The Senate will begin a two-day public hearing on the four tax reform bills presented by President Bola Tinubu to improve the nation’s tax administration.

The Senate Committee on Finance chairman, Sani Musa, said this at a news conference in Abuja on Wednesday.

Mr Musa, after a closed session with members of the committee, said that the public hearing would be held from February 24 to 25.

“We intend to take on two of the bills each day of the session for the press to be fully abreast with what we intend to do. The bills are the Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service Establishment Bill and Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill,” stated the senator.

According to him, the bills will overhaul the tax administration and revenue generation in the country, as many of the provisions contained in them are landmark in nature.

He said this would put Nigeria on the same pedestal as advanced economies, saying that infrastructure, education, agriculture and other sectors of the economy would be adequately taken care of with enough funds.

Mr Musa stated that the committee members had studied the bills and robustly engaged with several stakeholders before deciding to hold the public hearing.

He expressed the belief that the public hearing would go well, adding that President Bola Tinubu had repeatedly assured that he would not interfere in any of the processes of the tax reform bills.

“It is our duty as legislators to do the needful for the good of this country. We are all representatives of different tribes, religions, geography and we are Nigerians.

“What we will work towards giving Nigerians are laws that will put us on track economically. And by the grace of God, we will succeed,” he said.

Mr Musa added, “We have also invited the minister of petroleum resources, the chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Services and the statistician-general of the federation so that he will be able to come and give us his own submission.”

Mr Musa assured that the National Assembly would, at the end of the day, produce legislation on tax administration that would be acceptable to Nigerians.

Gen. James Hecker, Commander of the U.S. Air Forces, Europe and Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA), says the U.S. Air Force will carry out airstrikes against terrorist targets across Africa.

Mr Hecker stated this at a digital news conference on Wednesday, Wednesday, at the 2025 African Air Chiefs’ Symposium in Lusaka, Zambia.

Mr Hecker said terrorist groups like ISIS were high-value targets that threatened African nations and the U.S. and would be targeted by the U.S., as it did against ISIS in Somalia recently.

“They are significant high-value targets that threaten African nations and threaten the United States. So we will continue to go after terrorist organisations that threaten our African partners as well as the United States,” he said.

Mr Hecker said the U.S. was willing to collaborate with African air forces, not only by way of security support but also through humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.

On Boko Haram insurgency and how the U.S. air force can help the Nigerian military achieve air superiority over the terrorists, he said the U.S. had already been supporting Nigeria.

“Well, I think as you know, the U.S. government has provided training and equipment to Nigeria for quite a while, so hopefully, that will help them out.

“But what we’re looking at in this conference is not that. We’re not talking about air superiority or conflict. We’re talking about how we can help each other – African nations can help one another – and that’s what the goal of this conference is,” Mr Hecker said.

Zambia’s air force commander, Oscar Nyoni, gave an insight into the symposium and how AACS member states would respond to humanitarian needs if a disaster struck.

According to him, with AACS, humanitarian or disaster needs like foodstuff, logistics, supplies, and aerial vehicles will be easily provided by member states, who will contribute whatever they are able to contribute.

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dr Danjuma Ismaila as Rector and Chief Executive of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria.

“Before the appointment, Dr Ismaila was a lecturer at the Federal University of Transportation, Daura,” Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, disclosed in a statement on Wednesday.

The statement is titled ‘President Tinubu appoints Danjuma Ismaila to head the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology.’

Ismaila graduated from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, with a degree in Physics in 1989.

He also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Transportation and has attended several courses, workshops and seminars on civil aviation management and transportation.

He is a member of the Royal Aeronautical Society, the UK, and the Air Transport Research Society, among others.

The Presidency described Ismaila as an expert in air transportation management, transport economic policy and aviation security.

Some officers of the Anambra State Police Command are being investigated following the escape of two suspects linked to the killing of a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly representing Onitsha 1 Constituency, Justice Azuka.

This is as the Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Somtochukwu Udeze, in a statement released on Wednesday, demanded the immediate re-arrest of the escaped suspects.

