New Daily Prime

Author: Gbenga Oluranti Olaleye

  • Libya repatriates 48 Nigerian females, two children

    Libya repatriates 48 Nigerian females, two children

    The Department for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM) in Libya has successfully deported 48 Nigerian women and two children with support from Nigeria’s consular services and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

    The repatriation was carried out on Wednesday via Mitiga International Airport, ensuring the safe return of the migrants to Nigeria. 

    This effort forms part of broader initiatives aimed at assisting Nigerian nationals who are facing hardships abroad, especially in conflict-affected areas like Libya.

    Migrant Rescue Watch confirmed the operation in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), stating: “DCIM repatriated from Tripoli with 🇳🇬 consular and 🇺🇳 IOM support 48 #migrant females with 2 children of Nigerian nationality via Mitiga Int. Airport.”

    This latest repatriation is part of a continued effort by the Nigerian government to assist citizens in Libya, following similar operations that have brought home over 150 Nigerians in recent weeks.

  • FG denies report on imminent Lagos-Abuja bullet train launch

    FG denies report on imminent Lagos-Abuja bullet train launch

    The Federal Ministry of Transportation has refuted reports circulating on online platforms regarding the imminent launch of a high-speed bullet train between Lagos and Abuja, which was claimed to reduce travel time between the two cities from 12 hours to just two to three hours.

    In a statement issued on Thursday, February 20, the Ministry described the claims as “fake and unfounded,” stressing that they were based on inaccurate information provided by Yinka Idris, the Director of Operations of Geofocus Consortium. 

    Idris had reportedly issued a statement suggesting that the feasibility studies for the project were complete, and that the necessary funding had been secured.

    The Ministry clarified that while Geofocus Consortium had proposed the idea for the bullet train under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in 2016, no concrete progress had been made on the project. The proposal, the Ministry explained, was initially submitted to the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) in 2024 for due diligence.

    However, the ICRC responded with a request for a support letter from the consortium’s financiers, a condition that has not yet been met. The Ministry also pointed out that the Outline Business Case (OBC) for the project had not been approved, particularly due to the lack of proof of funds, which is a crucial requirement for the project to move forward.

    The statement further clarified that it is only after meeting these requirements that a memo would be submitted to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval.

    “It should be noted that the claim that feasibility studies have been completed and proof of funds has been secured is purely speculative, as the company has yet to fulfil the necessary requirements,” the Ministry’s rejoinder read.

    The Ministry also called on Geofocus Consortium to issue an apology to the Ministry and the Nigerian public for disseminating false information. It urged Nigerians to disregard the fake news and cautioned media outlets to verify facts before publishing such claims.

    “For quality reportage, the online platforms and other media outlets that published the false story are advised to seek clarification before going to print to avoid the spread of misinformation,” the Ministry added.

    The statement concluded by reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to advancing the transportation sector in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, and appealed for the cooperation of all stakeholders in ensuring the sector’s success.

    The Ministry, under the leadership of Hon. Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Ahmed Alkali, continues to work towards fulfilling its mandate and delivering on critical infrastructure projects across the country.

  • Reps push for action against use of fake vehicle plates in Nigeria

    Reps push for action against use of fake vehicle plates in Nigeria

    The House of Representatives has urged the Nigeria Police Force and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to take immediate action against the growing use of fake vehicle number plates, citing concerns over increasing criminal activities in the country.

    The motion, sponsored by Matthew Nwogu, the representative for Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala Federal Constituency, Imo State, was adopted during Thursday’s February 20, plenary session. 

    Nwogu emphasised that vehicle number plates are crucial for identifying vehicles and allowing security agencies to trace those involved in criminal activities.

    He referenced a report from Vanguard dated February 7, 2025, which revealed that many fake plates used in crimes carry the logos of prominent institutions such as the Presidency, the Nigeria Youth Council, and the National Association of Nigerian Students. 

    These fraudulent plates have been linked to incidents like the notorious ‘One Chance’ robbery and kidnapping schemes, which have caused significant harm to citizens.

    “The use of fake number plates is directly contributing to the worsening security situation in the country, Some of these plates belong to respected institutions, yet they are not registered in the Nigerian Vehicle Registration database.” Nwogu said.

    READ ALSO: Reps probes NNPCL, oil firms over unremitted $1.6bn royalties

    Following a vote in favour of the motion, the House called on the FRSC, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, to ramp up efforts to arrest those using fake number plates and track down the producers. 

