The Nigerian Police Force has taken an officer into custody after a viral video showed them seemingly mishandling the naira alongside the sons of billionaire Razaq Okoya.

The officer was seen holding large amounts of naira notes while Subomi ‘Sirheem’ Okoya and his brother Wahab danced to a tune.

The video was allegedly a promotional clip for Sirheem’s new song.

This incident has sparked concerns about the recurring abuse of Nigeria’s currency and the use of police officers for private business. In 2024, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) increased its enforcement of naira abuse by celebrities, citing Section 21 of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act.

For instance, Bobrisky, a social media celebrity, was arrested in Lagos on April 4 for defacing naira notes.

The crossdresser was arraigned on a six-count charge by the EFCC. Similarly, the EFCC filed a three-count charge against Cubana Chief Priest, a socialite and social media influencer, over alleged naira abuse.

Muyiwa Adejobi, the police spokesperson, stated that the officer in the video has been detained and will face disciplinary action.

“The policeman captured in the recent viral video shared by the sons of the Lagos businessman, Chief Okoya, where they were abusing the naira, has been identified and detained for disciplinary action,” Adejobi wrote on X.

Adejobi added, “The involvement of the policeman has been condemned, as it’s unethical. We will always strive hard to uphold the sanctity, credibility, and core values of the police.”

Subomi ‘Sirheem’ Okoya apologized to the police, stating that his actions were naive and unintentional. “To the Nigerian people, my actions were not to cause any trouble or harm. My intentions were pure and naive,” he wrote on X.

According to Section 21 of the CBN Act, tampering with a coin or note issued by the Bank is punishable by imprisonment for at least six months or a fine of at least N50,000, or both.

The post Police detain officer, condemn involvement in viral video of Okoya’s son ‘abusing naira’ appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has formally appointed Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, following “thorough consultations.”

The announcement was made on Friday by Commissioner for Information and Orientation Dotun Oyelade, confirming Governor Makinde’s approval of Owoade’s appointment.

“The Oyomesi, after thorough consultations and divinations, have recommended Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo, and Governor Seyi Makinde has given his approval,” the statement read.

This development brings an end to the prolonged controversies surrounding the passing of former Alaafin Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III in April 2022.

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Ademola Ojo expressed confidence that Owoade’s appointment would resolve disputes related to the late Oba’s passing.

“This decision has resolved the socio-legal controversies that emerged after the transition of Oba Adeyemi. We urge the people of Oyo State to support the new Alaafin and celebrate this historic moment,” Ojo stated.

Oyelade hopes the new Alaafin’s reign will usher in peace, unity, and prosperity for Oyo State residents.

“We pray that his reign brings progress and harmony to the people of Oyo and strengthens the historic legacy of the Alaafin institution,” Oyelade concluded.

The post JUST-IN: Gov Makinde announces new Alaafin of Oyo appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has prohibited the Federal High Court in Kano from intervening in the Kano Emirate’s ongoing legal dispute.

In a divided ruling, with two justices opposing one, the appellate court decreed that the federal high court lacks the authority to intervene in Kano State’s chieftaincy affairs.

Justice Gabriel Omoniyi Kolawole, who delivered the lead judgment, stated that the federal high court should not have interfered in the chieftaincy matters, but instead ordered the case to be transferred to the Kano state high court.

However, Presiding Justice Mustapha Mohammed and another justice concurred with Kolawole that the federal high court had no jurisdiction over the Kano emirate’s legal battle.

They disagreed with Kolawole’s decision to return the case to the Kano Chief Judge for reassignment, instead ruling that the case should be struck out due to lack of jurisdiction.

Consequently, the two justices dismissed the federal high court’s proceedings, citing lack of jurisdiction as the primary reason.

The post A’court bars federal high court from interfering in Kano emirship legal dispute appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

The presidency has accused Bala Mohammed, Bauchi state governor, of indulging in reckless politicking over the tax reform bill.