Azuka was abducted on December 24, and his lifeless body was found on the Second Niger Bridge on February 6, 2025.

In connection with the murder, the police had arrested nine suspects.

However, in a shocking twist, two of the arrested suspects managed to escape just days after their capture.

The spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed their escape in a statement on Tuesday.

According to Ikenga, the suspects fled in Obosi, Idemili North LGA, while leading police operatives from Awkuzu Command on an operation to apprehend the receiver of stolen vehicles used by their gang.

“Although the receiver of the vehicles was arrested, and two vehicles were recovered, the two suspects fled the scene. The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has already ordered a manhunt for the fleeing suspects,” Ikenga stated.

Speaking with journalists on Wednesday, Ikenga revealed that the escape happened on February 8 and that all officers involved in the operation are currently at the State Command Headquarters for debriefing.

He explained that while the suspects were handcuffed at the time, the swampy nature of the area where they escaped may have aided their movement.

He added that a thorough investigation is underway to prevent a recurrence.

“Disciplinary actions are already being taken to address any negligence involved. The CP has assured that anyone found culpable will not go unpunished. As this goes on, our priority remains the re-arrest of the fleeing suspects to ensure they face justice,” he said.

Ikenga clarified that the suspects have not yet been declared wanted because the police are following due process.

“Declaring someone wanted is a process. We must exhaust all investigative options first. However, we are working towards obtaining a court order to formally declare them wanted,” he added.

While describing the incident as “very unfortunate,” he emphasized that the police have nothing to hide and urged the public to see security as a collective responsibility.

Providing further details, Ikenga disclosed that of the nine suspects arrested for Azuka’s murder, two played key roles and had provided critical information about their sponsor and operational locations.

“In a follow-up investigation, officers took these two suspects to the location they identified as their meeting point with their sponsor and receiver of stolen items in Obosi, Idemili North LGA. The goal was to arrest this individual and dismantle their network. Unfortunately, the suspects escaped during the operation,” he said.

Despite the escape, he confirmed that the police successfully arrested the suspected financier of the gang, along with the receiver of stolen items.

He also revealed that two operational vehicles—a black Lexus 350 SUV and a black Toyota RAV4—used in the lawmaker’s abduction and murder were recovered.

“The arrested individual, whose full identity will be disclosed soon, is the group’s main financier, providing them with operational tools and logistics,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Somtochukwu Udeze, in a statement released on Wednesday, demanded the immediate re-arrest of the escaped suspects.

Udeze expressed disappointment over the development and urged the police to take every necessary step to recapture the fugitives.

“The Anambra State House of Assembly deeply regrets this unfortunate development, which casts a shadow over the otherwise commendable and professional manner in which the police have handled the investigation. The position of the State Legislature is clear: the fleeing suspects must be tracked and apprehended at all costs,” he said.

“I call on the Commissioner of Police to redouble his efforts and ensure that the escaped suspects are re-arrested and brought to justice. The police should immediately declare them wanted and publish their full names, addresses, and photographs to enlist public support in tracking them down.”

The Association of Private Polytechnics in Nigeria has called on President Bola Tinubu to sponsor a Bill for an Act to abolish the dichotomy between a Higher National Diploma and a Bachelor’s degree.

President of the Association, Dr Benjamin Achiatar made the call while addressing Newsmen in Abuja on Wednesday.

The dichotomy between HND and bachelor degree holders allows holders of the latter to be given preferential treatment in government jobs over the former.

Achiatar said though the dichotomy had been officially removed by the National Council on Establishment, its implementation was very poor because, according to him, it is not properly backed by law.

“The Bill to back it up was passed at the 9th Senate but was not duly signed into law by the then president. Therefore, a new Bill needs to be sponsored or the previous one revisited by the present 10th National Assembly and sent to President Tinubu for his assent,’’ he said.

Achiatar said that due to the dichotomy, Joint Admission and Matriculation Board records showed a yearly drastic reduction in the number of applications into polytechnics.

