Hello and welcome! These are today’s trending news stories in Nigeria:
1. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed America’s commitment to investing in Nigeria’s economy during a news briefing on Tuesday after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Blinken emphasized the interest of American entrepreneurs and companies in partnering with and investing in Nigeria, particularly in the tech sector. He highlighted collaborations in the digital jobs initiative, laying undersea cables, and using satellite technology to expand internet access. Blinken also underlined the significant role of Nigeria in the U.S.-Africa development partnership and efforts to give Africa more voice in United Nations decision-making.
2. The eighth witness in the trial of former Head of Service, Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita, and others at the Federal High Court testified that Oyo-Ita and co-defendants awarded contracts to companies they were involved in. The charges include fraud related to duty tour allowance, estacodes, conference fees, and kickbacks on contracts amounting to N3bn. The witness, Hamma-Adama Bello, Chief Superintendent of EFCC, stated that the investigation revealed Oyo-Ita’s ownership of two companies and her involvement in their financial affairs. The trial will resume on January 26. Oyo-Ita and other defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
3. Armed police teargassed 16 PDP members of the Plateau State House of Assembly ousted by the Court of Appeal as they tried to resume plenary. Security forces blocked their entry but allowed the unaffected eight members. The Speaker, Gabriel Dewan, expressed support for the government, citing ongoing court processes regarding the 16 vacancies. The leader of the sacked PDP lawmakers, Maren Ishaku, accepted the Speaker’s position. The APC defended their absent members, accusing the PDP of unnecessary disruption. The situation is tense pending court resolution.
4. The Department of State Services (DSS) has refuted claims of arresting Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore President, Bello Bodejo. DSS spokesman, Peter Afunanya, stated that Bodejo is not in their custody. Reports had earlier suggested that Bodejo was arrested at Miyetti Allah’s office in Nasarawa State, allegedly linked to the establishment of a vigilante group, Nomad Vigilante Group. Bodejo had recently announced the formation of the vigilante group to aid in addressing criminal activities in Nasarawa State, comprising 1,144 Fulani youths with plans to recruit up to 4,000.
5. First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called for religious tolerance within the Christian community in Africa, emphasizing the importance of promoting biblical values, especially among the youth. During a meeting with the African Biblical Leadership Initiative (ABLI) leadership, led by former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Tinubu highlighted the need for prayer and proper mindset training for the youth.
6. In a surprising turn of events, Algeria was eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Mauritania. Mohamed Dellahi’s first-half goal secured Mauritania’s historic first-ever win in the tournament and a spot in the last 16. Despite Algeria’s second-half efforts and domination in possession, they couldn’t find an equalizer. Algeria finished at the bottom of their group for the second consecutive AFCON, while Mauritania advanced as one of the best third-placed teams. The match featured notable moments, including Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez being dropped to the bench, a late first-half goal by Dellahi, and late chances for both teams.
7. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate in the 2023 Lagos State elections, addressed the issue of his wife, Ify Aniebo, settling a debt with Nigerian poet Chika Jones. Chika had raised the matter on Twitter, stating that he was owed £778 for services rendered to Afroscientric, a firm associated with Ify Aniebo. Rhodes-Vivour confirmed the resolution of the issue on his X account, expressing gratitude for the support received in de-escalating the situation. He extended an olive branch to Chika Jones, acknowledging the episode and emphasizing the hope for better days ahead while thanking him for campaign support.
