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Anthony Joshua was called out by two heavyweight rivals on the same night as he closes in on his return to the ring.

AJ is back training having been out since his September 2024 knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley.

His promoter Eddie Hearn revealed their plans are to have at least one lower-level comeback fight before eyeing a British blockbuster with Tyson Fury.

And Arslanbek Makhmudov and Guido Vianello are two names to have put themselves in the mix.

Makhmudov beat Dave Allen in Sheffield and beforehand claimed Joshua promised him the bout if he won.

And Makhmudov, 36, said after victory: ‘Anthony Joshua, where are you? I’m coming for you.

‘I’ve already spoken with him and he gave me his word that he will fight me next year. I’m ready.’

Camille Estephan, Makhmudov’s promoter told Sky Sports: ‘Definitely I think it would be a great fight.

‘Arslanbek has shown against Allen that he has more than just nuclear power.

‘The question remains though, can AJ handle Makhmudov’s power? I think a huge number of fans would like to find out.’

Later that night, Italian Vianello, 31, beat Alexis Barriere in Philadelphia and said: ‘Now I want a big name.

‘You want to know what big name I want? Anthony Joshua. I want Anthony Joshua. I want him in front of me.

‘Let’s fight in Rome, in The Coliseum, in London – whatever you want. But give me a big name, please. I’m 31, I don’t have extra time, I want to win now.’

Joshua, 35, is back training for his next fight, likely to happen in February, with Fury, 37, targeted for later in 2026.

Hearn told Sky: ‘The plan’s very important.

‘The most important thing is making sure he’s 110 per cent confident and ready to beat Tyson Fury.

‘We need to be able to plan that for AJ to make sure that he’s in the best place possible for what will be the biggest moment of his career, I believe.

‘If he fights this year, that will be a pure run out. It won’t be a top 15 guy.

‘He’s either going to have those two fights before Tyson Fury, if that can get made, or he’s going to have the one fight in February.

‘We haven’t really decided yet but he’s keen to get active.’

Dr. Sijuola Atanda-Lawal is a UK-trained Nigerian legal scholar specialising in international economic and investment law. She holds a Doctorate in Law from the University of London and has contributed to global conversations on investment, international arbitration, governance, trade, and compliance. Her research and policy work focus on aligning international legal frameworks with local realities, helping institutions strengthen compliance systems that promote accountability and economic impact. She shares insights from her publications on global compliance, investment law, and women’s empowerment with Deputy News Editor JOSEPH JIBUEZE, highlighting pathways for stronger accountability and social impact.

What does international legal compliance mean for organisations today?

International legal compliance goes beyond following local laws; it’s about ensuring that an organisation respects and aligns with the rules, standards, and regulations that apply when it interacts across borders. In today’s interconnected economy, this can include trade and customs regulations, cross-border taxation, intellectual property rights, anti-bribery legislation, human rights conventions, and environmental agreements. For example, a technology company based in Africa but offering services in Europe must comply with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), even though it’s not headquartered there. Compliance, therefore, is not just about ‘keeping out of trouble’ but about operating responsibly and transparently in a world where national boundaries matter less for commerce and governance.

Why has global compliance become more important?

Global compliance has become critical because globalisation has made the world smaller, and legal systems are more intertwined. A single business decision in one country can trigger legal implications in another. For example, a manufacturer in Asia exporting goods to Europe must meet EU product standards or risk being banned from the market. Similarly, a U.S. company dealing with partners abroad must ensure it does not violate sanctions or anti-bribery laws such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. In short, compliance is not optional; it’s part of the licence to operate globally. It protects businesses from legal disputes, but it also builds confidence with investors, governments, and consumers who increasingly expect ethical conduct.

What are some key areas of international compliance?

The main areas include:

Trade and Customs: Businesses must comply with tariffs, import-export rules, and World Trade Organisation (WTO) agreements. A small violation here can mean goods being seized at borders or companies being fined.

Anti-Corruption and Anti-Bribery: International standards such as the UK Bribery Act and the U.S. FCPA are enforced worldwide. Even if a bribe occurs outside the U.S., an American company could still be prosecuted.

Data Protection and Privacy: Regulations like the GDPR in Europe and the CCPA in California have a global reach. Companies processing international customer data must ensure transparency, consent, and security.

Human Rights and Labour Standards: Multinational companies are expected to adhere to International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and no child labour.