According to him, frustrated Nigerian candidates are fleeing to neighbouring countries of Dahomey, Togo, and Ghana to pursue their education, leading to a brain drain.

He hinted that the association’s request for more JAMB centres for adequate coverage of their Institutions was communicated to JAMB.

Achiatar, who is the Proprietor of Gboko Polytechnic, stressed the importance of technology education in fast-tracking the industrialisation of the country.

“We handle mostly technical training in Nigeria; in the polytechnics and mono-technics, we have various courses, and we train our students both in theory and practical. The emphasis we place on practical training is what makes us different from the university,’’ he said.

Achiatar said Nigerians needed to understand that technical and technological education is very important to the industrialisation of Nigeria.

“We are requesting the government to pay attention to all technology and technical education in Nigeria because, in the last few years, interest in technical and technological education has been reducing,” he said.

He argued that the increasingly lower number of students applying to polytechnics and mono-technics in the country through Jamb was affecting the economy as a whole.

“We are hoping that the government will see this and give adequate attention to this area, which will enable students to see the incentive to train in the field,‘’ he said.

He explained that the existing dichotomy between HND and BSc in Nigeria allows holders of BSC to be given preferential treatment over HND holders.

He said this discourages students from taking up courses that lead to HND, adding that generally, the government seems to be paying more attention to university education.

“That is why we are requesting that the government should sponsor a bill in the national assembly that will do away with the dichotomy,’’ Achiatar said.

He noted that recently, in a communique, the Chairmen of the Governing Councils of Polytechnics emphasised the need for conversion of the National Board for Technical Education into a commission.

Achiatar said the association was in full support of the conversion, which formed part of their concerns.

He clarified converting the NBTE, being their regulatory body, into a commission would also allow the NBTE to cater to the progressive needs of Nigerian polytechnics.

“They will have the capacity to work with the National Universities Commission to do accreditation in Polytechnics for the award of B. Tech (Hons), which will attract more students.

“So, these are the issues that are motivating us to inform Nigerians and the government about the advantages of boosting technology education in the country,’’ Achiatar said.

The Lagos State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the alleged torture and death of a newlywed man, Abdulmujid Oduga, while in police custody at Ikota Police Post in the Ajah area of the state.

In a statement obtained by PUNCH Online on Wednesday, the command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, while providing an update on the incident, confirmed the arrest of the Investigating Police Officer and the complainant.

Hundeyin also noted that an autopsy would be carried out to determine the cause of Oduga’s death and to be followed by necessary actions.

“Investigations have since commenced. The Investigating Police Officer and the complainant are currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Yaba. Meanwhile, an autopsy is about being carried out to determine the cause of death, after which further necessary actions will follow.

“Members of the public are assured that a thorough investigation will be carried out and any person(s) found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” the statement read.

PUNCH Metro reported that the deceased allegedly had a misunderstanding with his female neighbour, which led to his arrest on Tuesday, February 11 and detention at the police post.

An X user @Omoiyacele, who raised the alarm in a post on Monday alleged that Oduga, after the arrest, was subjected to severe torture during his detention, resulting in his death.

The X user, while describing the late Oduga as his cousin, stated that the police thereafter dumped his corpse at a morgue in the Epe area of the state.

While he disclosed that the deceased got married four months ago, he also urged the police authorities to probe the cause of his death.

He wrote, “My cousin, Late Abdulmujid Igbamitayo Oduga, was murdered by @PoliceNG just because of a mere misunderstanding between him and his neighbour. He died at the Ikota Police Post under Ajiwe Police Station located at Ajah under the IOP Azeezat. The corpse was deposited at Epe.

“We urge the Nigeria Police to help our family look into this matter for a clear and true picture of the matter for us to know the particular person that killed our beloved son who just did wedding not up to four months ago.”

Another relative, @Cherub, in a separate post on X, demanded justice for the deceased.

“A brother was murdered at Ikota police post, Lagos State in collaboration with Ajah police station. This can’t continue in our nation and all keep quiet like it’s the norm. We want justice,” she wrote.

