Category: Breaking News

Good morning Nigeria, welcome to Naija News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Friday, 7th October 2022

1. I Was Given A Country With Bombs Going Off In Cities – Buhari Laments

President Muhammadu Buhari has said that when he took over power in 2015 there were cities in Nigeria where bombs were being detonated with frightening frequency.

Speaking during the passing-out parade and commissioning ceremony of cadets of regular Course 69 of the Nigerian Defence Academy, NDA, in Kaduna on Thursday, the president said the insecurity issues in the country were overwhelming when he took over power.

He, however, insisted that his administration has being able to salvage the situation since he took over power in 2015.

Buhari said, “When this government came in 2015, we inherited a country at crossroads with bombs going off with frightening frequency even in our cities, and we came in to manage the crisis.”

Speaking further, he urged the cadets to make sure they replicate principles they have being taught in the NDA and live exemplary lives in the society.

A total of 239 cadets, including those from sister African countries such as Liberia, Sierra Leone, Niger Republic, Chad, and Uganda are passing out from the Academy as junior military officers.

2. Tinubu Returns To Nigeria From UK

The presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Nigeria.

Naija News reports that the former Lagos State governor returned to the country on Thursday after observing a 10-day rest in the United Kingdom.

He was received by a delegation led by his running mate Senator Kashim Shettima, former APC chairman, Adams Oshiomhole and others.

He alighted from the plane that conveyed him to a shout of ‘’Jagaban’’ and ‘’Asiwaju’’ in a video shared by the spokesman of his Presidential Campaign Council, Festus Keyamo and many other supporters on social media.

3. Buhari Meets Released Train Passengers In Kaduna

President Muhammadu Buhari has met with the released train passengers kidnapped on March 28, 2022, by Boko Haram insurgents.

Naija News reported that 23 kidnapped train passengers regained their freedom around 4:00 pm on Wednesday after being in captivity for six months.

In a statement on Thursday signed by the Presidential Spokesman, Garba Shehu, the President paid an unscheduled visit to the freed passengers at the Nigerian Defence Academy Hospital in Kaduna State.

According to the statement titled ‘President Buhari meets freed Kaduna train passengers,’ the Nigerian leader visited the released passengers after commissioning Cadets of 69 Regular Courses (Army, Navy and Air Force) of the NDA, in Afaka.

The statement noted that the President appreciated the Nigerian military for their brave services in the rescue of the victims from Boko Haram terrorists.

4. 2023: Why We Haven’t Unveiled Presidential Campaign Council – LP

The Labour Party has said the reason for the delay in the unveiling of its presidential campaign council was due to the absence of its Chairman, Julius Abure and presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

Naija News reports that the party has not unveiled its campaign council weeks after the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (PAC) unveiled theirs.

Speaking with The Punch on Thursday, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Abayomi Arabambi, said the council will not be revealed until Obi and Abure return from their trip abroad.

He stated that the inauguration of the council cannot be conducted in their absence and the inauguration date cannot be shared until they are back in the country.

Arabambi, however, disclosed that the constitution of the campaign council is being reviewed.

5. Rivers Assembly Strips Ex-Governor Of ‘His Excellency’ Title, Orders Refund Of Entitlements

Former Governor of Rivers State, Celestine Omehia, has been ordered to refund all the entitlement he had enjoyed while heading the state.

This is as the State House of Assembly withdrew the title of ‘His Excellency’ by which Omehia was addressed with having ruled the state between May 29, 2007, and 25th October 2007.

Naija News understands that Omehia was the fourth governor to serve in the state.

However, at a plenary sitting on Thursday, lawmakers unanimously agreed that all the monetary entitlement Omehia had received as a governor as benefits amounting to N600 million within seven days be refunded.

The politician is also expected to return about N96.5 million he received as a pension. Naija News recalls that Omehia was removed in 2007 by the Supreme Court six months after he was declared winner of the state governorship election.

The court ordered that former Governor Rotimi Amaechi be sworn in as Governor. Omehia was, however, recognized as governor when Gov. Nyesom Wike came on board in 2015.

6. 2023: PDP Stealing From Itself, Will Loot Nigeria’s Treasury If Elected – Lai Mohammed

The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed has cautioned Nigerians against voting for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 elections.

The Minister alleged on Thursday that the PDP does not have any good plans for Nigerians as the party’s only focus is to continue looting the nation’s treasury.

