FCT IRS charges Melaye to court over alleged failure to pay personal income tax, others 

Former Senator representing Kogi West, Dino Melaye, has been summoned to court over alleged failure to pay his mandatory Personal Income Tax for 2023 and 2024, as well as underpayment of taxes in 2020, 2021, and 2022. A criminal summons, dated August 21, 2025, was issued by a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Magistrate Court, requiring
FCT IRS charges Melaye to court over alleged failure to pay personal income tax, others 

Former Senator representing Kogi West, Dino Melaye, has been summoned to court over alleged failure to pay his mandatory Personal Income Tax for 2023 and 2024, as well as underpayment of taxes in 2020, 2021, and 2022.

A criminal summons, dated August 21, 2025, was issued by a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Magistrate Court, requiring Melaye to appear before the Magistrate Court at Wuse Zone II, Abuja, on September 5, 2025.

According to the FCT Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Melaye only paid N85,000.08 in 2019, N100,000.08 in 2020, N120,000 in 2021, and N1,000,000 in 2022, despite declaring much higher annual incomes. 

It revealed that for instance, in 2022, he declared an annual income of over N6.5 million.

It was revealed that an administrative assessment for 2023 and 2024 was issued on May 23, 2025, but when Melaye failed to respond within 30 days, a notice of best judgment assessment was issued on June 23, 2025. 

DAILY POST reports that attempts to deliver the notice personally or to his representative were unsuccessful, prompting the IRS to paste it on the gate of his residence in Maitama, Abuja, on July 9, 2025.

The notice outlined that Melaye’s total tax liabilities for 2023 and 2024 were assessed at N234,896,000.00 and N274,712,000.00, respectively. 

The notice read; “Despite reminders and ample time provided, your non-compliance with Section 41 of the Act constitutes a breach of your obligations. Consequently, the Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) has, in accordance with Section 54(3) of the Personal Income tax act, proceeded to raise a Best of Judgment Assessment in respect of your tax liabilities for the years under review. 

“Accordingly, your tax liability has been assessed in the sum of N234,896,000.00 and N274,712,000.00 for the period of 2023 and 2024 respectively. The computation and assessment are attached for your action. Please note that the Service has also identified income under declaration and under payment for the 2020, 2021 and 2022 years of assessment, during which payment of N1,000,000.00, N120,000.00 and N100,000.00 were made respectively. Notices of additional will be issued, upon conclusion of our review. 

“Your are hereby informed that you have the right to object to this assessment within thirty (30) days from the date of receipt of this notice. Any objection must clearly state the grounds of your objection and be substantiated with relevant supporting documents. 

“Failure to make payment or file objection within the stipulated period will result in the assessment being deemed final and conclusive, and recovery proceedings will be initiated without further notice,” the FCT IRS stated

Melaye, a former member of both the Senate and the House of Representatives, also served as chairman of the Senate Committee on FCT and briefly chaired the Senate Committee on Aviation. 

He was the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the November 11, 2023, Kogi State governorship election.

FCT IRS charges Melaye to court over alleged failure to pay personal income tax, others 

Absence of Sahara Reporters in Court Stalls Sowore’s Arraignment

Absence of Sahara Reporters in Court Stalls Sowore’s Arraignment

The arraignment of Omoyele Sowore and Sahara Reporters in the Federal High Court in Abuja could not proceed on Wednesday due to the absence of the second suspect, Sahara Reporters.

The case, which involves newly filed charges of forgery, defamation, and alleged incitement to mutiny, was slated for arraignment before Justice Emeka Nwite.

However, the court was informed that the second defendant had not been served with the court summons.

The prosecuting counsel explained that efforts to serve the second defendant through substituted means, by publishing the summons, had not been successful, as the publication was not ready.

Justice Nwite consequently adjourned the matter until September 15, for arraignment.

The fresh charge against Sowore and Sahara Reporters, filed earlier in August, relates to a series of reports published on Sahara Reporters about an alleged police promotion scandal and Sowore’s participation in protests by retired police officers demanding pension reforms.