In one of the pictures shared was a screenshot by a sibling of the deceased who described him as the breadwinner of the family.

The sibling also accused the police of not allowing the deceased to contact his family while in custody.

The sibling wrote, “They killed my brother, a whole breadwinner just like that. They arrested and locked him up for a normal misunderstanding between two neighbours, without giving him access to contact his family and friends and he was tortured till he gave up in the police cell.

“All I want right now is justice. They can’t just kill my brother and get away with it. Nigerians please help me out, he was detained without any offence. They came to arrest him at home healthy and telling us now he’s dead just like that.”

A 94-year-old man, Adedapo Idowu, has registered for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) with the aim of fulfilling his long-standing aspiration of studying Political Science at the University of Ibadan.

Idowu, who registered at the JAMB Professional Test Center in Ibadan, Oyo State, expressed his excitement about the smooth registration process.

The 2025 UTME registration started on January 31.

Last week, JAMB revealed that over 700,000 candidates have registered, including 11,000 underage applicants.

Idowu shared that his initial fears about pursuing higher education at his age were dispelled after his seamless registration experience.

He commended the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for the efficient use of technology, such as integrating his National Identity Number (NIN), which simplified data collection and ensured a user-friendly process.

His story was featured in the latest bulletin of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.

“I can now attain my dream at an advanced age.

“The registration staff gave me a sense of belonging through the warm reception at the registration venue” he noted.

He also advised other candidates to embrace professionalism and contentment in their academic journey.

The nonagenarian encouraged the Board to maintain this positive trajectory to continue ensuring access to education for all, particularly the elderly, the underprivileged, and those with disabilities.

A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, presided over by Justice A.O. Owoeye, has ordered that Ezekiel Thankgod, also known as Eezeetee, the former manager of gospel singer Mercy Chinwo, appear in court to face charges on Thursday, March 6, 2025.

According to a statement by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Thankgod, had repeatedly avoided arraignment by the Lagos Zonal Directorate of the anti-graft agency.

EFCC disclosed that the evasion was the subject of an arrest warrant issued by the court during proceedings on January 16, 2025.

Thankgod is set to face a three-count charge bordering on money laundering and the fraudulent conversion of $340,000.

This was made known via a statement shared on the X handle of the EFCC, on Monday, February 17.

The statement reads in part: “Justice A.O. Owoeye of Federal High Court, sitting in Ikoyi, on Monday, February 17, 2025 held that Mr. Ezekiel Thankgod must appear in court to take his plea and adjourned till March 6, 2025 for his arraignment.

“Mr. Thankgod, ex-manager of gospel artiste, Mercy Chinwo has consistently evaded arraignment by the Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, prompting a warrant of arrest to be issued on him by the court during January 16, 2025 proceedings.

“Thankgod is to be arraigned on a three-count charge, bordering on money laundering and dishonest conversion to the tune of $340,000.

“One of the charges reads: ‘That EZEKIEL ONYEDIKACHUKWU THANKGOD and EEZEE GLOBAL CONCEPTS LIMITED sometime in 2023, directly retained the sum of $260,494 (Two Hundred and Sixty Thousand Four Hundred and Ninety-Four USD) in EEZEE GLOBAL MINISTRY Zenith Bank Plc account number, which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of an unlawful activity, the dishonest conversion of the said sum, property of Mercy Chinwo and Judith Kanayo’.

“The offence is contrary to Section 18(2)(d) and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

“The bench warrant of January 16, 2025 for his arrest followed an application by the prosecuting counsel, Bilikisu Buhari, who informed the court that the prosecution has been unable to effect service of the charges on him as he had been unreachable.

“On January 24, 2025, defence counsel, Dr. Monday Ubani, SAN had to accept service on behalf of the defendant, but pointed to a preliminary objection challenging the charges.

“Justice Owoeye subsequently adjourned till today, Monday, February 17, 2025 for the defendant’s arraignment. Yet, he remained absent and was again, represented by his counsel.”

