President Bola Tinubu has swiftly suspended the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Betta Edu, following public outrage over an alleged N585 million scandal. The move aligns with Tinubu’s commitment to upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability in managing Nigeria’s resources.

The suspension was announced by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Ajuri Ngelale, who emphasized Tinubu’s dedication to high standards in governance. Tinubu had ordered a thorough investigation into the scandal on Sunday and promised decisive punishment for any wrongdoing uncovered.

Various groups, including the Peoples Democratic Party, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, Femi Falana, SAN, the Yoruba Youth Assembly, and other civil society groups, called for an impartial probe into a leaked memo allegedly instructing the Accountant-General of the Federation to transfer N585m to a private bank account. The memo, attributed to Minister Betta Edu, claimed the payment was for vulnerable groups in Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ogun, and Lagos states.

Minister Edu defended the payment, stating that it was legal within civil service norms to deposit funds into private accounts of staff members, particularly project accountants. Despite her denial, the suspension underscores the seriousness with which the government is treating the allegations.

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The Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria, is in deep sorrow after the unexpected passing of Professor Christopher Olugbenga Ajila, the immediate past Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration).

Described as a devastating loss by the University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, Prof. Ajila was recognized as an outstanding academic who seamlessly combined human relations with administrative excellence. The Vice Chancellor expressed the difficulty in filling the void left by Prof. Ajila’s departure.

In a statement released by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, it was highlighted that Professor Ajila, fondly known as “Professor Ajila,” served the university with unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership during his tenure.

Beginning his academic journey at the university in 1991 as an Assistant Lecturer, Prof. Ajila rose through the ranks, becoming a professor in 2005. He held various key positions, including Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Head of Department, showcasing his prowess as a seasoned administrator.

The release acknowledged Prof. Ajila’s pivotal role in advancing the university’s mission, leaving an indelible mark on both academic and administrative fronts.

The entire university community mourns the loss of a respected colleague, mentor, and friend. The statement extends condolences to Prof. Ajila’s immediate and extended family, recognizing the profound impact he had on those around him.

In honoring his legacy, the university pledges to uphold the values and principles championed by Prof. Ajila. The community offers its deepest sympathies and support to the late Professor’s family during this challenging time. May the memories of Professor Ajila serve as a source of comfort and inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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In a bold move to boost food security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, has committed to eliminating issues like round-tripping and inaccurate data concerning farmers in the sector. Speaking during a visit by Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, Kyari emphasized the need to tackle long-standing challenges hindering government policies and programs.

Kyari stressed the importance of addressing reported cases of round-tripping and the inadequate validation of farmers’ data, noting that these challenges have hampered agricultural development. He assured that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is fully devoted to overcoming these obstacles.

The Minister highlighted the commitment to transparently distribute farm inputs, especially for rice, maize, and cassava during the upcoming dry/wet season farming. To achieve this, he emphasized the need for collaboration with state and local governments, traditional rulers, NGOs, and relevant agencies.

Kyari acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the pursuit of food security and expressed gratitude for the backing received. Looking ahead, he announced the commencement of the second phase of the dry/wet season farming intervention, aiming for a successful and impactful initiative.

As the Ministry gears up for action, Kyari urged the collective support of all stakeholders in the agricultural sector to overcome challenges and ensure a fruitful intervention despite time constraints. The Minister’s proactive stance signifies a renewed focus on improving food security and production in the country.

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In the last three months, the Nigerian naira has taken a significant hit, dropping by 38.9% against the US dollar at the Central Bank of Nigeria’s official Investors & Exporters (I&E) window, according to data from FMDQ Securities Exchange.

From October 3, 2023, to January 3, 2024, the naira fell from N745.19/$ to N1035.12/$. Despite the government’s efforts to stabilize the foreign exchange market, the naira’s value has continued to decline.

Manufacturers and members of the organized private sector, including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, express concerns about the negative impact on their businesses. The falling naira value could lead to downsizing and increased unemployment.

The naira, starting 2024 at N988.46/$, experienced an 8.97% decline and further dropped to N1035.12/$ on January 3, marking the third time it closed above N1000/$ on the I&E window.

Efforts to address the situation, such as clearing FX backlogs and foreign exchange support facilities, have not yielded positive results. The World Bank highlights the persistently low volume of FX trades in the official window, raising risks for foreign direct investment and portfolio investment.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, acknowledges the issue and states that the bank is working on comprehensive policies to address market volatility. However, concerns linger among the organized private sector, with fears that prolonged foreign exchange scarcity may force more companies to shut down operations in Nigeria.

In June 2023, the CBN removed the rate cap on the naira at the I&E window, aiming for a free float to unify exchange rates. Despite initial positive reactions, the naira fell sharply, and since then, it has depreciated by 36% to N908 as of January 7, 2024.

While the CBN cleared a $7bn backlog in November, the naira continued to depreciate, closing at N831 on the official market by the end of that month. The current state of the naira poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s economic stability, warranting urgent and comprehensive measures to address the ongoing foreign exchange challenges.