Mohammed and the presidency have been embroiled in a bitter dispute over the tax reform bills currently before the national assembly.

In December, Mohammed, chair of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, criticized the bills, alleging regional bias.

The governor claimed the bills were tantamount to “calls for anarchy” and warned President Bola Tinubu would face resistance if the legislation passed.

Subsequently, the presidency demanded Mohammed retract his comments against the president.

Sunday Dare, the president’s special adviser on media and public communication, described Mohammed’s remarks as “inflammatory” and “direct threats” to the federal government.

About 24 hours later, Mohammed responded, reaffirming his stance and refusing to be intimidated.

Mohammed criticized the presidency’s approach to the tax reform debate, urging them to avoid arrogance and listen to Nigerians’ concerns.

In a statement, Dare asked Mohammed to cease playing “irresponsible politics” and focus on governance and poverty alleviation in Bauchi.

Dare emphasized that the Tinubu administration prioritizes development and improving Nigerians’ overall well-being.

“The focus of this government is on building stronger collaborations with sub-nationals and stakeholders on matters affecting Nigerians’ lives,” he said.

“President Tinubu secured a national mandate and will not surrender it to appease pseudo activists and latecomer crusaders.

“President Tinubu is a listening leader who believes in state institutions,” Dare added.

“On the Tax Reform Bills, the President urged concerned individuals and groups to utilize the legislative process.

“Any attempts to disrupt or abort this process are undemocratic and self-serving,” Dare stated.

Dare noted that Nigerians are concerned about Mohammed’s efforts to improve the lives of Bauchi State residents.

“How well are the impoverished people of Bauchi State faring under Mohammed’s leadership?” Dare asked.

“How effectively has Mohammed utilized increased resources to enhance his people’s quality of life?

“Just as President Tinubu has a duty to Nigerians, Governor Bala has a greater responsibility to his state’s people.

“Constant grandstanding and irresponsible politics won’t relieve Mohammed of his duty to the impoverished people of Bauchi State.

“Governor Bala should focus on governance and cease using President Tinubu to boost his fading image.

“President Tinubu is committed to revamping the economy and improving the country’s economic fortunes.”

The post Presidency accuses Bauchi governor of playing irresponsible politics over tax reform bill appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

The Nigerian Police Force have confirmed the arrest of an individual implicated in a massive N1.09 billion procurement scam in Enugu State.

Details of the arrest remain scarce, but police officials revealed that the National Cyber Crime Centre investigated the matter and successfully recovered the stolen funds.

This information was disclosed in a statement released by Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, titled “Enugu State Government account was never hacked — Police confirms.”

According to the statement, rumors circulating online about the Enugu State Government’s account being hacked are entirely false. The issue at hand is a case of procurement fraud, not a cyber breach.

“The Nigeria Police Force hereby categorically dismiss the false narrative and rumour circulating online about an alleged hack of the Enugu State Government’s official account, resulting in the theft of N1.09 billion.

“This assertion is completely unfounded. There has been no hacking of the Enugu State Government’s account, and the allegations of theft amounting to N1.09 billion are entirely baseless.

“The case, which was investigated by the NPF-National Cyber Crime Centre (NCCC), was a procurement fraud case, not a cyber-breach. The suspect has been arrested in connection with this fraud, and the funds have already been recovered.”

The police also highlighted the Enugu State Government’s collaboration with the NCCC to establish robust security protocols safeguarding financial systems.

“The Enugu State Government and other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government and corporate firms are in partnership with the NCCC, and have established comprehensive and fortified security protocols to safeguard their financial systems.”

The police urged the public to verify information through credible sources, avoiding misinformation.

In a separate development, the Enugu State Police Command released its 2024 operational report on January 2, 2025, showcasing notable achievements in combating crime.

The report, signed by spokesperson Daniel Ndukwe, revealed the arrest of 1,072 suspects for various crimes, including armed robbery and kidnapping. Additionally, 200 firearms and 124 vehicles were recovered.

