Rountrip

The Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives has thrown its weight behind calls to suspend the implementation of the controversial tax reform laws, amid allegations that the gazetted versions were fraudulently altered after passage by the National Assembly and assent by President Bola Tinubu. In press release issued on Sunday, December 28, 2025, the caucus expressed deep consternation over the ongoing controversy surrounding the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025; Nigeria Tax Administration Act, 2025; Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025; and Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025. The laws, signed into law in June 2025 and scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, have sparked widespread debate following claims by lawmakers that the published versions differ materially from what was debated and approved. The controversy erupted after Rep. Abdussamad Dasuki raised the issue during a recent plenary session, prompting the House to inaugurate a high-powered com...

The Coalition Against Terrorism and Corruption (CATC) has announced plans to mobilize a one-million-man march to protest any attempt to release former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Abubakar Malami from EFCC detention, demanding instead that he be sentenced to death by hanging for allegedly enabling terrorism financing through massive money laundering. In a statement signed by Dr. Hassan Adebayo, the group’s spokesperson, Malami was branded a “traitor in high office” whose actions have directly fueled terrorism, cost countless innocent lives, and betrayed the nation. “Abubakar Malami, as AGF, turned his position into a criminal enterprise, laundering billions to arm terrorists and destabilize Nigeria while chasing a presidential ambition he later abandoned,” Adebayo stated. “His alleged laundering of over N1 billion through Metropolitan Auto Tech Limited between 2022 and 2025 is not mere corruption—it is blood money that has killed Nigerians and left families in perpetual gri...

The Renewed Hope Ambassadors Network has named Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, as the Best Performing Minister of the Year and Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), as the Best Performing Agency Head. The group said it came to this conclusion after a careful review of key promoters and stakeholders championing Mr. President's ideological and developmental agenda. It noted that Minister Bagudu came out tops for his outstanding contributions, loyalty, and strategic leadership in steering Nigeria’s fiscal policy and economic planning throughout 2025. In a statement signed by Opialu Fabian Opialu, Bagudu was described as a “towering figure” whose tireless efforts have significantly advanced the Renewed Hope vision in economic stabilization and growth. “Minister Abubakar Atiku Bagudu exemplifies the Renewed Hope vision through his relentless commitment to macroeconomic stability and inclusiv...

By Philip Agbese  In every constitutional democracy, the legitimacy of law does not rest on sentiment or speed, but on process. Laws derive their authority not merely from political will or popular approval, but from scrupulous adherence to the procedures laid down by the Constitution and statute. It is against this background that recent public commentary surrounding the authentication, assent, and gazetting of key tax reform legislation must be understood, and properly situated within Nigeria’s constitutional order. The National Assembly, as the custodian of legislative authority, has responded not with defensiveness or evasion, but with institutional sobriety. The leadership of both Chambers has activated the very safeguards that give law its moral and legal force: verification, certification, and transparency. This is not an act of weakness. It is the essence of legislative strength. The press release issued by the Management of the National Assembly makes this point unambiguou...

A civil society organisation, Global Right has levelled serious allegations against the President of the International Press Institute (IPI Nigeria), Mr. Musikilu Mojeed, accusing him of unethical conduct and “corporate blackmail” in his roles as IPI chief and Editor-in-Chief of Premium Times. In a statement signed by the group Executive Director, Abiodun Baiyewu on Saturday, the group claimed that Mojeed has allegedly “weaponised investigative journalism” to pressure companies and organisations into placing advertisements in Premium Times and its affiliated publications. According to the organisation, Mojeed has “routinely threatened” corporate bodies with unfavourable reports unless they purchased advertorials, describing the alleged practice as “racketeering disguised as journalism.” “Mojeed has turned investigative reporting into a revenue strategy. He pressures organisations to patronise Premium Times or risk negative coverage. This is not journalism; it is weaponised intimidation...