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In a strong response to public concerns, President Bola Tinubu has initiated a comprehensive investigation into allegations of financial misconduct within the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. The move follows accusations against Minister Dr. Betta Edu regarding the disbursement of funds and approvals for questionable expenses.

President Tinubu is determined to uncover the truth and ensure appropriate action is taken. Any identified breaches of financial regulations will face decisive punishment, he vowed.

Edu allegedly directed a substantial payment to a private account, leading to disputes with the Accountant-General of the Federation, Dr. Oluwatoyin Madein. Furthermore, accusations include the approval of air tickets for non-existent flights to Kogi State.

To investigate the alleged fraud, President Tinubu has appointed Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, to head a panel. Calls for Edu’s removal and prosecution are growing, with political parties and advocacy groups expressing their concerns.

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana criticized Edu for dismissing the allegations and urged swift action to address the issue. Similarly, SERAP called on Tinubu to direct relevant agencies for a thorough probe into the alleged fraud.

Despite the calls for removal, a pro-democracy women’s group, Nigeria Women Arise for Democracy, defended Edu, describing the allegations as baseless and urging President Tinubu to disregard the campaign against her.

The investigating panel, comprising serving ministers and top government officials, is actively reviewing the allegations. Minister Edu and the suspended National Coordinator of NSIPA, Halima Shehu, are expected to appear before the panel this week.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammad Idris, confirmed President Tinubu’s order and emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. He urged Nigerians to exercise patience as the investigation unfolds, promising timely updates on the progress.

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In a recent report by the BBC, late Nigerian pastor Temitope Joshua, widely known as TB Joshua, has been accused of heinous acts including rape, physical abuse, and staged miracles by more than 25 eyewitnesses. The investigation, conducted over two years in collaboration with Open Democracy, sheds light on the dark side of one of Africa’s most influential religious leaders.

TB Joshua, founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations, gained worldwide fame for his purported miracles that claimed to cure various ailments. However, the BBC’s findings suggest a more sinister side to his legacy.

The report details testimonies from former followers across the UK, Nigeria, Ghana, the US, South Africa, and Germany, describing instances of sexual assault, physical abuse, and psychological trauma allegedly endured within Joshua’s compound. The investigation alleges that Joshua, who passed away on June 5, 2021, at the age of 57, had been exploiting and assaulting young women for nearly two decades.

One victim, a 21-year-old British woman named Rae, shared her harrowing experience of being isolated within Joshua’s compound after seeking healing for her sexual orientation. Rae revealed that she attempted suicide five times during her two-year ordeal, highlighting the psychological abuse inflicted upon her and others.

The report also exposes financial aspects of Joshua’s ministry, estimating that he made tens of millions of dollars through various means, including fundraising, video sales, and overseas stadium appearances.

Numerous victims spoke out about their traumatic experiences, including rape, forced abortions, and staged miracles. Some claimed that they were coerced into participating in deceptive practices to maintain the illusion of miraculous healings.

The investigation suggests that Joshua’s control extended beyond the spiritual realm, with former disciples stating that they worked long hours without pay, experienced routine sleep deprivation, and were subject to manipulation and abuse.

The Synagogue Church of All Nations is still operational today, now led by Joshua’s widow, Evelyn. The shocking revelations have raised concerns about accountability and justice, with victims expressing frustration that Joshua passed away before facing the consequences of his alleged actions.

The church has denied the allegations, stating that they are unfounded and unsubstantiated. However, the BBC’s investigation emphasizes the importance of addressing the serious allegations against the late pastor and ensuring justice for the victims.

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Nigerian entertainer, Afeez Fashola, also known as Naira Marley, has taken legal action against actress, Iyabo Ojo, alleging the dissemination of false and defamatory content on her Instagram account.

In a letter sent to  Ojo, Naira Marley’s lawyer, Olalekan Ojo, outlined the accusations made in a September 2023 post, stating that the actress accused Naira Marley of engaging in spiritual and physical dealings with the late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, widely known as Mohbad.

The lawyer further asserted that  Ojo accused Naira Marley of causing mental harm to Mohbad, whom he referred to as a brother.

Mohbad: Naira Marley accuses Iyabo Ojo of defamation, demands N500m

Naira Marley’s attorney is seeking a redress of N500 million from Ojo and a public apology.

The counsel asked that the apology be posted on  Ojo’s official Instagram account and published in a national daily.

According to Naira Marley’s lawyer, failure to adhere to the condition placed before her would force them to file a lawsuit against her.

The letter in part reads, “We are Solicitors to Azeez Fashola (a.k.a. Naira Marley) an internationally renowned British and Nigerian Singer/Artist with over seven million followers hereinafter referred to as our client pursuant to whose instruction we write concerning the aboveheaded subject matter.

“It is necessary to preface this letter by stating that in recognition of the iconic status of our client, the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) engaged him to use his skills and platforms to put out content that will discourage millions of his followers and Nigerian youths from substance abuse.

