Former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Alhaja Sinatu Ojikutu, has described the N130 million land fraud allegation against her as politically motivated.

Ojikutu said the controversy resulted from an agent’s misidentification of land belonging to her late husband, rather than a deliberate attempt to defraud anyone.

She made the disclosure during an interview at the 2026 PR Forum/CSR Exhibition and Award.

The former deputy governor was declared wanted after a petition submitted to the police in June 2014 alleged that she and her son, Sampson, were involved in a N130 million land scam in Lekki, Lagos State.

Ojikutu Explains Land Dispute

Ojikutu said an agent mistakenly identified a vacant plot as her late husband’s property, while the actual property was located on an adjoining plot that had already been developed.

According to her, the agent brought the vacant land to her attention, and her lawyer’s investigation at the land registry indicated that the property had no encumbrance.

She subsequently decided to sell the land.

However, the dispute emerged after the buyer began developing the property and another person claimed ownership.

Ojikutu said further investigation revealed that her late husband’s actual property was the adjoining plot.

She also alleged that someone had sold her late husband’s property, although the family found no clear evidence that he had authorised the transaction.

Ex-Deputy Governor Says She Refunded Buyer

Ojikutu stated that she refunded the buyer after the dispute arose.

She clarified that the amount involved was N120 million, rather than the N130 million widely reported at the time.

“I refunded part of the money. I initially paid him N50m, leaving N70m, which I later repaid in full,” she said.

She maintained that the incident was subsequently used for political purposes because an election was approaching and she was actively involved in the campaign.

Ojikutu also alleged that the buyer was pressured to report the transaction as fraudulent.

The allegation has not been independently established in the available report.

Ojikutu Denies Fleeing Nigeria

The former deputy governor denied claims that she fled Nigeria after travelling to the United States.

She said she had informed the police about her pre-scheduled trip and travelled for medical reasons.

According to Ojikutu, she did not overstay her visit, but was declared wanted shortly after leaving the country.

She added that she had since approached the court to reclaim her late husband’s property.

Former Deputy Governor Denies Corruption

Ojikutu further denied ever embezzling public funds or stealing from organisations where she had worked.

She attributed the controversy to her opposition to corrupt practices and said efforts had been made to damage her political reputation.

The available report contains Ojikutu’s account of the dispute. It does not include responses from the buyer, the police or other parties connected to the original allegations. 

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated Mr Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe as Nigeria’s Minister of Power, subject to confirmation by the Senate.

The nomination has been formally transmitted to the Senate for screening and approval in line with constitutional requirements. It follows the resignation of the former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who stepped down to pursue elective office.

Mr Tegbe, an indigene of Oyo State, brings over 35 years of experience spanning both the public and private sectors, with a strong background in fiscal policy, economic reform, and institutional development.

He previously served as Senior Partner and Head of Advisory Services at KPMG Africa, where he led major assignments in governance reform, regulatory restructuring, and public sector transformation across several African economies.

Beyond his private sector experience, Tegbe has advised government institutions and private organisations on investment structuring, policy reforms, and regulatory frameworks aimed at improving efficiency and attracting capital.

He currently serves as Director-General and Global Liaison for the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), where he coordinates bilateral development initiatives between Nigeria and China. The role also involves engagement with public sector stakeholders to advance economic cooperation in line with the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) objectives.

Within the power sector, Tegbe has been involved in advisory engagements related to regulatory and institutional reforms, working with agencies such as the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET).

His nomination is expected to support ongoing reforms in the electricity sector, particularly in improving grid stability, strengthening governance structures, and attracting long-term investment under the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

If confirmed by the Senate, President Tinubu expects him to deploy his experience to accelerate reforms and improve power supply outcomes across the country.

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu as Nigeria’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, marking a significant shift in the country’s diplomatic leadership.

The appointment follows the resignation of former minister Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down to pursue political ambitions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Enikanolaiye Named Minister of State

Alongside the appointment, the President nominated Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, subject to confirmation by the Nigerian Senate.

Enikanolaiye, a seasoned diplomat, previously served as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and International Relations. His nomination signals continuity within Nigeria’s diplomatic structure.

A Return to Familiar Terrain

Odumegwu-Ojukwu is no stranger to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, having previously served as Minister of State in the same ministry.

