EFCC warns POS operators against aiding fraudsters

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has warned Point of Sale (POS) operators across the country against aiding fraudsters and money launderers in perpetrating financial crimes.

EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, gave the warning when the leadership of the Association of Mobile Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria (AMMBAN), led by its National President, Oti Obioha, paid a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters.

Olukoyede, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Michael Nzekwe, said POS operators were increasingly being linked to transactions involving money laundering, terrorist financing and ransom payments.

He urged AMMBAN to strengthen its regulatory structure and establish a comprehensive framework for monitoring its members.

The EFCC chairman also raised concerns about the level of oversight, training and record-keeping among POS operators, noting that some operators allegedly participate directly in fraudulent activities.

According to him, inadequate transaction records often make it difficult for investigators to trace funds transferred through POS outlets.

Olukoyede therefore urged AMMBAN to ensure that its members maintain proper financial records for every transaction and keep accurate records of operators across the country.

He also assured the association of the EFCC’s readiness to collaborate on training, public awareness and information sharing as part of efforts to curb financial crimes.

Oyo school abduction: Suspects plead not guilty to amended charges

The Department of State Services, DSS, on Thursday re-arraigned five suspected members of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan, also known as Ansaru, over the alleged abduction of about 46 pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The defendants, Mahmud Muhammad, also known as Abu Bara’a/Abbas Mukhtar; Abubakar Abbas, aka Isah Adam/Mallam Mahmuda Al-Nigeri; Abdulrazak Umar, aka Abu Khalifa/Abu Khalid; Yunusa Musa, aka Abu Yunusa Bin Musa; and Shamsu Adamu Sani, aka Abu Itisar, were arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja on a seven-count amended charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/438/2026.

The Federal Government, through the DSS, accused the defendants of several terrorism-related offences, including conspiracy to kidnap about 46 people, aiding the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers, concealing information about an imminent terrorist attack and causing the deaths of two victims.

The two victims named in the charge were Michael Oyedokun and Deacon John Olaleye.

In the first count, the prosecution alleged that Muhammad and Abbas ordered the other three defendants, whom it described as their “foot soldiers” in Ansaru, to kidnap and kill innocent Nigerians in different parts of the country if they were arrested by the Nigerian government.

According to the prosecution, the alleged directive was intended to compel the government to meet the group’s demands.

The charge further alleged that the order resulted in the abduction of about 46 pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery/Primary School and L.A. Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

In another count, the Federal Government accused the defendants of committing an act of terrorism by allegedly causing the death of Deacon John Olaleye through decapitation.

The prosecution said the alleged offence was contrary to Section 2(3)(g) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and punishable under Section 24(2) of the same law.

The defendants were also accused of withholding information concerning an imminent terrorist act and the planned abduction of the victims from law enforcement and security agencies.

In count five, the Federal Government alleged that the defendants conspired with three other suspects — Muhammed Sani, Jibril Mohammed and Ibrahim Khabab — as well as others still at large, to abduct about 46 people, including schoolchildren and teachers, in Oriire.

Umar, Musa and Sani were separately accused of aiding the alleged abduction, while Muhammad and Abbas were accused in count seven of knowingly concealing information about a planned terrorist attack.

The prosecution alleged that the concealed information was connected to the May 15, 2026 abduction and the deaths of Oyedokun and Olaleye.

The charges were brought under various provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

All five defendants pleaded not guilty to the seven counts after the charges were read to them by the registrar of the court.

Following their pleas, the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, who led the DSS legal team, applied for the immediate commencement of the trial in accordance with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015.

Oyedepo also urged the court to protect the identities of the prosecution witnesses by allowing them to testify while wearing masks.

He said the request was necessary to ensure the safety and protection of the witnesses during the proceedings.

Counsel to the defendants, Bala Dakum, did not oppose the prosecution’s application.

Justice Salim Ibrahim subsequently granted the request, paving the way for the prosecution to proceed with the trial under the approved protective measures.

The court thereafter commenced arrangements for the full-scale trial of the five defendants.

The case was adjourned until Friday, September 18, for continuation of hearing.