Environmental Compliance: From the Paris Agreement on climate change to specific country-level environmental laws, businesses are held accountable for sustainable practices.

These areas show that compliance is no longer limited to legal paperwork; it extends to ethics, responsibility, and sustainability on a global stage.

What risks do organisations face if they fail in international compliance?

The risks are severe. Financially, non-compliance can result in massive fines. For instance, tech companies like Meta and Google have been fined billions under GDPR rules for mishandling user data. Reputationally, non-compliance can damage consumer trust; once a brand is seen as unethical, regaining credibility is extremely difficult. Operationally, governments may restrict or ban companies from trading in their markets, which can be devastating for global supply chains. A company that ignores anti-money laundering regulations may be cut off from international banks, making it nearly impossible to do business. Ultimately, non-compliance can cripple even the largest organisations.

How can multinational companies manage compliance across different countries?

The most effective approach is to create a robust global compliance framework that respects both international standards and local regulations. Many companies appoint Chief Compliance Officers or compliance teams who monitor changes in law across multiple jurisdictions. Technology plays a big role in compliance software now tracks updates to laws and regulations worldwide. Regular employee training is also vital, because something legal in one country may be criminal in another. For example, facilitating ‘grease payments’ may be tolerated in some regions but is strictly prohibited under international anti-bribery laws. Therefore, companies must foster a compliance culture that goes beyond ticking boxes and instead emphasises integrity in every decision.

Do small or medium businesses need to worry about international compliance?

Yes, and increasingly so. In the past, only multinational corporations faced international compliance issues. But today, even small businesses that sell products online may ship goods globally or process international payments. If you run a Nigerian e-commerce store selling to European customers, GDPR applies to you, regardless of your size. Likewise, small manufacturers exporting goods must meet international quality and safety standards. Ignoring compliance early on can block growth, as businesses will find it harder to expand internationally if they haven’t laid the right foundations.

How do international organisations support compliance?

Several global bodies set frameworks and monitor compliance. For instance, the United Nations (UN) develops conventions on human rights and climate action. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) set anti-bribery guidelines. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) establishes global anti-money laundering standards.

And the International Labour Organisation (ILO) protects labour rights. While these organisations don’t replace national laws, they create global standards that businesses can align with to gain credibility and minimise risks. Many investors and international partners prefer working with companies that demonstrate adherence to such standards.

What advice would you give to organisations aiming for international compliance?

The best advice is to treat compliance as an investment, not a burden. Start by mapping out where your business operates and which international laws apply. Develop compliance policies that cover data privacy, anti-corruption, labour rights, and sustainability. Train your employees so they understand their role in compliance. And finally, use compliance as a strength: companies that openly embrace compliance often win more partnerships, contracts, and customer loyalty because they are seen as trustworthy. In an era where reputations cross borders as quickly as goods and data, compliance is the backbone of sustainable international growth.

How is technology shaping the future of international compliance?

Technology is transforming compliance from a manual, paperwork-heavy process into a dynamic, real-time monitoring system. Artificial intelligence and machine learning can scan vast amounts of regulatory data, flagging risks or changes in international laws almost instantly. Blockchain technology is being used to increase transparency in supply chains, making it easier to trace goods and prove ethical sourcing. Automated reporting systems also reduce human error, while cloud-based platforms make compliance documents accessible across borders. In the future, technology will make compliance not only more efficient but also more predictive, helping organisations anticipate risks before they happen.

Former national team captain Sunday Oliseh has given fresh insights on the shocking disbandment of the Super Eagles ahead of the Korea/Japan 2002 FIFA World Cup.

The decision which led his to his omission along with Finidi George, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Victor Agali, Tijani Babangida and several other key players from the Mundial-bound team despite pivotal roles in securing team’s qualification.

Oliseh, who spoke in a recent interview on Bet9ja Home Turf, revealed that the players were expelled after a dispute with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over the $1 million qualification grant from FIFA.

According to him, the team, alongside late coaches Shuaibu Amodu, Stephen Keshi, and Joe Erico, had worked tirelessly to ensure Nigeria’s qualification – overturning a five-point deficit behind Liberia to book the country’s place at the Mundial.

However, the midfielder disclosed that immediately after qualification was secured, the NFF reneged on a prior agreement regarding the sharing of the FIFA funds.

