Nigerian News: Morning Headlines – 01 January 2026

Nigerian News: Morning Headlines – 01 January 2026

Obi Dumps Labour Party for ADC, Calls for Opposition Unity

Former Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has formally defected to the African Democratic Congress. Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State, urged Nigerians and opposition parties to unite under a broader national coalition to “rescue Nigeria from poverty, disunity and democratic decline.”


Wike Commends Tinubu, Accuses Fubara of Betrayal

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday praised President Bola Tinubu for fulfilling promises made to the people of Rivers State before the 2023 general election. Wike, however, compared Tinubu to Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, alleging that Fubara has failed to honour agreements made with the people.


Ex-Ogun Lawmaker Moruf Musa Kidnapped by Gunmen

A former member of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Moruf Musa, has been abducted by gunmen from his residence in Ibiade, Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. The incident reportedly occurred around 7pm on Tuesday, and Musa was taken to an undisclosed location.


AFCON 2025: Nigeria to Face Mozambique in Round of 16

Nigeria will take on Mozambique in the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, organisers confirmed on Wednesday night following the conclusion of the group stage. The knockout clash is scheduled for Fez as the Super Eagles push for continental success at #AFCON2025.


Delta Police Recover Arms, Drugs in Festive Clampdown

The Delta State Police Command says it has recovered firearms and illicit drugs during a security operation targeting criminal activities during the festive season. A robbery suspect was also arrested, along with guns and ammunition recovered in Ughelli North Local Government Area.


Anthony Joshua Discharged After Lagos Accident

British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has been discharged from Duchess International Hospital in Lagos after surviving a recent car accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The crash led to the deaths of two individuals reported to be close associates of the boxer.


NNPP Reverses Suspension of Kano Chairman

The National Working Committee of the New Nigeria Peoples Party has nullified the suspension of its Kano State chairman, Alhaji Hashimu Dungurawa. In a statement from Abuja, the party described the suspension as illegal and contrary to its constitution.


Labour Party Says Obi Defection a ‘Liberation’

The Julius Abure-led National Working Committee of the Labour Party says it sees the defection of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the ADC as a “liberation.” National Publicity Secretary Obiora Ifoh said the party regrets fielding Obi in the last election.


Senator Godiya Akwashiki Dies at 52

Senator Godiya Akwashiki, representing Nasarawa North under the Social Democratic Party, has died at the age of 52. A family source said he passed away on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in an Indian hospital after a prolonged illness.


Gunmen Attack Police Station in Ondo Community

The Police Command in Ondo State has confirmed an attack on a police station in Ipele, Owo Local Government Area, by armed men who reportedly set the facility ablaze. Police spokesperson DSP Jimoh Kazeem said officers have been deployed to the area to restore security.


Court Clears Way for Implementation of Tinubu’s Tax Laws

A High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit seeking to halt the implementation of new tax laws taking effect from January 1, 2026. Justice Bello Kawu ruled that the plaintiffs failed to prove any legal basis to stop the reforms, allowing the federal government and NRS to proceed.


Obi Makes Defection to ADC Official in Enugu
Peter Obi, alongside South-East political leaders, officially joined the African Democratic Congress on Wednesday in Enugu State. He said the move was aimed at ensuring a united opposition plan to challenge the ruling party in the 2027 elections.


Bala Mohammed Rejects Terrorism Allegations

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has denied claims linking him to terrorism or criminal activities. Speaking after receiving a Safety Ambassador Award in Bauchi on Wednesday, he said he was shocked by the allegations and insisted his service to the state has always prioritised safety.


Wike Says Fubara Violating Tinubu-Brokered Deal

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has accused Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara of breaching conditions of a peace agreement mediated by President Bola Tinubu. Speaking in Tai Local Government Area, Wike threatened to soon reveal full details of the settlement.


Federal Government Launches Nigeria Revenue Service Brand

The Federal Government has unveiled the brand identity of the Nigeria Revenue Service, officially replacing the Federal Inland Revenue Service. Executive Chairman Zacch Adedeji said the change reflects a renewed commitment to a more unified and efficient revenue administration system.


FG Moves Fully Digital, Ends Paper Correspondence

The Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, says all federal ministries have transitioned to a fully paperless system. She noted that ministries will only accept scanned correspondence via official GovMail emails as part of the new digital compliance structure.


Anthony Joshua Leaves Hospital After Road Accident

Former world boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital following the December 29 accident that claimed two lives. A joint statement from Lagos and Ogun governments said he would continue his recovery at home and had paid respects to the deceased friends.


Nigeria, Mozambique to Clash in AFCON Knockout Stage

The Super Eagles will face Mozambique in the AFCON 2025 Round of 16 on Monday, 5 January, at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Morocco. Nigeria qualified with three straight group wins, while Mozambique progressed after a hard-fought group campaign.


Yul Edochie Debunks Separation Rumours with Judy Austin

Actor Yul Edochie has dismissed speculation of a breakup with his second wife, Judy Austin. He publicly celebrated her birthday on social media, dispelling months-long rumours about cracks in their relationship.


Oxlade Urges People to Speak Up About Mental Health Struggles

Afrobeats singer Oxlade has encouraged individuals dealing with overwhelming stress to reach out for help and support. He emphasised the importance of staying connected to others and reminded fans that challenges can improve with time and assistance.

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