The Middle Belt Democratic Agenda has enthusiastically commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive and visionary leadership in addressing the lingering crisis within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State. The group described the President's constitution of a high-powered reconciliation committee as a clear demonstration of his commitment to party unity, internal democracy, and the overall stability of Nigeria's political landscape. In a statement released today and signed by Comrade Samuel Bako, the Middle Belt Democratic Agenda hailed President Tinubu's choice of Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Speaker of the House of Representatives, as chairman of the Benue APC reconciliation committee. The Benue APC has been embroiled in factional disputes, primarily between supporters of Governor Hyacinth Alia and those aligned with Senator George Akume, leading to parallel structures, legal tussles, and public disruptions that have weakened the party's cohesion an...

By Benedict Aguele In the age of instant narratives and social media-driven outrage, few things are as dangerous as unverified allegations leveled against competent public servants. Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, former Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), has recently been subjected to a torrent of claims alleging corruption, asset manipulation, and revenue concealment. Yet, a careful examination of the facts reveals that these allegations are not only unfounded but also reflect a troubling pattern of targeting individuals who are effective reformers in Nigeria’s critical oil and gas sector. Komolafe’s tenure at the NUPRC coincided with a transformative period in the Nigerian petroleum industry. The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), signed into law in 2021, established a robust legal framework for regulating upstream operations, enhancing transparency, and modernizing revenue management. As CEO, Komolafe applied his extensive knowledge of petroleum law...

The Faleke Ambassadors for Asiwaju 2027, a vibrant grassroots movement dedicated to advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, has showered encomiums on the President and Nigeria’s gallant security forces for the triumphant rescue of all abducted students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Niger State. In a statemet issued in Abuja, the group hailed the release of the final batch of 130 students on Sunday as a resounding triumph that vividly illustrates President Tinubu’s steadfast resolve to safeguard the lives of every Nigerian, especially the most vulnerable. The Faleke Ambassadors for Asiwaju praised the President’s decisive deployment of security assets and the seamless coordination that ensured the children’s safe arrival in Minna, The statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Dauda Jerry said: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has once again proven that under his leadership, no Nigerian child will be abandoned i...

As part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR), a social group, De-Zenith Club of Lagos, has donated of medical items and equipment to the Ifako Ijaye General Hospital in Lagos. Speaking at annual convention of the club and the end of the year ceremony held in Lagos, its President, Yomi Samson, said the donation will alleviate the overbearing challenges of the medical needs of the hospital being faced by the patients. He said: “As part of our usual way to herald this year Event that has been our Custom and tradition for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The Club donated some medical items in large quantities to Ifako Ijaye General Hospital to alleviate the overbearing challenges of the medical needs of the Hospital being faced by the patients. “These items were received by the Medical Director and his management team with great appreciation as they confirmed we actually met their needs. This confirmation of their needs melted our souls while receiving this feedback from the ...

The 313 Network for Asiwaju 2027, a grassroots support group championing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, has commended the President and Nigeria's security forces for the successful rescue of all abducted students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Niger State. In a statement at the conclusion of its end-of-year congress held in Lafia, the group described the release of the final batch of 130 students on Sunday as a "monumental victory" that underscores President Tinubu's commitment to the safety and security of Nigerian citizens, particularly vulnerable children. The congress, which featured exhaustive deliberations among members from across the country, highlighted the President's decisive actions following the November 21 abduction of 303 students and 12 teachers by armed gunmen. The statement noted that initial efforts saw about 50 students escape on their own, followed by the rescue of 100 more...

As Nigerians prepare for the festive season, the Forum of Consumers for National Growth (FCNG) has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Dangote Group for their roles in driving down petrol prices across the country, describing the developments as clear evidence that economic reforms are yielding tangible benefits at grassroots levels. In a statement signed by Dr. Adekunle Olorunfemi, National Coordinator, and Rev. Moses Alkali, Public Relations Officer, the forum highlighted the recent reduction in petrol gantry prices by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery as a game-changer for consumers amid rising holiday travel demands. "The bold economic transformation initiated by President Tinubu is taking deep roots," the statement read. "By fostering an enabling environment for local refining and competition, his administration has empowered private sector giants like Dangote to deliver affordable fuel, easing the burden on millions of households and businesses during this Yuletid...

