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Ondo governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has urged people of Ekiti to re-elect Biodun Oyebanji, his Ekiti counterpart, for a second term in office.

He said this will ensure continuity of what he described as Oyebanji’s ‘people-oriented policies and programmes’ that have transformed Ekiti state in the last three years.

Aiyedatiwa , who described Oyebanji as a dependable leader, said a second term would avail the governor the opportunity to deepen the people-oriented programmes that had touched lives across the state.

The Ondo State Governor made the appeal on Friday during the funeral ceremony of Chief Mathew Okunola, father of Justice Oyebisi Omoleye of the Court of Appeal, held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ikole Ekiti.

Aiyedatiwa also urged Ekiti people within and outside the state to intensify prayers for the progress and development of the state under Oyebanji till 2030.

‘Please continue to support Oyebanji because he has performed excellently and if given another chance, he will do more.

‘This our work is a big one and we cannot do it alone, that is why I am requesting for all your support.

‘The things we are doing are not what can happen within one month, it will take a while, every one wants it to get to them immediately and it is not possible. Just be patient with us,’ Ayedatiwa said.

While commiserating with Justice Omoleye and her family on the death of their patriarch, the governor described the deceased as a highly respected community leader.

He prayed for repose of the soul of the deceased, and urged the family to uphold his legacy of integrity and service.

‘The deceased did well and that is why we see everybody here today.

‘Those of us alive at this time, let us do well in whatever position we occupy, let us put in our best just as my brother Oyebanji, is putting in his best and am also trying my best in my state,’ the governor said.

Earlier, Oyebanji described the deceased as a trail blazer and an achiever in several fronts.

He said the late Okunola would be remembered for his dedication to community development and positive influence on the Ikole traditional Council, Church, and society at large, where he served with distinction in different capacities.

Oyebanji, while commiserating with family of the deceased, urged them to take solace in the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life that impacted on the lives of many.

In his homily, the Vicar in charge of St Silas Anglican Church, Omuo Ekiti, Ven. Ajao Mathew, described the late Okunola as a true lover of God and His work.

He said that Okunola lived his life in the service of the Church and humanity.

The burial ceremony was attended by dignitaries from across the country.

As the countdown to the January, 2026 effective take off of two landmark Tax Reform laws gathers steam, wrong narratives and misconceptions about aspects of the new tax laws have also been on the increase. While some of the misconceptions are borne out of innocent ignorance, others are mostly from a place of political mischievousness. In this Explainer I will be addressing the misconceptions around the income tax provisions in the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025.

Over the past couple of months, I have noticed the following misconceptions and wrong narratives around the issue of income tax, many of which emanate from individuals or businesses who have clearly been evading income taxes: my

1. Nigerians pay higher income taxes from January 1, 2026

2. Money in individual bank accounts would be automatically taxed by the government

3. Federal government is desperate to raise revenue by taxing the income of Nigerians heavily.

4. Tax laws will stifle productivity

I will briefly touch on each of these misconceptions, providing clarifications in layman terms.

1. HIGHER OR LOWER INCOME TAXES FOR INDIVIDUALS?

The reality is that the income tax paid by MAJORITY of Nigerians will reduce following the new personal income tax provisions in the Nigerian Tax Act, 2025 that exempted individuals earning N800,000 and below per annum from paying income tax. What this means is that Nigerians earning minimum wage or below will pay zero income tax.

I understand some will argue that minimum wage is N70,000 per month, which translates to N840,000 per annum and ordinarily means a minimum wage earner still has N40,000 above the N800,000 exemption threshold that is subjected to an income tax of 15% under the new tax law. That is correct, but here is the catch, there is what is called TAXABLE INCOME and is not necessarily equivalent to the total income of an individual.

Taxable income is simply the part of the total income that can be taxed after allowable deductions have been made. Under the NTA 2025, you can deduct the following from your GROSS income to get your TAXABLE income:

a) NHIS contribution (5% of salary for most employees)

b) Annual rent (corresponding to 20% of the rent up to a maximum of N500,000)

c) National Housing Fund deduction (2.5% of gross pay)

d) Employee Pension contribution (8% of employee salary)

e) Life insurance premium for you and your spouse

In other words, a minimum wage earner claim some or all of these deductions and these will certainly drive down the taxable income within the exemption threshold of N800,000 per annum.

