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Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged Nigeria’s 36 state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike to ‘urgently disclose the spending details of the estimated N14trn fuel subsidy savings they collected from FAAC allocations, including details and locations of projects executed with the money, and the implementation status and completion reports, if any, on the projects.’

SERAP urged them to ‘provide details of the plans on how subsequent fuel subsidy savings they expect to collect from FAAC allocations, including details of any planned projects on which the money would be spent.’

SERAP also urged them to ‘publicly invite the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to track and monitor the spending of the fuel subsidy savings collected by you, to ensure that the money is not diverted into private pockets.’

The 36 governors and the FCT minister have reportedly collected trillions of naira from FAAC allocations as fuel subsidy savings since mid-2023. But the increased allocations have not translated into improved access to basic public services, such as quality healthcare and education for poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

In the Freedom of Information requests dated 4 October 2025 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: ‘There is a legitimate public interest for governors and the FCT minister to urgently explain how they have spent the money they have so far collected from the subsidy savings.’

SERAP said, ‘The savings from the removal of fuel subsidy ought to be spent solely for the benefit of the poor and vulnerable Nigerians who are bearing the brunt of the removal. Transparency in the spending of the money would help to avoid a morally repugnant result of double jeopardy on these Nigerians.’

The FoI requests, read in part: ‘There is a significant risk of mismanagement or diversion of funds linked to the increased FAAC allocations collected by the states and FCT.

‘The spending details of the money collected by several states and the FCT from fuel subsidy savings have been mostly shrouded in secrecy.

‘Millions of poor and vulnerable Nigerians have not benefited from the trillions of naira collected by the governors and FCT minister from as a result of the subsidy savings. Nigerians continue to face a worsening poverty crisis.

‘Several states including your state are also reportedly spending public funds which may include fuel subsidy savings to fund unnecessary travels, buy exotic and bulletproof cars and generally fund the lavish lifestyles of politicians.

‘There are continuing reports of widespread poverty, underdevelopment and lack of access to public goods and services in several states.

‘Opacity in the spending of fuel subsidy savings collected by you would continue to have negative impacts on the fundamental interests of the citizens and the public interest. Transparency would ensure that public funds are not diverted into private pockets.

‘We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your state and the FCT to comply with our request in the public interest.

‘Disclosing the details of the spending of the money collected by your state as fuel savings would allow Nigerians to scrutinise them, and to hold you to account on the spending of public funds.

‘The states and FCT may have failed to transparently and accountably manage the allocations collected from the subsidy savings.

‘Nigerians have the right to know how their states and FCT are spending the savings from the removal of fuel subsidy as part of their human right to information.’

Content creator and skit maker, Adesokan Adedeji Emmanuel also known as Shank, has opened up on his childhood and struggles in the early stage of his career.

Shank on his social media page revealed that he started his content creation journey in a small room, where he was constantly interrupted by sounds from animals.

Shank expressed his heartfelt appreciation for his growth, stating that he is a product of God’s grace.

‘I didn’t even have 1M in my account back in 2020. I was shooting videos in a small room people called a ‘prison,’ with hens and goats making noise in the background. Time changes a lot of things. I am a product of God’s grace. God is too good to me, Aje.,’ he stated.

Big Brother Naija Season 10 is ending with another major twist, the organisers have revealed that the total prize money for the winner now stands at ?80 million after all deductions and earnings were calculated.

During Sunday’s live briefing, Big Brother gathered housemates in the lounge and displayed a breakdown of how their personal choices, privileges, and tasks impacted the overall prize fund.

According to the figures shown on the screen, every indulgence and advantage came at a price, while sponsored tasks helped the house recover some cash.

The house earned from challenges such as Sips and Strokes (?6.5m), Walking on Eggshells (?2.6m), Big Brother’s Bakery (?800k), Bodycare Products (?2.6m), Big Brother’s Daycare (?3.5m), and Splash and Dash (?2.48m).

But there were also heavy deductions – Kaybobo spent ?10 million on immunity during the Red Phone Twist, while Koyin used house funds to pay for a family visit and a salon session.

Big Brother reminded housemates that every comfort, reward, or luxury inside the house came at a cost – a revelation that triggered laughter and disbelief among the finalists.

The moment turned lighthearted when it was revealed that shawarma orders, a three-day luxury experience for Joanna and Dede, and other small indulgences also ate into the prize fund. Kola, however, humorously turned down a free pedicure and manicure session.

After all earnings and deductions were tallied, Big Brother officially announced that the final prize money is ?80 million.

The update adds extra tension to the upcoming BBNaija s10 grand finale, as fans eagerly await who will walk away with the ultimate crown in Nigeria’s biggest reality TV show.