The post Police debunk Enugu govt account hacking allegations, recover N1.09bn appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

The Ogun police command has announced the arrest of Abiodun John, leader of the Alora cult group, along Akute-Olambe road in the state.

Omolola Odutola, police spokesperson, disclosed that John was apprehended during a routine stop-and-search operation on Thursday.

A firearm was allegedly seized from John’s possession during a vehicle search at the time of his arrest, according to Odutola.

“On January 9, 2025, at about 3:30 PM, Ajuwon police officers were conducting a lawful patrol and performing stop-and-search duties along the Akute/Olambe road when they received information from the public regarding two men suspected to be inside a Venza car with dealer number URSMOT AUTOS 4657DLA,” the statement reads.

“Immediately the information was intercepted, the officers pursued the vehicle, which was eventually stopped in front of the Osaro Mobile Filling Station.

“One suspect, identified as Abiodun John, a 25-year-old male from the Olori area of Akute, was arrested, while another suspect remains at large.

“During the search of the vehicle, two locally-made pistols and three live cartridges were discovered in John’s possession.”

Odutola stated that initial investigations are underway, and the suspect and confiscated items have been taken to the police station for further action.

The post Police arrest suspected cult member in Ogun, recover firearm appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, and Lateef Fagbemi, Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), to appear in court regarding the Expatriates Employment Levy (EEL).

Inyang Ekwo, the presiding judge, made this ruling on Thursday after Patrick Peter, counsel for the plaintiff, moved a motion ex-parte.

Ekwo ordered the minister and AGF to be served with the motion within three days of the order.

The suit, filed by the Incorporated Trustees of New Kosol Welfare Initiative, seeks an interim injunction to stop the implementation of the new expatriates’ taxation regime in Nigeria.

Raphael Ezeh, Programme Implementation Coordinator, stated that the EEL taxation policy was announced on February 27, 2024.

“According to KPMG and other online information analysts and dissemination agencies, the federal government intends to compel all companies and organisations who engage the services of foreign expatriates to pay tax E.E.L. as follows: For every expatriate on the level of a director — Fifteen Thousand United States Dollars ($15,000.00) equivalent to Twenty-Three Million Naira, by the current exchange rates (NW23,000,000.00) per annum,” he said.

Ezeh explained that the federal government proposed additional regulations, including penalties and sanctions for non-compliance.

According to him, inaccurate reporting will result in five years imprisonment and/or N1 million.

Failure to file EEL within 30 days attracts a N3 million penalty.

Ezeh stated, “The proposed taxation regime is totally an anti-people policy because of its radical effect on different aspects of the Nigerian economy and it works like a choke-hold against the economic growth of the nation.”

He noted that taxation requires collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government under the 1999 Constitution.

The current tax regime is more favourable to expatriates compared to the proposed system.

The matter was adjourned to January 16 for the defendants to appear in court.

The federal ministry of interior suspended the EEL implementation in 2024 for further consultations with stakeholders.

The post Court summons interior minister, AGF over expatriate employment levy appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

President Bola Tinubu has decorated his aide-de-camp, Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf, with the rank of Colonel.

Tinubu on Thursday praised Yusuf as a trustworthy officer who earned his rank elevation, saying that his promotion was well deserved.

Lt. Col. Yusuf’s promotion to Colonel was approved by the Nigerian Army Promulgation AHQ MS/G1/300/252/2 on December 19, 2024, with seniority effective September 22, 2023.

“You all know Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf. He carries a lot of responsibilities. I am joyous that the military authorities have promoted my ADC.

“He is worthy of the promotion, and I am very happy for him. Nurudeen is a diligent and reliable officer with the right temperament. I believe he will achieve greatness in his profession.

“We are with you. We love and really care about you. We will continue to do so. Character defines man, and it has defined you. With your promotion, you are highly respected. From the bottom of my heart, I congratulate you. We thank God for you.