Mohammed who spoke with newsmen on the sidelines of attending the 65th meeting of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)’s Commission for Africa in Arusha, Tanzania, lamented that only meagre resources were left in the country’s coffers when the All Progressives Congress (APC) took over power in 2015.

He argued that if the PDP is able to reclaim power, the only agenda is to continue looting the country’s commonwealth.

Naija News reports the Minister spoke against the recent financial controversy that enveloped the PDP over the return of N122.4 million by some members of the PDP’s national working committee (NWC).

Mohammed called for a probe of the major opposition party’s finances.

7. Kwankwaso’s Camp Speaks On Delay Of NNPP Presidential Campaign Council

The Spokesperson of Rabiu Kwankwaso Presidential Campaign Organisation, Ladipo Johnson, has said the delay in the announcement of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) Presidential Campaign Council is not deliberate.

Johnson disclosed that the full list of members of the campaign council will be released before Friday.

He explained that the delay was a result of Kwankwaso’s consultation regarding the list and the candidate’s busy schedule which has seen him open up more offices across the country.

He said, “Our PCC is not being delayed deliberately. It will come out this week. It is just being done thoroughly. You will get a comprehensive list of the nominees this week.

8. 2023: He’s Now A Political Enemy – APGA Vows To Work Against Peter Obi

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has taken a stand against the presidential ambition of the Labour Party (LP) candidate, Peter Obi.

The party in a chat with newsmen on Thursday by the National Coordinator, APGA Media Warriors Forum, Mr Chinedu Obigwe said anybody expecting them to work for Obi is living in a fool’s paradise.

He added that there’s no justification for APGA to leave its own candidates and be working for Obi and other Labour Party candidates.

Speaking further, he described Obi’s 2023 presidential ambition as an ill-conceived idea which is dead on arrival.

Speaking against the backdrop of the recent denial by the Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo who debunked claims of working to truncate Obi’s ambition, Obigwe stated that the Governor doesn’t need to speak as APGA members know they only have their own party candidates to support.

9. Nigerian Troops, Bello Turji Bandits Clash As 26 Villagers Drown In Zamfara

Troops of the Nigerian military have repelled an attack by terrorists at Faru Village near their base in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

The attack in Maradun, launched by bandits suspected to be loyal to the notorious Bello Turji had caused panic among residents of communities close to the military base.

According to PRNigeria, the swift intervention of military forces led to the elimination of scores of bandits-terrorists while others beat a hasty retreat after they were overwhelmed in a fierce gun battle by troops.

A security intelligence source, who confirmed the counter-offensive operation by a battalion of soldiers, stated that the bandits attempted to invade communities in Maradun axis.

10. Buhari Govt Declares Monday Public Holiday

The Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government has declared Monday, October 10 public holiday to mark the Eid-ul-Maulud celebration.

Naija News reports that the Eid-ul-Maulud is marked to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad.

The Monday public holiday was declared by the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, on behalf of the Buhari administration.

In a statement signed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Shuaib Belgore, on Thursday, October 6, 2022, Aregbesola congratulated all Muslims both at home and in the Diaspora for witnessing this year’s occasion.

The Minister charged Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of love, patience, tolerance, and perseverance which are deep spiritual virtues and which Prophet Muhammad exemplified, adding that doing so would guarantee peace, security, and harmony in the country.

Those are the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija News. See you again tomorrow.

This article was originally published on Naija News

Good morning Nigeria, welcome to Naija News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Wednesday, 5th October 2022

1. Buhari To Present N19.76tn 2023 Budget To NASS On Friday

President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to present the N19.76trillion 2023 appropriation bill before the National Assembly on Friday, October 7, 2022, Naija News reports.

Recall that the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, revealed earlier in September that the Nigerian leader will present the proposed budget for the 2023 fiscal year before the National Assembly in the first week of October.

The Speaker made the disclosure while inspecting the renovation of the assembly complex ahead of the delivery deadline of August 2023.

It was, however, confirmed in a fresh report obtained by Naija News on Tuesday that the budget presentation will take place at 10:00 am at the temporary chamber of the House of Representatives.

The Letter on the Budget presentation by President Buhari was personally written by him and read in Plenary Tuesday by the President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan.

2. FG Presents Certificate Of Registration To ASUU Faction

Amidst the crisis in the education sector, the Muhammadu Buhari-led Government has presented a certificate of recognition and registration to the Congress of Nigerian University Academics (CONUA).