The Edo State House of Assembly on Tuesday passed the State Kidnapping Prohibition Law 2025 and approved death sentence for offenders.

The majority leader, Charity Aiguobarueghian had earlier moved the motion for the House to resolve into the committee of the whole to consider the bill clause-by-clause.

The motion was seconded by the Minority Leader, Henry Okaka, member representing Owan East.

During the clause-by-clause consideration of the bill, the lawmakers amended the existing law 2013, which had provided for life imprisonment and confiscation of property allegedly used for kidnapping

The lawmakers, however, amended the law to provide a stiffer penalty of death sentence and confiscation of property used in the act.

Also, the House passed a bill for a law to repeal the Edo State electricity law 2022, establish Edo state electricity market, Edo state electricity regulatory commission and Edo electrification agency.

Meanwhile, the House also confirmed Kenny Okojie as the chairman, governing Board of the Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency.

The Federal Government has inaugurated the first barracks that will provide office and residential accommodation for personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in Yola, Adamawa State.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Tuesday, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, said the role of NDLEA in society cannot be overstated.

Mr Fagbemi said that the provision was with a charge to the personnel that the well-deserved investment in their welfare was a call to higher responsibility and unwavering dedication to duty.

He said the facility, which included modern administrative offices, detention facilities, secure storage, and residential accommodations, was not just a physical structure.

He added that it was a critical investment in human capital and a testament to President Bola Tinubu administration’s resolve.

This, he said, was to create an environment where NDLEA officers and their families could live and thrive with dignity and security.

According to him, the fight against drug abuse is a fight for Nigeria’s future.

He stated, “It is a battle to protect our youths from the devastating effects of substance abuse and to rid our communities of the violence and destruction that often accompany the illegal drug trade. This barracks, therefore, is more than a place of residence; it is a fortress of resilience and a beacon of hope for our nation’s future. I would like to reassure you of my continued commitment to supporting the work that you do. This is based on my personal conviction of the intersection between justice and law enforcement.

“This facility is a critical component of the rule of law—ensuring that those who are tasked with upholding our laws are protected, empowered, and equipped to carry out their duties. It reinforces the principle that justice begins with those who enforce it, and it is our collective responsibility to provide them with necessary resources to carry out their responsibilities effectively,” he said.

Mr Fagbemi urged NDLEA officers who would inhabit the facility to remain steadfast in their service.

According to him, the nation looks at NDLEA officers not only as enforcers of the law, but as protectors of shared hope for a safer, healthier society.

The minister said, “This investment in your welfare is a call to higher responsibility, one that requires unwavering dedication and resolute commitment. This day should serve as more than the commissioning of a physical structure. It should be a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to building a society where every citizen can thrive—free from the perils of drug abuse and the destruction it brings. Together, through concerted effort and unwavering determination, we will secure the promise of a better and brighter Nigeria for all.’’

He commended former President Muhammadu Buhari under whose leadership the project was approved and set in motion.

The minister praised Mr Tinubu for aiding the dream into fruition, and Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State for his exemplary cooperation and support in ensuring that the project was executed.

He also appreciated the support of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, towards the operational successes of the NDLEA.

“This project, which has been conceptualised and driven by Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa (retd), the dynamic Chairman and Chief Executive of NDLEA, is a reflection of the forward-thinking leadership that has defined his tenure in the Agency. I am proud to note that Marwa has revitalised the operational framework of NDLEA, demonstrating exceptional leadership and a steadfast commitment to public service delivery”, he added.

The modern barrack came 35 years after the establishment of the NDLEA.

Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mrs Monisade Afuye, has announced the passage of her mother, Olori Esther Adegboye.

The deputy governor’s mother, a native of Ikere Ekiti, died in the early hours of Tuesday at the age of 97.

Announcing her mother’s passage in a personally signed statement, the deputy governor wrote, “With a heart full of praise and glory to Almighty God, we announce the passing of our matriarch, Olori Iyalaje Adegboye of Akayejo Ruling House of Ikere Kingdom.

