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#FreeNnamdiKanu: Protesters Defy Security Warning, Vow Villa March

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#FreeNnamdiKanu: Protesters Defy Security Warning, Vow Villa March

There may be a showdown between the security forces and the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protesters today (Monday) following plans by the organisers to march on the Presidential Villa to pressure the government to release from custody Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra. This is even as a Federal High Court in Abuja has issued an interim order restraining the organisers from protesting near the Villa, the National Assembly, and other key government institutions. Despite the judicial hurdle, the organisers remain defiant, vowing to stick to their original plan of a peaceful convergence in the Federal Capital Territory and a march to Aso Rock Villa. The Director of Mobilisation for the Take It Back Movement, Damilare Adenola, affirmed that the protest would go on as scheduled, both in Abuja and simultaneously in the South-Eastern states of the country. The nationwide demonstration for the immediate and unconditional release of the IPOB leader was endorsed by the opposition parties. Kanu is being detained on charges of terrorism, treason, and incitement, among others. The Federal Government alleges he advocated for Biafra’s independence through controversial means, including inflammatory rhetoric on social media and Radio Biafra. IPOB was declared a terrorist organisation in 2017. Kanu fled Nigeria in 2017 while on bail, leading to his re-arrest in Kenya in 2021. His extradition from Kenya sparked controversy and legal debates. Many argue Kanu’s detention is political persecution, while others see it as lawful prosecution. Kanu’s health condition has been a point of contention, but a recent medical evaluation declared him fit for trial. The Federal Government is apprehensive over the rally, particularly with its scheduled date coinciding with the fifth anniversary of the October 2020 #EndSARS protest that culminated in the alleged Lekki massacre. Asked if the protesters would take their grievance to the seat of power as planned, Adenola said, “Nothing shall discourage us! Marching peacefully anywhere in the country is our constitutionally guaranteed right. Nothing can derogate it,” Adenola stated. “There is no going back on our resolve to fight this inhumane, illegal and strongman act scripted to promote the erosion of our rights, and the capture of whatever remains of our criminal justice system.” The plan of the organisers to march on the Presidential Villa directly contravenes an interim injunction granted by Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja. The order, issued on Friday, followed an ex parte application filed by the Nigeria Police Force on behalf of the Federal Government. The ruling explicitly restrained the organisers, led by a human rights activist and former Presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, from protesting in or around sensitive government locations. These areas include the Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly Complex, the Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way. The order is to remain in effect pending the hearing of the substantive motion scheduled for today. Counsel to the organisers, Maxwell Opara, acknowledged reports of the suit, but stated on Sunday that no such order had been served on them. He maintained that the march to the seat of government was necessary to enable citizens to communicate directly with their leaders, insisting that even the Presidential Villa should be a symbolic place for the free expression of grievances. He added that the organisers had notified the police of the protest, stressing that his clients had yet to be served the court order. “We have notified them, and they will come and provide security — that’s what they are expected to do. We don’t want miscreants to take advantage of the protest. I learnt that they went to court, but we have not seen the order. They are asking the court to stop the protesters from going to the Villa or the National Assembly.” Addressing allegations of an unconfirmed plot by the police to clamp down on protesters made by Sowore, Adenola placed the responsibility for maintaining peace squarely on the security forces. “The truth is that protesters are always coordinated in this country; it is the police who usually disrupt this peace,” he argued. “The police are the ones who should ensure that they don’t provoke protesters. They should abide by the laws and rather protect protesters.” He further confirmed that the organisers had deployed a “large number of lawyers on standby” to assist protesters who might be arrested or detained. Sowore disclosed to The PUNCH on Sunday that more than 115 lawyers, medical personnel and journalists have been mobilised to support the nationwide protests. He said the mobilisation for the rally had gained strong national traction, with activities extending to marketplaces, religious centres, and high-profile engagements, including meetings with former President Goodluck Jonathan and diaspora groups. “Mobilisation is very strong, national mobilisation that took us to marketplaces, religious centres, and high-profile meetings, including with former President Goodluck Jonathan and diaspora interests, multiple state teams activated, people flying in, and many local convergences already organised. “The legal team (115 lawyers), medics, and media teams are in place. Expect a large, disciplined turnout in Abuja and coordinated actions in multiple states and Nigerian embassies, “ he said. Meanwhile, the protest has received significant public backing, as well as the support of major opposition figures, turning the demonstration into one of the most politically symbolic since the inception of the current administration. The nationwide march had been publicly endorsed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, both of whom have urged the Federal Government to embrace dialogue over the continued detention of Kanu. Obi reiterated that there was “no need for Kanu’s arrest in the first place,” emphasising that negotiation remains the only sustainable path to resolving separatist agitations. “I will consult, negotiate, and discuss with anybody who is agitating. I said it clearly and I remain there,” he asserted, commending the efforts of Sowore and other advocates. The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, reaffirmed Obi’s dedication to fairness and equity … Read more