The three-count charge read: Count One: “That you Omoyele Sowore and Sahara Reporters on or about the July 30, 2025 within the jurisdiction of this court did conspire between yourselves to commit a felony to wit: forgery, and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 1(2)(c) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.

“That you Omoyele Sowore and Sahara Reporters on or about the July 30, within the jurisdiction of this court, forged a police wireless message purported to have been signed by the Principal Staff Officer to the Inspector-General of Police, and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 1(2)(c) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria.

“That you Omoyele Sowore on or about July 31 within the jurisdiction of this court, did intentionally post a fake police signal and other inciting materials on your Facebook page with the intention to incite members of the force and the general public to embark on a mutiny against the Federal Government and thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 114 of the Penal Code Law.”

Speaking with journalists after the court session, counsel to Sowore, Mr Marshall Abubakar, said that he would be challenging the competence of the charges, describing them as frivolous and unjustified.

He said that there was no basis for his client to enter a plea in a charge that was defective. (NAN) 

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The arraignment of Omoyele Sowore and Sahara Reporters in the Federal High Court in Abuja could not proceed on Wednesday due to the absence of the second suspect, Sahara Reporters. The case, which
The post Absence of Sahara Reporters in Court Stalls Sowore’s Arraignment appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Premier League Footballers ‘Are Fixing Matches’ –Ex- Police Chief Claims

The former head of an international crime investigation unit, Fredrik Gardare, has claimed Premier League players are guilty of match-fixing. Gardare, who led a Swedish police unit targeting organised crime…

Osun LG crisis: Muslim clerics call on parties to comply with rule of law

The League of Imams and Alfas in Osun State have called on all parties involved in the local government dispute in the state to comply with the rule of law as affirmed by the June 22nd ruling of the Court of Appeal which confirmed the legitimacy of elected PDP officials. The League also called the
Osun LG crisis: Muslim clerics call on parties to comply with rule of law

The League of Imams and Alfas in Osun State have called on all parties involved in the local government dispute in the state to comply with the rule of law as affirmed by the June 22nd ruling of the Court of Appeal which confirmed the legitimacy of elected PDP officials.

The League also called the attention of the Federal Government to the increasing pains and hardship the local government crisis is inflicting on the grassroots sector of the society.

This formed part of the resolutions of the League in a communiqué signed by Imam Musa Animasahun, the Grand Imam of Osun State. The communique was released after a meeting of the League on Wednesday in Osogbo.

DAILY POST recalled that there has been disagreement between the All Progressives Congress, APC and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, government in the state over the leadership of the local governments.

After the Osun local government election on Saturday February 22, 2025, the state governor, Ademola Adeleke directed the PDP elected local government officials to steer clear of local government secretariats.

Violence had broken out days to the polls with attendant loss of lives including that of an APC chieftain, Remi Abass in Ikire, Irewole local government area of the state.

The APC LG chairmen who were elected on October 22, 2022 were sacked by judgment of the Federal High Court sitting in Osogbo.

Reacting to the development on Wednesday, the religious leaders noted that in a bid to resolve the crisis, the body had informed federal authorities of several petitions and appeals from the Muslim ummah.

The statement said, “The assembly in a unanimous resolution therefore specifically appeals to President Tinubu to direct the immediate release of Osun withheld allocations and the recognition of PDP elected officials in compliance with rule of law and due process as exemplify in the Electoral Act and the Constitution of the Federal republic;

“The assembly further tasks all muslim office holders at the federal level especially those from Osun and Kwara States to ensure the implementation of Number 5 above in the best interest of the muslim Ummah and as a sacred religious duty.

“The league commends President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for his consistent efforts to reform the national economy and make life better for Nigerians.

“The league prays for the success of the Federal Government;

“The assembly praises Governor Ademola Adeleke for his diplomatic and consensual based leadership style which has ensured sustained growth and development of Osun state.