Let us do a practical calculation for an individual earning N70,000 monthly (minimum wage) who pays an annual rent of N200,000 in addition to NHIS, NHF and contributory pension deductions.

His gross annual income = N840,000

Pension contributions = N67,200

NHF deduction = N21,000

NHIS deduction = N42,000

20% of Annual Rent = N40,000

By the time you make these allowable deductions from the N840,000 gross income, the individual’s TAXABLE INCOME becomes N710,800. This falls well within the exemption threshold which means the individual will not pay any income tax.

If an individual earns N80,000 monthly, and we use similar deductions for NHIS, NHF and CPS while raising annual rent to N300,000 with 20% amounting to N60,000, the individual will still be exempt from paying income tax as the taxable income would be N799,200 – within the N800,000 tax exemption threshold. Even when we calculate for an individual earning an annual gross income of N1.2m, the individual may even fall within the tax exempt status depending on the deductions he or she claims or at worst the individual may just be taxed an effective tax rate of 2.5% under the new law as against 4.6% under the old law.

The tax band is progressive in nature and only makes the rich with reasonably much higher annual gross income to pay a little more than before, which is a fair system. Although, depending on the deductions they may claim, they can end up paying lesser income tax than before. This in itself opens a lot of opportunities for the economy especially the life insurance sector as well as the health sector since one can actually sign up for health insurance and/or life insurance in order to pay lesser income tax while at the same time benefiting from quality all-round cheaper healthcare offered by the NHIS for the family.

Below is a demo tax calculation for an individual earning an annual gross income of N50 million. The individual lives in an apartment he purchased with a bank loan of N80 million at an annual interest rate of 27% with a five year tenor, making his annual interest payment to be approximately N4.32 million. This particular individual also makes N5 million contribution towards his pension and another N2.5 million NHIS contribution that covers himself, his spouse and four kids.

After deducting N5 million pension contributions, N2.5 million NHIS contribution and N4.32 million interest payment, his taxable income out of the N50 million gross income becomes just N35.18 million. However, this N35.18 million is not taxed a flat rate of 23% (under the old law, income above N3.2 million is taxed a flat rate of 24%), rather it is progressive – the first 800k is 0%, next N2.2m is taxed at 15%, next N9m is taxed at 18%, next N13m is taxed at 21% while the next N25m is taxed at 23%.

The income tax of this individual under the new tax laws is N7.02 million, which is basically 14.0% of his gross income – just 1.1% higher than his effective tax rate under the old laws. This is still by far very fair when you consider what is obtainable in many other countries of the world where effective tax rate can get to as high as 60% of taxable income.

2. WILL INCOME TAX BE AUTOMATICALLY DEDUCTED FROM BANK ACCOUNTS?

The simple answer is NO. Taxes would not be automatically deducted from the bank account of Nigerians.

This misconception is probably because of the provisions in section 29 of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act which mandates banks and other financial institutions to furnish the tax authority on a quarterly basis information (name and addresses) about their customers with cumulative monthly transactions of N25 million and above for individuals or N100 million and above for a body corporate. Even though the information will help a tax authority know those ELIGIBLE taxpayers evading taxes, the provision does not amount to automatic deduction of taxes from the accounts.

Crucially, if your monthly cumulative transactions as an individual does not amount to N25 million and above or from N100 million for corporate bodies, this provision does not concern you in any way. Only about 5% of the population have bank accounts that have more than half a million in them. So, in essence, more than 90% of Nigerians, which includes all the poor and vulnerable people in Nigeria are not affected by this provision.

3. IS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DESPERATE TO RAISE REVENUE BY TAXING THE INCOME OF NIGERIANS HEAVILY?

Again, the simple and short answer is NO!

The reforms in the income tax laws are not particularly meant for the federal government to raise more revenue by taxing Nigerians heavily, the reverse is actually the case. The tax laws are meant to relieve poor Nigerians of tax burden. Meanwhile, the greatest beneficiary of personal income tax revenues are the states because Section 3(2) of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act confers jurisdiction on the state tax authority in respect of tax on the income, profit or gains of individuals residing in a state. Therefore, personal income tax is part of the IGR sources of state governments.

The FG only retains income taxes from personnel of the armed forces and personnel of the Nigerian Foreign Service in addition to non-residents (those not living in Nigeria) who derive income or profit from Nigeria. Under the new tax laws, the FG has even exempted members of the armed forces from paying income tax. So, the federal government cannot raise revenue from the income of civilians living in Nigeria as that is the exclusive preserve of the states.