NAF Announces Two-Hour Road Closure in Abuja for 10km Walk

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NAF Announces Two-Hour Road Closure in Abuja for 10km Walk

The Nigerian Air Force will on Saturday, conduct its annual 10-kilometre Walk/Jog Exercise in Abuja as part of efforts to enhance the health, fitness and operational readiness of its personnel. The Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja. Ejodame said that the exercise underscored the importance of physical fitness to military efficiency and overall mission readiness. He said the exercise, which would commence by 6:00 am and end by 8:00 am, will take place along the service lane between Karu Bridge and Mogadishu Cantonment Bridge in the Abuja-Nyanya-Keffi expressway. This, according to him, will lead to temporary closure of the road to vehicular movement during the period. Ejodame said adequate arrangements had been made to ensure the safety of participants and residents, adding that normal traffic flow would resume immediately after the exercise. He appreciated the cooperation and understanding of the public as the NAF continues to promote the well-being and effectiveness of its personnel in the discharge of constitutional duties.   NAN

NANS Denies Involvement in #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest

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NANS Denies Involvement in #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest

  The National Association of Nigerian Students, on Thursday, distanced itself from a planned protest reportedly being organised by activist Omoyele Sowore and his associates, warning Nigerian students nationwide not to be deceived or used by “selfish and politically motivated individuals.” Its President, Olushola Oladoja, who addressed journalists at the Federal Cooperative College in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, described the reports linking the association to the proposed #FreeNnamdiKanu protest scheduled for October 20th as false, misleading, and mischievous. Oladoja, who spoke alongside zonal and campus leaders of the student body, said the national leadership convened the press briefing to “set the record straight” and protect the integrity of NANS from being dragged into political controversies. “We wish to state categorically and unequivocally that NANS is not, and will not be, part of any protest organised or influenced by Sowore or any other politically motivated group or individual. The entire claim is false, mischievous, and designed to drag the name of our noble Association into political controversies that do not align with our mandate as a student body.” He explained that while the association remains committed to defending the rights and welfare of Nigerian students, it would not allow its platform to be hijacked by politicians or activists pursuing personal agendas. “NANS believes in rule of law, due process, and peaceful engagement, and will not participate in any agitation relating to the ongoing legal proceedings involving the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu. “The matter concerning Kanu is a legal issue before a competent court of law. It would therefore be inappropriate, unlawful, and irresponsible for NANS to mobilise any protest on a matter before the judiciary”, Oladoja said. He accused Sowore and his allies of using NANS’ name to gain credibility for their “politically driven agenda,” emphasising that the students’ body would remain focused on education, youth development, peace, and national unity, not partisan politics. The NANS president, therefore, appealed to parents and guardians across Nigeria to warn their children and wards against joining any protest “sponsored by greedy and self-serving politicians. “These individuals exploit the energy and vulnerability of young people for personal gain while abandoning them when crises erupt,” he said, urging security agencies and the media to disregard any claim that NANS is planning to mobilise for the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest. He reiterated that there is no faction within NANS, stressing that the body remains “one united and legitimate national students’ movement” with a clearly defined structure and leadership. Oladoja also addressed the ongoing face-off between the Academic Staff Union of Universities and the Federal Government, following the lecturers’ two-week warning strike. “We have done our research and seen the problem. We therefore urge ASUU and the Federal Government to reconvene within 72 hours and resolve this dispute. Nigerian students cannot continue to suffer for issues they did not create. “NANS remains a united, law-abiding, and patriotic association committed to the peace, progress, and prosperity of Nigeria. We will continue to champion the interests of students through constructive engagement, not chaos or politically induced protests,” he stated. Historically, NANS has been a powerful force in the nation’s socio-political discourse, known for organising massive protests that have successfully pressured the government on key issues. Given Nigeria’s vast youth population, its endorsement or opposition carries significant weight. It is against this backdrop of its influential history that NANS’s decision to publicly distance itself from the planned #FreeNnamdiKanu protest. The trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra is a sensitive legal and political matter. By explicitly rejecting any association with the protest, NANS aims to protect its institutional integrity and avoid being drawn into a contentious controversy that falls outside its core mandate.