Her return positions her to take charge of Nigeria’s foreign policy at a time when the government is seeking to strengthen international alliances and boost economic diplomacy.

Decades of Diplomatic Experience

Enikanolaiye brings over 30 years of experience in Nigeria’s Foreign Service, including key roles as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

His career spans postings in major diplomatic missions across cities such as Addis Ababa, Belgrade, Ottawa, London, and New Delhi—experience that is expected to complement the ministry’s leadership.

Tinubu’s Strategic Foreign Policy Push

According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the appointments form part of broader efforts by the administration to reposition Nigeria’s foreign policy framework.

The government aims to enhance efficiency, deepen diplomatic engagement, and expand economic partnerships on the global stage.

The reshuffle also aligns with the administration’s focus on economic diplomacy, regional stability, and strengthening Nigeria’s influence in international affairs.

Focus on Nigerians and Global Partnerships

President Tinubu urged the newly appointed officials to prioritise Nigeria’s national interest while promoting the welfare of citizens both at home and in the diaspora.

He also emphasised the need to leverage diplomatic channels to attract foreign investment and build mutually beneficial international collaborations.

The appointments come at a critical time as Nigeria seeks to reposition itself within a rapidly evolving global political and economic landscape.

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At least seven ministers in the administration of are expected to resign before the March 31 deadline as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.

The planned exits follow a directive from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation requiring all political appointees seeking elective positions to step down in line with the Electoral Act 2026. For many of the ministers, the move formalises long-anticipated political ambitions.

Among those expected to resign is , who is widely believed to be preparing for another governorship bid in Oyo State after previous attempts in 2019 and 2023.

is also reportedly positioning for the Ogun State governorship race, having engaged stakeholders and invested in ICT-related initiatives across the state.

is said to be building strong support for the Gombe State governorship, with backing from key political figures within the ruling party.

In Bauchi State, both and are believed to be eyeing the governorship seat, setting up a potential political contest within the same party.

Meanwhile, is expected to join the Borno State governorship race, while is reportedly considering a bid for the Plateau North senatorial seat.

Political analysts say the resignations could reshape the federal cabinet and influence the balance of power within the ruling party ahead of the elections. The development also highlights the growing intersection between governance and political ambition as the 2027 race approaches.

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Nigeria’s has approved a fresh amendment to the , proposing strict penalties for individuals who belong to more than one political party at the same time.

The amendment, which was passed during plenary in Abuja, introduces new provisions to Section 77 of the Electoral Act aimed at addressing the issue of dual political party membership ahead of the .

N10 Million Fine and Possible Jail Term

Under the proposed legislation, any individual found guilty of registering or maintaining membership in two political parties simultaneously will face a ₦10 million fine, a maximum two-year imprisonment, or both.

The bill also states that anyone found to have dual party membership will automatically lose recognition as a valid member of both parties until the situation is regularised in line with the provisions of the law and the constitution of the political party involved.

The amendment was sponsored by the House Leader, .

According to the proposal:
“A person shall not be registered as a member of more than one political party at the same time.”

It further adds that any individual who knowingly maintains membership in multiple parties commits an offence punishable by law.

Lawmakers Divided Over Proposal

The proposal sparked mixed reactions among lawmakers during deliberations.

Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, , supported the bill, arguing that it would prevent political manipulation and ensure transparency in party membership.

However, Chairman of the House Committee on University Education, , expressed concerns that the amendment could conflict with Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees citizens the right to freedom of association.

Fulata argued that preventing individuals from associating with multiple political parties might violate constitutional provisions.

Deputy Speaker Defends Amendment

Responding to the concerns, the Deputy Speaker of the House, , who presided over the plenary, maintained that individuals should align themselves with a political party that reflects their ideological beliefs rather than registering in multiple parties.

He described dual party membership as “fraudulent misrepresentation.”

The proposed amendment is expected to move to the next legislative stage as part of broader electoral reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 elections.

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Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), has approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking to overturn an interim forfeiture order placed on several properties allegedly linked to him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Malami is asking the court to vacate the order, arguing that the affected properties were acquired through legitimate means and fully declared to the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) during his time in public service.