Naija News reports that CONUA is a breakaway faction of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

On behalf of the government, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, presented the certificate to CONUA leadership on Tuesday.

The presentation took place at the Conference Room of the Ministry, Federal Secretariat, Phase 1, Abuja.

It is understood that CONUA is been led by Niyi Sunmonu, a lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.

Ngige also presented a certificate of registration to the National Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA).

3. PSC Sacks Seven Top Police Officers, Demotes 10

The Police Service Commission (PSC), on Tuesday, announced the dismissal of seven senior officers from the police force.
The affected personnel were sacked over alleged gross misconduct. This is as the commission also approved the reduction in rank of ten other officers.

Naija News reports that the development was announced today during the continuation of the 15th plenary meeting of the Commission.

The summit which is presided over by the force’s acting chairman, Justice Clara Ogunbiyi, is expected to end on Thursday, October 6th, 2022.

At the event, the force acted on all the Pending Disciplinary Matters (PDM) before it.

A total of 47 PDM were reportedly attended to while the commission also treated some appeals from dismissed police officers.

Addressing newsmen shortly after the meeting in Abuja, the spokesman of the commission, Ikechukwu Ani said, the dismissed officers include: 1 CSP, 1 SP and 5 ASPs.

He added that one SP was also retired in public interest.

4. Details Of PDP BoT Meeting With Wike Emerge

The details of the meeting between the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike have emerged.

Naija News had earlier reported that members of the BoT met with Wike at the Government House in Port Harcourt, the state capital on Tuesday.

This platform learnt that the meeting which started around 1 pm on Tuesday ended in a deadlock despite the effort of the BoT to end the crisis in the party.

The meeting which was held behind a closed door for almost four hours ended at about 4:35 pm.

The acting Chairman of the PDP BoT, Adolphus Wabara, while addressing newsmen said they had a frank discussion, he, however, stated that there was no conclusion during the meeting.

Wike speaking after the meeting said, “As the BoT acting chairman said, the most important thing is to have unity. What is important is that the house is united. So, the issue of whether we achieved peace today or not is immaterial.”

5. Sanwo-Olu Announces Salary Increase For Lagos Workers

The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced approval for the increase in the salary of civil servants employed by the state government.

Governor Sanwo-Olu made the announcement on Tuesday while addressing Lagos workers during a visit to the Alausa Secretariat.

He said the increase is in recognition of the sacrifices being made by the workers amidst the challenges of inflation and other economic issues in Nigeria.

Sanwo-Olu added that he has given directives during a cabinet meeting for the necessary Ministries and agencies to work on implementing the approved increase.

The announcement generated huge cheers and excitement from the civil servants who gathered to listen to the Governor’s speech.

Speaking further, the Governor said there’s no need for the state to wait for the federal government as according to him, “this is Lagos.”

6. Buhari Meets Gbajabiamila, Wase Over ASUU Strike

President Muhammadu Buhari, on Tuesday, met with the Speaker, House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila and the Deputy Speaker of the House, Ahmed Wase.

Naija News gathered that the President met when two leaders of the Green Chamber at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, at about 3:00 pm.

It was learned that the meeting featured discussions on the ongoing strike embarked by members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

Recall that Gbajabiamila had over the last few weeks conveyed a stakeholders meeting comprising members of ASUU and representatives of the Federal Government.

Speaking at the last meeting with the stakeholders, Gbajabiamila had said the House will prepare and submit the report of its intervention in the ongoing strike to President Buhari.

He said the report will reflect their interactions with the stakeholders and provide recommendations to enable the President to assess the situation from an informed second option.

7. 2023: PDP To Kick Off Presidential Campaign On Oct 10

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is set to commence its presidential campaign on Monday, 10 October 2022.
The Director General of PDP National Campaign Management Committee (NCMC), Sokoto State Governor, Aminu

Tambuwal on Tuesday disclosed that the kick-off will be held in Akwa Ibom State.

Tambuwal, while addressing newsmen at Atiku’s campaign office in Wuse, Abuja, described the presidential candidate of the party, Atiku Abubakar as the most prepared.

The Governor of Sokoto State further stated that only the former vice president of Nigeria can provide the required leadership in Nigeria.

According to Tambuwal, Atiku has experience in governance at the federal level, adding that none of the presidential candidates can match him.