Tinubu unveils four-year action plan to end child labour

President Bola Tinubu has declared the elimination of child labour a national development priority, stressing that the menace poses serious challenges to education, poverty reduction, economic growth, food security, human capital development and national security.

Tinubu made the declaration on Wednesday in Abuja at the National Dialogue on Advancing the Implementation of Nigeria’s National Child Labour Policy and National Action Plan 2026–2030.

The event also featured the launch of the 2024 National Child Labour Survey Report.

The President, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr George Akume, said his administration would intensify efforts to address the root causes of child labour and protect children from exploitation.

According to a statement by Akume’s media aide, Yomi Odunuga, Tinubu said the Federal Government would strengthen labour administration and inspection systems as part of measures to curb child labour across the country.

He added that the government would also reinforce child protection mechanisms and implement interventions aimed at tackling poverty, unemployment, inadequate access to quality education and social exclusion, which he identified as some of the factors driving child labour.

The President identified education as one of the strongest safeguards against child labour, noting that children who have access to quality education are better protected from exploitative work and other vulnerabilities.

He said the administration was implementing reforms targeted at reducing the number of out-of-school children, improving education data, strengthening teacher development and expanding skills acquisition opportunities.

Tinubu further highlighted the Renewed Hope National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme as another intervention aimed at encouraging school attendance and supporting vulnerable children.

According to him, the programme would help address hunger and nutritional challenges among children from vulnerable households while creating an environment that encourages them to remain in school.

The President reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to implementing the National Child Labour Policy and National Action Plan 2026 to 2030 as part of broader efforts to protect children and promote sustainable national development…///

CELEBRATING A QUINTESSENTIAL CLINICIAN AT 60:Dr. Rafiu Adebisi Kadir Adedoyin – Diamond Jubilee

Today we celebrate a man who needs no introduction in the Nigerian Poultry industry. Dr. Rafiu A. Kadir is not an unknown name; his work, his integrity and his clinical depth speak loudly across the sector.

A proud son of Oke-Onigbin , a community in the heart of Isin Local Government Area of Kwara State, predominantly inhabited by the Igbomina people. Dr. Kadir carries the Omoluabi values of honesty, diligence and honour everywhere he goes.

But for the sake of our new farmers, young veterinarians and those just coming into the industry who may not have had the privilege of knowing him, permit me to briefly introduce the man we are celebrating.

Dr. Kadir was the Pioneer General Manager and Resident Doctor of Profundis Farms Nigeria Limited . He pioneered the take-off of the farm from scratch. Today, Profundis stands as one of the leading indigenously owned integrated poultry farms in Nigeria in both broiler and egg production and that foundation is largely his handiwork.

A distinguished Fellow of the College of Veterinary Surgeons, Nigeria (FCVSN), Dr. Kadir continued his professional journey after his meritorious service at Profundis with the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ilorin, where he presently serves, imparting knowledge and mentoring the next generation of veterinarians.

He is also the Founder and Principal Consultant of Royal Veterinary, Feeds and Farms, through which he offers top-notch private veterinary consultancy and clinical services.

What set Dr. Kadir apart was not just professionalism, but uncommon commitment and integrity:

1. TOTAL COMMITMENT: Though a seasoned Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) trained Veterinarian, Dr. Kadir refused to commercialise his private services to surrounding farms while serving as Resident Doctor. He was totally committed to the growth of Profundis. Even when he offered technical support to other farms around, he would not collect a penny. It was selfless service.

2. UNCOMPROMISING INTEGRITY: As General Manager, he never took tips or kickbacks from input suppliers. Even when suppliers insisted and asked for his account number, he would decline. That high level of integrity became the culture. His personal example curtailed sharp practices among subordinate staff, and it is a major reason for the stability and growth the farm enjoys today.

3. CLINICAL EXCELLENCE: As a clinician, his tentative diagnosis was 9 over 10, even before laboratory confirmation. You could take his word to the bank. Top-notch!

And beyond all these, he is a very jovial, very nice and approachable leader, a complete gentleman.