In a motion on notice filed by his legal team and led by senior advocate Joseph Daudu, Malami accused the EFCC of obtaining the forfeiture order through misrepresentation and the suppression of critical facts. He maintained that the anti-graft agency failed to disclose that the assets in question were already captured in his official asset declarations, as required by law.

According to court documents, Malami stated that his earnings over the years sufficiently account for the acquisition of the properties. He listed multiple lawful income sources, including salaries, estacodes, severance benefits, sitting allowances from judicial and presidential committees, business proceeds, asset disposals, loans to private ventures, and income from book publications.

He also disclosed receiving traditional gifts from friends and associates, stressing that such gifts are culturally acceptable and legally permissible under Nigerian law.

The former minister is specifically contesting the interim forfeiture of three properties identified in the EFCC’s ex parte application filed on January 6, 2026. These include a plot of land located in Nasarawa Government Reserved Area (GRA) in Kano State, a duplex with boys’ quarters in Wuse II, Abuja, and a partially completed building said to be held in trust for the estate of his late father.

Malami argued that the EFCC failed to establish any prima facie evidence linking the properties to proceeds of crime. He further contended that the interim forfeiture violates his constitutional rights, including the right to property ownership, presumption of innocence, and fair hearing.

He urged the court to dismiss the forfeiture proceedings, warning that allowing the order to stand could result in a miscarriage of justice and reputational damage.

Earlier, Justice Emeka Nwite had granted the EFCC’s request for the temporary forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly associated with Malami. The court also directed the commission to publish the order, inviting interested parties to appear within 14 days to show cause why the assets should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

However, Malami’s legal team argued that the valuations presented by the EFCC were exaggerated and misleading. They also raised concerns about overlapping legal actions, stating that some of the properties are subjects of ongoing disputes in other courts.

Following the filing of multiple applications challenging the forfeiture, the matter was reportedly reassigned after the court’s vacation period to allow for proper adjudication.

The case adds to the growing list of high-profile legal battles involving former public office holders and Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies, as courts continue to weigh asset forfeiture powers against constitutional safeguards.

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Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle aimed at strengthening coordination, efficiency, and service delivery across key sectors of the state government.

The changes, which took effect on January 30, 2026, were announced in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor, and affect three senior positions within the executive arm.

Under the new arrangement, Yakubu Oshiorenua Musa, who previously served as Commissioner for Lands and Housing, has been appointed Chief of Staff to the Governor. Musa replaces Gani Audu, who held the position until the latest reshuffle.

In a related move, Vincent Osas Uwadiae has been redeployed from the Ministry of Oil and Gas Resources to assume leadership of the Ministry of Lands and Housing, a portfolio regarded as central to the state’s urban development and housing delivery strategy.

Meanwhile, the outgoing Chief of Staff, Gani Audu, has been nominated as Commissioner for Oil and Gas Resources, subject to confirmation by the Edo State House of Assembly, in line with constitutional provisions.

According to the state government, the reshuffle is part of Governor Okpebholo’s broader effort to realign responsibilities, deploy experience more effectively, and improve policy execution as the administration moves into a more implementation-focused phase.

“The governor is confident that the adjustments will enhance coordination, policy implementation, and overall governance in the state,” the statement said.

Focus on performance and governance

The cabinet adjustments come amid increasing expectations for accelerated delivery across land administration, housing development, and resource management in Edo State. Analysts note that the Lands and Housing Ministry, in particular, plays a critical role in addressing urban growth pressures, property regulation, and housing accessibility.

Similarly, the Oil and Gas Ministry remains strategic for Edo’s economic diversification drive, especially as the state positions itself to attract energy-related investments and maximise resource-based revenue.

By reshuffling the cabinet, the Okpebholo administration appears to be prioritising experience-based deployment and administrative efficiency, a move often adopted by state governments seeking to strengthen governance outcomes without a wholesale cabinet overhaul.

Legislative confirmation expected

While the appointments and redeployments are already in effect, the nomination of Gani Audu as commissioner remains subject to legislative approval. The Edo State House of Assembly is expected to consider the confirmation in the coming days.

Observers say the smooth confirmation of the nomination would complete the reshuffle process and allow the affected ministries to resume full operations without disruption.