8. CONUA Releases First Statement After FG’s Approval, Registration

The National Coordinator, Congress of University Academics (CONUA), Niyi Sunmonu has released a statement after the Federal Government presented a certificate of registration to the union.

Naija News gathered that CONUA released the statement in Osogbo, Osun State shortly after the recognition by the Federal Government.

Recall that the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, presented the certificate to CONUA leadership on Tuesday.

CONUA, in the statement, said the union will work towards ensuring that the nation is no longer traumatized by academic union dislocations.

Sunmomu described the registration of CONUA as a trade union and the validation of the power of the human will.

9. FG Sues Owners Of Facebook, Instagram And WhatsApp, Demands N30bn

The Federal Government through its agency, the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has disclosed that it has lodged a suit against Meta Platforms Incorporated (owners of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp platforms) and its agent AT3 Resources Limited at the Federal High Court, Abuja Judicial Division.

According to a statement released on Tuesday, ARCON is seeking a declaration among others that the continued publication and exposure of various advertisements directed at the Nigerian market through Facebook and Instagram platforms by Meta Platforms Incorporated without ensuring the same is vetted and approved before exposure is illegal, unlawful and a violation of the extant advertising Law in Nigeria.

The apex regulatory body for Nigeria’s advertising ecosystem, stated that Meta Platforms Incorporated’s continued exposure of unvetted adverts had also led to loss of revenue to the Federal Government.

ARCON is therefore seeking N30 billion in sanction for the violation of the advertising laws and for loss of revenue as a result of Meta Incorporated’s continued exposure of unapproved adverts on it’s platforms.

ARCON reiterated that it would not permit unethical and irresponsible advertising on the Nigeria’s advertising space.

According to ARCON, the Council is not regulating the online media space, rather, it’s focus is on advertising and marketing communications on the online platforms in line with its establishment Act.

10. Biafra: I Live And Meet With Them, They Are Not Terrorists – Peter Obi Defends IPOB

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party for the 2023 election, Peter Obi has rejected the terrorist tag slammed on the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) by the federal government.

Naija News reports IPOB under the leadership of Nnamdi Kanu was in 2017, proscribed by the federal government of Nigeria under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari.

However, during a chat with Channels Television, Obi maintained that proscribing IPOB as a terrorist organization is not the right move.

Defending his stand, the former Anambra State government explained that he lives, moves and interacts with members of the group who are demanding an independent Biafra and has never felt threatened by them.

According to Obi, the agitators are not a threat to Nigeria.

Those are the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija News. See you again tomorrow.

This article was originally published on Naija News

Good morning Nigeria, welcome to Naija News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Tuesday, 4th October 2022

1. ASUU Strike: NANS Knocks Buhari, Condemns Proposed National Honour For Adamu

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has described the planned national honour for the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu as an insult to students in the country.

Speaking against the backdrop of the lingering strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), NANS spokesperson, Tope Giwa said it is an indication that the Muhammadu Buhari government does not care about the plight of the students.

In his words, “Nigerian students have been taken for a ride.”

Naija News reports that 437 Nigerians have been listed to be conferred with National Awards at a ceremony billed for October 11, 2022, and the Minister of Education is on the list, expected to receive the Commander of the Order of Niger (CON).

Reacting, the NANS spokesperson said in a statement that Adamu is to be blamed for the ASUU strike which has lingered for about eight months, hence, there’s no justifiable reason to give him an award.

He added that the step rubbishes the integrity claims of the Buhari administration because the educational sector has completely collapsed under the Minister’s watch.

2. FG Denies Viral List Of Citizens To Be Awarded National Honours

The Federal Government has asked Nigerians to shun a purported list of nominees for national honours being circulated on digital media platforms.

Naija News understands that a list had surfaced online earlier containing the name of President Muhammadu Buhari’s late Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari and 436 other nominees for the 2022 National Honours Award.

The report earlier revealed that the investiture is billed to hold on 11 October 2022 at the State House in Abuja.

A statement on Monday, however, coming from the desk of the Director Press, Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Julie Jacobs, stated that the authentic list for the said award is not released yet.

Jacobs assured that the main list would be published at the appropriate time and medium. The government official advised members of the public to disregard the viral list as it is an attempt by overzealous reporters whose aim is to break news even when such news is fake.

3. 2023 Presidency: Tinubu Fled Nigeria In 1993 To Defend Democracy – Al-Makura

Former Governor of Nasarawa State, Umaru Al-Makura, on Monday praised the role of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu in defence of Nigeria’s democracy.

