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Corruption protected by powerful politicians, clerics – Mahdi Shehu

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Human rights activist and public affairs commentator, Mahdi Shehu, has said that corruption in Nigeria is no longer just a crime as it is now protected by powerful individuals, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and politicians.

Speaking during a recent appearance on an AIT programme, Mahdi argued that the real problem with Nigeria’s fight against corruption is not the absence of laws, but the lack of willpower to enforce them.

“The problem in Nigeria is not the law, not the act, not the constitutional provisions. The problem is in the implementation, in the conception, in the conceptualisation.”

He explained that although whistleblowing policies exist including rewards of up to 2.5% for successful reports, the issue goes far deeper.

“What is the point of making a legal framework on corruption. When you see corruption walking with legs, with eyes, with ears visible like human beings?”

Mahdi gave two examples to back his claims.

He first recalled how a bank MD in northern Nigeria allegedly took ₦3 billion in shareholders’ money with the help of his wife, brother, and even housemaid using the funds to open businesses like a salon and restaurant. He said the man appeared in court only once.

“Eventually, that bank collapsed. The money was never recovered. But the man still walks free and is even given national honours. When he writes his name, you see OON after it,” Mahdi added.

He said two powerful emirs and top Islamic scholars intervened by visiting the President, which led to a “nolle prosequi” a legal withdrawal of the case.

The second case involved a former governor from southern Nigeria who allegedly stole ₦30 billion from his state.

According to Mahdi, community leaders and religious groups lobbied for him, calling him “our son,” and asking the President to let him go.

“I had a clip from NTA where South-South Elders Forum, South-South Christian Forum, and Secretary-General of CAN then went to the villa and met Obasanjo, President Obasanjo.

“Mr. President, the money said had been stolen by our son,” Mahdi revealed.

“He appeared in court only once. Later, he even became one of the most important men during the Yar’Adua administration,” Mahdi added.

Mahdi also criticized the 1999 constitution, saying it promised rights that are not justiciable.

“It tells you you’re entitled to this and that, but at the end of the day, those rights don’t hold in real life,” he added.

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Abia Unveils State-Owned Electric Bus Transport Scheme

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The Abia State Government has announced plans to roll out a state-owned electric bus transport scheme, marking a major step toward modern, clean and efficient public transportation in the state.

The initiative, part of the government’s broader urban renewal and green mobility agenda, is designed to ease traffic congestion, reduce transportation costs for residents, and cut carbon emissions. The electric buses will operate on key routes across major cities, including Umuahia and Aba, offering commuters a safer, quieter and more comfortable travel experience.

Governor Alex Otti has emphasized that the project reflects the administration’s commitment to sustainable development and improved quality of life for Abia residents. According to the government, a number of electric buses have already been procured, while supporting infrastructure such as charging stations and modern bus terminals is being developed to ensure smooth operations.

Beyond environmental benefits, the scheme is expected to create jobs, improve urban mobility, and set a new standard for public transportation management in the state. Officials say the buses will be professionally managed under a state-owned structure to ensure efficiency, affordability and long-term sustainability.

With this move, Abia State joins a growing number of forward-looking governments embracing clean energy solutions, reinforcing its position as a state committed to innovation, environmental responsibility and people centred governance.

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NIGERIA POLICE FORCE ANNOUNCES RESUMPTION OF ENFORCEMENT OF TINTED GLASS PERMIT

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The Nigeria Police Force wishes to inform the general public of the planned resumption of the enforcement of Tinted Glass Permit policy pending the final determination of the matter currently before the court. This decision follows a careful review of emerging security concerns and the need to ensure the safety of all citizens.

It is important to clarify that at no point did the court restrain the Nigeria Police Force from enforcing the provisions of the law regarding the use of tinted glass on vehicles. Nonetheless, in the spirit of responsibility, transparency, and public convenience, the Force suspended enforcement to allow motorists ample opportunity to regularise their documentation and complete the registration process without pressure.

Recent trends, however, reveal a disturbing rise in criminal activities perpetrated with the aid of vehicles fitted with unauthorised tinted glass. Some individuals and organised criminal groups have exploited this gap to conceal their identities and facilitate crimes ranging from armed robbery to kidnapping and other violent crimes. In view of this, the Nigeria Police Force has found it both necessary and urgent to resume full enforcement as a proactive measure to safeguard our communities. Consequently, enforcement of Tinted Glass Permit will resume on 2nd January, 2026.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, assures the public that the renewed enforcement will be carried out with utmost professionalism, respect for the rights of citizens, and in accordance with extant laws. He adds that the Force remains committed to promoting public safety and upholding the rule of law while working collaboratively with all stakeholders to keep Nigeria secure.

Meanwhile, motorists who require the Tinted Glass Permit are encouraged to apply through the approved channels and ensure that their vehicles comply with legal procedures.

CSP FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA.

15th December, 2025

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Bianca Ojukwu’s Daughter Joins Her Mother at the ECOWAS Council of Ministers Session in South Africa

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Following a recent post by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, on her official Instagram account on Monday, 15th December, 2025, the minister shared a noteworthy moment from the ECOWAS 95th Session of the Council of Ministers held in South Africa.

In the post, Ambassador Ojukwu revealed that her daughter, Chi, who works with UN Tourism, accompanied her to the high-level regional meeting to gain firsthand insight into the demands of diplomatic service. According to the minister, the experience offered her daughter a clearer understanding of the intensity and dedication required in her role as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

She explained that the council’s deliberations often stretched late into the night, sometimes well past midnight, with long hours spent in the conference hall and sustained by endless cups of tea. The demanding schedule, she noted, was far more intense than her daughter had anticipated

The post has since drawn reactions from followers, many of whom praised Ambassador Ojukwu for mentoring the next generation through exposure to international diplomacy and commended her commitment to regional cooperation and public service within ECOWAS.

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