Police Rescue 11 Kidnapped Passengers on Benin–Akure Highway
The police have rescued 11 of the 18 passengers abducted by gunmen along the Benin–Akure highway near Obarenren village in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. The abduction occurred on December 12.
According to police sources, the assailants forced the vehicle to stop at gunpoint, fired shots to scare commuters and took the victims into the bush. Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining passengers.
Dangote Petitions ICPC Over Allegations Against NMDPRA Chief
President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has petitioned the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over alleged corruption involving the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Ahmed Farouk.
Dangote is asking the anti-graft agency to investigate claims of financial impropriety against the NMDPRA boss. The ICPC is yet to publicly comment on the petition.
NLC Warns Nigerians Face Worst Survival Crisis in History
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned that workers and citizens are facing the worst survival crisis in the country’s history, citing inflation, insecurity, poor wages and the collapse of social protection systems.
The congress said Nigerian workers are worse off than their counterparts in several African countries, including conflict-ravaged nations such as Somalia and Sudan, urging urgent government intervention.
NBA, Police Clash Over Planned Resumption of Tinted Glass Enforcement
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have disagreed over the police plan to resume enforcement of the suspended tinted glass permit policy from January 2, 2026.
In a statement, the NBA urged President Bola Tinubu to call the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to order, describing the move as an affront to the authority of the court.
Three Killed as Cult Violence Erupts in Rivers Community
A renewed cult clash has claimed three lives in Oyorokoto community, Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The attack reportedly occurred in the early hours of Tuesday when rival cult groups invaded the fishing settlement while pursuing opponents. Security agencies have yet to issue an official statement.
Naira Falls to N1,485/$ at Parallel Market
The naira depreciated to N1,485 per dollar at the parallel market on Tuesday, down from N1,480 recorded on Monday.
Meanwhile, the currency has appreciated by over seven percent year-to-date at the official market, trading around N1,454 per dollar.
Aisha Buhari Speaks on Late President’s Health Challenges
Former First Lady, Dr. Aisha Buhari, has disclosed that her late husband, former President Muhammadu Buhari, suffered from long-term malnutrition which affected his health during his presidency.
She also alleged that some powerful individuals influenced the former president against her, straining their relationship during his time in office.
Gas Supply Cuts Threaten Power Supply During Yuletide
Nigerians may experience power outages during the festive season as gas companies have begun cutting supply to power plants over unpaid gas-to-power debts.
The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company confirmed the development in a statement on Tuesday, warning customers across the South-East of possible disruptions.
Gunmen Kill Village Head, Abduct Retired Customs Officer in Osun–Kwara Border Attack
Residents of Ora community on the Osun–Kwara boundary were thrown into panic following an attack by suspected gunmen.
The assault reportedly claimed the life of a village head identified as Dennis, while a retired Customs officer, Emmanuel Owolabi, was abducted.
Gombe Governor Orders Probe, Relief After Timber Market Fire
Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has ordered an investigation and emergency relief following a fire outbreak at the Kasuwar Katako timber market in the state capital.
The blaze, which occurred late Monday night, destroyed several shops and goods, leaving traders with heavy losses.
Senate Passes MTEF/FSP as Tinubu Set to Present 2026 Budget
The Senate has passed the 2026–2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework and Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF/FSP), paving the way for President Bola Tinubu to present the 2026 budget.
The framework projects ₦34.33 trillion in revenue, ₦20.13 trillion fiscal deficit and an oil benchmark of $64.85 per barrel, according to Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Dangote Accuses NMDPRA Boss of Financial Impropriety in ICPC Petition
Chairman of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has formally petitioned the ICPC, accusing NMDPRA Managing Director Ahmed Farouk of corruption and living beyond his means.
Dangote alleged that Farouk spent over $7 million on the education of his children in Switzerland and called for investigation and prosecution.
FG Suspends Enforcement of NAFDAC Sachet Alcohol Ban
The Federal Government has ordered the immediate suspension of all enforcement actions linked to NAFDAC’s proposed ban on sachet alcohol.
The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation said the decision will remain pending the conclusion of consultations and issuance of a final directive.
CBN Revokes Licenses of Aso Savings, Union Homes
The Central Bank of Nigeria has revoked the operating licenses of Aso Savings and Loans Plc and Union Homes Savings and Loans Plc.
The apex bank cited regulatory violations and financial distress, adding that the action is backed by provisions of BOFIA 2020.
Trump Expands US Travel Restrictions, Nigeria Affected
US President Donald Trump has signed a proclamation expanding travel restrictions to 15 additional countries, including Nigeria.
The partial restrictions affect certain immigrant and non-immigrant visa categories as part of tightened entry standards.
Biography Reveals Why Buhari Didn’t Back Osinbajo’s 2023 Bid
A new biography of late President Muhammadu Buhari has revealed he declined to support former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo’s presidential ambition because Bola Tinubu was also contesting.
The book quotes Buhari as saying he only knew Osinbajo through Tinubu.
TikTok Star Jarvis Confirms Breakup With Peller
TikTok creator Elizabeth Amadou, known as Jarvis, has confirmed her breakup with fellow influencer Peller.
She appealed to the public to stop mocking him following his recent car crash, saying ridicule was worsening an already difficult situation.
Regina Daniels Vows Custody Battle With Ned Nwoko
Nollywood actress Regina Daniels has accused her estranged husband, Ned Nwoko, of seeking attention by publicly exposing their children.
She said she would fight for custody of her sons, alleging harassment and false claims against her.
Nigeria’s World Cup Hopes Revived Over DR Congo Eligibility Row
Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualification hopes have received a boost following reports questioning the eligibility of some DR Congo players.
The NFF confirmed it has submitted a formal protest to FIFA over alleged violations of nationality rules.
Santiago Montiel Wins 2025 FIFA Puskás Award
Argentine footballer Santiago Montiel has won the 2025 FIFA Puskás Award for his spectacular bicycle kick for Independiente.
The 25-year-old received the honour at FIFA’s The Best awards in Doha, beating nominees including Lamine Yamal and Declan Rice.