He said Tinubu has been actively defending Nigeria’s democracy since as far back as 1993.

The Nigerian lawmaker who was analyzing those contesting the 2023 presidential election, said no other party candidate stood the chance of the former Governor of Lagos State, Naija News reports.

According to him, Tinubu has paid the price having sacrificed his time and comfort by going abroad for the sake of Nigeria’s democracy about three decades ago.

Al-Makura stated that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar and his Labour Party counterpart, Peter Obi cannot match Tinubu’s competence, achievements, and vision altogether.

4. PDP, Atiku To Give Senate Presidency To S/West, S/East For SGF

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and leaders of the party have reportedly zoned the Senate Presidency to the South-West.

Naija News gathered that this was done to garner support for the party’s presidential candidate.

In a new power-sharing deal, Atiku agreed that the region should produce the next Senate President, while the South-East should get the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

“To give further bite for a possible inroad into the southeast, the position of Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) has been zoned to the region,” a former member of the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) told Vanguard.

The source expressed worry over the decision of the Governor Nyesom Wike’s group to pull out of Atiku’s presidential campaign and the return of the ‘housing allowance’ giving to some members of the PDP NWC.

5. 2023 Presidency: It Is Not Yoruba’s Turn To Be President – Adebutu

The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, Ladi Adebutu, has said it is not the turn of the South West to produce the next President.

He stated that the North-East should be allowed to produce President Muhammadu Buhari’s successor, adding that the region has never produced Nigeria’s leader before.

Adebutu said former President Olusegun Obasanjo and interim Head of State Ernest Shonekan from the South-West region have been Nigerian leaders at separate times.

He, however, advised the Yoruba people not to be selfish but to support the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in the 2023 general elections.

Adebutu stated this during a campaign to garner support for his governorship ambition and that of Atiku on Monday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

6. 2023: It’s Not About First To Start, APC Will Soon Overtake Labour Party – Umahi Boasts

The Governor of Ebonyi State, David Umahi has declared that the early campaigns of the Labour Party does not automatically guarantee victory for the party in the 2023 polls.

This is as he boasted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will overtake the LP when the ruling party commences its rallies and mobilisation nationwide.

Naija News reports Umahi, who is the South-East Chairman for the APC presidential campaign council made the submission on Monday during a guest appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme.

He stated this when he was asked about the seeming delay in the commencement of the APC presidential campaigns while the Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have rolled out some programmes including rallies in major cities.

Defending the delay from APC, Umahi said it is nothing to worry about and there is still enough time to run credible campaigns.

7. Senatorial Race: Resign Honourably Or Face Disgraceful Defeat – Etiebet Warns Akpabio

Former Niger Delta Affairs Minister, Senator Godswill Akpabio has been warned to withdraw from the race for the Akwa Ibom North West senatorial seat.

The warning was handed down by former Minister of Petroleum, Chief Don Etiebet who noted that it is not the turn of Akpabio’s region in Akwa-Ibom State to produce the candidate for the seat.

He added that should Akpabio insist and contest the election, he would be disgraced at the polls because the people won’t vote for him.

Naija News reports Etiebet bared his mind on the matter while speaking with newsmen over the weekend.

Defending his position, Etiebet submitted that it is the turn of Abak 5 federal constituency not Ikot Ekpene federal, where Akpabio hails from, to occupy the Akwa Ibom North West senatorial district seat.

He, therefore, called on Akpabio to concede the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket to DIG Udom Ekpoudom (Retd).

8. Housing Allowance Scandal: Why We Can’t Go After PDP Officials — EFCC

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reacted to the financial scandal rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Naija News had earlier reported that some members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the main opposition party returned money sent to their account for housing allowance by the party.

EFCC in its reaction on Sunday stated why it may not invite the national chairman of the party, Iyorchia Ayu and other NWC members.

The commission while reacting to the call to invite Ayu and other NWC members said it cannot invite PDP offi­cials as nobody has written any petition on the financial scandal.

A top official of EFCC who spoke on condition of anonymity stated this in a chat with Daily Independent.

The EFCC official said that even if a petition is written on the issue, it might be difficult for the anti-graft agency to invite the party leaders now that the 2023 general elections campaign has started.

9. 2023: I’ll Compare Tinubu To Awolowo, Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello – Al-Makura

Former Governor of Nasarawa State, Tanko Umaru Al-Makura, has compared the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to the leaders of the First Republic.