A deadly snowstorm has trapped nearly 1,000 people on Mount Everest, leaving rescuers in a desperate race against time to save lives.

The unexpected blizzard hit late Friday, dumping more than a metre of snow on the world’s tallest peak and crushing several tents at high-altitude camps. Many climbers are reportedly battling hypothermia as temperatures plummet below freezing.

Rescue teams, joined by local villagers, are digging through heavy snow to clear blocked routes leading up to the camps, which sit around 16,000 feet above sea level.

According to Chinese state outlet Jimu News, some tourists have been brought down safely as emergency operations continue on the eastern slope of Everest in Tibet.

The situation worsened Saturday when conditions forced authorities to suspend ticket sales and entry into the Everest Scenic Area, citing ‘extreme weather and safety risks.’

One stranded witness told The Daily Star: ‘Many people’s tents have been crushed, the camp has more than a metre of snow, and all the passageways down the mountain have been blocked.’

Officials say the storm, which began Friday night and raged through Saturday, is among the most violent to hit the region in recent years. With visibility still dangerously low and roads buried in snow, the coming hours could determine who survives this Everest nightmare.

World football body, FIFA, has appointed Chadian referee Alhadi Mahamat to take charge of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.

The match – a must-win for the Super Eagles – will take place at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, on Friday, October 10, 2025, with kickoff slated for 6pm local time (5pm in Nigeria).

Mahamat, who officiated Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Rwanda in Uyo last month, will again be assisted by an all-Chadian crew, Bogola Issa (first assistant), Moussa Hafiz (second assistant), and Abdelkerim Ousmane (fourth official).

FIFA also named Kenyan official Alice Kimani as referee assessor, while William Shongwe from eSwatini will serve as match commissioner.

Currently sitting three points behind group leaders Benin Republic and South Africa, Nigeria must secure victory to keep their qualification hopes alive for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The Lesotho clash will be followed by another decisive tie – a home fixture against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on October 14. Egyptian referee Omar Amin Mohamed will handle that encounter, assisted by compatriots Mahmoud Aboulergal and Ali Teleb.

FIFA recently handed Nigeria a boost after sanctioning South Africa for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their 2-0 win over Lesotho in March – overturning the result and awarding a 3-0 victory to Lesotho.

That decision has reshaped the group standings, with Benin and South Africa tied on 14 points, while Nigeria and Rwanda trail with 11 points each.

With six points still up for grabs, Nigeria’s fate remains firmly in their hands – but only back-to-back wins will guarantee a spot at next summer’s global showpiece.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has urged members of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) 38 Regular Course to remain steadfast in loyalty, unity, and patriotism as they continue to contribute to national peace and security.

Musa gave the charge on Saturday night in Abuja at a cocktail party organised by the Course 38 Association to mark its annual reunion.

He described the event as more than a social gathering, saying it symbolised the enduring bond of comradeship forged through shared experiences of military training and national service.

‘This evening is not merely a celebration but an affirmation of the strong ties that unite us.

‘Our regular course is not just a class, it is a family bound by sacrifice, duty and service to our great nation,’ he said.

The CDS commended the newly elected executive of the association for their commitment to sustaining its ideals and charged them to consolidate on the solid foundation laid by their predecessors.

He also applauded the outgoing leadership led by Maj.-Gen. Gadonwa for steering the affairs of the group effectively and fostering cohesion among members.

Musa paid tribute to fallen colleagues, describing their service and sacrifice as a guiding light that must continue to inspire those still in uniform.

He urged members of the course to use their association as a platform for mentorship, professional excellence, and constructive engagement with younger officers across the Armed Forces.

Nigerian media personality Daddy Freeze, has spoken about religion and what made him stop attending religious activities.

The controversial critic, while speaking with Chude Jideonwo, opened up on how he was treated by the church during his divorce. He revealed that he felt rejected during a difficult time of his life.

‘Divorcees and separated women are ostracized by the church. And I believe that’s one of the reasons why Osinachi died. The church is not going to chase you for divorcing, but are they going to allow you to be the lead singer?,’ he stated.

Daddy Freeze went on to stress his claim, stating that women are usually stigmatized by religious bodies when they are divorced or separated.

‘It happened to me. I was very cool with my pastor then. When I was going through my divorce, it was one of the things that drew me away from the church. My pastor said, ‘Yeah, you can come to church, but you know you’re going to sit at the back!. I’m going through a divorce and getting married to somebody else, so that means I can’t bring the person to this church again? Then I remembered John 4, the woman at the well who had had five husbands and was living with one who wasn’t her husband. That is so powerful. I’ve only divorced once,’ he explained.