‘FIFA gave Nigeria $1M for qualifying for the World Cup and we agreed with the NFF to share it 50-50, with $500,000 going to the players who qualified Nigeria for the World Cup and the NFF keeping the remaining half. But the next thing the NFF did was to disband the team and kept the money,’ Oliseh revealed.

The former Juventus and Borussia Dortmund star said the sudden dissolution of the team – including the technical crew – was not only unfair but also demoralising for players who had sacrificed so much for the country.

Nigeria eventually went to the 2002 World Cup with an almost entirely new squad, led by a new technical team, but failed to make it past the group stage – a disappointing campaign many observers still traced back to the controversial disbandment.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s son, Seyi Tinubu, has launched his Drug Bank Initiative at the National Hospital in Abuja.

The initiative brings pharmaceutical support to the hospital’s Pediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynecology departments.

It aims to significantly contribute to combating maternal and child mortality in Nigeria.

Since its inception in August 2024, the Seyi Tinubu Drug Bank Initiative has been rolled out in six tertiary hospitals across the country with plans to expand to more institutions, including secondary and primary health care facilities in the coming months.

At the launch of the initiative at the National Hospital yesterday, which coincided with Seyi’s birthday, the celebrant donated drugs valued at millions of naira.

The donation was meant to provide free essential medicines to indigent expectant mothers and children.

The initiative, according to Seyi Tinubu, is part of a broader nationwide maternal and child health intervention designed to complement the Federal Government’s efforts to reduce Nigeria’s alarming rates of maternal and infant mortality.

Represented by Ojeje Amin Onimisi, the birthday boy explained that the initiative was borne out of his compassion for vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, and his desire to see Nigeria’s global maternal and child health indicators improve significantly.

‘This project is aimed at complementing the government’s efforts to ensure that Nigeria’s maternal and child mortality rates drop significantly. Our goal is to make sure no woman or child dies due to lack of access to basic medicines,’ he said.

The National Coordinator of the Seyi Tinubu Maternal and Child Healthcare Intervention Projects, Dr. Ayodele Cole Benson, explained that 60 tertiary hospitals have been identified for the initiative.

‘This programme aims to establish drug banks in key hospital units, provide free medicines and deliver materials to indigent patients.

‘We are also working on deploying Point-of-Care Ultrasound equipment to labour wards and antenatal clinics, supported by training to ensure effective usage,’ Dr. Benson announced.

He added that the selection of the National Hospital Abuja as an early beneficiary was due to its outstanding performance and commitment to quality care, aligning with the initiative’s broader vision to meet and potentially surpass Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) on maternal and child health by 2030.

Receiving the donation on behalf of the hospital, Dr. Isiaka Olayinka Lawal, who represented the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof. Muhammad Mahmud, expressed appreciation for the gesture and assured that the hospital would ensure the proper implementation of the programme to achieve its intended impact.

‘We are grateful for this timely intervention and pledge to ensure that the drug bank serves the intended beneficiaries, our mothers and children in need,’ Dr. Lawal said.

The highlight of the launch was the award of the Seyi Tinubu Residency Training Scholarship of ?1 million to an outstanding senior registrar at the hospital, Dr. Fatima Ibrahim.

The award, like the previous ones, was meant to support her registration for her final residency examinations in acknowledgement of her hard work and dedication to duty.

Also, a security expert and peace advocate, Otunba Adejare Rewane Adegbenro, has congratulated Seyi Tinubu on his 40th birthday.

Adegbenro described the President’s son as a visionary leader and a shining example of responsibility and innovation among Nigeria’s younger generation.

In a goodwill message yesterday, the peace advocate praised Seyi Tinubu for distinguishing himself through entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and youth empowerment initiatives, noting that he has carved an identity beyond being the son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

‘At 40, Seyi Tinubu has demonstrated maturity, compassion and leadership. He represents a new generation of Nigerians who are global in mindset yet deeply connected to national progress,’ Adegbenro said.

He prayed for Seyi’s continued success, wisdom, and good health, expressing confidence that the next phase of his life would bring even greater influence and contributions to society.

Aare Egbe-Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, Olooye Adegboyega Adegoke, has lauded Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for creating Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

He said the decision showed the governor was a lover of cultural development.

He noted that if the annual World Twins Festival at Igbo-Ora was sustained and coordinated to attract foreign tourists, it would boost the economy of not only Ibarapa land, but also the entire Oyo State.