Since assuming office, Governor Okpebholo has consistently emphasised discipline, performance monitoring, and institutional coordination as pillars of his administration. The latest cabinet changes are viewed as a continuation of that governance approach.

As the administration settles into the new structure, attention will now shift to how effectively the reshuffled team translates policy direction into tangible outcomes for residents of the state.

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Pressure is mounting within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as party groups intensify calls for the removal of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, citing alleged anti-party conduct and actions they say undermine party cohesion and national unity.

The latest demand came from a coalition operating under the APC Leaders Forum (ALF) and the Tinubu/Shettima Solidarity Movement (TSSM), which accused the former Rivers State governor of conduct inconsistent with the expectations of a serving minister in an APC-led administration.

In an open letter dated January 7, 2026, and addressed to President Bola Tinubu through the party’s national leadership, the groups argued that Wike’s continued stay in the Federal Executive Council poses political and institutional risks for the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The letter, jointly signed by leaders of the coalition, was unveiled during a peaceful rally at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja. The groups described the protest as part of a broader mobilisation to protect party discipline and defend the principles of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to the coalition, Wike has repeatedly made public statements that openly challenge the authority of the APC’s national leadership, despite not being formally registered as a member of the party. They cited remarks allegedly made by the minister during a recent visit to Rivers State, where he was accused of verbally attacking senior APC officials and issuing statements perceived as intimidating.

The groups also accused Wike of persistently working against Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, whom they described as the APC’s duly elected governor. They alleged that the minister has openly questioned the legitimacy of the governor’s emergence, publicly criticised his leadership, and suggested that his administration should be politically corrected in 2027.

According to the petitioners, such actions amount to political sabotage and weaken the APC’s strategic position in Rivers State, a key battleground in the Niger Delta region.

Beyond party politics, the coalition raised concerns over comments attributed to Wike suggesting that certain political actors would be barred from entering Rivers State. They warned that such statements could inflame political tensions and were incompatible with the authority of the federal government.

The groups further criticised what they described as a conflict of interest, alleging that the minister had publicly acknowledged influence across multiple political platforms while serving in an APC government.

They warned that failure to address the situation could deepen internal divisions within the party and create avoidable distractions for the administration at a time of economic and security challenges.

While calling for decisive action, the coalition reaffirmed its loyalty to President Tinubu, urging him to demonstrate that party discipline applies to all political appointees regardless of influence or past alliances. They also announced plans to extend their protests nationwide if their concerns are not addressed.

As of press time, neither the FCT Minister nor the Presidency had issued an official response to the allegations.

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Nigeria’s push to expand youth participation in governance gained fresh momentum on Tuesday as the House of Representatives approved a bill seeking to reduce the minimum age for contesting governorship and Senate seats from 35 to 30 years.

The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Esin Etim and 24 other lawmakers, passed its second reading without objections—signalling broad legislative support for a reform many young Nigerians have demanded since the Not-Too-Young-To-Run Act of 2018.

Etim, representing Offong/Oruko/Udung Uko Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom, argued that the current age requirement blocks the political progression of young legislators who begin their careers early.

According to him, a lawmaker elected into the House at 25 could complete two four-year terms and still be legally barred from contesting for governor or the Senate at 33.

He urged colleagues to maintain a five-year eligibility gap between the House and the higher offices instead of the current ten-year gap.

Speaker Tajudeen Abbas put the bill to a voice vote, where the majority supported moving it forward. It has now been referred to the House Committee on Constitution Review for further legislative action.

If approved by the National Assembly and ratified by state assemblies, the amendment will pave the way for a new generation of politically active young Nigerians to seek higher office.

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, wanted in connection with an alleged conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257.

The EFCC’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, said the funds were provided by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) for Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited.

The public notice reads: “Timipre Sylva, former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and ex-Governor of Bayelsa State, is wanted by the EFCC over alleged conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257, part of funds injected by NCDMB into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited for refinery construction.”

Sylva, 61, hails from Brass Local Government Area, Bayelsa State. The notice follows a Lagos State High Court warrant issued on November 6, 2025.

The EFCC urged anyone with information on Sylva’s whereabouts to contact its offices across the country, nearest police stations, or via 08093322644 or info@efcc.gov.ng.

Details on developments in the case will follow.

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