At 60, Dr. Kadir deserves this tribute not because he asked for it, but because his life is an epitome of integrity, loyalty and professional excellence. He is worthy of emulation and capable of inspiring the new generation of Vet Doctors, Farm Managers and Poultry practitioners that loyalty pays, steadfastness pays, dignity in labour is real, and you don’t have to cut corners to make it.

Happy Diamond Jubilee, Sir! Ilaal-amaam, bi’iznillah.

We celebrate you, the quintessential clinician, Oke-Onigbin’s proud ambassador.

Celebrate him and share in his joy:
09033379662, 08034789399

Tribute by:
Gbenro Rowaiye (Ph.D, MBA), who served as Assistant Farm Manager at Profundis Farms Nigeria Limited under Dr Kadir’s tutelage.

Veteran Actor Olu Jacobs Dies at 84

Veteran Nigerian actor and film executive, Oludotun Baiyewu Jacobs, popularly known as Olu Jacobs, has died at the age of 84.

His death was announced by his son, Olusoji Jacobs, on Instagram on Wednesday. The family described him as “The Lion of Lufodo” and appealed to bloggers and social media influencers to respect their privacy.

Jacobs was one of Nigeria’s most respected actors, with a career spanning more than five decades across theatre, television and film. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in England and began his acting career in Britain before returning to Nigeria.

He later became a prominent figure in Nollywood, earning recognition for his contributions to the Nigerian film industry and his work in international productions.

Jacobs won the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 2007. He also received the Industry Merit Award at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the MAA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.

In 2011, he was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic. He was married to fellow veteran actress, Joke Silva.

INEC Releases Final List of 18 Presidential Candidates for 2027 Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of presidential candidates and their running mates for the 2027 general elections.

The list, signed by the Commission’s Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, was released in Abuja on Saturday and features candidates sponsored by 18 political parties.

Among the presidential candidates are incumbent President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peter Obi of the Nigerian Democratic Congress, Adewole Adebayo of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Oluseyi Makinde of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

Others include Donald Duke of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), Sunday Chibuzo Okereke of the Labour Party, Omoyele Sowore of the African Action Congress (AAC), Sandy Ojang Onor of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Rufai Omo-Aje of the Action Alliance and Aliyu Abbas-Bin of the Action Democratic Party.

The list also includes Kabiru Yusuf of the Allied Peoples Party, Sunday Adenuga of the Boot Party, Moses Adebisi of the Democratic Leadership Alliance, Nkem Esther Okereke of the National Rescue Movement, Daniel Nwanyanwu of the Zenith Labour Party and Peter Ada Agada of the Young Progressive Party.

INEC also listed 14 male and four female vice-presidential candidates.

The female running mates are Peace Egobia Ofordile of the Allied Peoples Party, Nafisat Usaku Abubakar of the Democratic Leadership Alliance, Hajja Bintu Konto of the Labour Party and Patience Ndidi Key of the Young Progressive Party.

The final list formally confirms the presidential contenders ahead of the 2027 election.

Former PDP National Chairman Bamanga Tukur Dies at 90

Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bamanga Tukur, has died at the age of 90.

Tukur reportedly died in Abuja on Saturday, September 12, 2026, after a brief illness, according to a statement issued by his family and signed by his son, Awwal Tukur.

The family described him as a “beloved father and patriarch” who dedicated his life to serving his family, community, Adamawa State and Nigeria.

President Bola Tinubu, in a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described Tukur as a “towering figure” whose career spanned public administration, governance, industry, politics and pan-African business leadership.

Tukur, who was the first civilian governor of the defunct Gongola State, is scheduled to be buried on Sunday, September 13, in Yola, Adamawa State.

His son said funeral prayers would be held at the Lamido’s Palace by 10 a.m., after which the former PDP chairman would be laid to rest.

Meanwhile, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has declared three days of mourning across the state in honour of the late elder statesman.

Fintiri described Tukur’s death as a monumental loss to Adamawa State and Nigeria, praising his courage, foresight, patriotism and lifelong commitment to public service.

Alapata Leadership Dispute Ends in Six-Month Extension Amid Protest

A leadership crisis involving the Alapata, or butchers’ association, in Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State, has led to a three-day strike over a dispute concerning the tenure of the association’s chairman. Although the chairman’s four-year tenure has expired, he has insisted on staying in office for another six months, a position reportedly backed by the local government.