Adegoke, the governorship hopeful on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made this known while delivering a speech as the chairman of this year’s edition of World Twins Festival.

He said: ”If we all come together to celebrate this festival every year and we attract tourists from other countries such as Caribbean nations, the Latin America, it will help catapult the economy of Ibarapa land.’

And you know Ibarapa is a sub-set of Oyo State. Therefore, if the economy of Ibarapa improves, the economy of Oyo State will improve.

‘If this festival attracts tourists from overseas, definitely it will attract development. It will boost the economy of Ibarapa land because people will invest in hotel and tourism. People will invest in transportation, government will invest in security, electricity and others.

‘I want to be part of the people that will bring development to this place and encourage development in Oyo State. By next year, I will be here and by then I would have picked the governorship ticket and by 2027, by God’s grace, I will be governor of Oyo State and we will do it better.’

Adegoke donated N20 million for the development of the festival and N10 million each to the people of Ibarapa Central, Ibarapa North and Ibarapa East.

The Olu of Igbo-Ora, Oba Jimoh Titiloye, said it was the collective aspiration of all that Igbo-Ora Twins Festival would continue to grow, ‘not only as a global celebration of our uniqueness, but also as a platform for youth development, peace-building and empowerment. Together let us uphold the value, tradition and spirit that make Igbo-Ora great, while praying for a better future for generations yet unborn.

‘We must nurture in our youths, the spirit of cooperation, discipline, hard work, dignity of labour and patriotism.”

He said the festival must provide a platform to re-orientate the minds of youths towards positive values and purposeful living, adding: ‘It is through this spirit that we must empower our youths towards access to quality education, vocational training, agriculture and entrepreneurship.

‘Our young people can become productive citizens, who will uplift Igbo-Ora and lift Oyo State in future. We must make Igbo-Ora a hub of youth empowerment.’

Noella Foundation, co-founded by Mr. Seyi Tinubu, has announced initiatives to improve access to healthcare, education, and entrepreneurship opportunities in celebration of Seyi’s 40th birthday.

A statement signed by Programme Manager, Nnanna Kalu, said the foundation, supported by friends, conceived the projects to ‘turn celebration into service and goodwill into progress.’

The initiatives include free health insurance coverage for over 1,000 Nigerians-particularly expectant mothers and individuals living with sickle cell disorder-donations of medication to sickle cell patients through partnerships with Crimson Bow and Genotype Foundation, and distribution of 200 laptops to public secondary schools.

A representative of Noella Foundation said the initiatives reflect values Seyi Tinubu represents.

‘Marking Seyi Tinubu’s 40th birthday through projects that empower communities reflects his values-empathy, service, and shared responsibility,’ he said.

In the health sector, the foundation seeks to enhance access to affordable healthcare through insurance coverage and distribution of essential medication to patients in need, ensuring transparency and effective delivery through trusted NGOs.

On education, the donation of 200 laptops to public junior and senior secondary schools is expected to boost digital literacy and learning outcomes among students. The Foundation is also launching a digital skills training programme for 40 young Nigerians in software engineering, data analytics, cloud computing, and product design-preparing them for global job opportunities in the tech-driven economy.

Similarly, in a bid to strengthen entrepreneurship and economic independence, the Foundation will distribute 40 SME empowerment kiosks to small business owners across different regions. The move, according to the organisation, is aimed at stimulating local economies and fostering self-reliance among young Nigerians.

‘This milestone is a reminder that leadership is best measured by the lives we touch,’ the Foundation added. ‘Through collaboration, we can transform celebration into service and goodwill into progress.’

The Noella Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainable development through collaborative partnerships that uplift individuals and communities.

Founded on the belief that transformative change requires collective effort, the Foundation operates on four core pillars-Education, Employability, Healthcare, and Hunger Eradication-all strategically aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

It continues to focus on initiatives that empower the youth, support vulnerable populations, and promote equitable access to essential resources across Nigeria..

‘When you empower the youth, you empower the future of a nation.’ These words, often echoed in policy discussions, find real meaning in the work of Ayodele Olawande, Nigeria’s Minister of Youth Development. In a country where young people make up more than half of the population, leadership that speaks directly to their hopes and challenges is not just desirable, it is essential.