Kanu Fit for Trial, Ailment Not Life-Threatening – NMA

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Kanu Fit for Trial, Ailment Not Life-Threatening – NMA

  The Nigerian Medical Association on Thursday informed the Federal High Court in Abuja that the illness of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, is not life-threatening. The medical panel set up by the NMA President said it had concluded the health assessment ordered by the court on the IPOB leader and found that Kanu is fit to stand trial. About two weeks ago, the trial judge, Justice James Omotosho, directed the association to independently assess Kanu’s health status following conflicting medical reports presented by the defence and the prosecution. Kanu is currently being prosecuted by the Federal Government on charges relating to alleged terrorism. According to the panel’s report, which was submitted to the court on October 13, by the prosecution team led by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN) and partly read in open court during Thursday’s proceedings, the medical body stated that the defendant’s ailment does not pose any immediate danger to his life and confirmed that he is fit to stand trial. Relying on the medical findings and in the absence of any objection from counsel to the parties, Justice Omotosho ruled that the court was satisfied that the defendant could proceed with his trial. The judge consequently granted Kanu six consecutive days, beginning from October 23, to open and close his defence. Additionally, Justice Omotosho granted an oral application by Kanu’s lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), seeking permission for a private consultation between the defendant and his legal team outside the Department of State Services premises. Agabi had argued that the defence team feared their discussions with Kanu might be monitored or recorded by the DSS. The court therefore approved that the private meeting be held within the courtroom, with only Kanu and his lawyers present. The consultation is scheduled to take place between 9 am and 12 noon on 22 October, ahead of the resumption of the trial on October 23. Details shortly…

Edun: Ailing Finance Minister Flown Abroad for Treatment

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Edun: Ailing Finance Minister Flown Abroad for Treatment

  The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has travelled to the United Kingdom to seek medical attention, multiple sources close to the development confirmed on Tuesday morning. The report, first published by Western Post, was confirmed by a source who had earlier told The PUNCH that the minister might seek medical attention abroad if the need arises. The source confirmed on Tuesday that the decision had now been made, saying, “It’s true, he has left already.” Edun left Abuja for Lagos on Monday night via a commercial flight. He later departed for London aboard a British Airways flight on the same night. Until his departure, Presidency officials who spoke to our correspondent on Sunday had maintained that Edun was recuperating at his Abuja residence under the care of Nigerian doctors. The sources said the minister had taken ill in recent days but dismissed earlier rumours that he had suffered a stroke or was incapacitated. Imisi Crowned Winner of BBNaija 10/10! Faith Disqualified — Emotional End to a 10/10 Season0:00 / 0:00 He later departed for London aboard a British Airways flight on the same night. Until his departure, Presidency officials who spoke to our correspondent on Sunday had maintained that Edun was recuperating at his Abuja residence under the care of Nigerian doctors. The sources said the minister had taken ill in recent days but dismissed earlier rumours that he had suffered a stroke or was incapacitated. One senior government official, who spoke on condition of anonymity for lack of authorisation to speak to the press on the matter, told The PUNCH that Edun’s condition was being monitored closely. “Yes, he’s indisposed. He’s sick, which is a bit serious, but it’s not a stroke. As I’m talking to you, he’s in his house. He’s not been flown anywhere,” the source had said on Sunday evening. The official, however, added that doctors might recommend foreign medical care if necessary, a decision that has now been made. Another aide familiar with the matter confirmed that Edun’s medical situation had prompted closer attention from the President but stressed that “there are no plans to replace him.” The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also confirmed that the minister had fallen ill but was initially receiving treatment in Nigeria. “Yes, he’s indisposed. Wale Edun is about 69 years old. He suddenly fell ill. As we are talking, he is in Nigeria. He is recuperating. He’s around,” Onanuga said on Sunday. The Presidency had earlier debunked speculation that President Bola Tinubu was considering a replacement for the finance minister. However, it confirmed that the minister would miss this year’s World Bank and International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C. According to a statement by Onanuga, the Central Bank Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, would instead lead Nigeria’s delegation to the global finance meetings, which begin today, Tuesday, October 14. Appointed on August 28, 2023, Edun has been a key figure in the Tinubu administration’s economic reform drive, overseeing the removal of petrol subsidies, unification of foreign exchange rates, and fiscal measures aimed at stabilising the naira and curbing inflation. He served as Lagos State Commissioner for Finance under Tinubu’s administration between 1999 and 2004 and later co-founded investment banking firm Denham Management Limited. At the time of this report, the Ministry of Finance had yet to issue an official statement on the minister’s whereabouts.

