Akpabio: Nigerian govt slams six cybercrime charges on Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
The Federal Government has initiated legal proceedings against Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, under Nigeria’s amended Cybercrimes Act. This marks a significant step in its efforts to combat misinformation and uphold digital integrity. Natasha faces six criminal charges for allegedly making false and damaging statements against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Yahaya Bello. The case,
Akpabio: Nigerian govt slams six cybercrime charges on Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
The Federal Government has initiated legal proceedings against Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, under Nigeria’s amended Cybercrimes Act.
This marks a significant step in its efforts to combat misinformation and uphold digital integrity.
Natasha faces six criminal charges for allegedly making false and damaging statements against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Yahaya Bello.
The case, filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, represents the most prominent test of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024, since its enactment.
Between April 1 and 14, 2025, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan reportedly claimed in public speeches and a live television interview that Akpabio and Bello conspired to assassinate her.
In a speech delivered in Ihima, Kogi State, she allegedly stated:
“Akpabio told Yahaya Bello… that he should make sure that killing me does not happen in Abuja, it should be done here, so it will seem as if it is the people that killed me.”
Days later, during an appearance on Channels TV’s Politics Today, she reiterated the allegations, asserting: “It was part of the meeting, the discussions that Akpabio had with Yahaya Bello that night… to eliminate me.”
The Federal Government contends that these statements, widely disseminated through digital platforms, were knowingly false and intended to incite unrest. Prosecutors argue that the remarks violate “Section 24(2)(c)” of the Cybercrimes Act, which criminalizes the intentional spread of false information to damage reputations or provoke public disorder.
The 2024 amendment, signed by President Bola Tinubu, strengthens Nigeria’s legal framework against digital misinformation. It specifically targets false information designed to harm reputations.
The charges against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan include:
Defamation against Senate President Akpabio (Counts 1 & 3)
Defamation against former Governor Bello (Counts 2 & 4)
Knowingly spreading falsehoods to incite public disorder (Counts 5 & 6)
The prosecution asserts that the senator’s statements, if unchecked, could undermine trust in government institutions and escalate political tensions.
Akpabio: Nigerian govt slams six cybercrime charges on Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
Alabuga: Brain drain or economic benevolence?
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Akume’s rumoured resignation deliberate plot to trigger religious tension – CAN
The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Northern States, has raised the alarm over a recent rumour suggesting the resignation of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, describing it as a calculated attempt to inflame religious tension and destabilise the country. Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, while
Akume’s rumoured resignation deliberate plot to trigger religious tension – CAN
The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Northern States, has raised the alarm over a recent rumour suggesting the resignation of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, describing it as a calculated attempt to inflame religious tension and destabilise the country.
Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, while speaking in Kaduna on Monday with newsmen, stated that the fake report, which claimed Akume had been replaced by Hadiza Bala Usman, was not only false but crafted to incite religious and political unrest in an already fragile national climate.
According to Hayab, the Christian community in the North, which had remained uneasy with the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, regards Akume’s role in the federal cabinet as a symbol of balance and inclusion, saying that any attempt to remove or malign such representation would be viewed as a direct threat to national unity and religious harmony.
He noted, “At a time when our country needs healing, national cohesion, and responsible leadership, it is disheartening that some individuals are toying with sensitive issues by spreading outright falsehood. Senator Akume is one of the few visible Christian figures in the federal executive, and his service has been marked by maturity, integrity, and dedication to national development.”
The Northern CAN warned that such propaganda was not only dangerous but also indicative of an underground campaign to erode Christian presence in national governance, stressing that the circulation of the rumour, if not immediately countered, could have triggered unnecessary tension between religious communities.
The chairman called on security and intelligence agencies to investigate the source of the false claim and ensure that those behind it are held accountable, while stressing that the need to maintain peace and truth in the public space is a national responsibility that must be pursued with seriousness.
Hayab observed, “The intention behind this propaganda is clear. Some people are not comfortable with peaceful coexistence and are determined to exploit religion and ethnicity for political gains. That must not be allowed to succeed.”
He urged Senator Akume not to be discouraged by what he described as deliberate distractions, noting that the Northern Christian community remains steadfast in prayer and support for his continued service to the nation, adding that Akume’s presence in the cabinet offers hope to millions of Christians who feel increasingly marginalised in the current political arrangement.
Hayab also commended the Presidency for swiftly debunking the rumour through the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, saying such prompt clarification helped douse tension and reassure the public.
He appealed to the federal government to remain sensitive to the diversity of the country and to uphold the principles of fairness, equity, and inclusion in all appointments and policy directions.