Since assuming office on October 16, 2023, and later elevated to the substantive Minister of Youth Development by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a year later, Olawande has distinguished himself as a minister who translates promises into action. His approach to youth engagement, empowerment, and protection has not only redefined the mandate of his ministry but also rekindled a sense of belonging among millions of young Nigerians.

One of the most striking features of his leadership has been his consistent closeness to the youth themselves. Rather than governing from behind a desk, Olawande embarked on engagement tours across the country, meeting young Nigerians in their own spaces and listening to their stories, challenges, and dreams. His visits to Delta and Cross River states directly birthed digital job training programs tailored to the aspirations voiced by the young people he met. His presence in Borno, at Maimalari Barracks where he met with wounded young soldiers, and in internally displaced persons’ camps where he distributed learning materials, revealed a minister who embodies empathy and demonstrates action beyond the confines of officialdom. For him, no Nigerian youth is invisible, whether they are in bustling cities, rural villages, or areas scarred by conflict.

Economic empowerment has stood as a cornerstone of his work. Understanding that entrepreneurship remains the backbone of Nigeria’s youthful economy, he spearheaded the expansion of the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund from N75 billion to N110 billion, giving young entrepreneurs better access to finance and opportunities. Programs like the Corpreneur Support Scheme provide funding for NYSC members trained in the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development program, ensuring that service year becomes a springboard into self-reliance. At the grassroots, the Grassroots Youth Entrepreneurship Support Scheme has supported small-scale businesses that sustain local communities, affirming his vision that youth empowerment must not be confined to urban centres alone but spread across every part of the country.

In a society where the youth often feel vulnerable to harassment and profiling by security agencies, Olawande took the bold step of creating the Young and Secure Initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Police Affairs. This initiative, alongside the Nigerian Youth Helpdesk, offers young Nigerians a direct platform to report cases of harassment and ensures swift intervention, thereby protecting their dignity and rebuilding trust between youth and law enforcement. His emphasis on protection as a pillar of development reflects his belief that the potential of young people can only flourish in an environment where they feel safe and respected.

At the heart of his vision is the future of work, and here his imprint has been equally profound. Through the Nigerian Youth Academy, popularly known as NIYA, he launched the ‘One Youth, Two Skills’ campaign, which has already drawn over 80,000 sign-ups even before its official unveiling. This e-learning platform is equipping millions of young Nigerians with vocational and digital skills designed to meet the demands of both local and global markets. His partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency birthed the DL4ALL program, a digital literacy initiative targeting 30 million Nigerians, making it one of the most ambitious youth digital empowerment programs in the country’s history. Complementing this is his collaboration with the National Data Protection Commission which is not only training but also creating five thousand jobs in the fast-growing field of data protection.

Olawande’s innovations stretch beyond the digital economy. By partnering with the Presidential Initiative on CNG, he facilitated the distribution of two thousand CNG-powered tricycles to young people in the transportation sector. This intervention addresses two needs at once: empowering youths with sustainable livelihoods and advancing the nation’s commitment to greener, cleaner transportation. Similarly, the soon-to-be-launched nationwide enrolment portal for young farmers demonstrates his recognition that agriculture must remain central to Nigeria’s growth and youth employment.

Infrastructure for youth development has also been elevated under his stewardship. The Youth House Initiative, already approved by President Tinubu, envisions Youth Houses in Abuja, Youth Centres in all states, and Green Houses in all 774 local government areas of the federation. These are not mere structures but hubs of opportunity, designed to provide resources, training, and support at the grassroots level. His drive to institutionalize youth involvement in governance also led to the creation of the National Youth Conference, a platform where young Nigerians can directly engage government, propose solutions, and shape the policies that affect their lives.

In education and career development, Olawande has reformed the NYSC posting process to ensure corps members are placed in organizations relevant to their fields of study, transforming the service year into a period of genuine skill acquisition and career readiness. Alongside this, the ministry is working to ease the financial burden on students through the implementation of loans and stipends, ensuring that education becomes more accessible and less stressful for young Nigerians.

All of these achievements are driven by a clear and simple philosophy which Olawande himself has often articulated: Support, Empower, and Protect the youth. This SEP approach runs through every initiative and reform, from financial inclusion and employment opportunities to protection from harassment and the creation of safe spaces where young people can thrive. It is a strategy that recognizes youth not as passive recipients of charity but as active partners in national development.