The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC), a foremost organization advocating for the interests, unity, and cultural integrity of Yoruba youth, has vehemently opposed the planned conferment of the Obaloyin of Yorubaland title on former Zamfara State Governor and current Senator Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar by the Alaafin of Oyo. In a statement released today, YYC President Dr. Adebayo Ogunleye described the decision as a grave misstep that risks undermining the cherished Yoruba values of integrity, moral uprightness, and communal responsibility.  He said: “Yorubaland has always honoured individuals who embody the spirit of omoluabi – those whose character and actions reflect excellence, accountability, and the protection of life and property.  "Bestowing a title as exalted as Obaloyin, which signifies guardianship and military command, on someone with a deeply controversial record sends a dangerous signal to our youth and communities.” The Council highlighted the unprecedented escalation of b...

We have watched Ben Okezie Kalu the deputy speaker of the House with all admiration. He exudes humour, humility and hardwork. Kalu did not catch our glimpse from the wrong side but from a prism of competence, dedication and above all patriotism in his legislative duties. Even though we may not have a full grasp of Okezie’s elementary political life up till his ascension to the exalted office of Deputy speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria, but it is on record that he served extremely well and meritoriously when as a first time member of the House of Representatives he was chairman Media and Publicity committee, doubling as spokesperson and image maker. Okezie stirred the House public outlook to the approval of Nigerians and the outside world,comparing that unit of the Nigerian bicameral legislature he managed its image to world parliaments, like the US Congress and the British House of Common,among others. At home, the House of Representatives earned “the Peopl...

A group of inter-faith religious leaders from northern Nigeria, styling themselves as the Concerned Northern Inter-Faith Clergy for Peace, has urgently called on President Bola Tinubu to order the immediate arrest and prosecution of former governors Attahiru Bafarawa of Sokoto State and Ahmed Sani Yerima of Zamfara State.  The clerics led by Bishop Sunday Bawa in a press conference in Abuja alleged that the two ex-governors bear responsibility for laying the foundations of the rampant banditry terrorising the North-West region. The appeal, issued in a strongly worded statement during the Yuletide season, references a widely circulated video released earlier this month by notorious bandit kingpin Bello Turji.  In the video, Turji accused Bafarawa and Yerima of seizing and selling vast grazing reserves designated for herders and arming vigilante groups, known as Yan Banga, which he claimed targeted and killed Fulani communities. These actions, Turji alleged, sparked ethnic tensi...

 The Coalition of Civil Society for Transparency in the Extractive Industry (CCSTEI) has highly commended the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, for his transformative leadership in Nigeria's oil and gas sector. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja.  the coalition's National Coordinator, Dr. Agabi Emanuel praised Ojulari's bold reforms that have enhanced transparency, boosted operational efficiency, and driven significant improvements in crude oil production. The CCSTEI highlighted that since Ojulari's appointment in April 2025, NNPC Ltd has shifted from longstanding perceptions of opacity and inefficiency to a more commercially driven and accountable entity.  Key achievements noted include the consistent publication of monthly performance reports, which have fostered real-time stakeholder oversight. Financially, the coalition applauded the company's 2024 audited results, ...

Bothered over persistent insecurity across the country, a coalition of families torn apart by rampant banditry in Northwest Nigeria has appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu to investigate serious allegations against two former governors. The Coalition of Families Affected by Banditry, representing victims who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods to relentless violence, has written a letter to the President in Abuja.  Exhausted by domestic inaction, they called on the President to  help uncover the truth behind claims that policies under former Zamfara Governor Ahmed Sani Yerima and former Sokoto Governor Attahiru Bafarawa laid the groundwork for the region's insecurity through the seizure of grazing reserves and arming of vigilante groups. In the letter signed by  Chairperson Otuba Rawene, Secretary Sani Usman, PRO Haj. Hadijat Abdullahi, and 20 others, the group said: " Many of us have lost loved ones in brutal killings, seen family members abducted, or bee...