Speaking with reporters on Monday, Al-Mukra said Tinubu is in the same category as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ladoke Akintola, and Sir Ahmadu Bello.

He said Tinubu has also played a prominent role in helping Nigeria secure its independence, adding that he sacrificed his time and comfort for the sake of democracy.

Al-Makura pointed out that the former Governor of Lagos State has mentored a lot of young leaders and has continued to be relevant in politics and governance.

10. NDLEA Discovers 13 Million Tramadol Pills In Lagos Mansion

A mansion in the Lekki area of Lagos State where Tramadol was stored has been busted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The spokesman of the Agency, Femi Babafemi, in a statement released on Monday, said the mansion which was busted belongs to a drug baron who has been apprehended.

According to Babafemi, NDLEA recovered 13 million pills of Tramadol 225mg from the mansion.

Reacting to the latest drug haul, Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.) commended the officers and men involved in the operation for their diligence while also appreciating Nigerians for supporting the Agency in its arduous task of ridding the country of the menace of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.”

Those are the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija News. See you again tomorrow.

This article was originally published on Naija News

Good morning Nigeria, welcome to Naija News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Monday, 3rd October 2022

1. Buhari To Confer National Awards On Cleaner, Security Guard, Gateman, Foreigners, Others

President Muhammadu Buhari is set to confer National Honours Awards to people with disability, a gateman, a cleaner, a bank security guard and some foreigners.

Among those favoured for the award are Josephine Agu, an airport cleaner who returned $12,200 found in a toilet at MMIA, Lagos and Ogbanago Muhammed Ibrahim, a bank security man who found and returned $10,000.

Naija News reports that the awardees who are part of the list of 437 nominees for the National Honours Awards 2022 have contributed to the development of the country in various capacities.

The investiture is scheduled to hold on the 11th of October, 2022 at the State House in Abuja.

2. Atiku Comes Under Fire From Ohanaeze, Southeast Leaders Over Presidency

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), former vice President Atiku Abubakar, has been lambasted for pledging to cede the presidency to the zone in 2027.

Naija News reports that Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and other prominent leaders from Southeast have advised Nigerians not to take his words seriously.

Ohanaeze said no person from Southeast or Igbo would take the advice of the former vice-president serious.

The Southeast leaders were reacting to Atiku’s statement during a rally in Enugu where he was quoted to have said that he would support Ndigbo to win the Presidency in 2027 in return for the region’s votes for him in 2023.

3. NDLEA Arrests Ex-Footballer For Smuggling Cocaine Into Nigeria

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested an ex-footballer for importing cocaine into Nigeria.

This was made known on Sunday in a statement by the spokesperson of the NDLEA, Femi Babafemi.

The NDLEA statement later confirmed the name of the ex-footballer busted at the Lagos international airport as Okafor Emmanuel Junior.

The cocaine put at 1.40kg was carefully concealed in metal as revealed in the video shared by the NDLEA official.

The NDLEA stated further that the arrested ex-footballer is a 33-year-old indigene of Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State.

He was arrested on Monday, 26th September, 2022

4. 2023: Tinubu, Other APC Candidates May Be Disqualified From Participating In Election

There are fears that the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu may be disqualified from participating in the 2023 elections.

Not only Tinubu, but it is also understood that other candidates of the party including the Ekiti State Governor-elect, Abiodun Oyebanji may be affected.

The fear stems from the Friday ruling by Justice Emeka Nwite of a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja which nullified the nomination of Governor Isiaka Oyetola and his running mate, Benedict Alabi, as APC candidates for the 2022 Osun State governorship election.

Naija News recalls their candidature was nullified on the ground that Governor Mai Mala Buni who submitted their names to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) violated the provisions of Section 183 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Section 82(3) of the Electoral Act 2022.

Based on this, some political observers are of the opinion that all actions of Buni while in office as the APC caretaker National Chairman may be invalidated.

But the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Barrister Felix Morka ruled out any such happening, stating that the judgement of the high court does not hold water.

He told Sunday Tribune that the party is very confident the Court of Appeal will set aside the ruling of the lower court on the matter.

5. 2023: Presidential Candidate Gets Summon From Party Over ‘Slow Preparations’

The presidential candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Malik Ado-Ibrahim has been summoned by the party over plans for the 2023 election.

According to the party, members are not satisfied with the preparations in place by the presidential candidate for the 2023 general elections.