Ayodele Olawande’s first year in office has redefined what it means to be a Minister of Youth Development. He has shown through action that Nigerian youth deserve more than promises; they deserve structures that empower their dreams, systems that protect their dignity, and platforms that amplify their voices. In his story lies an example of governance that is responsive, innovative, and inclusive. For the millions of young Nigerians who now feel a sense of belonging, his leadership is not just a chapter in public service but the dawn of a new narrative in which the youth are truly at the centre of national development.

Nigerians began the week on the note of a sizzling report by an online newspaper, Premium Times. The report centred around allegations that our own very Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Techonology, Chief Geoffrey Uche Nnaji, forged his university degree as well as National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) certificates.

The reaction was instantaneous just as it was predictable. Outrage. And this was understable. Ever since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, quite a number of high profile office holders have been caught in the web of one form of certificate forgery scandal or another.

The distastful trend began in 1999 with two top principal officers of the National Assembly- Senate President Evan(s) Enwerem and the Speaker, House of Representatives, Salisu Buhari. While Salisu Buhari falsely claimed he attended the University of Toronto, Canada, senators- and indeed, Nigerians – couldn’t tell with certainty if their Senate President was Evan or Evans Enwerem.

Ever since Evan or Evans Enwerem and Salisu Buhari, the issue of certificate forgeries has, like wild fire, caught up with members of the executive arm. For instance, Senator Douye Diri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is governor of Bayelsa State today simply because of the discrepancies in the name of the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate in the state, Senator Degi-Eremienyo. This was in February 2020.

Five years earlier, Minister of Finsnce, Mrs Kemi Adeosun resigned her appointment following a scandal concerning the alleged forgery of her NYSC certificate. Ms. Adeosun had been invited by President Muhammadu Buhari to return from her base in the United Kingdom to join his government. It ended in disgrace.

Instances abound of several other high profile Nigerians who have been enmeshed in forged certficate scandals. This naturally raises the question of if after 65 years of Independence, Nigeria has no institutions to block such embarrassment.

Enter the State Security Service (SSS) sometimes called Department of State Services (DSS).

As far as the SSS Act is concerned, the Service is responsible for the internal security of Nigeria, VIP protection, and vetting of nominees for top positions. The SSS is also empowered to place persons of interest on watchlist- in addition to protecting the President from embarrassment (as in the cases of Salisu Buhari, Evan(s) Enwerem, Kemi Adeosun and now, Uche Nnaji) among other duties. Without mincing words, it is, safe to say that the SSS is a key institution of the Nigerian State.

In her book, ‘Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom,’

Condoleezza Rice, former national security adviser and secretary of state under President George W. Bush, believes that that institutions provide the bedrock for any successful democracy.

In other words, weak institutions weaken democracy. Conversely, one of the ways to weaken democracy is to first weaken her institutions.

One example that readily comes to mind on how we weaken an institution is the 2016 nomination of Ibrahim Magu as the chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The EFCC Act states that a nominee for the office of the EFCC chairman shall be screened by the Senate.

Even though it is the President that apoints the SSS DG, the secret police wasn’t comfortable that the president chose Magu. And the secret police didn’t hide their disapproval of Mr. President’s nominee.

In a letter dated October 3, 2016, to the Clerk of the Senate, the SSS told the senators that Magu was not fit to hold the position of EFCC chairman.

The secret police listed several alleged malpractices against the EFCC boss, saying his confirmation would frustrate the anti-graft drive of the administration then.

Part of the allegations against Magu was his being in possession of EFCC documents in his private residence during the chairmanship of Farida Waziri.

The DSS also made reference to the circumstances surrounding Magu’s arrest, detention and suspension by the Nigeria Police.

In addition, the secret service alleged that the sum of N40m was paid for the rented apartment, which costs N20m per annum, where Magu lived.

DSS added that Magu’s accommodation was not paid for from the commission’s account but by a presidential appointee, who had been under investigation. The DSS alleged that after renting the apartment for Magu, the friend awarded a N43 million contract for the furnishing of the accommodation.

The only consequence of the DSS report was that each time he faced the senators, they failed to clear him. Even at that, the President then snubbed the lawmakers and kept Magu as acting EFCC chairman for close to five years.

Thus, Magu became the poster boy of the futility of security reports and Senate screening when political leaders and policy makers choose to weaken our institutions.