“She is survived by extended family members, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

“Burial arrangements will be announced later.”

The deputy governor described her late mother as a caring and resourceful community leader, whose vacuum would be herculean to fill, adding that “The Ikere Ekiti Community and Akayejo Royal Dynasty will fondly remember Mrs Adegboye for her priceless contributions to community development and quest to foster unity in the town for accelerated progress”.

She prayed to God to grant her late mother eternal rest and sustain the family she left behind.

Meanwhile, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday commiserated with his deputy over the demise of her mother.

Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described Adegboye’s death as painful but expressed joy that it was an end to a dignified era, considering the impactful life she lived and her positive influence on her Ikere Ekiti community.

The governor described the late Madam Adegboye as an honest and resourceful community leader, who contributed immensely to the growth of Ikere Ekiti in the areas of women’s mobilisation and empowerment.

He said, “The good deeds of the deceased overtly reflected in the qualities of her children, who are not only doing exceedingly well in their chosen careers but always exhibit virtues of loyalty, honesty and reliability at their duty posts”.

The governor prayed to God to repose the deceased’s soul in His bosom and grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss.

Oyebanji stated, “On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Ekiti State, I commiserate with the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, her siblings and the entire Akayejo Ruling House of Ikere Ekiti on the passing of this quintessential community leader.

“Evidently mama lived a good life and left legacies of selfless service, diligence and loyalty. I urge Her Excellency the Deputy Governor and the entire family to be consoled by Mama’s exemplary and impactful life.

“History will continue to be kind to Mama for her contributions to women’s mobilisation and emancipation in all respects. May God grant her eternal rest.”

Meanwhile, Oyebanji in the afternoon paid a condolence visit to his deputy at her official residence within the Government House Complex, in Ado Ekiti.

Pan Niger Delta Forum leader, Edwin Clark, is dead.

Aged 97, the former Federal Commissioner for Information and South-South leader’s death was confirmed in a statement by a representative of the family, Prof. C. C. Clark, on Tuesday.

The statement read, “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON on Monday, 17th February 2025.

“The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family.”

The Ogun State Police Command has declared controversial music artist, Habeeb Okikiola, also known as Portable, wanted over his alleged involvement in a violent attack on government officials within the state.

Portable was accused of leading a gang of thugs to attack officials of the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, who were on a legal enforcement exercise in the Ota area of the state.

He was however said to have fled into hiding after his actions.

The police also reported to have written formal invitations to him but were “deliberately ignored” by the artist

A statement by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, on Monday, February 17 reads: “The Ogun State Police Command hereby declares Habeeb Okikiola Olalomi, popularly known as “Portable”, wanted for his involvement in a violent attack on government officials carrying out their lawful duties.

“On February 5, 2025, at approximately 1000hrs, officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ota Zonal Office: TPL Onabanjo Abidemi, TPL Raymond Lateef, TPL Ridwan Oyero Akinlesi, were conducting an enforcement exercise at Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu Ota, when they encountered an elderly man, later identified as Portable’s father, at Odogwu Bar in the area. Upon identifying themselves and requesting the approved building plan, the father informed them that his son was unavailable.

“However, moments later, Portable, armed with a firearm and other dangerous weapons, led a gang of nine thugs in a violent attack on the unarmed officials. The enforcement officers sustained various bodily injuries but managed to escape and reported the incident to the Ota Area Command, which subsequently escalated the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further action.

“Nine accomplices were arrested, but Portable fled the scene and has since gone into hiding. Multiple formal invitations were sent to him, requesting his presence at the Ogun State Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta, which he deliberately ignored without cause or legal representation.
“Following his repeated evasion, the Ogun State Police Command has obtained a valid court order declaring him wanted.

“Members of the public are strongly advised to assist the police by providing any valuable information that can lead to his immediate arrest. Anyone found aiding or harbouring the suspect will face legal consequences.

“For any relevant information, kindly report to the nearest police station or contact the Ogun State Police Command through its official communication channels or police public relations department.”

