Category: cover

 

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has called on the Central Bank of Nigeria to immediately disclose whether it has commenced the direct disbursement of allocations to the 774 local government areas in Nigeria, following the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment nullifying state governors’ control over LGA funds.

 

In a letter dated 10 May 2025 obtained by our correspondent, addressed to the CBN Governor, Mr Olayemi Cardoso, and signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the group also demanded that the bank “widely publish the amounts, if any, so far sent directly to each of the local governments” and provide a detailed explanation of any payments already made—particularly to LGAs in Rivers State.

 

The group stated: “We are writing to request you to use your good offices and leadership position to immediately disclose whether the CBN has commenced the direct disbursement of allocations to the 774 local government councils in Nigeria from the Federation Accounts with the CBN, and to widely publish the amounts, if any, so far sent to each of the local governments.”

 

This request follows a Supreme Court judgment declaring the practice by governors and the FCT Minister of retaining and disbursing LGA allocations unconstitutional and unlawful.

The court ruled that no governor or agency has the authority to interfere with allocations meant for LGAs from the Federation Account.

 

Citing this judgment, SERAP argued: “Local government councils are entitled to a direct payment from the Federation Account of the amount standing to their credit in the said Federation Account. States should not be collecting, receiving, spending or tampering with the local government council funds from the Federation Account meant for the benefit of the councils.”

 

The advocacy group expressed concern that despite the ruling, many state governors have continued to “starve local governments of funds and put them in peril,” thereby undermining their autonomy and capacity to function as the third tier of government.

 

In the letter, the group warned that if the CBN fails to act within seven days, it would take legal action.

 

“If we have not heard from you by then, the Incorporated Trustees of SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel you and the CBN to comply with our request in the public interest,” the letter stated.

SERAP referenced a past revelation by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who in December 2022 described how governors allegedly short-changed LGA chairmen.

 

“If the money from the Federation Account to the state is about N100 million, N50 million will be sent to the chairman, but he will sign that he received N100 million. The chairman will pocket the balance and share it with whoever he wants to share it with,” Buhari had said.

 

The organisation argued that the CBN has a constitutional and statutory obligation to protect the financial interests of all tiers of government.

 

“The CBN ought to act in the public interest to protect the allocations in the Federation Account and the public funds disbursed from that Account directly to each of the constitutionally recognised three tiers of government,” it said.

 

Highlighting the March 2025 revenue distribution by the Federation Account Allocation Committee, SERAP noted that a total of N1.578 trillion was shared among the three tiers of government. It queried whether the LGAs had received their fair share directly, as mandated by the court ruling.

“Ensuring that all restrictions against direct disbursement of allocations from the Federation Account to the 774 councils are lifted will comply with the orders by the Supreme Court and stop states and the FCT from tampering with the allocations ahead of the 2027 general elections,” SERAP warned.

 

The group further argued that Nigerians have a legal and moral right to know how their money is being managed, referencing several legal frameworks, including the Nigerian Constitution, the Freedom of Information Act, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

 

“The public interest in publishing the information sought outweighs any considerations to withhold the information. Nigerians are entitled to the right to receive information without any interference or distortion, and the enjoyment of this right should be based on the principle of maximum disclosure,” SERAP stated.

 

The group also reminded the CBN that “the Freedom of Information Act is applicable and applies to public records in the Federation, including those kept by the CBN.”

 

No fewer than 78 Nigerians rescued from human traffickers in Cote D’Ivoire have arrived in Lagos.

The victims, comprising 73 females, two males, and three babies, arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, around 11:00 pm on Saturday.

 

Binta Bello, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, received them at the airport.

Bello, in her speech, said that the return of the victims reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to the fight against human trafficking.

 

“This is a momentous occasion a day that marks not only the safe return of our beloved daughters but also a reaffirmation of our unwavering commitment to the fight against human trafficking.

 

“To the young women and girls who have just returned, we say welcome home.

 

“You were taken far from the safety and dignity you deserve, but today, you are back on Nigerian soil, and you are not alone. You are home, and this country stands with you.

 

“Your courage, your survival, and your return symbolise hope for thousands of others who may still be in the shadows.

 

“And to those who have perpetuated this evil, let today be a reminder that Nigeria will never relent in pursuing justice,” she said.

 

The NAPTIP boss said that some of those responsible for the heinous trade had been apprehended and would face the full force of the law.

 

According to her, the agency will profile and chat with the survivors for necessary measures in line with its mandate, which included counseling and skill acquisition training.