“The assembly particularly appreciates the handling of local government question in a way that ensure peace and tranquility despite the very difficult nature of the local government crisis;

“The assembly hails the governor’s embrace of rule of law and due process as a smart strategy for the resolution of the impasse.”

The clerics while commending the residents of the state for turning out enmasse for the Continuous Voter Registration, CVR, hailed the emergence of the state as the number one among the 36 states.

It urged all those who have registered to ensure they collect their Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs.

The communique added, “The assembly also commends the people of Osun state for turning out en masse for the voters registration exercise, hailing the emergence of Osun as the number one among the 36 states in final returns.

“The League however urges those who registered online or are yet to collect their voter cards to reach their designated collection points without delay. The league emphasized that exercising voting rights is a religious duty.

“The meeting further appeal for peace among warring scholars within the South West Ummah, asking that the debate on the controversial issue be taken off the social media space.”

Osun LG crisis: Muslim clerics call on parties to comply with rule of law

Tosin Ajayi and His Power of Imagination

Tosin Ajayi and His Power of Imagination

By Simon Abiodun

With foresight reminiscent of Nostradamus, Ajayi has become the man who saw tomorrow. Guided by clarity of purpose, he has transformed vision into reality since assuming office as the DGSS, a year ago. What began on 26th August, 2024 has remained action packed, a fulfilment of promises and continuous progress
marked with milestones that speak to leadership, dedication and diligence.
In just twelve months, Ajayi’s ability to anticipate challenges and seize opportunities has shown him as one who came prepared.
Since assuming duty, he has infused every action with the imprint of great dreams and far-reaching vision. His leadership reflects not only a commitment to the present but also a bold imagination for what the future of the DSS can become. One would say, that a defining hallmark of Ajayi’s first year has been the daring
repositioning of the DSS, transforming it from a conventional structure into a
dynamic institution better equipped to address contemporary security challenges.
Central to this transformation has been his deliberate refocus on the principle of covertness, a major move that has sharpened his staff ability to be futuristic, act discreetly, anticipate and neutralise threats. It is therefore not surprising that under his leadership, the Service has become more responsive, with improved intelligence
gathering initiative. The information sharing systems with both domestic and
international stakeholders are topnotch. Indeed, this renewed focus has sharpened the capacity to counter challenges such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping,
cybercrime, transnational organised crime including online threats thus firmly
establishing the Service as a trusted pillar in safeguarding national security.
To sustain this capacity, Ajayi prioritises training and capacity building as a cornerstone of the agency’s transformation. His emphasis on advanced skills in intelligence gathering, analysis and modern technologies has ensured that the
Service’ s human capital is fully aligned with its renewed mandate. His leadership is exemplary. His dictum is Do As I Do. As a practical man, he leads from the front. When he first got to office, he told staff he came prepared to accomplish. He
assured he would challenge the status quo and not be a That’s How We Do It
DG. He called on personnel to join him in what has become a beautiful sprint.
Whether on early arrival at work, meetings or schedules, exhibiting discipline and
diligence, responsibility and team spirit on assigned roles, his commitment has remained the same. For him, DSS must serve Nigeria with pride, honesty and
patriotism. He is goal-oriented.
Beyond institutional reforms, the DGSS has placed a premium on staff welfare.
This is in recognition that motivated personnel are the backbone of any successful
organisation. He has improved the conditions of service by ensuring fairer
remuneration, timely promotions and clearer career progression. He also introduced
stronger support systems, including healthcare and housing packages, designed to
give officers and their families a greater sense of security. In addition, new policies were put in place to prioritize overall well-being of all. He recognizes excellence
and provides safeguards for those in high-risk assignments. Equally significant has been his decisive move to realign ranks and restore discipline, a reform that
injected fairness, merit, accountability, predictability and self appraisal into the agency’ s structure.
Remarkably, retirees are not left behind under him. Not only harmonised their
benefits, he gives them all they ever asked for. It has become honourable to work and retire from the DSS. There could not have been a prouder time. Anticipating
the long-term impact of these steps, he understood that internal order and morale would translate into sharper efficiency and stronger credibility externally. Today, the DSS reflects a culture of professionalism, thus showcasing attributes that are vital for meeting the demands of a complex security environment. Any time I come across DSS personnel, all I hear are praises of their new DG who has brought
positive change to their prestigious Agency. I feel jealous, I wished I could be a
member.
Meanwhile, Ajayi’s insightful contributions to policy through timely intelligence,
strategic analysis and clear recommendations to consumers have fortified political
stability and strengthened democratic institutions. These inputs have also nurtured an atmosphere of trust in governance, thereby ensuring that national decisions are
grounded in foresight and security consciousness. Likewise, his contributions to
securing critical infrastructure has created an environment of safety, thus
supporting economic growth and giving businesses and investors the confidence to
thrive. In weaving security into the fabric of economic progress and political stability, Ayayi has shown that intelligence leadership, when guided by vision and purpose, is not just about protection but about driving the nation’s journey toward peace and prosperity. This scenario is epitomised by the recent apprehending of Ansaru terrorist leaders. Who else could have done that except the one who takes the bull by the horn and walks on paths feared by others.
One year on, Ajayi’s leadership has already left an indelible mark. His transformative actions within the agency, commitment to staff welfare, discipline and strategic influence on national policy have set a high standard. It has been a first year of bold moves, measurable impact and a promise of even greater
achievements ahead for DSS staff, the nation and its citizens. Congratulations,
TOSIN and 12 hearty cheers to many more years of visionary leadership and
outstanding service. Your imagination will never decline. Set your eyes on the ball, able Golfer.

