Author: B.O.B Echoload

  • PDP Warns of Shrinking Democratic Space After Fubara’s Exit

    The PDP criticised the APC following Siminalayi Fubara’s defection, alleging the ruling party engineered political pressure in Rivers State. The opposition insisted its structures in the state remain intact.

    The episode adds to national debate over high-profile defections and concerns about competitive balance ahead of future election cycles.

    2025-12-10

    Punch Newspapers

    2025-12-10

  • Senate Backs Tinubu’s Rapid Response as Benin Coup Attempt Tests ECOWAS

    The Senate approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to deploy troops to the Republic of Benin after an attempted coup reportedly disrupted public order in Cotonou. Lawmakers framed the move as part of Nigeria’s regional responsibility under ECOWAS.

    Some senators reportedly sought fuller debate, but leadership argued emergency procedures justified swift approval given the potential regional spillover.

    2025-12-10

    Punch Newspapers

    2025-12-10

  • Nigeria, Saudi Arabia Seal Five-Year Defence Pact

    Nigeria and Saudi Arabia signed a five-year MoU to strengthen military cooperation, including training, intelligence sharing and defence industry collaboration. Officials said the agreement is renewable after the initial term.

    The pact is positioned as part of Nigeria’s broader push to deepen strategic partnerships as it confronts insurgency and transnational security threats.

    2025-12-10

    Punch Newspapers

    2025-12-10

  • US Lawmaker Visits Benue IDP Camps, Urges Global Attention

    US Congressman Riley Moore visited Benue IDP camps and cited testimonies describing severe violence and displacement. He called for increased global attention to the humanitarian situation.

    The visit adds to international scrutiny of Nigeria’s insecurity narrative and may intensify diplomatic pressure for stronger civilian protection.

    2025-12-10

    Punch Newspapers

    2025-12-10

  • Tinubu Names Retired Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Adamu to Lead Military Pensions Board

    President Bola Tinubu approved the appointment of Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Idris Adamu (retd.) as Chairman of the Military Pensions Board, effective December 1, 2025. The government said the move aligns with efforts to improve transparency and efficiency in pension administration.

    Officials expect the new leadership to strengthen veterans’ welfare and tighten accountability across the system.

    2025-12-10

    Punch Newspapers

    2025-12-10

  • Senate Moves to Check Holiday Airfare Shock, Summons Keyamo

    The Senate summoned Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and industry stakeholders over sharp increases in domestic airfares ahead of the festive season. Lawmakers said soaring ticket prices are worsening the cost-of-living burden on travellers.

    Committees were tasked to engage airlines and regulators and propose consumer-protection measures that balance affordability with operators’ rising costs.

    2025-12-10

    Punch Newspapers

    2025-12-10

  • Senate Opens Deeper Audit of Safe School Initiative

    The Senate launched an investigation into the Safe School Initiative, citing renewed public anger over school attacks and abductions. The ad-hoc committee said it will scrutinise how funds and donor support have been utilised over the years.

    Lawmakers want clearer accounting of security upgrades, early-warning systems and infrastructure interventions meant to protect learners nationwide.

    2025-12-10

    Punch Newspapers

    2025-12-10

  • EFCC Holds Ex-AGF Malami Over Unmet Bail Conditions

    The EFCC detained former Attorney-General Abubakar Malami after he reportedly failed to meet bail conditions earlier granted to him. The commission said investigations into multiple allegations are ongoing.

    Malami has previously rejected accusations against him, but the agency maintains he remains in custody until he fulfils the requirements for release.

    2025-12-10

    Punch Newspapers

    2025-12-10

  • FG Defends New Tax Law, Says Reforms Target Relief for Workers and SMBs

    The Federal Government said new tax reforms are designed to reduce burdens on workers and small businesses, blaming misinformation for public fears. Taiwo Oyedele, chair of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, highlighted exemptions and harmonisation measures.

    He urged stronger public communication through the National Orientation Agency to prevent false narratives from derailing implementation.

    2025-12-10

    Punch Newspapers

    2025-12-10

  • South-West Security Summit Pushes State Police, Ranching and Tougher Kidnap Penalties

    South-West security stakeholders endorsed state police and stronger penalties for kidnapping, alongside a regional enforcement push against open grazing. The communique emphasised coordinated crime prevention across the zone.

    Participants advocated legislation to accelerate ranching, reinforce border security and deepen collaboration among state and community security structures.

    2025-12-10

    Vanguard

    2025-12-10