    The resolution also urged the agencies to ensure that only vehicles with valid, registered plates are allowed on Nigerian roads.

    This move comes amid rising concerns over security and the increasing use of fake plates to facilitate crimes in various parts of the country.

  • PDP govs back Adeleke amid Osun crisis

    PDP govs back Adeleke amid Osun crisis

    Governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have thrown their weight behind Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, as the state grapples with an escalating leadership crisis at the local government level.

    The crisis began following a controversial Federal High Court ruling in Osogbo last year, which led to the dismissal of Osun State’s local government chairmen and councillors.

    This decision was overturned by the Court of Appeal in Akure, which reinstated the officials.

    However, attempts to restore the local government leaders sparked violent clashes, resulting in several deaths across the state.

    In a statement issued by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum (PDPGF), the party’s governors condemned the violence and reaffirmed their support for Adeleke. The statement also noted that the governor had previously raised concerns about potential unrest in the region.

    “The PDP Governors’ Forum notes with deep concern the recent political violence in Osun State, which led to the loss of lives and the destruction of property,” the statement read. “The concern of the PDPGF stems from the fact that Governor Ademola Adeleke had warned about the imminent breakdown of law and order and appealed to the responsible authorities to act to prevent this outcome.”

    The forum strongly condemned the use of violence to resolve political disputes, emphasising that political actors should have adhered to the laws of the land. The governors also expressed their concern over the growing use of violent tactics to settle political and legal differences, calling on all involved parties to immediately cease actions that could further inflame tensions.

    “The PDPGF condemns in its entirety the resort to self-help by political players whose conduct ought to have been guided by the provisions of extant laws in a democratic society,” the statement continued.

    “The Forum further notes with deep worry the resort to violence as a means of settling political and legal disputes and warns all those fanning the embers of discord to desist forthwith.”

    READ ALSO: Osun LG Crisis: Adeleke accuses IGP of lawlessness

    The governors lauded Adeleke for his proactive stance in issuing timely warnings before violence erupted, calling it an example of strong and responsible leadership.

    “The PDPGF appeals to His Excellency President Bola Tinubu, the Director-General of the DSS, the Inspector General of Police, and the heads of other law enforcement agencies to act swiftly,” the statement urged.

    “They should direct all law enforcement agencies to contain the situation in Osun State, restore law and order, and guarantee the preservation of lives and property before the situation spirals further out of control.”

    The forum also underscored the importance of political leadership being focused on public service and not on violence or lawlessness. “Political leadership should be about patriotic sacrifice and service to the people, not about bloodshed and violent criminal conduct,” the statement added. “We charge all stakeholders in Osun State to abide by the law and work towards the safety, protection, and welfare of the people.”

    In conclusion, the PDP Governors’ Forum expressed hope for a swift return to peace in Osun and called for the prosecution of those responsible for the violence that has marred the state.

    The ongoing tensions in Osun State remain a significant concern, and the forum’s statement highlights the urgent need for political leaders and law enforcement to prioritise stability and peace in the region.

  • Babangida expresses regret over June 12 election annulment 32 years later

    Babangida expresses regret over June 12 election annulment 32 years later

    Former military Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, has expressed deep regret over the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, describing it as the most difficult period of his life.

    Speaking at the launch of his memoir, ‘A Journey in Service’, in Abuja on Thursday, Babangida admitted that while the election was credible, his administration failed to complete the process, which he called “a tragic irony of history.”

    He took full responsibility for the decision, saying the June 12 crisis, which interrupted Nigeria’s democratic progress, was a mistake, but emphasised that Nigeria’s commitment to democracy has endured.

    Babangida also reflected that if given another chance, he would have handled the situation differently.

    The memoir, which delves into key moments in Nigeria’s history, including the 1976 coup attempt and the assassination of journalist Dele Giwa, also touched on his rationale for annulling the June 12 election, won by Moshood Abiola.

    The annulment sparked national protests and led to Babangida’s eventual resignation.

    Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, reviewing the book, echoed Babangida’s sentiments, noting that June 12 was the most challenging period of his life and that he would approach it differently if given the chance.

    The launch event also saw notable leaders reflect on Babangida’s legacy and Nigeria’s democratic journey.

    Former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo highlighted the importance of multi-party democracy in Africa, while General Yakubu Gowon lauded Babangida’s leadership. Former President Goodluck Jonathan described him as one of Nigeria’s most charismatic leaders.

    The event saw significant contributions to the IBB Presidential Library project, with prominent businessmen like Aliko Dangote and Abdulsamad Rabiu donating large sums.