 

“We thank the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for its constant support and political will in the fight against trafficking in persons, the support has been instrumental in enabling NAPTIP to carry out this noble mandate.

 

“We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Air Peace Airlines for their generous and patriotic assistance in facilitating the safe return of these victims free of charge.

“Your partnership is a shining example of how the private sector can contribute meaningfully to national efforts.

 

“To all our local and international partners, thank you. Your collaboration continues to empower us, and today’s success is one we share with all of you,” she said.

 

Bello urged the public to raise awareness, report suspicious activities, and stand together against the grave violation of human dignity.

 

Narrating her ordeal, a 24-year-old pregnant victim said that a friend lured her into prostitution.

“One of my friends told me that she is running a supermarket, that she would love me to come and work and earn like N300,000 a month.

 

“She said that I should not worry about the transport that she is going to pay for me, which she did.

 

The victim said that the moment she got there, she discovered that there was no supermarket.

 

“She said that she paid N3 million for my transport and that I must sleep with men for me to pay her back.

 

“I told her I cannot, but she threatened to either kill or cut my hair and take it to a herbalist to make me run mad.

 

“For fear of the unknown, I started sleeping with different men,” she said.

 

According to her, she is four months pregnant and needs help to take care of herself and her unborn baby.

 

“When I discovered I was pregnant, she asked me to abort, I told her I cannot because the baby is already big.

 

“She started mistreating me, hitting me with sticks on my tummy. Sometimes, she sends some men to kick me in my stomach in order to lose the pregnancy.

 

“When I could no longer bear the torture, I went to report to the police,” she said.

In the same vein, another victim, a 17-year-old said that she met a lady who compelled her into a commercial sex act.

 

“A lady approached me, she said she would like to take me to Cote d’Ivoire to work in a restaurant and I will be paid 1.5million cfa monthly.

 

“I and six other girls accepted, she told us not to tell our parents.

 

“When we got there, she and her gang dumped us in a forest where men came to pick us up for sex,” she said.

 

The victim said that after undergoing a series of abortions, the lady did a five-year family planning for her.

 

According to her, some of her colleagues died in the process.

 

“Some of my colleagues who were picked up for sex never returned. Some were killed and dumped on the road,” she said.

 

The Nigerian Army disclosed on Sunday that it has taken into custody Christopher Emmanuel, who allegedly assaulted a female vendor, Doshima, in Kula, Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue.

 

This is contained in a statement by the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 401 Special Forces Brigade, Makurdi, Capt. Abdullahi Osabo.

 

Osabo said the Headquarters Operation Whirl Stroke took cognisance of the incident, which occurred on May 6 and reported on May 8.

 

He said the incident might have stemmed from a dispute over an unpaid debt, with allegations suggesting that the soldier claimed the woman insulted him during a phone conversation.

 

According to him, it is further alleged that this confrontation may have escalated into a physical altercation, which is now under investigation.

 

“Private Christopher Emmanuel is currently in custody, and a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

 

“The Nigerian Army has zero tolerance for human rights abuses and will take disciplinary action based on findings of the investigation.

“The leadership of the Nigerian Army assures the general public and the victim that justice will be served in line with the military’s high standards.

 

“OPWS strongly condemns any form of indiscipline or human rights abuse by its personnel,” he said.

 

Osabo urged members of the public to report any instances of abuse by Nigerian army personnel to the Human Rights Desk helpline instead of using social media.

 

He gave the assurance that all reports of infractions by army personnel were viewed seriously, investigated, and sanctions applied where personnel were found culpable.

 

“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation,” he added.

 

The National Security Adviser said that 15 persons have been convicted and 100 others prosecuted as his office is working to protect crude oil infrastructure in the Niger Delta region.

 

The NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, disclosed on Friday at a town hall meeting organised by the Petroleum Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, a pipeline surveillance contractor, in Yenagoa.

 

Ribadu, who was represented by his Special Assistant on Energy, Security and Finance, Mr Amakiri Harry-Young, assured that his office is committed to meeting President Bola Tinubu’s directive on achieving 2.5 million barrels daily crude oil production.

 

He said those convicted have been remanded in Port Harcourt prison.

 

The NSA revealed that a special committee comprising investigative and prosecuting teams has been working around the clock to ensure that pipeline vandals and other offenders faced justice.

 

According to him, the move followed concerns raised during a previous meeting about the arrest and quick release of oil vandals, which often led to further insecurity in the affected communities.

 

His words, “The president is serious about the 2.5 million barrels, and we are doing everything necessary to reach that goal.”

