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Billionaire and Coscharis Group founder, Dr. Cosmas Maduka has condemned the trend of extravagant spending and flaunting of wealth at social events, criticising the phrase ‘money na water’ that justifies such actions.

In a viral video, he called this a ‘dead value system’ that promotes wastefulness and misguides youth.

Maduka stressed that true wealth, as shown by figures like Tony Elumelu and Femi Otedola, is marked by humility, not ostentatious displays.

‘Tell me any wealthy man that has talked about money na water. I’ve never heard Tony Elumelu say money na water. I’ve never heard Femi Otedola say money na water and I’ve never said money na water,’ Maduka said.

He said he exits events where such behavior occurs, decrying it as a harmful cultural shift.

‘When I come to a function and you start those madness, start throwing money up on people, I behave like I’m going to the toilet and you will not see me again because these are dead value system, bad culture that we have learned and it became invoked in this state,’ he added.

Urging Nigerians to reject this glorification of excess, Maduka warned it negatively influences the younger generation and called for such acts to be resented, not celebrated.

‘When we are growing up, rich people don’t make noise. All these people that make noise, they never see money. Tweet it to people and say that I said so,: he said.

‘If you make money, it makes you humble, it makes you keep quiet. We have embraced very deadly bad culture and we are using it to train our children. Money na water, those things should stop.

‘You shouldn’t clap hands for people like that, you should resent it,’he added.

Alhaji Ahmed Bello Isa, the biological father of the late Bilyaminu Bello, who was murdered by his wife, Maryam Sanda, in 2017, has revealed how he appealed to late President Muhammad Buhari and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to pardon his daughter-in-law.

He made the revelations in a joint interview conducted in Abuja with Alhaji Garba Sanda, the father of Maryam.

In an unexpected turn of events, which underscores an exceptional demonstration of forgiveness and large-heartedness, he expressed his joy over the pardon of his daughter-in-law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He recalled how he had been on a quiet quest to secure freedom for Maryam, who had been on death row since her sentencing for the murder of her husband.

He said his motivation was purely humanitarian, and that he wanted his daughter-in-law released so she could look after her two young children, and that executing her would not bring back his son.

He explained that, as a devout Muslim, he had long accepted the tragic incident, which has been a subject of public discussion, choosing to forgive and leave judgment to Allah.

It has been revealed that Alhaji Ahmed Bello Isa had previously written to both the then Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), and the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command in 2019, to seek clemency for Maryam Sanda.

Although those early appeals went unanswered, the recent pardon granted by President Tinubu under the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy finally brought his request to fruition.

He made the first plea for Sanda to be set free even before her conviction in January 2020.

He recalled writing to the Commissioner of Police on 17th January 2019, stating that he had forgiven whoever was responsible for his son’s death and appealing that the charge be withdrawn ‘so that my son’s soul could rest in peace according to Islamic injunction.’

He also swore an affidavit at the FCT High Court on 21st June 2019, reaffirming his forgiveness and pleading that the prosecution be withdrawn.

Also in his letter dated 16th December 2024, titled ‘Request for Exercise of Prerogative of Mercy for My Daughter-in-Law, Maryam Sanda Sentenced to Death by Hanging,’ Alhaji Bello Isa wrote:

‘There is nothing more painful than for someone to lose a son in the way I lost my son, Bilyaminu. However, what gives me some measure of comfort is that he left behind two beautiful children, my granddaughter, Sa’adatu Bilyaminu, and my grandson, Bilyaminu Bilyaminu, named after his father.

‘I have forgiven Maryam, who was found guilty of killing my son. Before the end of the trial, I made every effort to let both the Police and the Court know that I did not want her prosecuted, because I did not want a situation where my grandchildren, who had lost their father so tragically, would also lose their mother.’

In his words, ‘I have taken it as the will of Almighty Allah, what happened to my son, and I do not blame Maryam for it. However, now that she has been sentenced to death, I beg in the name of Almighty Allah for mercy. If she is killed, who will take care of her two children? They will grow up as orphans, without a father or a mother’s love.’

The grieving father emphasised that since the 2020 judgment, the children had only been able to see and bond with their mother during occasional visits to the Suleja Correctional Facility, a situation he described as ‘heartbreaking for innocent children.’

Responding to reports that some family members objected to his forgiveness and petition for clemency, Alhaji Bello Isa said he understood that people would hold different opinions on such a sensitive matter, but as both a father and a Muslim, he believes this was the best course of action for peace and humanity.

‘Vengeance cannot bring back my son,’ he said quietly. ‘But forgiveness can bring peace to my family, to her family, and to the children who must not suffer any longer.’

Also speaking, Alhaji Garba Sanda, father of Maryam, expressed deep gratitude to Alhaji Bello and his entire family for their rare act of compassion, describing it as ‘a true reflection of faith and forgiveness.’