Following the continuous protests by electricity workers in Oyo State, Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC) has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the management of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to re-absorb workers recently sacked.

The state Chairman, Comrade Kayode Martins, gave the order yesterday while receiving the affected workers at the NLC State Secretariat, Labour House, American Quarters, Ibadan.

Addressing the workers under the aegis of National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), who converged on the Labour House, Martins described the sack of the affected workers as worrisome, condemning the treatment meted out to them.

Lamenting the level of exploitation of the outsource workers by the agents, especially deduction of their salaries, he said the practice was illegal, as it was against the labour laws.

He called on security agencies in the state to come to the aid of the sacked workers, noting that it was unlawful for employers to pay less than the minimum wage to their employees.

The Nation reports that the affected workers, in the past two weeks, had been protesting poor remuneration, unfair treatment by the management of the IBEDC and the recent sack of 17 of their members.

Airtel Nigeria, the country’s second-largest telecommunications operator, has significantly adjusted its data pricing structure.

A check using the shortcode *312# code and visiting the Airtel website showed the revised data prices.

According to the telco’s website, the revision, which affects various data bundles, aims to mitigate the impact of escalating operational costs on the company’s operations amidst a challenging economic landscape.

The revised data plans, published on its website, include daily plans: N50 for 40MB (valid for 1 day), N100 for 100MB (valid for 1 day), N200 for 200MB (valid for 3 days), and N350 for 1GB (valid for 1 day).

On the other hand, weekly plans have become N350 for 350MB (valid for 7 days), N500 for 750MB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 200MB YouTube Music/Spotify (valid for 7 days), N500 for 1GB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 50MB Socials (valid for 7 days), and N500 for 2GB (valid for 2 days).

Changes for the monthly plan include 3GB for N2,000 (from 1.5GB at N1,200), 4GB for N2,500 (formerly 3GB at N1,500), and 8GB for N3,000 (formerly 4.5GB at N2,000).

Other adjustments include 10GB for N4,000 (formerly 6GB at N2,500), 13GB for N5,000 (from 10GB at N3,000), 18GB for N6,000 (formerly 15GB at N4,000), and 25GB for N8,000 (replacing 18GB at N5,000).

Airtel’s call rates rose to 25 kobo per second from about 18 kobo per second. Like MTN, Airtel has left some tariff plans untouched. For instance, the 5GB plan/week for N1,500 remains unchanged.

This development comes on the heels of a tariff hike of about 50 per cent by MTN Nigeria, which took effect almost a week ago to cushion the impact of rising operational costs.

Airtel’s subscribers are already complaining about the hike on X.

A Subscriber, Okikiola (@okikiola_Ayoade) said, “Return our data bundles back e no easy to dey get money, you people dey inconvenience us, data from 3000 for 20gb is now 3000 for 10gb. Why are we suffering for what we are paying for, ogun dey kee una shey until when we no get clothes for neck again?”

Jessy Paul (@Firstjessy), another subscriber, queried the telco for stopping its previous data offer and said, “Can you change it back to what it used to be or should I break my Airtel SIM and switch to another network?”

Another Subscriber, ShadeFX D BoiCrypt (@ShadeFx__), said, “Life is already hard for us, and you decided to add more to it by being heartless. Why increase data plans and then exhaust it so fast? What did we do wrong by choosing to use your network? Does it sound fair to you now? Are you happy? This is Evil.”

However, Airtel apologised for the inconvenience caused by the hike in data prices.

“We extend our sincere understanding regarding your concerns, and wish to apprise you that comprehensive revisions have been effectuated across our voice and data plans,” Airtel posted on X.

The Nigerian Communications Commission, the industry’s regulatory body, had approved a maximal increment of 50 per cent tariff adjustments to operators, citing the need to ensure the sustainability of the telecommunications industry.

The commission said its approval was in response to prevailing operational costs and was made pursuant to its power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA).

The NCC said that, while recognising the public’s concerns, the decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors.

The European Union has congratulated Angola’s President João Lourenço on his election as the new chairperson of the African Union.