 

He added that success would depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders involved, as the Federal Government was taking strong action against oil vandals who threaten national assets and local communities.

 

In his opening address, the PINL Consultant, Communities Relations, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, said that the firm has recorded major successes in safeguarding the Trans-Niger Pipeline through close collaboration with host communities, government security agencies and other key stakeholders.

 

Mezeh also started that by investing in community needs, resolving disputes, and restoring the environment, PINL has helped reduce crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism to near-zero infractions on the pipeline.

He pointed out that PINL has also improved crude oil production and restored greater investor confidence, thereby contributing to an increase in national revenue.

 

Mezeh also stated that in addition to strengthening local ties, PINL has also supported economic empowerment, ensured regular payment of surveillance guards and promoted safety by deploying military camps and portable cabins.

 

President, Ijaw National Congress, Prof Benjamin Okaba, stressed that Ijaw communities have always supported Nigeria’s unity and economic stability and also taken the lead in the management of pipelines through companies like PINL.

 

Okaba called on communities to fully support PINL operations while stressing that any success recorded in protecting pipelines was also a credit to the Ijaw people.

He was critical of the current terms of the Petroleum Industry Act, especially the three per cent allocation to host communities,s calling it an insult.

 

Okaba, however, called for better agreements and full respect for such terms by both the company and the Federal Government.

 

Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers of the host communities in Southern Ijaw, Ogbia and Yenagoa Local Government areas, the Ibenanawei of Bomo Kingdom in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the state, King Joshua Igbugburu, praised the company for its consistent engagement with stakeholders.

 

Igbugburu also commended PINL for setting an example in community involvement noting that no other pipeline surveillance firm operating in the region has shown such commitment.

 

He urged the Federal Government, especially the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, to also hold regular meetings with stakeholders and surveillance companies to help reduce pipeline vandalism and boost oil production.

 

He further called on other oil pipeline surveillance firms to rise to be proactive and work collectively to eliminate criminal activities in oil-producing communities.

 

The Lagos State Government has commenced the demolition of contravening structures within Megamond and Oral Estates in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of the state to address flooding.

 

The state Commissioner for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this in a video shared on X.com on Saturday.

 

Wahab noted the demolition follows the expiration of several served notices to owners of the contravening structures.

 

He wrote, “Following the expiration of served notices, operatives from Drainage Enforcement and Compliance Department of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources on Friday commenced the removal of contravening structures within Megamond Estate and Oral Estate along Ikota River alignment, Eti-osa, to prevent perennial flooding in the area.”

 

The commissioner had revealed on Thursday that some affected owners received extension of the removal notice and only structures within the river’s path would be removed.

 

He wrote, “Following our inspection of the Ikota River setback areas—Oral Estate, Westend, Megamounds, and Lekki County; we’ve extended the removal notice for affected homeowners, not out of weakness, but compassion.

 

“While we remain committed to restoring the Right of Way to address flooding and protect lives, we also understand that families need time to relocate.

“This is why we’re allowing some grace before enforcement begins. Only structures clearly within the river’s path will be removed, and we will continue to engage residents with empathy while holding non-compliant home owners accountable.”

 

Watch video below:

 

𝐕𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐎: 𝐋𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧 𝐄𝐭𝐢-𝐎𝐬𝐚 𝐋𝐆𝐀 𝐓𝐨 𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐅𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠

 

The Lagos State Government has commenced the demolition of contravening structures within Megamond and Oral Estates in the Eti-Osa… pic.twitter.com/kCSfHmRyLD

 

— Punch Newspapers (@MobilePunch) May 10, 2025

 

Governors of the 19 Northern States under the aegis of the Northern Governors’ Forum on Saturday met over the troubling security challenges in the region.

 

Members of the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, comprising the Emirs and Chiefs from the region, were part of the meeting which witnessed an impressive out of almost all the governors in the North.

 

14 of the 19 Northern governors were in attendance. They are governor of Zamfara, Dauda Lawal, Kaduna Governor, Senator Uba Sani, Gombe governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, Jigawa governor, Umar Namadi, Kebbi’s governor, Nasir Idris, Adamawa ‘s governor, Ahmed Fintiri, Taraba ‘s Governor, Kefas Agbu, Nasarawa ‘s Governor, Abdullahi Sule, Yobe Governor, Mai Malam Buni, Niger Governor, Mohammed Bago, Sokoto Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, Plateau Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, Katsina Governor, Dikko Radda and Kogi Governor, Ahmed Ododo.