He said, ‘Words cannot describe our appreciation to the Bello family for this gesture of mercy and reconciliation. We continue to pray that something positive may yet emerge from this regrettable tragedy, that our families may heal, and that these children will grow up knowing love from both sides of their family.’

The two families stated that they have chosen forgiveness, compassion, and faith over pain and have committed to working together to raise the children in an atmosphere of peace and love.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative, Ms. Elsie Atafuah, has announced that Nigeria and the UNDP have joined forces to launch a transformative initiative aimed at achieving the country’s Net Zero emissions target by 2060 and conserving 30 percent of its land and marine ecosystems by 2030.

Atafuah, represented by Chidimma Blessed, made the disclosure in Abuja at the launch of the Net Zero Nature Positive (NZNP) Project, a bold global initiative funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), UNDP, and other national and international stakeholders.

She said the project represents more than a programme but a movement to accelerate climate action, nature restoration, and sustainable development in Nigeria.

‘Nigeria and the UNDP are united in their commitment to climate action and nature restoration. Climate change is already disrupting lives and livelihoods, biodiversity loss is accelerating, and vulnerable communities-especially in the Niger Delta-are bearing the heaviest burdens,’ she said.

According to Atafuah, the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s national agenda on climate change mitigation and adaptation, advancing the country’s Energy Transition Plan and revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

She assured that the project would work closely with the governments of Rivers and Bayelsa states to integrate net-zero and nature-positive strategies into their development plans, while empowering women’s cooperatives and youth networks to take leadership roles in the green transition.

Also speaking, the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics and GEF Focal Point at the Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Aneke Agnes Nkechi, described the launch as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward a Net Zero and Nature Positive future.

She said the initiative would promote ecosystem restoration, expand access to clean energy, de-risk sustainable investments, and support the country’s commitments to achieving its NDCs and nature-positive goals by 2030.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and former Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Joy Uche Angela Ogwu, who died at the age of 79.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President described the late diplomat as a ‘trailblazer who rose to the highest level of her vocation through excellence and hard work.’

Ambassador Ogwu, who served as Nigeria’s envoy to the United Nations from May 2008 to May 2017, was a distinguished scholar and seasoned diplomat.

She also served as Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), where she played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s foreign policy and advancing international relations scholarship.

A two-time President of the UN Security Council-first in July 2010 and later in October 2011-Ambassador Ogwu was widely respected for her clarity of purpose, advocacy for disarmament, and commitment to global peace, international security, and the advancement of women’s rights.

President Tinubu praised her legacy of service and dedication, noting that she ‘projected Nigeria’s voice with clarity and purpose and worked tirelessly for the good of humanity.’

The President extended his condolences to Ambassador Ogwu’s family, including her five children, grandchildren, siblings, as well as members of the diplomatic and academic communities mourning her loss.

He prayed for the repose of her soul and for divine comfort for all who grieve the passing of the accomplished diplomat.

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has said Shell Nigeria has announced a Final Investment Decision (FID) worth $2 billion for a new offshore project in Nigeria’s HI Field, located in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 144, approximately 50 kilometres offshore.

This was contained in a press statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Nneamaka Okafor, which described the FID as a welcome development.

According to the statement, ‘The federal government welcomes the $2 billion final investment decision by Shell for a new offshore project.

‘The Federal Government is pleased with the announcement by Shell Nigeria of a Final Investment Decision (FID) worth $2 billion for a new offshore project in Nigeria’s HI Field, located in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 144, approximately 50 kilometers offshore.’

The significant investment, communicated to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, by the Country Chair of Shell Nigeria, Mr. Marno de Jong, represents another major milestone in the nation’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its energy sector and boost production.

The FID was taken out between Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) and Sunlink Energies Resources Limited, marking a strong demonstration of confidence in Nigeria’s oil and gas investment climate and the government’s commitment to driving sustainable energy growth.

Lokpobiri stated that this development is a direct outcome of the bold reforms and transformative policies implemented by the Federal Government, which continue to enhance investor confidence and attract substantial capital inflows into Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

‘This $2 billion investment reaffirms Nigeria’s position as a preferred destination for energy investment and highlights the value of collaboration between government and industry,’ the Minister noted. ‘We anticipate that more Final Investment Decisions from other investors will follow in the coming months as confidence in our sector continues to grow.’

The federal government remains committed to fostering an enabling environment for investment and ensuring that the benefits of such strategic partnerships translate into increased national prosperity, job creation, and sustainable energy development.

Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed November 17 for judgment the sexual harassment case against the suspended Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Calabar (UNICAL), Professor Cyril Ndifon.

Justice James Omotosho fixed the date at Tuesday’s proceedings after lawyers to parties made their final submissions and adopted their final written addresses.