    Dangote pledged N2bn annually for four years for the library’s construction.

    The memoir launch attracted an elite gathering of past and present leaders, reflecting on Babangida’s impact on Nigeria’s political landscape and the current state of democracy in West Africa.

    READ ALSO: JUNE 12: Nigerians wait with bated breath as IBB launches memoirs

  • Senate urges NJC to resolve Benue CJ removal issue

    Senate urges NJC to resolve Benue CJ removal issue

    The Senate has called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to address the alleged removal of Benue Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, in accordance with constitutional provisions.

    The upper chamber also tasked its Committee on Judiciary and Human Rights with investigating the matter and submitting a report in two weeks.

    The motion, titled “Looming Constitutional Crisis in Benue State,” was sponsored by Minority Leader Sen. Abba Moro (PDP-Benue) and supported by two other Benue senators.

    Moro expressed concerns that the Benue State House of Assembly’s purported removal of the chief judge, without proper legal procedure, posed a threat to democracy and the rule of law.

    The senator pointed out that under the Nigerian Constitution, only the NJC has the authority to appoint and remove state chief judges.

    He condemned the Benue Assembly’s actions as a violation of the Constitution.

    READ ALSO: Benue Assembly sacks Chief Judge, suspends 13 lawmakers

    Sen. Titus Zam (APC-Benue) seconded the motion, alleging that the House Speaker was following an agenda, noting that 14 members of the Assembly had opposed the removal.

    Sen. Emmanuel Udende (APC-Benue) also voiced opposition, stating the Assembly had exceeded its powers.

    Sen. Seriake Dickson (PDP-Bayelsa) reinforced that the NJC had already addressed the issue and that no political body should undermine constitutional processes.

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio welcomed the bipartisan support for the motion and affirmed that resolving the matter was in the national interest.

  • CBN keeps interest rate at 27.5% amid economic uncertainty

    CBN keeps interest rate at 27.5% amid economic uncertainty

    The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has decided to maintain the country’s benchmark interest rate at 27.50% following its 299th meeting in Abuja.

    CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, made the announcement on Thursday, highlighting that the committee unanimously agreed to keep key monetary parameters unchanged as it evaluated the economic outlook for 2025.

    The CBN also kept the asymmetric corridor around the MPR at +500/-100 basis points, the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) at 50% for Deposit Money Banks and 16% for Merchant Banks, and the Liquidity Ratio at 30%.

    This decision marks a pause after six consecutive interest rate hikes in 2024, as the bank continues to manage inflationary pressures, exchange rate fluctuations, and concerns over economic growth.

    The MPC noted stability in the foreign exchange market, improvements in external reserves, and a gradual decline in fuel prices as significant factors influencing its decision.

    Despite these positive developments, inflation remains a key challenge, with the recently rebased Consumer Price Index (CPI) showing a headline inflation rate of 24.48% in January 2025, down from 34.80% in December 2024.

    READ ALSO: SERAP gives CBN 48 hours to reverse ATM fee hike

    The committee expressed confidence that food security measures would gradually ease inflationary pressures, particularly those related to food prices.

    Governor Cardoso emphasised the importance of continued collaboration between monetary and fiscal authorities to sustain macroeconomic gains, and credited recent foreign exchange measures for stabilising the exchange rate.

    The CBN also highlighted a positive trend in oil production, which rose to 1.54 million barrels per day in January 2025, boosting external reserves to $39.4bn as of February 14, 2025.

    Nigeria’s GDP grew by 3.46% in Q3 2024, largely driven by the non-oil sector, especially services. The MPC also reassured that Nigeria’s banking sector remains resilient, though it stressed the need for strengthening banking system surveillance, particularly amid ongoing recapitalisation efforts.

    Geopolitical risks, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and trade tariffs imposed by the US, were noted as potential threats to Nigeria’s economic stability.

    The committee reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitoring both domestic and global economic developments.

    The next policy meeting is scheduled for May 19-20, 2025.

  • IGP clears 13-year insurance backlog, disburses N20.8bn to families of fallen officers

    IGP clears 13-year insurance backlog, disburses N20.8bn to families of fallen officers

    The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, revealed on Tuesday, February 18, that his administration inherited a staggering 13-year backlog of unresolved insurance claims for the families of deceased police officers. 

    Egbetokun made the disclosure during the unveiling of the Police Insurance Claims Management Portal and the presentation of cheques to beneficiaries and next-of-kin of fallen officers in Abuja.