Allocate Forfeited Emefiele Estate to Low-Income Earners, Reps Tell FG

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Allocate Forfeited Emefiele Estate to Low-Income Earners, Reps Tell FG

  The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to prioritise low and middle-income earners, internally displaced persons and other vulnerable groups in the allocation of a 753-unit estate recently forfeited to the government. As reported by Channels TV, the resolution followed the adoption of a motion by Rep. Jafaru Leko on the “Need for Transparent and Equitable Allocation of Forfeited Abuja Estate.” In May,the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission handed over the property, seized from ex-Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele, to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. Leko told the chamber on Tuesday that the property is located at Plot 109, Cadastral Zone C09, Lokogoma District, Abuja, and covered more than 150,000 square metres. He explained that they were allegedly acquired with proceeds of unlawful activities linked to Emefiele and represent “a significant milestone in the nation’s anti-corruption efforts.” The lawmaker said, “If properly managed, the estate could contribute meaningfully to addressing Nigeria’s severe housing deficit, particularly in cities like Abuja.” He expressed concern that without a transparent and accountable framework, the properties might end up in the hands of “privileged elites,” defeating the purpose of asset recovery and denying ordinary Nigerians access to decent housing. He warned that without an open, accountable allocation mechanism, the estate risks being captured by privileged elites and could “erode public confidence in government’s anti-corruption and social justice programmes.” He recalled the constitutional obligation of all levels of government to ensure citizens’ welfare, including the provision of adequate shelter, as enshrined in Chapter II of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Adopting the motion, the House resolved to urge the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to develop and publish a transparent and inclusive allocation framework for the estate. The framework should prioritise low- and middle-income earners, IDPs, and other vulnerable groups. Lawmakers also directed the ministry to submit a comprehensive report within 60 days detailing the proposed use of the estate, allocation criteria and beneficiary selection process. In addition, the Committee on Housing and Habitat was mandated to liaise with the ministry and report to the House within four weeks to ensure the exercise adheres to principles of equity and transparency. “Transparency in asset management is vital to building public trust. Nigerians must see the benefits of recovered assets directly improving lives,” Leko added.  

NUJ Honours Oyo Speaker, Ogundoyin With Outstanding Legislative Leadership Award

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NUJ Honours Oyo Speaker, Ogundoyin With Outstanding Legislative Leadership Award

IBADAN – THE Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has been honoured with the Outstanding Legislative Leadership Award by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council. The award was presented at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Oyo NUJ Press Week, Iyaganku a week-long event held in Ibadan to celebrate excellence in journalism and honour individuals making significant contributions to governance and society. The Chairman of the Oyo NUJ, Chief Ademola Babalola, presented the award to the Speaker, describing him as a beacon of youthful leadership, legislative excellence, and a strong ally of the media in promoting transparency and democratic values. The Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi, represented the Governor at the event and praised the NUJ for upholding the ideals of free press and responsible journalism. He also commended the awardees for their distinguished service to Oyo State and Nigeria. In his remarks after receiving the award, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin expressed deep appreciation to the Oyo State Council of the NUJ for the recognition. He described the honour as a humbling encouragement to continue championing transparency, youth inclusion, and impactful legislation. “This award is not just for me, but for every young person striving to make a difference in leadership. I thank the NUJ for acknowledging our efforts and I reaffirm my commitment to working with the media as partners in strengthening our democracy,” he said. Oloye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, Chairman of Solution FM, who was the Guest Lecturer at the Opening ceremony also received outstanding award at the event.  

Oyo Govt Gives Ultimatum To Roadside Traders, Container Owners On Airport Road, Onipepeye

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Oyo Govt Gives Ultimatum To Roadside Traders, Container Owners On Airport Road, Onipepeye

IBADAN – The Oyo State Government has directed roadside traders and those selling in containers along Airport Road, Old Ife Road and Onipepeye areas of Ibadan to relocate their trades. The government gave the traders two weeks to put an end to roadside trading on the axis. The ultimatum expires on Monday, October 27, 2025. The government said having built markets and other closed environments in various parts of the city, it could no longer tolerate trading on roadside or placement of container shops on drainages. It noted that roadside traders are exposed to serious dangers and avoidable environmental hazards, adding that as a responsible government, it has a duty to protect the citizens from all manner of danger. The government also added that trading on walkways could lead to damaging public infrastructure, blocking drainage system and putting the state at the risk of flooding. It said that roadside trading would deprive the state of benefits of its investment in the promotion of tourism, stating that such sights turn off tourists. The government urged all affected people to comply with the directive, stressing that failure to do so would result in the enforcement of extant rules in the state which might lead to not just the confiscation of wares but also the prosecution of offenders. The government called for the cooperation of all and sundry to achieve sustainable development in the state.  