 

Governors of Borno, Kwara, Kano, Benue and Bauchi were represented.

Speaking at the joint meeting of the Northern States Governors Forum and Northern Traditional Rulers Council at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House, Kaduna, Chairman of the NGF and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, emphasised the need for collective action to drive regional development and tackle the troubling security challenges.

 

Yahaya, while expressing his condolences to the people of Plateau, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, and Yobe states over recent tragic killings, urged the federal government to review security strategies, emphasising the importance of synergy between federal, state, and local security architectures.

 

The governor noted that the resurgence of Boko Haram activities in the North-east and violent killings in the North-central regions were major concerns that require immediate attention.

 

“We must work together to address the security challenges facing our region. It’s imperative that we enhance our security measures to protect our citizens and ensure their safety,” he said.

 

He commended President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to Nigeria’s security while noting the need for more effective strategies.

 

The governor highlighted the success of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the National Economic Council, and the National Assembly in resolving tax reform issues and hailed President Tinubu’s willingness to listen and work towards inclusive governance.

 

On infrastructure, Governor Yahaya expressed concern over the state of infrastructure in Northern Nigeria, citing neglected projects such as the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail line and the Kano-Maiduguri expressway.

 

He advocated for innovative financing options like public-private partnerships and infrastructure bonds to bridge the infrastructure gap.

 

The Governor emphasised the potential of the New Nigeria Development Company in driving regional economic growth while stressing the need for proper restructuring, competent management, and effective oversight to restore NNDC to its former glory.

 

The governor also highlighted the importance of human capital development, particularly in addressing the Almajiri phenomenon and providing job opportunities for youth.

He emphasised the need for quality education and vocational skills to empower the next generation.

Yahaya noted the importance of proactive measures to mitigate farmer-herder clashes and climate-related challenges.

 

He stressed a need for collective action to address environmental sustainability and promote regional development.

 

The governor acknowledged the invaluable role of traditional institutions in maintaining social harmony and urged continued partnership with them in governance and conflict resolution.

 

In conclusion, Governor Yahaya urged governors to rise above individual interests and work collectively for the region’s progress.

 

“Tangibles’ impact on people’s lives is what will be remembered, not the number of meetings held,” he emphasised.

 

In his remarks, Kaduna State Governor and Chief Host, Uba Sani, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to addressing infrastructural deficits in the north.

 

Specifically, Sani praised the President’s initiative to revive the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Dual Carriageway project.

 

“Mr. President will go down in history as the leader who listened to the cries of the Northern people and took decisive action,” he said.

 

He noted that the road connected the Federal Capital Territory to 12 states in the North Central, North West, and North East zones, serving as a vital link between the South and North.

 

The Governor emphasised the need for a roadmap to address security, peace, governance, and development issues in Northern Nigeria. “We don’t have the luxury of time. Our people want results,” he stressed, urging the development of an implementation and funding strategy to drive progress.

 

Governor Sani while welcoming attendees, commended the Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, and the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for their leadership.

 

“We have made progress on many fronts. But challenges remain. I urge us to hasten the development of a Roadmap for addressing issues of security, peace, governance and development in Northern Nigeria. Additionally, we must follow up the Roadmap with an implementation and funding strategy. We don’t have the luxury of time. Our people want results.

 

“I must not conclude this welcome address without commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to addressing the infrastructural deficits in Northern Nigeria. One of Mr. President’s key interventions in our region is the long-abandoned Abuja – Kaduna – Zaria – Kano Dual Carriageway. The road connects the Federal Capital Territory to about 12 States in the North Central, North West and North East Zones.

“It serves as a vital link for travellers moving between the Southern and Northern parts of Nigeria.

Mr. President will go down in history as the leader who listened to the cries of the Northern people and took decisive action. We owe Mr. President a debt of gratitude,” he said.

 

Chelsea ended the Women’s Super League season unbeaten after Aggie Beever-Jones’s stoppage-time goal secured a 1-0 win over Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

 

The Blues had wrapped up the title — their sixth in a row — with two games to spare as French manager Sonia Bompastor ensured the London club remained at the summit of the English game in her first season since succeeding Emma Hayes.

 

But they were kept waiting for a goal by Liverpool before academy product Beever-Jones fired in a late winner as Chelsea became the first side to remain unbeaten in a 22-match WSL campaign.

 

Bompastor’s team lifted the trophy after the match.

Chelsea, who also won the League Cup, will aim to complete a domestic treble when they face Manchester United in the FA Cup final on May 18.

