Shortly after police escorts were withdrawn from the embattled Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, on Thursday, a dramatic turn of events unfolded as impeached Speaker Mudashiru Obasa arrived at the Assembly complex, accompanied by a team of heavily armed security personnel.

Obasa, who was removed from office last month, entered the complex with more than 11 police officers and headed straight to the Speaker’s office, bypassing his colleagues who were gathered in the Assembly’s garden discussing the ongoing crisis.

This development followed reports that security details assigned to Meranda, along with those securing the Assembly complex, had been abruptly withdrawn.

The sudden removal of security personnel has left both the Speaker and the legislative building exposed, raising concerns about the Assembly’s stability.

With Obasa reclaiming the Speaker’s office despite his impeachment, tensions remain high, and lawmakers’ next course of action remains uncertain.

As the political struggle intensifies, attention is focused on the Lagos State Assembly, where further developments in this high-stakes power tussle are eagerly anticipated.

The Zamfara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has intercepted 1,571 litres of petroleum products being illegally transported in jerrycans to areas prone to banditry.

Speaking on behalf of the State Commandant, Sani Mustapha, the command’s Public Relations Officer, Umar Muhammad, disclosed to journalists that four suspects were arrested at two different locations in connection with the crime.

The suspects include two filling station pump attendants and two buyers, who were apprehended in Birnin Magaji and Tsafe Local Government Areas.

Muhammad explained that, apart from illegally transporting fuel, the suspects also violated the Executive Order prohibiting the sale of petroleum products in jerrycans within Zamfara State.

He further detailed that two suspects were caught in Birnin Magaji with 1,296 litres of fuel, while the remaining two were arrested in Tsafe with 275 litres.

“Today, we present to you four individuals arrested for illegally dealing in Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in large quantities, thereby violating both National and State Executive Orders regulating the sale of petroleum products in jerrycans,” he stated.

The NSCDC reassured the public that investigations are ongoing and reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the law to prevent illegal fuel diversion and activities that may contribute to insecurity in the state.

Oscar-winning American actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their New Mexico home, according to media reports on Thursday.

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that the couple was discovered on Wednesday afternoon.

While authorities found no immediate signs of foul play, Mendoza did not disclose a cause of death, as reported by the *Santa Fe New Mexican*, *Variety*, and *Sky News*.

Reports also indicated that the couple’s dog was found dead alongside them.

Hackman, aged 95, was once predicted to struggle in Hollywood but defied expectations, earning two Academy Awards. He is widely recognized for his role as tough New York cop Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in the 1971 crime thriller *The French Connection*, which won him the Oscar for Best Actor.

Arakawa, 63, was a classical pianist.

The detained leader of the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has petitioned the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, requesting that she instruct the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, to reassign his case to a judge with the appropriate jurisdiction.

Kanu’s legal team, led by Aloy Ejimakor, stated in a letter to the CJN that Justice Binta Nyako, who is currently handling the case, had already recused herself following allegations of bias raised by Kanu.

Kanu is facing seven terrorism-related charges filed by the Federal Government.

Ejimakor argued that once a judge recuses themselves, legal principles dictate that they can no longer be involved in the case. He called for the CJN’s intervention to ensure the case is reassigned.

“A judge’s voluntary recusal carries the immediate legal effect of disqualification from further proceedings. A recusal decision is similar to a jurisdictional ruling and cannot be reversed arbitrarily,” Ejimakor stated.

He also warned that public trust in the judiciary could be damaged if a judge resumes a case after stepping aside, as it may create doubts about impartiality.

“Confidence in the judicial system is essential. When a judge who has recused themselves resumes a case, it raises concerns about fairness and weakens trust in the process,” he added.

Ejimakor further disclosed that Kanu had lodged a formal complaint against Justice Nyako with the National Judicial Council on January 14, 2025, and the petition was still under review.

He urged the CJN to ensure a fair trial by transferring the case to another judge in Abuja or moving it to a court in the South-East.