The Angolan leader was elected African Union chair at the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Addis Ababa from February 15 to 16, 2025.

The European bloc congratulated Mr Lourenço in a message posted on the European External Action Service’s (EEAS) handle, @eu_eeas.e.

The EU also congratulated the newly elected Chairperson of the African-Union Commission, Mahmoud Youssouf and his deputy, Selma Haddadi.

The EU said in the post that the year 2025 marked the 25th
anniversary of the mutually beneficial partnership between the EU and Africa.

“Africa is a geo-political priority for the EU and we will continue our strong political dialogue and action,” the EU said in the post.

Mr Youssouf, the new chairperson of the African Union Commission, is from Djibouti.

Haddadi will deputise him from Algeria. Both mandates are for four years, renewable once. Both elected officials garnered the required two-thirds majority votes of the 49 member states eligible to vote.

Six AU member states are under sanctions and were ineligible to vote.

The 60-year-old Mr Youssouf is taking over the reins of leadership of the African bloc from former chairperson Moussa Mahamat, who is from Chad.

Mr Mahamat served as AU chairman for two consecutive terms since 2017.

A middle-aged woman and her two children have lost their lives in a fire incident on Sunday night in Ondo State.

The fire incident happened at Rainbow Street, Onipakala Junction, off Adeyemi Road, in Ondo West Local Government Area.

A family source, speaking under anonymity, told journalists on Monday that the victims were burnt beyond recognition in the inferno, which lasted for hours.

The source said the mother was a petty trader, while the two children were identified as Bukola, aged 16 and Ife, 11.

He also said the fire destroyed the entire building where they were trapped.

According to him, the efforts by neighbours to save their lives proved abortive as the state Fire Service in the town failed to mobilise.

“When the fire was raging, we called the fire service, only to be informed that there was no water and chemicals.

“In fact, immediately, the officer switched off his cell phone,” the source said.

CSP Funmilayo Odunlami, Ondo police public relations officer (PPRO), confirmed the incident to journalists on Monday through text messages.

“Yes, their remains have been deposited at the morgue by the police,” Ms Odunlami said.

Also, the chief fire officer in Ondo State, Bimbola Araroba, told journalists that he could not confirm the incident, saying only the officer in the area could confirm it.

The Lagos State House of Assembly in Alausa, Ikeja, was, on Monday, thrown in turmoil when men of the State Security Service and the Nigeria Police Force invaded the complex and disrupted the plenary.

The heavily armed operatives, dressed in black jackets and helmets, as at 10:00 a.m., sealed the offices of the speaker, Mojisola Meranda, her deputy, Fatai Mojeed, and the clerk while also barricading the assembly complex.

Ms Meranda arrived at the premises with her convoy at about 11:15 a.m. She met with fellow lawmakers at the complex garden, where they mobilised and chased away the operatives from the assembly premises before they regained access to the chamber and resumed plenary.

It is yet to be ascertained whose orders the joint team of operatives acted on at the time of this report, but this development comes after Peoples Gazette reported that President Bola Tinubu had notified the lawmakers to prepare for the reinstatement of ousted Mudashiru Obasa, as speaker.

Mr Obasa had filed a motion at the Ikeja Division of the state High Court, challenging his January 13 impeachment in absentia by 32 out of 40 lawmakers when he was in the United States of America over alleged fraud. He also sought an accelerated hearing.

A building collapse in the Egyptian capital killed 10 people and injured eight more on Monday, with several others believed to be missing under the rubble, state media reported.

Ambulances were dispatched to the scene in the working-class neighbourhood of Kerdasa, where civil defence teams searched for people thought to be missing under the rubble, according to the Al-Akhbar Al-Youm newspaper.

Eyewitnesses told the state-owned outlet that “a gas cylinder explosion” caused the collapse, and a police investigation was underway.

Building regulations are unevenly enforced in the sprawling metropolis of Cairo, home to over 26 million people.

The city has seen several deadly building collapses in recent years, both due to the dilapidated state of some and, at times, failure to comply with building regulations.