 

Their hopes of a quadruple were scuppered when they lost 8-2 on aggregate to Barcelona in the semi-finals of the Women’s Champions League.

 

Arsenal finished as runners-up with a 4-3 win over Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium despite a late fightback by the visitors.

 

AFP

 

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, on Saturday, thanked President Bola Tinubu, the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, traditional rulers, organising committee, and others who graced his coronation ceremony, making it a colourful and memorable.

 

He made this known in a statement from the palace’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, in Ibadan, the state capital.

 

He expressed his deepest appreciation to “President Tinubu, members of the Federal Executive Council, the government and good people of the state under the leadership of Governor Makinde, for their support and goodwill; traditional rulers, dignitaries, and guests for honouring the epoch occasion with their presence.

 

“I also appreciate the Yoruba community in the diaspora for their love and support; my subjects, esteemed guests, members of the Local Organising Committee, volunteers, and all those who worked tirelessly to make the ceremony a success.

“Your presence, support, and goodwill messages have not only touched my heart and filled me with joy, but they have also projected the richness of our cultural heritage and commitment to the legacy of our ancestors.

 

“The coronation ceremony was a grand success because of your contributions – as our fathers would say, a tree does not make a forest. It is a celebration of our rich Yoruba culture and heritage, and a testament to the enduring bond between our kingdom and the global community.

 

“As I begin my reign, I am committed to promoting the welfare and prosperity of our kingdom and the entire Yoruba race. I look forward to your continued support and partnership,” he added.

 

Authorities in northern Afghanistan have arrested 14 individuals for playing musical instruments and singing during a private gathering, provincial police said on Saturday.

This was a practice banned under the Taliban’s strict interpretation of Islamic law.

The police said in a statement that on Thursday night in the capital of northern Takhar province, “fourteen individuals… took advantage of the nighttime to gather in a residential house where they were playing musical instruments and singing songs, which caused disturbance to the public”.

Since regaining control of Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban have reimposed severe limitations on music and public entertainment, similar to those enforced during their previous rule from 1996 to 2001.

Music schools have been closed, instruments destroyed, and public performances outlawed. Music is now banned from public places, including weddings, restaurants, cars, and media broadcasts.

Authorities have described music as a source of “moral corruption” and urged former musicians to redirect their talents toward religious chanting and Islamic poetry.

 

Despite these restrictions, music continues to be performed discreetly in some women-only spaces.

 

Many musicians fled the country following the Taliban’s return, seeking refuge and employment abroad after losing their livelihoods in a nation already facing deep economic hardship.

 

The 14 detainees remain under investigation, officials said.

 

A former presidential aspirant, Joseph Faduri, on Saturday, mocked the leadership of the Labour Party over the current internal crisis threatening to tear the party apart, describing it as ‘karma.’

 

In a statement released in Abuja, Faduri lamented that it was painful watching the party rob him of the presidential ticket in favour of the LP candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, in the manner they did.

 

His reaction comes in the wake of the power tussle that has seen three party chieftains laying claim to the leadership of the LP following the recent judgment of the Supreme Court.

 

Obi and Abia State Governor Alex Otti have rejected the leadership of Julius Abure, whom they insisted has ended in favour of a National Caretaker Committee headed by a former lawmaker, Senator Nenadi Usman.

 

Lately, the one-time Deputy Chairman of LP, Alhaji Lamidi Apapa, has made a bold return and also made a claim to be the rightful heir to the throne.

 

But Faduri, who is now the head of the Rescue Movement for a New Nigeria, blamed all the aforementioned leaders for his plight.

He said, “What is happening in the Labour Party today is nothing short of poetic justice, a karma unfolding before the very eyes of the nation.

 

“It is the consequence of the injustice, betrayal and deceit done to me and my team in 2022 when some leaders of the party connived to rob me of the presidential ticket, a ticket we laboured tirelessly to build, and handed it over to Mr Peter Obi.

 

“In 2022, LP was a dead structure — no plan, no preparation, no hope. I reached out to its national leaders. I rallied my team, invested resources and reawakened the sleeping giant.”

 

Continuing, the former presidential aspirant noted that his refusal to challenge the illegal process in court was an act of patriotism and his resolve not to throw the party into crisis.

 

Recalling his political travail, Faduri further explained that he initially started with the New Nigerian Peoples Party, an initiative he claimed was hijacked by the leader of the Kwankwasiyyan Movement, Alhaji Rabiu Kwankwaso.

 

“We then began scouting for a new platform, and that was how we came to the Labour Party,” he added.