“The unity of Nigeria depends on leadership that recognises our diversity and governs with the fear of God. We expect the President to remain vigilant and committed to the values that hold our nation together,” Hayab stated.
Akume’s rumoured resignation deliberate plot to trigger religious tension – CAN
Imo Harmony Project Urges Uzodimma to Remain Steadfast on Charter of Equity
Imo Harmony Project Urges Uzodimma to Remain Steadfast on Charter of Equity
Amby Uneze in Owerri
The Owerri Zone leaders of Imo State under the auspices of Imo Harmony Project (IHP), a group strategizing for the full implementation of the Imo State Charter of Equity, has commended the state Governor, Hope Uzodimma, on his laudable projects across the state, noting that the contents contained in his recent ‘State-of-the-state address’ were most significant and verifiable.
In a statement signed by the Convener/Chairman of IHP, Capt. Emma Ihenacho, he expressed satisfaction over the numerous achievements of the Uzodimma’s administration for five years it came on board, and urged the governor not to relent in his wise vision to develop the state.
Ihenacho, a businessman and former Minister of Interior, noted that with the litany of completed projects and the ongoing ones, skeptics have been proven wrong by the bold and transformative initiatives across different sectors which had continued to earn his administration accolades while renewing the confidents of Imolites in the delivery of dividends of democracy.
While promising the governor of support and cooperation from the zone, he, however, urged him to remain committed to the charter of equity “despite distractions from those who seem not to appreciate the value of peace and harmonious coexistence.”
According to him, “As the government continues with its development strides, the IHP remains strongly committed to the governor’s goal of achieving inclusive governance through the Imo charter of equity.
“In our view, beyond the massive change of the infrastructure landscape, the successful implementation of the charter would be the governor’s greatest legacy to Imo people.
“Finally, IHP notes the governor’s concern for the continuation of his legacy of people-centred developments, and would like to assure him that Owerri Zone is replete with talents capable of taking governance to a greater pedestal that would make the state and its citizens truly proud.”
Amby Uneze in Owerri The Owerri Zone leaders of Imo State under the auspices of Imo Harmony Project (IHP), a group strategizing for the full implementation of the Imo State Charter
FCT ground rent: I have no apology for revoking Rochas Okorocha’s land – Wike
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has disclosed that he revoked the land of former Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha. Wike warned that the FCT Administration under his leadership will repossess any land where the owners fail to pay their land rent. He disclosed this during the 60th birthday of the
FCT ground rent: I have no apology for revoking Rochas Okorocha’s land – Wike
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has disclosed that he revoked the land of former Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha.
Wike warned that the FCT Administration under his leadership will repossess any land where the owners fail to pay their land rent.
He disclosed this during the 60th birthday of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, in Abuja over the weekend.
Anyanwu had celebrated his birthday at the newly renovated Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the Minister assured property owners of getting the best services if they pay their ground rent.
He said: “Rochas Okorocha is here, he is my boss, even though I revoked his land because the right thing must be done, he is my man.
“Senators are here, Ikpeazu, my colleagues are here, yes, if you don’t pay, I will take back our property.
“Look at what Julius Berger did here, is it by empty hand? It is not by money?
“Pay and you will get the best services, and you are getting the best services under the leadership of Tinubu. I have no apologies because I’m the one here.”
FCT ground rent: I have no apology for revoking Rochas Okorocha’s land – Wike
BREAKING: Police take over PDP Secretariat in Abuja
As tension continues to mount over the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Executive Committee, NEC, meeting, which is expected to hold on Monday, armed policemen have taken over its secretariat. According to an official of the party who spoke to newsmen, the police were deployed to stop the proposed NEC Expanded Caucus Meeting. Though some
BREAKING: Police take over PDP Secretariat in Abuja
As tension continues to mount over the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Executive Committee, NEC, meeting, which is expected to hold on Monday, armed policemen have taken over its secretariat.
According to an official of the party who spoke to newsmen, the police were deployed to stop the proposed NEC Expanded Caucus Meeting.
Though some staff members of the party were initially allowed to go into the premises of the secretariat without any resistance from the police, they were later sent out.
At the time of filing this report, journalists were also asked to leave the premises of the secretariat, while some policemen were seen cordoning off Dalaba Street, which is the road leading to Wadata Plaza.
Details shortly…
BREAKING: Police take over PDP Secretariat in Abuja
FG’s Delegation Arrives Saudi Arabia for Dantata’s Funeral
FG’s Delegation Arrives Saudi Arabia for Dantata’s Funeral
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja
A Federal Government’s delegation has arrived Saudi Arabia, to receive the remains of late business icon and elder statesman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, ahead of his funeral in the Islamic holy city of Madinah.