*Abiodun is a Public Affairs Analyst based in Lagos.

The post Tosin Ajayi and His Power of Imagination appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

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By Simon Abiodun With foresight reminiscent of Nostradamus, Ajayi has become the man who saw tomorrow. Guided by clarity of purpose, he has transformed vision into reality since assuming office
The post Tosin Ajayi and His Power of Imagination appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

Inter Milan Chief Gives Reason For Pulling Out Of Lookman’s Transfer

Inter Milan sporting director Giuseppe Marotta has discussed the club’s aborted move for Ademola Lookman, reports Completesports.com. The Nerrazzuri pushed to sign the Nigeria international from Serie A rivals Inter…

Social media post: YPP candidate accuses Soludo of dictatorship over lawmaker’s suspension

Governorship candidate of Young Progressives Party, YPP, in Anambra State, Sir Paul Chukwuma, has condemned the suspension of the lawmaker representing Ayamelum State Constituency, Bernard Udemezue, by the Anambra State House of Assembly. Udemezue was suspended during plenary on Tuesday following the recommendation of the ethics and privileges committee of the House. The YPP candidate
Social media post: YPP candidate accuses Soludo of dictatorship over lawmaker’s suspension

Governorship candidate of Young Progressives Party, YPP, in Anambra State, Sir Paul Chukwuma, has condemned the suspension of the lawmaker representing Ayamelum State Constituency, Bernard Udemezue, by the Anambra State House of Assembly.

Udemezue was suspended during plenary on Tuesday following the recommendation of the ethics and privileges committee of the House.

The YPP candidate in a statement on Wednesday described the suspension as a sign of the state’s descent to dictatorship under Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

“Anambra State under Governor Charles Soludo has slipped into dictatorship. This suspension is only symptomatic to the deeper problem the polity has been plunged into by its current chief executive.

“In a democracy, dictatorship starts with gagging the people and their representatives under certain pretenses. When this is achieved, the judiciary becomes the next casualty.

“At the moment, the House of Assembly has lost the right to freely debate and provide direction to the governor and perform its full functions as an institution and an essential arm of the Anambra State Government.