Also, the fact that the tax laws exempted Nigerians earning below N800,000 per annum from income tax shows that the tax laws are not necessarily about raising revenues but reducing tax burden on Nigerians so that they can have more disposable income. The tax laws simply tried to focus on increasing tax compliance by the high income earners with the state governments being the ultimate beneficiary in any case.

4. WILL THE TAX LAWS STIFLE PRODUCTIVITY?

Definitely NOT!

The new tax laws are primarily meant to boost productivity and not stifle it. This is not difficult to prove. First, the wide range of exemptions for both individual taxpayers and small businesses clearly indicates an intention to bring relief to low income individuals and small businesses. Section 56 of the Nigeria Tax Act pegs the income (profit) tax rate for small businesses at 0%.

In section 147 (page 331) of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, a small company is defined as a company with an annual gross turnover of N100m or less and with total fixed assets not exceeding N250m. This is basically 90% of businesses in Nigeria. A tax law that exempts over 90% of businesses in the country from paying profit tax cannot be stifling productivity under any circumstances!

In fact the same section 56 of the Nigeria Tax Act pegs the profit tax rate for larger companies at 30% with a proviso that this rate shall be REDUCED to 25% from a date to be determined in an order issued by the President on the advice of the National Economic Council. This provision was a compromise position reached to allay the fears of the Nigerian Governors Forum who felt the initial proposal to progressively reduce CIT for large companies to 25% by 2030 would likely reduce revenue inflows into the federation account since CIT revenue is shared by the three tiers of government.

The provision allows the eventual rate reduction to happen when the states (who are represented in the National Economic Council) are confident that such a reduction will not adversely impact on the federation revenue inflows. The Council will then advise the President to proclaim the order reducing CIT to 25%. If the new tax laws were to be anti-productivity, the company income tax rate would have been jerked up to above the 30% rate in the old Income Tax law.

CONCLUSION

From the foregoing, it is evidently clear that the income tax provisions in both the Nigeria Tax Act and the Nigeria Tax Administration Act are people-friendly, business-friendly, pro-poor and formulated to stimulate productivity by reducing the amount of money businesses pay as profit taxes or eliminating the profit tax entirely for small businesses. It is important that states through their tax authorities massively educate residents on the correct provisions of the tax laws especially as it pertains to income taxes.

As I conclude, I must emphasise that tax is an obligation that citizens owe their country. There is no valid excuse for any ELIGIBLE taxpayer, especially those who are not classified poor, to shy away from paying their fair share of taxes. This also applies to eligible corporate taxpayers. The new tax laws makes tax evasion more difficult and will bring many eligible taxpayers, hitherto avoiding taxes, into the tax net. As more high networth individuals and entities are captured in the tax net, they will have more motivation to demand for accountability from elected and appointed leaders across the three tiers of government who manage these tax revenues. This is potentially a very good news for accelerated national development.

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced a strategic partnership with Chinese investors aimed at enhancing the state’s energy infrastructure and expanding its industrial capacity.

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, the governor revealed that discussions were held with the Jiangsu-based energy company Cteec. Talks focused on financing opportunities, technical expertise, and the company’s readiness to deliver key energy projects in the state.

Governor Abiodun noted that the engagement centred around three major areas of collaboration: Strengthening power transmission and distribution across the state; establishing an Industrial Park designed to attract Chinese manufacturers and integrate power solutions, and installing a free 3MW power plant at the Gateway International Cargo Airport to support immediate operations.

‘Our discussions highlighted three critical components of our partnership: the reinforcement of Ogun’s electricity infrastructure, the creation of a manufacturing hub powered by reliable energy, and the installation of a 3MW power facility at our airport, which will immediately catalyse activity at that important location,’ Abiodun stated.

The governor also disclosed that the Chinese delegation would inspect ongoing distribution and power infrastructure projects executed by Sahara and Powergen, as part of wider efforts to secure a stable energy supply for the state.

According to Abiodun, Cteec already has an existing investment portfolio of 100MW in Nigeria and is now seeking to expand its footprint. The company’s interests include power generation and distribution, investment in a dedicated state transmission network, and the development of an Industrial Park to attract further Chinese manufacturers to Ogun State.

‘This partnership is yet another testament to our unwavering commitment to building the energy backbone that will support Ogun State’s industrialisation and long-term economic development,’ the governor added.