“It is our instruction that sometime in September 2023, you maliciously and falsely published of and concerning our client on your official instagram handle ‘iyaboojofespris’ the following words: and destroying their lives and leaving them without a kobo to get help…….you go still explain taya bcos evidence dey, that your interview you go still re do am again…….make we get justice for Mohbad first”.

“It is unarguably clear that the above quoted words are in their ordinary and natural meanings meant or were understood to mean by ordinary right thinking members of the public that have read the post that our Client is a drug addict and that he laced the food and drinks which our Client gave to the boys staying with him with drugs with the resultant effect of occasioning monumental destruction of their lives.

“Your publication of the above words on the internet which is readily accessible to users of the system constituted a very serious libel and has caused our client colossal damage to his reputation.

“It is incontestably clear that the above-quoted publication which has been read by countless internet users globally is defamatory of our Client and has brought him to public ridicule and contempt with the resultant damage to our Client’s reputation.

“It is our further instruction that since the publication our Client has been inundated with calls from his followers, colleagues, friends and fans all over the world who had read the post expressing their disgust and dismay at the defamatory and libellous publication you had maliciously and falsely posted on your official instagram handle “iyaboojofespris” of and concerning our Client.”

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The Katsina State Government has partnered with the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment to disburse N4.4 bn grants to 100 secondary schools in the state.

The event was held on Wednesday in GSSS Doro, Bindawa Local Government Area of the state.

The fund, which will be allocated towards the renovation of an additional 100 junior and senior secondary schools across the state as part of the ‘Large Grant – Phase II initiative,’ seeks to improve the quality of education and development in the state.

The state governor Dikko Radda, expressed his government’s commitment to improving the educational infrastructure in the state, adding that his administration will ensure that students are provided with a conducive learning environment.

This was disclosed in a Wednesday tweet by the governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Digital Media, Isah Miqdad.

The governor’s aide stated that the Dikko Raddah-led administration “will not relent to achieve excellence in education and to provide students with well-equipped classrooms and facilities that encourage learning and foster creativity.”

Also speaking, the Commissioner, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Hadiza Yaradua, said the N44 million given to each of the beneficial schools is aimed to address the challenges faced by many schools, such as dilapidated structures, lack of appropriate classroom furniture, and inadequate learning materials.

“She said the disbursement is the fourth of its kind, starting from small grants given to all 578 junior and senior secondary schools last year, large grant phase I given to 188 schools, mega grants given to 15 schools, and now the second phase of a large grant to 100 schools.

“She said the grant disbursement is used to upgrade and improve school infrastructure, including the renovation of classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and administrative blocks,” the tweet read in parts.

Also speaking, the state coordinator of AGILE, Dr. Mustapha Shehu, revealed that the collaboration between the Katsina government and AGILE highlights the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable educational development.

He said the AGILE project is committed to improving education for all, with particular attention to the needs of adolescent girls.

He added that the intervention of the project has seen the construction of about 150 new secondary schools and recruited and trained no fewer than 2,000 teachers within two years.

The tweet further stated that the event was attended by the Chairman of Bindawa LGA, the District Head of Bindawa, traditional rulers and religious leaders, amongst others.

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Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is set to extend his contract at Serie A champions Napoli by a further one year as his current deal will expire in June 2025.

According to Sky Sports Italia, Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis met on Wednesday afternoon with Osimhen’s agent, Roberto Calenda, to talk about the renewal until 2026,

It is believed a significant salary increase and a release clause of between €130million and €140million will be in the new deal.

With the new contract, Osimhen would earn more than the € 4.5 million annual salary he currently receives.

Also, Napoli will have greater contractual strength next summer in the event of offers from top European clubs.

Osimhen marked his 2023 CAF Player of the Year award with a goal in Napoli’s 2-0 win against Braga in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The win was enough to send Napoli into the round of 16 after finishing second behind Real Madrid.

He has scored six goals in 11 league games for Napoli this season and seven goals in 15 games in all competitions.

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E-commerce platform, Jumia Technologies said it will discontinue its food delivery service, Jumia Food at the end of December.

The company will also shutter services across other operating countries including Nigeria, Kenya and Morocco, Ivory Coast, Tunisia, Uganda, and Algeria.

Jumia CEO, Francis Dufay, said on Wednesday the company will now refocus on its core physical goods business and payment platform.

He stated, “The more we focus on our physical goods business, the more we realise that there is huge potential for Jumia to grow, with a path to profitability.

“We must take the right decision and fully focus our management, our teams, and our capital resources to go after this opportunity. In the current context, it means leaving a business line, which we believe does not offer the same upside potential – food delivery.”

The company further explained that a number of employees at Jumia Food will transition to the core physical goods segment

Their exit is coming after Bolt Food, another major player, also announced its withdrawal from Nigeria and South Africa, highlighting the harsh realities of the African food delivery landscape.

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