“May God bless our armed forces and keep them safe,” the President said in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.

Tinubu also commended the ADC’s wife for maintaining a stable home front while Yusuf served the nation.

Col. Yusuf expressed gratitude to the President for trusting him as Aide-de-Camp since May 2023, pledging loyalty to him and the country.

“I stand here today filled with immense gratitude and humility as I reflect on this remarkable occasion of my decoration with the rank of Colonel in the Nigerian Army.

“This moment is a personal milestone and a testament to the enduring values of the unwavering support of those around me.

“First and foremost, I thank the Almighty Allah for His grace, guidance, and blessings upon my career and life. Without Him, this day would not have been possible.

“To His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief, I am deeply honoured by the privilege to be granted promotion to this enviable rank.

“I wish to use this unique opportunity to restate that your leadership and trust have been a source of inspiration, and serving as your Aide-de-Camp has been a profound privilege and the highest honour of my career.

“Thank you for your confidence in me and for being here to share in this special moment,” he said.

Notable attendees included AbdulRazaq AbdulRahmon, governor of Kwara; Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser; Kayode Egbetokun, inspector general of police; Christopher Musa, Chief of defense staff; and Bello Matawalle, minister for state defense.

Others present were Kudirat Yusuf, the ADC’s mother; Ganiyat Yusuf, his wife, and Abiodun Yusuf, his daughter.

The post PHOTOS: ‘You’re going places in your career’ — Tinubu decorates aide-de-camp with new rank appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

China’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Wang Yi, has announced that China will provide African countries with ¥1 billion ($130 million) to enhance their military and police capabilities.

Yi’s statement came after his meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock villa, where they discussed agreements signed during Tinubu’s visit to China last year.

China aims to support Africa in building a standby force, in addition to strengthening their military and police.

“China will firmly support Africa in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests, practicing true multilateralism and not letting power politics and bullyism find their place in Africa,” Yi said.

He also emphasized China’s commitment to supporting Africa’s security through development, citing the 10 partnership actions and ¥360 billion in funding support announced at the summit.

Yi acknowledged Nigeria’s crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in Western Africa and the Sahel region.

Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, expressed his country’s interest in collaborating with China to produce military equipment domestically.

“We want to work with countries like China to manufacture military equipment locally, avoiding procurement delays and complex regulations,” Tuggar said.

Tuggar highlighted Nigeria’s responsible leadership and commitment to working within its constitutional framework.

He noted that Nigeria’s absence from continental agreements often hinders their implementation due to the country’s significant position in Africa.

The post China pledges ¥1bn to boost Africa’s military, police strength appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.

The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over Nigeria’s escalating crime rate, particularly kidnappings.

Reacting to recent killings and abductions, including the kidnapping of two Catholic reverend sisters, Obi described the situation as “worrisome” on his X page.

Recall that on Tuesday, gunmen kidnapped two Catholic nuns returning from a vocational meeting in Ogboji community, Orumba north LGA, Anambra state.

Obi, the former Anambra governor, condemned the killing of the College of Nursing Sciences manager in Ihiala, stating, “no one is currently spared from the dangerous wind of many kidnappings and killings blowing through many parts of the nation”.

He noted that insecurity affects every Nigerian, impacting agriculture, health, and education, where workers are often kidnapped or killed.

Obi cited examples of kidnapped farmers, teachers, and lecturers, including the recent killing of the College of Nursing Sciences manager and the abduction of two reverend sisters.

He emphasized that these individuals contribute significantly to national development, and their kidnappings and killings are unjustifiable.

Obi urged leaders to address the situation, wondering how many cases go unreported.

He asked the federal government to deploy security measures to rescue captives and end terror, while urging criminals to stop their evil acts.

The post Peter Obi condemns kidnapping, killings in Nigeria, asks FG to act fast appeared first on NEWS PICKS — WITHIN NIGERIA.