Speaking outside the meeting venue, a member of the association, Muftau Adaran, said the dispute also centred on the association’s operational arrangements. He alleged that the chairman had failed to adequately account for his activities and described his continued leadership as uncomfortable for members.

Adaran also alleged that the local government had previously stayed out of the affairs of the Alapata association but intervened in the current dispute by supporting the chairman’s proposed six-month extension. He said the strike had resulted in financial losses for the butchers and inconvenienced their customers, while members maintained that the outgoing chairman should hand over to a caretaker committee pending the conduct of a fresh election.

The dispute was later discussed at a meeting held at the Orimolusi Palace in Ijebu-Igbo. The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including three former local government chairmen, the incumbent local government chairman, Senator Kaka, the Director of the Department of State Services, representatives of various towns and the Secretary to the Local Government, among others.

During the meeting, stakeholders established that the four-year tenure provision could not be regarded as fully binding because the association’s constitution had not been formally signed and stamped. This prompted the stakeholders to seek a compromise that would resolve the leadership dispute.

At the end of the meeting, stakeholders agreed that the incumbent Alapata chairman would remain in office for another six months, after which he would vacate the position. However, members of the association reportedly rejected the decision, leaving the meeting venue amid anger and loud protests.

The development means that despite the agreement reached by the stakeholders, the leadership crisis remains unresolved among members who opposed the six-month extension.

IBEDC Apologises Over Blackouts in Ogun, Oyo, Kwara

The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, IBEDC, has apologised to Band A customers in Ogun, Oyo and Kwara states after several feeders failed to provide the required daily electricity supply hours on Monday.

The company blamed the outages on technical faults, load shedding, forced outages and disconnections linked to unpaid bills, with some feeders recording no power supply.

One of the affected feeders was the Water Works, Ojere 33kV feeder serving Arakanga Water Scheme and Iberekodo in Abeokuta, which IBEDC said was disconnected over non-payment.

Other affected feeders included those serving Papalanto Train Station in Ogun and Moniya Train Station in Ibadan, while the Joju feeder supplying parts of Owode, Ajibode and Iya Ilogbo experienced a prolonged outage due to a breaker fault.

IBEDC said some other Band A feeders recorded between 12 and 19 hours of supply due to equipment faults and load shedding, but reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the required supply hours.

Tinubu: Nigeria Must Turn Economic Stability Into Jobs, Investment

President Bola Tinubu says his administration is now shifting its focus from achieving economic stability to using that stability to drive investment, increase production, create jobs and improve Nigerians’ living standards.

Tinubu made this known on Tuesday at the 19th Annual Banking and Finance Conference in Abuja, where he said the economic reforms introduced by his government were beginning to deliver positive results.

The President, who was represented by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, said the banking and financial sector would be vital to achieving the country’s economic transformation.

Tinubu said stability should serve as the foundation for achieving greater prosperity.

He said his administration had implemented difficult reforms in foreign exchange, taxation, public finances and fiscal management to correct structural problems that had built up over several decades.

He pointed to the economy’s 4.43 per cent growth in the second quarter of 2026 and an estimated 17 per cent increase in GDP in US dollar terms during the first half of the year as evidence of progress.

The President also maintained that Nigeria was still on course to reach a $1 trillion economy by 2030, while its purchasing-power GDP had exceeded $2.2 trillion.

He further cited rising external reserves, now above $54 billion, declining inflation, increased investor confidence and positive assessments from international rating agencies as signs of economic improvement.

Tinubu called on banks to move beyond traditional financial intermediation and play a bigger role in transforming the economy by providing more funding to businesses and productive sectors.

He identified economic growth, financial inclusion, technology, long-term financing and public trust as key priorities for creating a stronger and more resilient financial system.

The President also called for deeper development of Nigeria’s capital markets, pension, insurance and asset management industries to attract long-term funding for infrastructure, manufacturing, housing and energy.

He stressed the importance of public confidence in the financial system, saying strong consumer protection and effective regulation were necessary to sustain financial stability.