Ndifon is being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) along with his former lawyer, Sunny Anyanwu on a four-count amended charge.

The two are accused of alleged sexual harassment, cybercrime and attempt to pervert the course of justice.

The prosecution alleged that Ndifon, while serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Law at UNICAL, asked the female Diploma student (whose identity was shield) to send him ‘pornographic, indecent and obscene photographs of herself’ through WhatsApp chats.

It later amended the charge and added Anyanwu as the second defendant upon an allegation that he called the prosecution’s star witness on her mobile phone during the pendency of the charge against Ndifon to threaten her.

The prosecution, represented by Osuobeni Akponimisingha, closed its case on February 14, 2024 after calling four witnesses, following which the defence Fanta made a no-case submission, which the court overruled in a ruling delivered on March 6, 2024.

Justice Omotosho, in the ruling, held that the prosecution was able to establish a prima facie case against the two defendants to require them to enter a defence.

The judge then, ordered Ndifon and Anyanwu to enter their defence, which they later did by calling some witnesses.

The House of Representatives has resolved to intervene in the ongoing labour dispute between the federal government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to facilitate a mutually acceptable and lasting resolution.

This followed a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, which urged both parties to exercise restraint, embrace dialogue, and prioritise the interests of students and national development above all other considerations.

Speaker Abbas Tajudeen is to lead an ad-hoc committee to interface between the Federal Government and ASUU. The House also called for the establishment of a permanent joint consultative platform between the government and recognized university unions to ensure continuous engagement and prevent future strikes.

In his motion, Whingan expressed concern over ASUU’s declaration of a two-week warning strike over unresolved issues, including revitalization funding, earned academic allowances, salary structure, and university autonomy.

He warned that though the strike was described as a warning, such industrial actions have historically escalated into prolonged shutdowns that disrupt academic calendars, derail research, and heighten frustration among students, parents, and lecturers.

Whingan emphasised that the university system is vital to national development, innovation, and human-capital growth, adding that disruptions weaken Nigeria’s economic competitiveness, scientific advancement, and youth productivity.

Citing Section 18 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), he said education remains a fundamental driver of social and technological progress, stressing that both the federal government and university unions share a responsibility to safeguard its continuity and quality.

He noted that repeated strikes have led to student dropouts, brain drain, and loss of public confidence in the tertiary education system, thereby threatening national stability and long-term development goals.

Whingan urged both sides to return to the dialogue table anchored on mutual respect, transparency, and good faith, with the National Assembly serving as a neutral facilitator in the interest of students and the nation.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, on the occasion of his birthday anniversary, describing him as a courageous and reform-minded public servant committed to cleansing Nigeria of corruption and economic crimes.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President extolled Olukoyede’s professionalism and dedication to strengthening the EFCC’s institutional mission of combating economic and financial crimes.

President Tinubu noted that since his appointment, Olukoyede has demonstrated uncommon zeal and integrity in implementing key reforms aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance.

He particularly commended the EFCC boss for establishing the special task force on currency offences, which targets the abuse of the naira and the dollarisation of the economy, as well as for introducing a strategic framework to curb cybercrimes and economic sabotage.

According to the President, these initiatives have reinforced public confidence in the EFCC and advanced the administration’s broader commitment to economic stability and institutional renewal under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

While celebrating the anti-graft chief’s achievements, President Tinubu prayed for continued divine guidance, strength, and wisdom for Mr. Olukoyede as he leads the nation’s foremost anti-corruption agency.

‘President Tinubu prays that almighty God will guard and guide the EFCC chairman and bless his determination to free Nigeria from the economic ills that have tied us down for ages’, the statement said.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has officially emerged as the consensus candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the June 20, 2026, governorship election in the state.

This development followed the voluntary withdrawal of the only other aspirant, Hon. Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo, from the party’s primary election earlier scheduled for October 27, 2025.

In a letter jointly signed by the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, and the National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, the party formally notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of its decision to adopt Oyebanji as the consensus candidate.

Dated October 13, 2025, and received the same day by INEC, the letter titled ‘Re: 2025 Ekiti State Governorship Election: Notification of Change of Mode for Primary Election and Details of Nomination of Consensus Candidate’ confirmed the party’s switch from the direct primary mode to the consensus arrangement.

The two-page correspondence, sighted by our reporter, referenced earlier communications with INEC dated July 30, August 6, and October 9, 2025, indicating the party’s compliance with all relevant provisions of the Electoral Act and APC Constitution regarding the consensus process.

‘Sequel to the above-quoted correspondence, we wish to formally inform the independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of recent developments relating to the conduct of the Party’s Governorship Primary Election in Exit State.

‘Two aspirants were cleared to contest the primary election scheduled to be held on 27th October 2025 through the Direct Primary mode. The cleared aspirants are Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and (2) Mrs. Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo.