  By James Itodo    The Nigerian oil and gas sector, since its discovery, exploration, and exploitation at the turn of the century, has become the goose that lays the golden egg, likened only to the much-sought-after bride.   This is because oil, and later gas, remained the main economic sustainer, accounting for virtually all the revenue utilised for the economic sustainability and stability of the country—a nation driven by a monolithic economy.   Various attempts at sustaining its viability failed because those reforms lacked the necessary ingredients and the political will of their drivers to succeed. Moreover, the temptation of the enormous amounts generated, and the ease of generating this revenue, became stronger than the moral responsibility and patriotic devotion of the country's leaders, causing various rulers to rely completely on oil while abandoning or ignoring agriculture and every other means of generating revenue, including all forms of diversifi...

The Crisis and Situation Monitoring Room (CSMR), a human rights advocacy organisation, has issued a strong demand for an immediate, independent investigation into serious allegations linking the Kwara State Government to the arming of criminal elements responsible for escalating banditry in the state. The group's intervention follows widespread public concern over claims that prohibited firearms and a government-branded security vehicle ended up in the hands of suspected bandits operating in Ifelodun Local Government Area and beyond. In a statement, Dr. Anthony Rowland Attah, Executive Director of CSMR, sharply criticised Governor AbdulRahman Abdulrazaq's administration for what he described as a dangerous pattern of insecurity and potential complicity that has eroded public trust. “The allegations emerging from recent security operations are not mere rumours but point to a profound crisis of governance in Kwara State," he said.  "If officials under Governor Abdulraza...

A powerful coalition of civil society organizations has declared joint nationwide protests across Nigeria, with simultaneous demonstrations in New York and London, to demand the immediate removal of Farouk Ahmed as Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).  The protests will commence on Wednesday from Ahmed's office in Abuja and continue throughout the week in major cities, while diaspora actions target the UN House in New York and Nigeria House in London. The coalition includes the Nigerian Citizens for Transparency (NCT), Anti-Corruption Alliance of Nigeria (ACAN), Sokoto Welfare Foundation (SWF), Coalition for Economic Justice (CEJ), African Refiners Network (ARN), Lagos Civil Rights Movement (LCRM), Global Nigerians Diaspora Forum (GNDF), Nigerian Integrity Watch (NIW), Petroleum Workers Union of Nigeria (PWUN), Youth Empowerment Initiative (YEI), Economic Sabotage Watch Group (ESWG), International Coalition Agains...

Nigeria’s security agencies have reportedly uncovered a plan by some opposition politicians to organise protests in Sokoto and other northern states against President Bola Tinubu and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. Fresh intelligence reports made available to journalists on Friday show that former Senator Kabiru Marafa is the main arrowhead of the plot.  The group is allegedly working to discredit NSA Nuhu Ribadu and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, by falsely linking them to bandit groups and using a Sokoto-based militia to trigger violent protests. Sources say the Zamfara State Government, led by Governor Dauda Lawal, is strongly backing the plan and providing funding, determined to paint the federal security team as incompetent and force the removal of both Ribadu and Matawalle. Security operatives detected the scheme this week, monitored several planning meetings in Gusau and Abuja, blocked funding channels, and quietly disrupted the operation. No arre...

The Centre for Human and Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR) has raised alarm and expressed concern over what it called “a tragic and deeply disturbing case of drugging, rape, intimidation, and attempted cover-up involving Miss Isola Oyinkansola, a 20 year old student of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba (AAUA), is currently unfolding in Ondo State.” CHSR expressed grave concern “over emerging threats, institutional negligence, and deliberate attempts by connected individuals to obstruct justice. The group, in a statement signed by its President, Comrade Alex Omotehinse, and dated December 5, stated that formal petitions have been submitted to the Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ondo State, the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, and the Vice Chancellor, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba (AAUA). “These petitions demand urgent intervention to ensure proper investigation, prosecution, and protection for the survivo...