In related developments, the Gateway International Airport in Iperu-Ilishan is gearing up for commercial operations. Reports indicate that inaugural flights from the airport to Abuja have sold out, with tickets for subsequent days also fully booked , signalling strong demand and readiness of the facility to serve as a key aviation hub in Nigeria.

‘Our vision has always been to leave a legacy of sustainable development and inclusive growth. From constructing roads that ease transportation of people and goods, to developing affordable housing, we remain committed to improving the quality of life for our citizens,’ said Abiodun.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority officially granted the Gateway International Airport its Aerodrome Operational Permit in August 2025. Passenger flight services are scheduled to commence on 7 October 2025, with Value Jet Airline operating flights twice weekly.

No fewer than 250 commercial taxi drivers have been arrested across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by operatives of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) for violating safety directives restricting only one passenger in the front seat.

The arrests, which took place within the first 48 hours of a renewed enforcement drive that began on October 2, were part of a wider campaign to end overloading and unsafe transport practices in Abuja.

Confirming the development, the FCT Sector Commander, Corps Commander Felix Theman, said the operation was launched to restore passenger dignity and safety on the roads.

‘Enforcement is the most civil and effective way to ensure that safety is not compromised for convenience,’ Theman stated.

He noted that many of the apprehended drivers were found carrying two passengers in the front seat, a practice that violates vehicle design standards and makes proper seatbelt use impossible.

The FRSC warned that overloading endangers lives, puts extra strain on tyres and suspension systems, and reduces a driver’s control in emergencies.

‘The overloading of passengers and goods not only endangers lives but also places undue stress on vehicles. It impairs the driver’s ability to control the vehicle effectively, especially in emergency situations,’ Theman added.

Theman disclosed that the Command had consulted transport unions and stakeholders before the operation, noting that the unions pledged full support for the safety drive.

The enforcement, he said, is being carried out with the aid of mobile magistrate courts for the on-the-spot prosecution of offenders.

He further warned commercial drivers using unsafe vehicles to upgrade or risk immediate impoundment as part of the broader push for safer urban transport.

‘Passengers must support the FRSC’s efforts to protect their right to safe and dignified transportation,’ he said.

The FRSC also announced that full activation of mobile court locations across the FCT will begin on Monday, October 6, to further intensify the clampdown on violators.

The Concerned Taraba Youth Group has advised Gov. Agbu Kefas of Taraba to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the better future of Taraba.

Mr Shadrach Gani, Leader of the group gave the advice on Saturday, while briefing newsmen in Jalingo.

He stressed the need for the state to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Tinubu administration. He noted that the state lacked the capacity to turn around infrastructural development that could create jobs and attract modern amenities.

According to him, Taraba must not be left behind in Nigeria’s development journey.

‘Today, Taraba stands at a defining moment. As young people, we carry the weight of tomorrow on our shoulders, and our greatest desire is to see our state prosper with opportunities, jobs, and modern amenities.

‘Gov. Kefas has already inspired us with bold reforms in education, healthcare, and empowerment. His energy and commitment have rekindled confidence among young people.

‘But the truth remains that many of the challenges holding our state back are beyond what Taraba alone can solve hence the state beeds strong federal support.

‘Critical projects that could transform our economy and create jobs for our youth have been abandoned for too long.

‘The Ibi Bridge, a gateway for trade and commerce. The collapsed Namnai Bridge, which has cut off communities and opportunities.

‘Federal highways in worsening condition, especially the Jalingo-Lau-Karim Lamido road and the River Benue crossing.

‘The massive Wukari-Jalingo-Zing Road project, running into hundreds of billions of naira, far beyond the state’s purse.

‘The Mambilla Hydro Power Project, a dream that can power industries and households across Nigeria.

‘These are not luxury projects; they are lifelines for Taraba’s growth. Without federal partnership, they will remain unfulfilled promises.

‘If Governor Kefas joins the APC, Taraba will gain direct access to federal projects, resources, and opportunities that our people, especially the youth desperately need,’ he said.

Nigerian content creator and social media marketer Ushie Delight Agbo has lost access to her TikTok account after the platform issued a ban.

Agbo, known online by the aliases ‘Energy Goddess’ and ‘Queenlight,’ had been active on TikTok since 2021, gaining 2.2 million followers and more than 62 million likes prior to the removal. She was recognized for her energetic videos and frequent collaborations with brands through digital marketing campaigns.