The Rivers State government has issued a warning against the use of detergent and other harmful chemicals in the production of ‘fufu’ within the state.

Fufu, like rice, is a staple food in many Nigerian households. It is made from fermented cassava and pounded into a smooth, stretchy dough, typically served with various Nigerian soups.

In a public health advisory released in Port Harcourt, the state Ministry of Health raised concerns over reports from a local radio station indicating that some producers were adding detergent to fufu to speed up processing and increase profit margins.

The advisory, signed by the Director of Public Health and Disease Control, Dr. Ndubisi Akpuh, on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, emphasized the severe health risks associated with this practice and declared it strictly prohibited.

The statement warned that detergents contain harmful chemicals that can cause poisoning, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Long-term consumption can result in severe damage to vital organs, including the liver, kidneys, and lungs.

Additionally, detergent chemicals can cause internal bleeding, ulcers, and irritation in the digestive system.

Some even contain endocrine-disrupting substances that may lead to reproductive health issues and an increased risk of chronic illnesses, including cancer.

The Ministry highlighted that using non-food-grade substances in food production violates both national and international food safety regulations. Offenders could face legal consequences, including fines, business closures, or imprisonment.

The advisory urged food producers to use only approved food-grade ingredients and adhere to best practices in food hygiene and safety.

Consumers were also encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious food processing activities to health authorities.

The Ministry pledged to collaborate with other regulatory agencies to strengthen monitoring and enforcement efforts, ensuring compliance with food safety standards.

It called on everyone to take collective responsibility in safeguarding public health and reiterated the message: **Say NO to using detergents in fufu and other food production!**

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has projected that the country’s rig count will reach 50 by the end of 2025.

The commission noted that Nigeria’s rig count had already risen from eight in 2021 to 40 in 2025.

NUPRC Chief Executive, Gbenga Komolafe, made this known on Wednesday in Abuja during the ongoing 2025 Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES).

He stated that crude oil production had increased by 70 percent, rising from one million barrels per day (bopd) in 2021 to the current level of 1.75 million bopd.

Komolafe further highlighted that between 2023 and 2024, Nigeria’s oil reserves grew by 1.43 percent to 37.5 billion barrels, while gas reserves increased by 0.21 percent to 209.26 trillion cubic feet.

According to him, these figures are not just statistics but key indicators of industry growth, driven by effective regulatory policies.

He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to achieving its target of 40 billion barrels of oil and 220 trillion cubic feet of gas by aggressively pursuing exploration and accelerating development efforts.

As part of these initiatives, the NUPRC successfully concluded the 2022/2024 bid licensing round, awarding 27 Petroleum Prospecting Licenses (PPLs) across different terrains. Plans are also in place for the 2025 bid round, marking a shift towards annual licensing rounds.

“The commission has been proactively acquiring high-quality geological and geophysical data through multi-client service arrangements,” he said.

He explained that ensuring access to these datasets enhances their value, particularly during licensing rounds and transformative industry deals.

“This strategic approach supports informed decision-making and attracts investments that will shape the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector for collective prosperity,” Komolafe added.

Discussing production optimization, he emphasized that Nigeria’s substantial oil reserves offer significant potential for economic transformation.

“While our current production stands at 1.75 million barrels per day, our technical potential is 2.24 million bpd,” he stated.

He noted that the commission is actively working to bridge the gap between actual and potential production by enhancing transparency, strengthening collaboration with Exploration & Production (E&P) companies, ensuring financial stability, and fast-tracking field developments.

Other measures include adopting advanced oil recovery technologies, reducing operational costs, eliminating entry barriers, and optimizing production processes.

Komolafe further highlighted that efforts to reactivate shut-in wells and capitalize on low-hanging opportunities will contribute to achieving the recently launched Project One MMbopd, aimed at increasing production by an additional one million barrels per day.

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has raised concerns over the growing presence of organised foreign fraud syndicates operating in Nigerian cities.

