Merry Christmas! In today’s trending news stories;
1. Senator Buhari Abdulfatai, representing Oyo North Senatorial District, urged Christians in the region to embody the teachings of Jesus Christ, especially in their interactions with others. He emphasized the significance of Christmas, expressing gratitude for life and calling on Christians to pray for the nation’s challenges. The senator advised moderation in Christmas celebrations and encouraged extending goodwill to those in need, aiming to foster love and unity. Senator Buhari concluded by offering prayers for constituents’ well-being in the coming year, 2024.
2. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf received a warm welcome upon returning to the state after weeks of absence, following legal challenges to his governorship. The Election Tribunal had initially ruled against him, declaring another candidate as the elected governor. The Appeal Court upheld this decision, questioning Yusuf’s party membership. Dissatisfied, Yusuf took the case to the Supreme Court, expressing confidence in their commitment to justice. He conveyed these sentiments during an address at an event in Kano, urging people to trust the integrity of the Supreme Court.
3. The former CBN governor Godwin Emefiele has refuted allegations made by President Bola Tinubu’s appointed investigator, Jim Obaze. Emefiele, released from Kuje prison, called the accusations false and misleading. He denied involvement in the alleged $6.3 million looting, claimed President Buhari approved the Naira redesign, and asserted ignorance of 593 foreign accounts opened, challenging Obaze to provide evidence. Emefiele stated that his lawyers advised him not to comment further due to the ongoing court process but addressed specific points to counter what he deemed as “barefaced lies” in the investigator’s report.
4. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested contractor James Okwete in connection with an alleged N37 billion money laundering case involving the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development. The funds were purportedly laundered through 38 bank accounts, and Okwete, who is in custody, has provided details implicating former Minister Sadiya Umar-Farouk and ex-directors-general of the ministry. The investigation coincides with probes into three other former ministers for graft amounting to N150 billion. The funds were traced to luxury purchases, property acquisitions, and companies linked to Okwete. The former minister and others may face arrest based on the information provided by the contractor.
5. During the weekend, Tony Elumelu, Chairman of United Bank of Africa, hosted a grand, all-white-themed party, attended by celebrities, business moguls, and political figures. The event featured performances by popular musicians such as Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, and Kizz Daniel. Elumelu, known for his affluence and societal impact, showed how he was truly the “King of Soft Life.”
7. Nollywood actor Emeka Ike is entangled in a family dispute with his ex-wife, Suzanne Emma. Ike alleges property loss and restricted access to his children, while Emma accuses him of physical abuse and drug addiction. A leaked audio suggests Ike urging his son, Michael, to commit suicide, expressing frustration. Michael revealed his strong dislike for his father, citing disrespectful behavior and insulting messages. The family discord stems from Ike’s troubled marriage and divorce, with allegations on both sides.