While it is convenient to talk about Magu, perhaps mention should be made of our lawyers, especially those who aspire to make it to the peak of the bar, called Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN). Oftentimes referred to as Learned Silk, to demonstrate the highest esteem to which they are held, these senior lawyers recently grabbed the headlines when they opposed the screening of their colleagues shortlisted for this coveted rank by the DSS.

A former Nigerian Bar Association General Secretary, Olumuyiwa Akinboro, himself a SAN, described the security vetting as an attack on the independence of the legal profession. Human rights lawyer and former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu was one of the few voices that supported the DSS.

Odinkalu,who expressed surprise at Akinboro’s opposition, said the rule was introduced in 2022 by then Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, and had been applied to SAN conferments in 2022, 2023 and 2024 without protest.

‘These people are short of candour. The rules requiring screening of SAN candidates by DSS were made by Olukayode Ariwoola in 2022. They governed SAN conferment in 2022, ’23 and ’24,’ noted Odinkalu.

It has since emerged from the grapevine on the outcome of the DSS screening, that some of the nominees for the award of SAN are not fit and proper. Even with this DSS report, the same tainted nominees still managed to wangle their way to the swearing-in. They are now addressed as ‘learned silks!’ Won’t be surprised if these SANs aren’t among those blaming the Senate and the DSS for ‘not doing a thorough job!’

Now, to our own Minister Uche Nnaji. He resigned during the week. I’ve read and heard many people blame the Senate and the DSS for the lapses that made it possible to swear in Nnaji as Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology. Having set a dangerous precedent with Magu and many more that aren’t known, how are we sure the powers that be even allowed Nnaji to subject himself to the rigours of screening by the DSS? How are we sure he, in the name of security vetting, even stepped foot within the four walls of the SSS national headquarters in Abuja?

The truth remains that over time, we failed to address the question of interference with institutions. Why should some governors, for instance, have the wherewithal to demand the deployment or removal of Police Commissioners to or from their states?

Crying ourselves out won’t address the problem. We have to begin to address the issues that contribute to weakening our institutions. Without that, scandals like Nnaji’s will continue to dog our political trajectory and national life. It is hightine we rolled our sleeves to make out institutions strong. This, as Condoleezza Rice rightly noted, will provide the bedrock for our successful democracy.

Today’s expected defection of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is the beginning of another gale of movement into the ruling party by governors.

Mbah, elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is moving to the ruling party with House of Assembly members, councillors, chairmen of councils and others.

His exit from the PDP will be followed by that of Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Diri, whose defection, it was learnt, had been finalised.

‘He will move into the APC in a matter of days,’ an official of his government said last night.

Another PDP governor of the Northeast has hinted at his movement to the APC.

‘He is waiting for the final sorting out of details’, one of the governor’s aides told The Nation last night.

Delta State Governor Sheriff Obvwevori and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno moved to the ruling party with all their officials and appointees earlier in the year.

But Deputy Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, dismissed the PDP Governors’ defection.

He believes the party will not be distracted ahead of its next month’s convention in Ibadan.

Enugu will be aglow today with the presence of Vice President Kashim Shettima, leading a strong delegation including APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen to the Coal City to present the APC flag to their new member.

Political leaders, traditional rulers and Enugu chieftains of the pan-Igbo group, Ohanaeze, yesterday rose in support of Mbah’s defection, hinging the move on the inability of the PDP to manage its achievements in the Southeast.

Ohanaeze Vice President Prof. Fred Eze and National Treasurer, Dr. Peter Eke, said in a statement that the defection would not affect the governor’s second-term ambition.

They applauded Mbah ‘for taking the bold step of joining the ruling APC,’ adding that ‘this decision is both thoughtful and timely, considering the compelling need to attract more federal government projects to Enugu.’

They also reiterated the group’s commitment to governorship zoning in the spirit of fairness and justice.

They stressed: ‘We remain committed to upholding the long-standing zoning tradition for the office of the governor, in the spirit of equity, fairness, and justice in Enugu State.’

The Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu, said the governor had earned national respect through his ‘trailblazing performance and grassroots-oriented governance’ in the past 26 months.

‘The traditional rulers and people of Enugu State have absolute trust in his judgment,’ he said.

‘Our support for the governor’s decision is blind to party lines.’

The ALGON Chairman in Enugu State, Okechukwu Edeh, said residents were ready to follow the governor’s political direction.