‘The party has, however, received a letter from Mrs Atinuke Oluremi Omolayo, one of the two cleared aspirants, conveying her voluntary decision to withdraw from the contest.

‘In her letter, Mrs. Omolayo expressed her endorsement of Governor Biodun Abeyomi Oyebanji as the consensus Candidate and affirmed her support for any consensus arrangement adopted by the party in nominating as flag bearer, in accordance with the Electoral Act 2022 and the constitution of the All Progressives Congress (APC). A copy of the letter is attached herewith.

The party further stated that the development leaves Governor Oyebanji as the sole aspirant and consensus candidate for the Governorship Primary Election.

‘Consequently, in view of Mrs. Omolayo’s voluntary withdrawal and the endorsement of a consensus arrangement, the party is compelled by law, with Section 84 (11) of the Electoral Act, to change the mode of the Primary Election from Direct Primary to Consensus.

‘By virtue of Section 84(9) and (11) of the Electoral Act 2022, where a political party adopts a consensus candidate, it is required to:

(I) Obtain the written consent of a cleared aspirant for the position, signifying their voluntary withdrawal and endorsement of the consensus candidate, and

(ii) Conduct a nomination congress at the designated venue to ratify the choice of the consensus candidate.

‘In compliance with the above provisions, find attached the written consent of the only other cleared aspirant, signifying her voluntary withdrawal and endorsement of Governor Oyebanyi as the consensus candidate.’

The party then said that in pursuant to Section 84(11) of the Electoral Act, the nomination congress has been scheduled to hold by 10 am on Monday, 27th October 2026, at Ekiti State Pavilion, New Iyin Road, Ado Ekiti, to ratify the only remaining cleared aspirant.

The party in the letter also announced an amended schedule of activities and a timetable for ratification of the consensus candidate and invited the electoral body to monitor the relevant activities as required by law.

Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday inaugurated the newly rehabilitated Otte/Budo-Egba Waterworks in Asa local government to deepen access to clean and safe water in the areas.

The Governor said the completion of the 500,000 litre tank reflects the vision of his administration to modernise water infrastructure across the state.

‘This is not just about giving clean water to our people. The project brings comfort and renewed confidence in the power of our government to deliver,’ the Governor said at the commissioning ceremony in Otte town.

‘As an administration, we recognised that access to safe and reliable water supply must be a priority. That is why we launched a comprehensive plan to rehabilitate and modernise water infrastructure across the state. The story of Otte and its environs today is a reflection of that vision.

‘Access to clean water improves public health by reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases. It supports education, as children no longer have to spend hours fetching water instead of being in school.’

The Governor was represented by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Alhaji AbdulRazaq Jiddah.

AbdulRazaq commended the contractors who handled the project for their professionalism, and the people of Otte and its environs for their patience, cooperation, and belief in the vision of this government.

He also lauded the development partners and agencies for their support that culminated in this success.

The Governor listed other waterworks that are currently being rehabilitated in the state to include Omu-Aran Waterworks, Oyun Waterworks, and Sobi Waterworks.

He said access to clean water is a fundamental right of every Kwaran, and pledged to continue to invest in the sector.

Among the dignitaries at the event were the Chairman Kwara House of Assembly Committee on Water Resources, Hon. Yunus Oniboki; Commissioner for Water Resources Hon. Usman Yunusa Lade; Chairman, Asa LG, Alhaji Shehu Yayaha Amasa; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religion (Islam), Alhaji Ibrahim Danmeigoro; Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board SUBEB, Prof Shehu Raheem Adaramaja; Chairman Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, Abdullateef Gidado Alakawa; APC Chieftain Abdulrahman Giwa; former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Salman Jawondo (SAN); and Daudu Afon, Alhaji Anafi Balogun.

Oniboki said the project will go a long way in addressing water scarcity in the benefitting communities, thanking the Governor for what he described as a great gesture.

Lade urged the people of Otte and its adjoining communities to take ownership of the facility by guiding against vandalisation of any kind.

He said the government has invested millions of naira to enhance water accessibility and improve sanitation across the state.

Chairman of Asa LGA, Alhaji Amasa, thanked the Governor for providing the communities with what he called a beneficial and gigantic project.

‘I know the hardship my people faced in search of water during the dry season. Honestly, their apprehension has been addressed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. We are very happy and grateful,’ he said.

Adaramaja and Alakawa, said no part of the state has not been impacted by the administration through its various developmental projects, declaring the unalloyed support of people of Asa LG to the state government.

Adaramaja recalled the communities’ ordeal of lacking water supply during the previous governments and thanked Governor AbdulRazaq for coming to their rescue, noting that the water plant will impact many lives.

He requested the government to help resuscitate the Otte market, among other infrastructure.