Speaking while receiving participants of the Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC) 18 from the National Institute for Security Studies, led by Director of Studies Hyginus Ngele, Olukoyede revealed that these criminal groups are recruiting young Nigerians into sophisticated cybercrimes, including cryptocurrency fraud.

EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

Olukoyede highlighted that little attention has been given to the recent discovery of foreign fraud syndicates setting up operational cells across Nigerian cities.

These groups, he warned, are luring young Nigerians into organised cybercrime activities, particularly those involving cryptocurrency.

He further expressed concern over the possible use of cryptocurrency for illicit activities, including arms smuggling.

“We are beginning to see indications that many of these individuals are involved in the illegal importation of arms into the country, using cryptocurrency as a payment method. This is a matter that should concern us all,” he stated.

Citing a recent EFCC operation in Lagos, he revealed that 194 foreigners were arrested in a single building on Victoria Island.

“Among those apprehended were Chinese, Filipinos, Eastern Europeans, Tunisians, and others. Some did not possess valid visas, and most of their financial transactions were conducted through cryptocurrency,” he added.

Olukoyede also pointed out that some of the arrested foreigners were ex-convicts who had escaped from their home countries and sought refuge in Africa, including Nigeria.

“Our investigation has revealed that these syndicates are not only operating in Nigeria but are also establishing cells in other African nations,” he noted.

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has expressed concern over the rising cost of cement, highlighting its adverse impact on ongoing infrastructure projects nationwide.

Umahi urged cement manufacturers to reduce the price from N9,500 to N7,000, stressing that such a reduction would significantly aid road rehabilitation efforts across Nigeria.

He noted that with the recent stabilization of the foreign exchange rate, adjusting cement prices would be essential in advancing infrastructure development.

Read Also: COAS Raises Troops’ Feeding Allowance To N3,000 Daily

During a meeting on Wednesday in Abuja with the contractor and financier of the Enugu-Onitsha dual carriageway project under the Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment (Tax Credit) Scheme, Umahi directed the contractor to complete the road by May 10, 2026.

Appealing to cement manufacturers, he emphasized that cement is a crucial material in construction, particularly for the Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement method. He argued that since the dollar exchange rate had dropped significantly, cement prices should follow suit.

A statement from the minister’s spokesperson, Uchenna Orji, quoted Umahi as saying:
*”The price of petrol is decreasing, and Mr. President is making significant efforts to improve road infrastructure. His policies are working, and today, the exchange rate is around N1,400 per dollar. I want to express my dissatisfaction with the cost of cement.

“Our contractors have expressed concerns about wanting to switch back to asphalt due to rising cement prices. When the dollar was almost N2,000, cement was increased from N7,500. Now that the exchange rate has stabilized at N1,400 and is still declining, why should cement still be selling for N9,500?

“We are requesting cement manufacturers to reduce the price to N7,000. If they fail to do so within a week, I will officially take up the matter with Mr. President.”*

Umahi also made it clear that going forward, there would be no cost variations in the project unless in accordance with the Conditions of Contract, rather than at the contractor’s discretion.

Reaffirming the Federal Ministry of Works’ commitment to quality and timely project delivery under the Tax Credit Scheme, Umahi stated:
*”This ministry is responsible for ensuring that contractors deliver quality projects.”*

He referenced multiple site inspections he had conducted, which, according to him, had compelled contractors to improve efficiency and maintain high standards.

Outlining key conditions for the project, he stated:
– The Enugu-Onitsha dual carriageway must be completed by May 10, 2025.
– The financier will be held accountable if the road fails due to substandard work by the contractor.
– No price variation or adjustment (VOP) will be allowed outside the conditions outlined in the contract.
– The contractor, RCC, must ensure compliance with contract terms rather than making arbitrary changes.
– The funding responsibility must not be compromised by the financier’s pursuit of profit, as delays in funding would hinder project completion and affect public perception of the government’s commitment.
– A formal agreement between MTN and the Federal Ministry of Works must be established, ensuring adherence to the outlined conditions to prevent delays and cost escalations.