‘Governor Peter Mbah is the political party Enugu knows today,’ he said.

‘We believe this is a wise decision, given that our voices no longer count in the other party.’

Former Enugu PDP Chairman Augustine Nnamani said he was not surprised by the mass exit, accusing the PDP of ‘mistreating and betraying the Southeast’ by refusing to recognise Udeh-Okoye as the party’s National Secretary.

He said: ‘The PDP chose a few people in Abuja over the Southeast.

‘Mbah’s exit is in line with our region’s earlier resolution to leave the party if our choice was not respected.’

With Mbah’s defection, the APC now controls three of the five Southeast states, while the remaining two are held by the Labour Party (LP) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). The PDP, once dominant in the region, now controls none.

PDP won’t be intimidated, says Makinde

Governor Makinde said despite the defections, the PDP remains strong and will not be intimidated.

Speaking after the inaugural meeting of the PDP National Convention’s Transportation Subcommittee, Makinde said voters – not politicians – would determine the outcome of the 2027 elections.

He stressed that the PDP had weathered crises before and would survive this one:

‘Challenges will come and go, but our goal is for Nigerians to have democracy and a party they can relate to.

‘Defections don’t mean the house is falling apart. Democracy is about conflict, resolution, and resilience.’

Makinde assured members that the PDP remained a nationwide party:

‘They can say what they like, but PDP is in every ward of this country.

‘It may look difficult now, but when something enduring is being built, it often gets worse before it gets better.’

He said Nigerians did not want a one-party state: ‘PDP has always been a constant – either as ruling party or main opposition. We’re not going anywhere. This is the time to stand firm.’

On his alleged 2027 presidential ambition, Makinde said:

‘I’m old enough to set an agenda for myself. Right now, our focus is to rebuild the party and deliver the best national convention ever in Ibadan.’

Eradiri sets agenda for Diri

Former President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Udengs Eradiri, urged Governor Diri to use his expected entry into the APC to reconcile factions within the Bayelsa chapter.

He advised Diri to unite the camps of former Governor Timipre Sylva and Minister of State for Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri.

Eradiri said: ‘Your coming to the APC should help stabilise the party.

‘You managed the PDP well; now bring that same peace and inclusiveness to the APC as its new leader in Bayelsa.’

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reassured its commitment to conducting a hitch-free election during the November 8 governorship polls in Anambra State.

The State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr. Elizabeth Agwu, gave the assurance at a stakeholders’ engagement on preparedness for a disability-inclusive governorship election.

The event, organised by TAF Africa, aimed to ensure that stakeholders – including the Police, Civil Defence, Civil Society Organisations, and the Media – were well-informed about the provisions of the electoral law on how to relate with Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) during and after the election.

Agwu further confirmed the availability of non-sensitive materials for the election, which she said had already been deployed to local government areas across the state.

‘There will be no hitches; we have not had hitches in Anambra. We have alternative networks and backups that guarantee a hitch-free exercise.

Besides, I am not under any pressure to deliver anybody,’ she added.

The REC said INEC would deploy disability assistive tools, including Braille for the visually impaired, magnifying glasses for people with albinism, as well as Form EC30 for the hearing impaired, to aid them during the exercise.

She assured that efforts were ongoing by the commission to ensure that such categories of persons participate not just as voters but also as electoral officials during the election.

Identifying voter apathy as the biggest threat to the election, Agwu called on eligible voters to come out en masse to exercise their franchise instead of staying back and assuming that the process had been predetermined.

The Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa, Ambassador Jake Epelle, disclosed that the organisation would deploy 150 persons with disabilities as observers for the election.

He added that the group would also deploy 25 sign language interpreters to areas with a high concentration of persons with hearing impairment to assist them in participating in the election.

‘PWDs have rights to priority voting, which provides that they are allowed to vote before others or as soon as they arrive at their polling units,’ he said.

The Police Spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the Command was preparing extensively to ensure a peaceful poll, including the training of personnel across the state with special attention to the needs of persons with disabilities.

‘Restriction of movement during the election is a security strategy and not to punish anybody. But we advise those who want to vote to move towards the areas where they intend to cast their votes before the election day,’ he added.

The State Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD), Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke, commended INEC for its efforts to conduct an all-inclusive election.

He, however, appealed to the media to always provide persons with disabilities with up-to-date information to allay fears caused by peddlers of fake news and misinformation.