The ban has prompted reactions from her supporters, many of whom expressed surprise at the sudden disappearance of her account. TikTok has not disclosed the reason for the enforcement action, reflecting broader concerns among creators about transparency in platform moderation and account security.

Agbo, who was born on August 9, 2000, is considered one of several young Nigerian influencers who have built large followings on TikTok in recent years. While the suspension marks a setback in her online career, industry observers suggest she could continue leveraging her profile and experience on other platforms as the creator economy in Nigeria expands.

A new political movement, the New Direction for Nigeria Movement (NEDMO), has emerged with a bold promise to fight corruption and restore credibility to Nigeria’s political system

The group says it is committed to ending decades of bad leadership, injustice, and rigged elections that have hindered the nation’s progress.

The convener, Comrade Mark Adebayo, made this known during a press conference held in Abuja.

He explained that the movement was formed out of frustration with what he described as a ‘broken political system’ that no longer reflects the will of the people.

‘We are tired of leaders who manipulate elections and ignore the suffering of Nigerians,’ Adebayo declared.

‘The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must be reformed. We can no longer tolerate an electoral body that betrays the trust of citizens and suffocates democracy.’

According to Adebayo, NEDMO’s mission is to build a new Nigeria founded on integrity, justice, and transparency. The group plans to mobilize Nigerians from all walks of life youths, professionals, and grassroots communities to reclaim the political space from corrupt politicians.

NEDMO is demanding a total overhaul of INEC, stronger electoral laws, and the selection of leaders who are honest, competent, and patriotic.

Adebayo emphasized that real change will only come when Nigerians unite behind a shared vision of progress and accountability.

The movement has already established a presence in over 600 local government areas and is working to expand to every part of the country before the 2027 general elections.

NEDMO leaders believe that their growing network of volunteers and supporters could make it a major force in shaping Nigeria’s future.

Adebayo called on citizens to join the movement and take responsibility for building a nation that works for everyone.

‘Nigeria belongs to all of us,’ he said. ‘If we don’t act now, the same corrupt system will continue to rob future generations of hope.’

As the country looks ahead to another election cycle, many Nigerians are watching closely to see if NEDMO can deliver on its promise.

For now, the coalition’s emergence has reignited public debate about the need for credible leadership and genuine reform in Africa’s largest democracy.

Libra woman, Rap Goddess, was born on September 30th and she is known for her charm, social grace, lyrical prowess, love of balance and harmony, often called Goddess of Rap for her anthemic ode to female empowerment she values fairness and intellectual conversation but she is decisive with decision-making and may hide her true emotions to maintain peace and balance, sometimes leading to mood swings.

Ruled by the planet Venus, she has an innate charm and appreciation for beauty, making her an attractive and logical problem-solver who enjoys making others feel welcome and entertained with her timeless music.

Rap Goddess personality and Traits; As a Libra Woman she’s charming and social, Rap Goddess has natural social butterflies, comfortable in new situations, and skilled at drawing people in with their humor and intellect.

Maureen James, who is widely known as Rap Goddess, is diplomatic and peaceful: she’s drawn to balance and harmony, excels at mediating disputes, and dislikes unfairness, often seeking peaceful solutions.

As a Libra Woman, she is very intellectual and logical: She has strong reasoning powers and enjoys intelligent and healthy conversations, even engaging in logical arguments.

She is often Indecisive, her careful consideration of all possibilities can make it difficult sometimes to make quick decisions.

Rap Goddess is a lover of act, music, creativity, and balance. In her first verse of her hit song, Libra Woman, she said;

I operate from the sense

Of balance

You gotta understand

a libra woman

Is an independent woman

With a big heart

And her true essences

Is her inner beauty

When she steps into a room

It magnetic

Her true currency is not of the world

Which is the paper money

It’s her big energy

That’s her true currency

She’s the boss queen

The captain of her own ship

She sensitive

And delicate heart

that few get to experience

she’s a true love of nature

A libra woman loves so hard

A libra woman is the leader of the zodiac

Selfless and caring

with decisiveness

But her intuition is so strong

I’m a libra

With her natural grace and presence

She’s equilibrium

And she’s the balance

Osun governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered investigation into alleged killing of three people by operatives of Amotekun Corps in Akinlalu community, Ife North Local Government Area of the state.

The spokesperson for the Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed who announced this in a statement on Saturday also revealed that Adeleke had sent a top level government delegation to the community.