Umahi warned that project delays could lead to unnecessary variations, which would not be tolerated.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has announced an increase in the daily Ration Cash Allowance for Nigerian Army troops from N1,500 to N3,000, effective from the end of March.

Oluyede made this announcement on Wednesday while addressing officers and soldiers of the 81 Division at the 9th Brigade Parade Ground in Ikeja, Lagos, during his tour of project sites within the division’s area of responsibility.

Expressing concern over the current feeding allowance, he assured troops of his commitment to improving their welfare.

He also acknowledged the housing challenges faced by warrant officers, many of whom lack personal homes to retire to.

To address this, Oluyede revealed that the Nigerian Army has launched a housing scheme aimed at ensuring retiring officers have access to affordable homes.

“I am building on the work of my predecessors to improve personnel welfare.

In December, under the Nigerian Army Housing Scheme, we unveiled the first set of houses in Abuja. Construction is also underway in Ibadan, and we have secured land for additional units in Jos. Similar housing developments are being planned in Port Harcourt, Owerri, and Akwa Ibom,” he stated.

He emphasized that the scheme offers soldiers an affordable path to homeownership, with two- and three-bedroom houses priced as low as N8 million.

“This initiative ensures that our personnel have access to reasonably priced housing. There is no other place in Nigeria where you can buy a two- or three-bedroom house for as little as N8 million. It is a major investment by the Army to secure your post-service comfort,” he added.

Additionally, Oluyede introduced a low-interest loan scheme for soldiers, offering a minimal 3% interest rate.

“In comparison, banks charge around 25% interest on loans. We have deliberately kept our rate low to make it more accessible. More funds will be injected into the scheme, and those with pressing financial needs are encouraged to apply,” he explained.

However, he advised soldiers to borrow responsibly.

“If you don’t urgently need the loan, it’s best not to take it. While easy to obtain, it can be difficult to repay. That said, it is your right to apply, and once approved, you will receive the funds promptly,” he noted.

Addressing concerns about soldiers having to purchase their uniforms, Oluyede assured them that the Army had begun distributing 100,000 kits per month.

“We have allocated uniforms to smaller divisions. The next phase will cover the 82nd Division, followed by this division. By the end of the year, most soldiers should have received new sets,” he assured.

The COAS acknowledged the difficulties in accessing military kits but reiterated efforts to ensure soldiers receive necessary supplies.

Encouraging personnel to stay dedicated to their duties, he emphasized that their commitment was vital to the Army’s overall success.

The recent N65.00 reduction in the ex-depot (gantry) price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, by Dangote Petroleum Refinery has sparked widespread reactions.

Dangote Refinery has partnered with MRS Oil and Gas stations to ensure consumers can access fuel at more affordable prices.

A recent TikTok video posted by @valorreviews showed a man comparing the running time of petrol from MRS and NNPC stations using two identical small Tiger generators, popularly called ‘I better pass my neighbour’ in Nigeria.

According to the video, petrol refined by Dangote and sold at MRS stations lasted longer than the PMS from NNPC stations while also being more affordable. The test showed that fuel sourced from NNPC lasted 17 minutes, whereas Dangote’s fuel ran for 33 minutes.

The video quickly went viral, with many Nigerians sharing similar experiences about fuel quality from different suppliers. Some users also suggested that NNPC previously enjoyed a monopoly on fuel distribution until Dangote entered the market.

However, NNPC dismissed these claims, clarifying that its Lagos filling stations also source petrol from the Dangote Refinery.

With the latest price reduction, Dangote Refinery management confirmed the new petrol prices at partner retail outlets:

– **MRS Holdings stations**
– N860 per litre in Lagos
– N870 per litre in the South-West
– N880 per litre in the North
– N890 per litre in the South-South and South-East

– **AP (Ardova Petroleum) and Heyden stations**
– N865 per litre in Lagos
– N875 per litre in the South-West
– N885 per litre in the North
– N895 per litre in the South-South and South-East

Since commencing production in 2024, Dangote Refinery has played a significant role in addressing challenges in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.