“To demonstrate the pitiable dictatorship in Anambra State further, Soludo has his Akaodo and Agunechemba thugs unleashing untold mayhem on Ndi Anambra.

“There are strong indications that Soludo barred the House from consideration of any motion on security.

“So, effectively, he has his own militia that serves his interests. This is why, despite deep and troubling complaints about the modus operandi of these groups, they are still going about enjoying the full confidence of the governor. They are still abusing and killing innocent Ndi Anambra.

“The level of insecurity in Anambra has since gone beyond alarming. Yet, the House of Assembly has not said anything. It is even so bad that the Assembly could not say anything when it’s member, the late Hon. Justice Azuka, was kidnapped.

“That sad incident was never mentioned in the plenary. This is also why the House has never raised any motion about the unlawful conduct of Agunechemba and SASA. In actual fact, the legislature in Anambra State has collapsed,” Chukwuma said.

Social media post: YPP candidate accuses Soludo of dictatorship over lawmaker’s suspension

BREAKING: Kwara College Of Education Staff Protest Six-Year Neglect And Rot, Demand Return Of TETFUND Projects

SaharaReporters, which monitored the demonstration via a live broadcast on NupekoTV, a Kwara-based media platform, observed staff members carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs at the entrance of the college.  ArticlesRead…

2026 Hajj: You will go to prison without valid visas – Saudi authorities warn Nigerians

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has cautioned intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj against attempting to perform the sacred rites without valid visas, warning that violators will face stiff penalties, including a fine of ₦8.2 million and imprisonment. The warning was issued during a virtual meeting between the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and
2026 Hajj: You will go to prison without valid visas – Saudi authorities warn Nigerians

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has cautioned intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj against attempting to perform the sacred rites without valid visas, warning that violators will face stiff penalties, including a fine of ₦8.2 million and imprisonment.

The warning was issued during a virtual meeting between the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to review preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage.

According to a statement from NAHCON’s information unit, Ustaz Abdallah Ash Shihry, acting director-general and special assistant to the deputy minister in the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, stressed the need for strict compliance with all deadlines governing the 2026 Hajj exercise.

Key dates include November for signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), January 4 as the final day for camp booking payments and confirmation of service contract packages, and February 1 as the deadline for uploading transport and accommodation contracts on the Nusuk Masar Portal. 

Saudi authorities also emphasized that May 1 (1st Shawwal) will remain the deadline for visa issuance.

Responding on behalf of Nigeria, NAHCON chairman/CEO, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, assured Saudi authorities of Nigeria’s commitment to meeting the deadlines and requirements. He pledged that the commission would work closely with stakeholders to ensure a smooth and successful Hajj for Nigerian pilgrims in 2026.

2026 Hajj: You will go to prison without valid visas – Saudi authorities warn Nigerians

Gwarmai, Kiyawa take oath as new Kano lawmakers

The Kano State House of Assembly on Tuesday inaugurated two lawmakers who won the August 16 by-election. Ya’u Gwarmai of the All Progressives Congress (APC), representing Ghari/Tsanyawa Constituency, and Ali Alhassan Kiyawa of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), representing Shanono/Bagwai Constituency, took the oath of office during a plenary session presided over by the
Gwarmai, Kiyawa take oath as new Kano lawmakers

The Kano State House of Assembly on Tuesday inaugurated two lawmakers who won the August 16 by-election.

Ya’u Gwarmai of the All Progressives Congress (APC), representing Ghari/Tsanyawa Constituency, and Ali Alhassan Kiyawa of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), representing Shanono/Bagwai Constituency, took the oath of office during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Alhaji Ismail Falgore.

Speaking after the ceremony, Speaker Falgore congratulated the newly sworn-in lawmakers, urging them to deliver on the mandate given to them by their constituents. 

“I encourage both of you to work diligently and ensure that the hopes of your people are met,” he said.

Gwarmai, Kiyawa take oath as new Kano lawmakers

Business & Economy

Dino Melaye in trouble over alleged N509.6m tax evasion