English singer Lola Young has been involved in a legal dispute with one of the producers of her hit song ‘Messy’.

Lola, who filed a suit against music producer Carter Lang, claimed she had no choice after the producer stated that he co wrote four of her songs, including ‘messy’.

‘It is with immense disappointment, especially given recent events, that we have had no choice but to respond to recent writing credit claims from Carter Lang on four Lola Young songs by issuing legal proceedings on her behalf. Carter’s claims are strongly refuted and we will not allow Lola’s reputation and integrity to be called into question – particularly so long after the sessions took place and agreements were put in place. Lola has always been authentic in her songwriting process and acknowledges songwriting contributions where appropriate. This dispute has been ongoing for several months and we look forward to the truth being established,’ Lola’s lawyer stated

Carter, however, is yet to respond to the lawsuit.

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has condemned what it describes as ongoing attempts to undermine the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Company.

The group also called for the protection of the multi billion dollar facility as a strategic national asset.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tanko Baba, the ACF expressed concern over what it termed ‘thinly disguised attempts’ to sabotage the operations of Nigeria’s largest privately owned refinery located in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State.

The forum listed several challenges the facility had faced since inception, including crude oil supply issues from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), regulatory concerns, pricing disputes, and industrial actions by trade unions.

‘From conception, implementation and inauguration, the Dangote Refinery has continued to face unrelenting onslaughts,’ Baba said.

The forum noted the involvement of key petroleum sector unions such as the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association, the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), citing picketing and unionisation pressures.

The ACF questioned what it described as PENGASSAN’s ‘forceful’ demand for refinery workers to join the union, stressing that union membership was a constitutional right, not an obligation.

While affirming workers’ rights to unionise, the group said the Dangote refinery must first be allowed to stabilise its operations before such rights are exercised, aligning itself with recent public comments by Sen. Adams Oshiomhole and Mohammed Ali-Ndume.

‘It is concerning that PENGASSAN continues to flout a subsisting court order barring disruptions to refinery operations,’ Baba added.

The ACF also expressed support for the refinery’s management and legal efforts to protect the facility, warning that the continued unrest could deter both local and foreign investors.

‘Putting down the Dangote complex is a potent disincentive to domestic and international investors because it sends the wrong signals,’ the group warned.

The ACF issued a series of recommendations, including

support for Federal Government-led negotiations to resolve the impasse;

It also suggested sanctions against PENGASSAN for defying Court orders and a judicial commission of inquiry to investigate recurrent strikes at strategic facilities;

Others include a declaration of the Dangote refinery and similar assets as strategic national infrastructure and measures to prevent unions from sabotaging national interests under the guise of labour rights.

The forum also called on labour unions to be cautious in their engagements, warning against actions that may inadvertently serve external interests aimed at stalling Nigeria’s industrial growth.

‘The Nigerian labour movement must guard against unwittingly playing into the hands of international conspiracies determined to frustrate indigenous industrial initiatives,’ the forum concluded.

The Dangote refinery, inaugurated in 2023, is Africa’s largest single train refinery and is expected to significantly reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products.

Kwara Government has scrapped the Parents Teachers Association (PTA) levy in public primary schools, approving annual school grants instead.

Chairman State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Prof. Shehu Adaramaja announced this at the opening of bid for the 2024 (3rd and 4th quarters) UBEC/SUBEB intervention projects.

Prof. Adaramaja said the state government will provide running costs for the 1,717 public schools.

ýýThe Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has approved the stoppage of the payment of PTA in all public primary schools in the state, from primary 1 to 6, no more payment of PTA in Kwara State,’ he said.

ýThe SUBEB boss also announced the approval of procurement of English and Maths textbooks by the governor for free to the pupils in primary schools in the state.

ýýSpeaking on the bid opening, the Chairman said the intervention would cover projects, including the construction of a block of two classrooms with an office and construction of toilets.

‘The intervention also covers the remodeling and renovation of classrooms, drilling of solar powered borehole with tank stand and rehabilitation of digital literacy across the state.

‘It also covers the procurement of foundation literacy teaching and learning materials for primary one, fabrication and distribution of 2-seater pupils/students’ furniture and safe schools initiative in some selected local governments, among others,’ he said.

Adaramaja said that the governor had equally approved the payment of 2025 counterpart funds for the UBEC/SUBEB intervention projects.

ýHe urged contractors, who would get the jobs, to execute them in line with the specifications, warning that shoddy jobs would not be condoned.

Adaramaja lauded the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Hajiya Aisha Garba and other key stakeholders for contributing to the success of the programme.