Nigeria’s Top News Headlines for Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Good morning! Here are today’s critical news highlights from across Nigeria:
Tinubu Presides Over Crucial APC Caucus Meeting
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday chaired the National Caucus meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking the first such gathering since his inauguration on May 29, 2023. The meeting, which took place in Abuja, comes ahead of the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) session scheduled for today. Analysts suggest that key party and governance issues, including internal rifts and economic policies, were discussed.
Senate Promotes Tax Reform Bills as Key to $1 Trillion Economy
The Senate has thrown its weight behind proposed tax reform bills, insisting they are essential for Nigeria to realize Tinubu’s ambitious $1 trillion economy vision. Senator Sani Musa, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, made this assertion, but critics question whether these reforms will provide real economic relief for struggling Nigerians or merely increase the tax burden.
MultiChoice Nigeria Faces Regulatory Scrutiny Over Subscription Hike
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria’s CEO over the planned subscription price hike set for March 1. Invoking its regulatory authority under the FCCPA, the commission will conduct an investigative hearing tomorrow. This move raises concerns over the rising cost of living and consumer exploitation.
JAMB Maintains UTME Registration Deadline Despite Student Appeals
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has reaffirmed that registration for the 2025 UTME will close on March 8, despite appeals from students and parents. According to JAMB spokesperson, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, the deadline remains firm, as previously announced. Some stakeholders argue that limited access to registration centers could disenfranchise potential candidates.
Senate Refers Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for Ethics Review
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) has been referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions following a dispute over seating arrangements. The committee, chaired by Senator Neda Imaseun (LP, Edo South), has two weeks to submit its report. This development raises concerns about internal Senate politics overshadowing legislative duties.
Police Officer Detained Over Stray Bullet Incident in Niger State
The Niger State Police Command has detained an officer after a stray bullet fired during an operation injured an immigration official, Assistant Superintendent of Immigration (ASI) Christian Oladimeji. The incident occurred during an attempt to disperse hoodlums in Minna, highlighting ongoing concerns over excessive force by security personnel.
Goodluck Jonathan Decries ‘Ghost Voters’ in Nigerian Elections
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has criticized Nigeria’s electoral process, citing the prevalence of ‘ghost voters’ as a major flaw. Speaking on Tuesday, he urged electoral officials to resign rather than succumb to pressure to manipulate elections, reinforcing growing concerns about the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
Anambra Traders Sue NAFDAC and SON Over Alleged Rights Violations
Four traders from Ogbo Ogwu Bridge Head Market, Onitsha, have taken legal action against the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and other officials for alleged harassment and rights violations. The traders, in a suit filed at a Federal High Court in Awka, accuse regulatory agencies of unlawful interference in their businesses.
Naira Marley Acquitted Over Mohbad’s Death Case
A Lagos Magistrate Court in Yaba has acquitted popular singer Abdulazeez Fashola, known as Naira Marley, in the case surrounding the death of musician Ilerioluwa Aloba, aka Mohbad. Magistrate Ejiro Kubenje ruled that there was no case against Marley. However, the verdict is expected to generate public debate, given the controversial nature of the case.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Sues Senate President Akpabio for Defamation
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a N100 billion defamation lawsuit against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his aide, Mfon Patrick. The case, which also demands N300 million in litigation costs, stems from alleged defamatory statements on Facebook regarding her Senate seat controversy. This legal battle could deepen political tensions within the legislature.
Stay tuned for further updates on these developing stories.
Reference
Nigeria’s Top News Headlines for Wednesday, February 26, 2025