    In his address, Egbetokun stated that the backlog, which spanned from 2010 to 2023, had left many families in financial hardship. 

    He described the situation as “unacceptable” and underscored the commitment of his administration to address it.

    “At the outset of this administration, we met an alarming backlog of unsettled insurance claims, This unfortunate reality left the families of our deceased officers in financial distress, a situation we found unacceptable and determined to change.” Egbetokun said. 

    To address the issue, the IGP outlined the steps taken by his administration, including engaging defaulting insurance providers and enforcing compliance.

    Through these efforts, significant progress has been made in clearing the backlog.

    READ ALSO: Police rescue 10 children from traffickers in Anambra, arrest three suspects

    Since taking office, the administration has disbursed benefits to 6,465 beneficiaries, with a total of N17.8 billion allocated across eight separate phases. 

    On Tuesday, February 18, the 9th phase of payments was launched, with another N3 billion set to be distributed to 706 beneficiaries. 

    This tranche covers the insurance policy years of 2020 through 2024, bringing the cumulative total to N20.8 billion, benefiting 7,171 families.

    “This exercise is not merely a financial disbursement, but an affirmation of our promise to stand by the families of those who serve with honor and dignity,” Egbetokun stated.

    The IGP also introduced the Nigeria Police Insurance Claims Management Portal, which aims to streamline the insurance claims process. 

    The portal is designed to improve efficiency, transparency, and accessibility, leveraging technology to eliminate bottlenecks and ensure a seamless experience for beneficiaries.

    “This initiative reflects our broader vision of digital transformation within the Nigeria Police Force, It is our commitment to using modern solutions for effective service delivery. I urge all officers and personnel to embrace this digital revolution and utilise the portal for its intended purpose.” he explained. 

    The unveiling ceremony also included the commencement of an intensive training programme for Insurance Desk Officers across the country. 

    Egbetokun emphasised the importance of capacity building, recognising that well-trained officers are essential to ensuring the smooth processing of insurance claims.

    “The training will provide officers with a robust understanding of insurance administration policies and procedures, We must ensure a seamless transition to a modernised system. I encourage all participants to take full advantage of the training, ask questions, and engage actively to enhance their proficiency.” Egbetokun said. 

    This digital overhaul and the ongoing insurance disbursement efforts are part of the IGP’s broader strategy to improve the welfare of police officers and their families, further solidifying the administration’s focus on officer welfare and modernisation within the Nigeria Police Force.

  • No obstacle to Owoade’s coronation as 46th Alaafin of Oyo, says Chief of Staff

    No obstacle to Owoade’s coronation as 46th Alaafin of Oyo, says Chief of Staff

    The Chief of Staff to the Alaafin-designate, Rotimi Osuntola, has firmly declared that there are no hindrances to the planned coronation of Engr. Akeem Abimbola Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo. 

    The event is set to take place on April 5, 2025, at the Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, Osuntola assured the public that all necessary arrangements for the coronation are in full compliance with historical traditions and that recent reports suggesting delays due to the absence of the Apetunmodu of Ipetumodu are unfounded.

    The controversy arose after news emerged that Oba Joseph Oloyede, the Apetunmodu of Ipetumodu, had been missing since January 2024, leading some to speculate that his absence could affect the planned coronation. 

    Traditional customs dictate that the newly-designated Alaafin must receive the sword of authority from the reigning monarch of Ipetumodu before ascending the throne.

    However, Osuntola refuted these claims, stating that there is no historical basis for the assertion that the Apetunmodu’s presence is essential to the coronation process. 

    He stressed that while recent oral traditions may have included the Ipetumodu in the narrative, historical records do not support the notion that the Apetummodu’s involvement is crucial.

    “The royal office wishes to assure the Yoruba people and the general public that there is no obstacle to the coronation of Oba Engr. Akeem Abimbola Owoade I as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, The necessary rites are being conducted in strict accordance with the historical traditions of the Oyo Empire, and any claims to the contrary are misleading and should be disregarded.” Osuntola said.

    READ ALSO: Atiba 9 rejects appointment of new Alaafin of Oyo

    He further emphasised that the most significant ritual in the Alaafin’s installation is the presentation of the Ida Oranyan (Sword of Oranyan), a symbol of the divine authority of the Alaafin. 

    This sacred sword, Osuntola explained, is traditionally sent from Ile-Ife and forms the cornerstone of the coronation rites.

    The Chief of Staff referenced historical sources to back his position, citing The History of the Yorubas (1921) by Reverend Samuel Johnson, which does not mention the Apetunmodu as a mandatory participant in the coronation process. 