FG Secures ₦4 Trillion Bond To Settle Power Sector Arrears, Boost Investment,Stability

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FG Secures ₦4 Trillion Bond To Settle Power Sector Arrears, Boost Investment,Stability

ABUJA – AS part efforts to revitalize Nigeria’s power sector, the Federal Government on Tuesday announced it has finalized a comprehensive plan to deploy ₦4 trillion in government-backed bonds aimed at settling verified arrears owed to power generation companies (GenCos) and gas suppliers. The move comes after years of unresolved debts, which have hampered industry stability, deterred investment, and weakened the financial health of power utilities. Mrs. Olu Verheijen, the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, confirmed the breakthrough in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja. She revealed that these bonds are part of an initiative approved by President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council, designed to address deep-rooted structural challenges in Nigeria’s power sector and foster an environment conducive to massive private sector investment. The agreement was reached during a high-level meeting attended by key government officials, including the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; the Minister of Power, Chief Bayo Adelabu; and Mrs. Verheijen. The meeting focused on reviewing and finalizing settlement modalities, with a consensus to engage in bilateral negotiations aimed at crafting comprehensive settlement agreements that are sustainable amid Nigeria’s fiscal realities and the financial constraints faced by GenCos. Mrs. Verheijen emphasized that this intervention marks the largest-scale debt resolution effort in over a decade. It seeks to eliminate legacy debts that have historically limited the sector’s growth, improved the bottom lines of utility companies, and enhanced the reliability of power supply nationwide. “This is a major step by the federal government towards restoring financial stability and investor confidence within Nigeria’s electricity market,” Murray stated. Furthermore, this initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s strategic vision of modernizing the electricity infrastructure—improving grid systems, expanding distribution networks, and scaling embedded generation—aimed at creating a favorable environment for sustainable growth and private investment. The milestone underscores Nigeria’s commitment to tackling structural bottlenecks, fostering a resilient power sector, and unlocking economic potential through robust government-private sector collaboration.

(PHOTOS): Nigerian Army Troops Of 2 Div Secure Release Of 9 Kidnapped Victims

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(PHOTOS): Nigerian Army Troops Of 2 Div Secure Release Of 9 Kidnapped Victims

IBADAN – THE Nigerian Army (NA) troops of 2 Division/Sector 3 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have continued to sustain operations against criminal elements operating within its Area of Responsibility (AOR). A press statement by Lieutenant Colonel Polycarp Okoye, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations 2 Division Nigerian Army stated that, “During a night patrol along Egbe – Okuran in Kogi State, and Okoloke through Patigi in Kwara State, on 13 October, 2025, troops intercepted 9 kidnapped victims at Essalu community, in Yagba west LGA of Kogi State. Amongst the rescued victims are 4 males, and 5 females who were kidnapped from their community, Matoku, in Patigi LGA of Kwara State on 24 September, 2025. On interrogation, the victims revealed that about 3 weeks ago, terrorists raided their village, Matoku, in Patigi LGA of Kwara State, and kidnapped several persons. It was also disclosed that the criminals rustled unconfirmed number of cattle. The milestone achievement was as a result of the continued extensive clearance operations by troops of 2 Division/Sector 3 Operation FANSAN YAMMA around Esanlu, Patigi, Babasango, Etsuyum, and adjoining communities of Kogi and Kwara States. The victims further narrated that the bandits who took them suddenly became apprehensive, resulting from own troops sustained operations in the area.Consequently, they (terrorists) were compelled by circumstances to abandon them and flee. The intercepted kidnapped victims include; Mr Abdullahi Umar, aged 35, Mr Alhaji Umaru Sarki Fawa, aged 55, Mr Labaran Abubakar, aged 45, and Mr Umar Yanda, aged 30. Others are Mrs Hassana Muhammad, aged 25, Mrs Maryam Muhammad, aged 27, Mrs Aisha Idris, aged 20, and Mrs Zainab Ahmed, aged 12. They were administered first aid treatments and provided with food while the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division NA/Commander Sector 3 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General CR Nnebeife, addressed the victims before they were handed to Patigi LGA authority to aid them reunite with their respective families. The GOC, further proceeded to Lata, in Patigi LGA of Kwara State where he applauded troops of both 12 and 22 Brigades for their continued synergy and collaboration towards achieving operational efficiency. The NA continues its campaign towards appealing to the general public to always avail troops with credible information that would aid in fighting insecurity and effectively securing lives and property of Nigerians.  

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