A statement on Sunday by the YPP National Secretary, Egbeola Wale-Martins said the decision to summon Ado-Ibrahim was taken after the party’s 20th national working committee (NWC) meeting in Abuja.

He added that the gap in communication between the presidential candidate, the party leadership and its organs seem to have slowed down preparations for next year’s elections and hampered the expected fortunes of the YPP.

The National Secretary also stated that the outcome of the briefing from the presidential candidate would determine the next line of action to be taken by the party.

6. Strike: Ngige Leaves Meeting After Heated Argument With ASUU President During Negotiation

There was an angry moment of argument between the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige and the President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke during a negotiation meeting facilitated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Naija News reports that all stakeholders were properly represented at the meeting summoned as part of efforts to find a solution to the lingering ASUU strike which has kept the students of Nigeria’s public universities at home since February 14.

The various stakeholders including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha made various submissions on how to resolve the lingering crisis.

However, in the course of the meeting, Ngige accused the ASUU president of saying the All Progressives Congress (APC) government had kept children at home and that the Nigerian people should vote them out.

The accusation by the Minister was however refuted by the ASUU camp and some others at the meeting.

The accusation also infuriated the ASUU leadership and led to a rowdy session in which Ngige was called a liar who is fond of misinforming the public by Prof. Osodeke.

The Minister however walked out of the meeting even as both of them continued exchanging heated words.

7. Bola Tinubu Appoints Wamakko, Masari As Senior Advisers

The All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, has appointed Governor Aminu Masari of Kastina State as Campaign Senior Adviser on Administration and Government.

Naija News reports that Tinubu, a former two-term Lagos State governor, also appointed the former governor of Sokoto State, Aliyu Wamakko, as Senior Adviser for Special Duties.

The appointment of the duo was made known in a letter on Sunday signed by the APC presidential candidate.

According to Tinubu, Masari and Wamakko’s impressive political achievements and exemplary leadership in their states and party members qualified them for the responsibility.

8. IPOB: Nnamdi Kanu Did Not Give The Sit-at-home Order

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)’s counsel, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has said that the leader of the group, Nnamdi Kanu, did not order Southeasterners to sit at home on the 4th day of October, 2022

IPOB stated this via a statement issued and made available to newsmen.

Ejiofor urged members of the public to go about their normal activities and ignore the said directive.

Ejiofor went on to dismiss speculations that Kanu will appear at Federal High Court Umuahia, Abia State, next Tuesday when a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed on his behalf is scheduled to be held.

This is as the group stated that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar was not capable of stopping the IPOB movement.

This declaration is in response to a statement credited to Atiku claiming he would stop Biafra’s agitation if he becomes Nigerian President.

The group warned the Waziri against mentioning its name in any campaign in the Southeast.

9. Pastor Adeboye: Nigeria Is At War, Let’s Not Deceive Ourselves

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christain Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, on Sunday prayed for Nigeria as the country marked its 62nd Independence.

Delivering a sermon at the national headquarters of the church, the renowned clergy said the country is at war, hence Nigerians should not deceive themselves.

Adeboye who spoke on the topic ‘PEACE IN THE LAND’, asked the congregation, Christians all over the country to pray for Nigerian leaders, those in public offices and traditional rulers.

Speaking on the challenges faced in Nigeria, Adeboye noted that as many times the country’s power generating set (The National Grid) has collapsed, there was always light in the Aso Rock Villa.

The gospel preacher went on to lament the growing insecurity in Nigeria, recalling how a state governor narrowly escape assassination by bandit terrorists.

10. 2023 Presidency: Gov Wike, Ortom, Others Meet In Enugu

Five Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors on Sunday met in Enugu State over the 2023 presidential election.

According to a report, the Governors held the closed-door meeting to deliberate on the presidential ambition of the Labour Party, flagbearer, Peter Obi.

The Governors in the meeting include Nyesom Wike (Rivers State), Samuel Ortom (Benue State), Seyi Makinde (Oyo State), Okezie Ikpeazu (Abia State) and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu State).

A source that spoke with Daily Post on the meeting said the PDP Governors are aiming at supporting Obi because they are not pleased with the presidential candidate of PDP, Atiku Abubakar.

The meeting is coming days after Atiku met with Governor Wike in Abuja to seek his support ahead of the 2023 presidential election.

Those are the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija News. See you again tomorrow.

This article was originally published on Naija News