    Osuntola also referred to other Yoruba historians, including C.L. Adeoye, whose work Asa ati Ise Yoruba documents the critical elements of the coronation rites, specifically the role of the Sword of Oranyan.

    “The Ida Oranyan is the singular most important symbol of the Alaafin’s divine authority, representing the continuation of Oranmiyan’s legacy, After the sword is sent from Ile-Ife, it is used in the installation rites before being returned to Ile-Ife, with a replica kept by the newly coronated Alaafin.” Osuntola stated.

    The state government of Oyo had previously appointed a 25-man committee, headed by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Demola Ojo, to oversee the coordination of the coronation event. 

    This came after the formal presentation of the staff and instrument of office to Owoade by Governor Seyi Makinde on January 13, 2025.

    Despite the ongoing disputes surrounding the legitimacy of Owoade’s ascension, with his rivals—Lukman Gbadegesin and Ismail Owoade—challenging the process as unlawful, Osuntola’s statement serves to reassure the people of Oyo that the coronation will proceed without further delays.

    The upcoming coronation ceremony is set to be a landmark event in the Oyo Kingdom, marking a significant chapter in the history of the Alaafin dynasty.

  • Police dismiss Portable’s psychiatric treatment claims, insist singer remains wanted

    Police dismiss Portable’s psychiatric treatment claims, insist singer remains wanted

    The Ogun State Police Command has rejected claims by controversial musician Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, that he is receiving psychiatric treatment at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta. 

    Portable made the statement in a video on Tuesday, February 18, appealing to Nigerians and the Ogun State Government after being declared a wanted man by the police.

    In the video, Portable described himself as a “madman” and claimed he was undergoing treatment for his mental health at Aro Psychiatric Hospital, further asserting that he feared government authorities. 

    He appealed to the public to understand his condition, insisting that he was not a criminal but someone who helps people around him.

    However, Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, dismissed these claims, maintaining that the singer remains a wanted individual. 

    Odutola spoke, stating, “Portable will come and submit himself. He cannot be in the psychiatric hospital in Aro. Everybody knows that he is a wanted person. So, if he is going to be in anybody’s facility, the police will not accept that. He is a wanted man.”

    Portable has been in hiding since a violent altercation with officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development during an enforcement exercise at Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu Ota, Ogun State. 

    According to reports, Portable’s father initially informed the officials that his son was unavailable, but the singer later arrived at the scene, armed with a firearm and accompanied by nine thugs. 

    The altercation led to injuries for the ministry officials, who managed to flee and report the incident to the Ota Area Command.

    Following the incident, nine of Portable’s alleged associates were arrested, but the singer himself fled and has been evading arrest. 

    Despite multiple invitations from the police, Portable has failed to attend questioning, prompting the police to obtain a court order declaring him wanted.

    In response to these developments, Portable took to Instagram on Tuesday, February 18,  to further defend himself, claiming he was being framed due to his association with Senator Adeola Solomon (popularly known as Yayi), the lawmaker representing Ogun West. 

    READ ALSO: Portable insists he’s a mental health patient as Police declare him wanted

    Portable implied that his wearing of a vest bearing the senator’s image had led to the police targeting him unfairly.

    “I am from Abeokuta, and they are taking care of me there. I am not a thief; I help people around me without even looking at their background,” he said in his social media post. 

    He also repeated that he has medical records confirming his mental health condition, insisting that he is under treatment at the psychiatric hospital.

    However, Senator Yayi’s Special Assistant on New Media, Damilare Oloyede, distanced the lawmaker from the singer’s predicament. Oloyede urged Portable to take responsibility for his actions rather than using the senator’s name as a shield to avoid justice.

    “Portable should be responsible for once, Senator Yayi won’t help him in this predicament that’s purely a result of his irresponsibility, lack of decorum, and sheer display of lunacy (as confirmed by himself). How does one think name-dropping of Senator Yayi would help him evade justice after being declared wanted by law enforcement agencies?” Oloyede said in a statement.

    Oloyede reiterated that Senator Yayi is a law-abiding public servant and would not tolerate any form of irresponsible behaviour around him.

    The case has further sparked public debate on accountability and the behaviour of public figures in Nigeria, with many questioning whether Portable’s claims of mental instability should be taken into account in the ongoing legal process. 

    The Ogun State Police Command has reiterated its intention to continue pursuing Portable for questioning, with no clear indication as yet when the singer will submit himself for investigation.