According to the statement, Adeleke expressed deep shock at the deaths of some individuals from the town after receiving a preliminary report from his Special Adviser on Security Matters on the incident.

‘After receiving the preliminary report, further briefings were presented to the Deputy Governor by the security team with a State Security council meeting now scheduled for Monday to further deliberate on the issue and other emerging security threat in the state.

‘Adeleke has vowed to dig into the root of the fatal encounter between the people of the town and the Amotekun security service, directing that a high powered delegation of government and service chiefs will visit the affected town after the scheduled state security council meeting on Monday.

‘Those expected on the delegation includes the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the state governor, the Commissioner for Information, the Commissioner for political affairs, the Commissioner for Transportation, the Attorney General of the State, the Special Adviser on Legal Matters to the governor and service chiefs of the various security agencies.

‘I am a rule of law Governor. This matter is being investigated and any infraction will be dealt with within the context of the law. I have ordered a security council meeting on this incident and others such as fears of spill over from Kwara banditry attacks.

‘I sent my condolences to the victims of this unfortunate incident. I urge the good people of Akinlalu to keep calm as our government acts on the matter. I feel their pains but investigations are ongoing’, the governor was quoted as saying.

The Governor also commiserated with all those who lost loved ones in the tragic incident and prayed to God almighty to comfort them.

Amotekun Corps Shot three dead in Akinpelu – Group

Recall that a group, Ìgbìnmó Májékóbájé Ilé-Yorùbá, had on Thursday accused operatives of Amotekun Corps of killing three members of the same family and injuring several others in Akinlalu community

The group also alleged that the Osun State Amotekun commander attempted to cover up the murder by presenting the victims as armed bandits, despite evidence that they were innocent civilians were attacked inside their compound.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Convener, Olusola Badero, through its Home Director, Princess Balogun, the group said the victims who were not caught with any weapons or incriminating items were shot at close range, and left to die in their compound.

‘Shockingly, the Amotekun operatives later returned, opened fire on those who came to rescue the injured, and carried away the corpses, while labeling them as bandits. This is not only barbaric but also a complete betrayal of public trust.’

‘We are a people of peace and law-abiding citizens. But we cannot continue to fold our arms and watch our people killed like animals by those empowered to defend them. Governor Adeleke must demonstrate leadership by bringing the killers to justice and suspending the commander who orchestrated a false narrative to shield his men from accountability,’ the union said.

It also accused Adeleke of indifference, saying that since the killings occurred, he had not ordered any investigation or arrest.

The group vowed vow to pursue legal actions both locally and internationally if justice is not served.

It gave the Governor seven-day ultimatum to investigate the incident and bring the culprits to justice.

‘We will not allow this case to be buried. We will mobilise our people in Yorubaland and in the diaspora to ensure that the truth prevails and that the victims do not die in vain. If Governor Adeleke refuses to act, history will remember him as a leader who failed to protect his people,’ the Yoruba Union added.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has dismissed viral claims suggesting he accused the late President Muhammadu Buhari of having ties to Boko Haram, describing the reports as ‘twisted and misleading.’

The rumours began circulating after Jonathan’s remarks at the public presentation of a book by former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (retd), were allegedly misrepresented by some media outlets.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan said his words were deliberately taken out of context.

‘At no time did Dr. Jonathan suggest, imply, or insinuate that President Buhari had any connection with Boko Haram or that he supported the group in any form,’ the statement read.

He explained that his comments were meant to highlight how Boko Haram used deceit and manipulation in its early days to sow confusion in Nigeria’s political space.

‘The reference was to a well-documented episode when various individuals and factions falsely claimed to represent Boko Haram and named prominent Nigerians as possible mediators – without their consent,’ he clarified.

According to him, the terrorist group often invoked the names of respected figures like Buhari to ‘exploit political divisions and undermine public trust.’

Jonathan also questioned the logic of the false claims, asking rhetorically:

‘If indeed Buhari was their chosen negotiator, why didn’t Boko Haram end their evil campaign when he became president?’

He further stressed that both he and Buhari fought terrorism during their respective administrations, sharing ‘a common commitment to peace and stability.’

Jonathan urged Nigerians to disregard any political mischief or sensational distortion of his comments.

‘Dr. Jonathan remains committed to peace, unity, and the strengthening of democratic values in Nigeria. The nation’s progress depends on truth, not twisted narratives,’ his office said.