Alhaji Dantata died in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Saturday, aged 94.
According to a statement Monday by Special Assistant to Minister of Information and National Orientation, Rabiu Ibrahim, the delegation, which left Nigeria late on Sunday arrived Madinah in the early hours of Monday.
The delegation is led by the Minister of Defence and former governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Muhammad Badaru Abubakar.
Others on the delegation include Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, and Minister of State of Housing Development, Hon Yusuf Abdullahi Ata.
Also in the delegation are prominent Islamic clerics, Dr Bashir Aliyu Umar, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa and Khalifa Abdullahi Muhammad, imam of Dantata Mosque, Abuja.
The delegation is joined by members of the Nigerian consulate general in Jeddah led by Ambassador Muazzam Ibrahim Nayaya, who had been making arrangements for the funeral scheduled to take place later on Monday.
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja A Federal Government’s delegation has arrived Saudi Arabia, to receive the remains of late business icon and elder statesman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, ahead of his funeral
2025 Hajj: Final batch of Kebbi pilgrims arrive from Saudi Arabia
The final batch of Kebbi State pilgrims has returned home following the completion of the 2025 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The return flight, carrying 418 pilgrims, landed at Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Ambursa, on Sunday evening, marking the conclusion of the state’s airlift operations. The pilgrims were from Aleiro Local
2025 Hajj: Final batch of Kebbi pilgrims arrive from Saudi Arabia
The final batch of Kebbi State pilgrims has returned home following the completion of the 2025 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The return flight, carrying 418 pilgrims, landed at Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Ambursa, on Sunday evening, marking the conclusion of the state’s airlift operations.
The pilgrims were from Aleiro Local Government Area, accompanied by officials of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, PWA, and other government representatives. Also onboard were the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammadu Mera, who led this year’s delegation, and the PWA Chairman, Alhaji Faruku Musa Yaro Enabo.
Speaking shortly after arrival, Enabo described the Hajj exercise as successful, attributing the smooth coordination to the efforts of various stakeholders.
“We thank all those who played a role, both in Kebbi and in Saudi Arabia, for their cooperation and dedication throughout the pilgrimage,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to the Governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, for his continued support and commitment to ensuring the well-being of pilgrims.
With the safe return of this final group, Kebbi becomes one of the states to have concluded its 2025 Hajj return operations without any major incident.
2025 Hajj: Final batch of Kebbi pilgrims arrive from Saudi Arabia
PDP Crisis: South East Reserves Right to Review Future With PDP, Says Mbah
PDP Crisis: South East Reserves Right to Review Future With PDP, Says Mbah
*Backs S’East Zone, NWC, BOT on NEC, national secretary
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, says he fully stands by the position of the National Working Committee, NWC, the Board of Trustees, and South East Zonal Executive Committee, ZEC, of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on the crisis rocking the party, reiterating the region’s earlier resolve to review its future with the party if it fails to respect the zone’s stand on critical party matters.
Mbah also expressed support for the National Executive Committee, NEC, meeting of the party scheduled for Monday, June 30th, 2025, saying that while he was still a member of the PDP, he was “simply fed up with the shenanigans that have more or less made the party an endless circus.”
The governor, who made his position known to newsmen after a closed-door meeting with Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State; Chairman of PDP Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wabara; and the South East Zonal Chairman of the party, Chief Ali Odefa, among others, at the Government House, Enugu on Sunday, equally maintained that the position of the South East ZEC of the PDP to review its future with the party if its stand on the issue of the National Secretary was not honoured remained sacrosanct.
“For the record, just as I stated during my interactive session with Fellows and Members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors in Enugu at the weekend, while I am still a member of the PDP, the South East – and that includes me – reserves the right to review our continued membership of the party if the party is unwilling to put its house in order.
“That was invariably the position adopted during our last South East Zonal meeting held here in Enugu. During that meeting, the caucus noted that the party should not disregard the zone’s stand regarding the National Secretary position.
“To all intents and purposes, this has obviously not been the case. So, there is no doubt as to where I stand on the matter.
“The position of the South East with respect to the National Secretaryship of the party as issued in that communique is sacrosanct,” he stated.
Other PDP chieftains at the meeting include the former National Chairman of the party and BOT member, Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo; Senator Sam Egwu, Iyom Josephine Anenih, Senator Ben Obi, and Hon. Udeh-Okoye, among others.
*Backs S’East Zone, NWC, BOT on NEC, national secretary Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, says he fully stands by the position of the National Working Committee, NWC, the