Primate Elijah Ayodele discussed Nnamdi Kanu’s situation, who received a life sentence after being convicted, in a Facebook video that gained significant attention on December 20, 2025. Ayodele cautioned the political activist about the importance of taking care of his health while incarcerated, as it would play a critical role in the coming months.

He stated, “He should prioritize his health; his release will be negotiable,” implying that Kanu’s release might be possible if his health and other legal matters are managed appropriately.

Ayodele remarked that Kanu’s situation is complex, and any potential release will be influenced by political and legal factors. He emphasized that Kanu needs to maintain both physical and mental well-being to navigate the challenges ahead.

He expressed concern that mismanagement of Kanu’s health could hinder ongoing negotiations or delay positive outcomes related to his case.

Ayodele concluded by stressing that both the government and Kanu’s supporters should monitor his health closely, highlighting the importance of remaining vigilant and self-disciplined during this period to overcome future challenges.

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has confirmed that a fire incident occurred at one of its offices within its Abuja headquarters on Saturday, days ahead of the January 2026 implementation of Nigeria’s new tax laws.

The incident was confirmed by Mr Sikiru Akinola, spokesperson to the Executive Chairman of the agency, Zacch Adedeji.

According to Akinola, the fire broke out on the fourth floor of the building and was promptly detected by security personnel on duty.

He said swift intervention by the Federal Capital Territory Fire Service, alongside other emergency responders, ensured the fire was quickly contained and prevented from spreading to other parts of the complex.

“We are grateful to report that no lives were lost in the incident,” Akinola said. “However, a number of offices on the affected floor sustained damage.”

He added that investigations into the cause of the fire have commenced, with preliminary findings suggesting a possible electrical fault.

“In the meantime, all internal safety protocols are being thoroughly reviewed and strengthened to mitigate against future occurrences,” he said.

Ekwutosblog reports that the incident comes just days before the planned implementation of the country’s new tax laws, which have generated pockets of controversy nationwide.

President Bola Tinubu, on Saturday in Maiduguri, Borno State, applauded the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, for continuously investing in education, health, and transportation and for steadily improving the livelihoods of indigenes.

The President, who was on a three-state official tour of Borno, Bauchi and Lagos States, arrived Maiduguri at 12.30 pm, and proceeded to commission the international wing of the Muhammadu Buhari Airport, a new VIP extension, Electric Vehicles, intra-state buses, tricycles, and three model primary, junior secondary and secondary schools.

“I am commissioning this primary, junior secondary school and senior secondary schools to the glory of God, and continuous education of our children,’’ President Tinubu said.

The President also participated in the marriage ceremony of Sadeeq Sheriff, son of the former Governor of the State, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, and his heartthrob, Hadiza Kam Salem.

The President Tinubu stood in as the father of the groom, in accordance with Kanuri culture and marriage rites, while Prof. Zulum acted as the father of the bride to receive the traditional bride price in the form of gold coins.

The Shehu of Borno, Alhaji (Dr.) Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi hosted the marriage ceremony at the Maiduguri Central Mosque.

The events were attended by seven state governors, Dikko Umaru Radda, Katsina State; Agbu Kefas, Taraba State; Mai Mala Buni, Yobe State; Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State; Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State; Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State; Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State; senators and ministers.

The President departed Maiduguri for Bauchi State at 3.25 pm.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
December 20, 2025