema, Vice Chairman and Board of Directors Barr Emeka Ngige, Ekaette Monsuru; and Benedict Adeyileka.

Government officials underscored the significance of this milestone.

Festus Keyamo, the Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, highlighted the intensive diplomatic efforts that secured the Heathrow slot, reaffirming the Government’s support for indigenous carriers under the bilateral air services agreement.

Keyamo noted that ‘the connecting capital of the whole of Europe’ now lies within reach of Nigerian travellers, reflecting Nigeria’s firm stance on reciprocity and fair access.

Representing the Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Deputy Chief of Staff, extended congratulations to Air Peace on behalf of the Government and Nigerians, welcoming the increased competition, improved service and more accessible pricing to the UK market.

He lauded the airline’s patriotism and the President’s enabling policies for aviation.

In remarks delivered on behalf of the 10th National Assembly, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, said the milestone embodies the philosophy that when government clears the runway, the private sector takes flight.

He saluted airline Chairman Allen Onyema as a role model for entrepreneurship, integrity and service, noting that this route opens doors for many young Nigerians to dream bigger.

Allen Onyema, Air Peace chairman thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister and all stakeholders for their trust and support in enabling a major indigenous operator to claim a global gateway.

He emphasised that this achievement is grounded in local investment, private-sector capacity and a commitment to raising Nigeria’s footprint on the global aviation map.

He noted that Heathrow’s connectivity – beyond London to the Americas, Europe and the Caribbean – will now be accessible through the airline and that the Government must support, not stifle, indigenous aviation enterprise.

This landmark moment captures what Air Peace has steadily built upon. As West and Central Africa’s largest airline by fleet size, Air Peace launched its Lagos-London Gatwick route in March 2024 and over the last year has consolidated its international presence. The Abuja-Heathrow operation, effective 26 October 2025, positions the airline as the first Nigerian carrier to connect the nation’s capital directly to London’s premier airport.

For Nigeria’s aviation landscape, the flight launch is more than a route opening – it is a symbol of enhanced global connectivity, economic opportunity, competitive fares and a stronger domestic carrier ecosystem. With seamless ticketing from many Nigerian cities via Abuja to Heathrow, the airline promises broader access, improved service and greater value.

The Ondo State Government, on Monday, said it has uncovered what it described as a politically motivated attempt to discredit the ongoing O’Datiwa mass metering scheme, handled by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, through the circulation of false allegations by a faceless group.

A statement made available to journalists by the Information Officer of the Ministry, Debbie Funmilayo, dismissed the claims as ‘malicious, mischievous, and sponsored by desperate political actors ahead of the forthcoming general elections.’

According to the Ministry, the so-called Ondo Integrity Group (OIG) behind the allegations is ‘a fake and unregistered entity, assembled by disgruntled politicians to discredit a performing Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Johnson Alabi and tarnish the image of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s administration.’

‘Intelligence available to us confirms that certain political actors have sponsored online blogs and paid media platforms to circulate fabricated stories designed to create confusion and weaken public confidence,’ the statement said.

Recall that a group, Ondo Integrity Group (OIG), recently claimed that funds for the O’Datiwa Mass Metering Scheme were being diverted to private accounts.

But the state government said the O’Datiwa meter project remains one of the most transparent and people-centred energy reforms introduced by the administration of Governor Aiyedatiwa.

The statement said further, ‘It explained that all financial transactions under the scheme are handled through a designated state-controlled account domiciled in JAIZ Bank, as well as accredited online payment platforms approved by the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (OSERB).

‘The false claim that payments were directed into private accounts is mischievous and therefore misleading.

‘The government further clarified that the metering scheme allows private participation through Meter Asset Providers (MAPs), who operate independently in line with regulatory approval. As at the last count, about ten accredited MAPs are legitimately operating within the State.

‘Each MAP, being a private and commercial entity, has its independent financial accountability separate from the Ondo State Power Company Limited (OSPC).’

The statement, however, emphasised that the O’Datiwa meter is currently ‘the cheapest in Nigeria,’ with prices approved by OSERB to ensure fairness and transparency.