metro
Reps approve 10-year security protection for journalist who exposed certificate racketeering
Reps approve 10-year security protection for journalist who exposed certificate racketeering
In a bold move to safeguard press freedom and whistleblower protection, the House of Representatives has approved a 10-year security cover for investigative journalist Umar Audu, following his explosive exposé on widespread certificate racketeering in the Benin Republic.
Audu, whose undercover report sent shockwaves across the country, exposed a dangerous syndicate involved in selling unearned university degrees to Nigerians.
His investigation revealed that many of these fraudulent certificates were subsequently cleared by government agencies — including the Federal Ministry of Education — allowing recipients to gain employment and professional recognition without actual qualifications.
The groundbreaking report not only embarrassed key institutions but also sparked national outrage, prompting swift action from lawmakers.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the House has mandated its joint committees on University Education, Polytechnic Education, Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Youth Development to launch a comprehensive investigation into the scandal.
Rep. Abubakar Fulata, Chairman of the Committee, announced the House’s directive and called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, to ensure Audu’s safety for the next decade.
“We are grateful to Audu for his courage. We urge the Minister of Interior to ensure that the Civil Defence provides the required support alongside the police,” Fulata said.
In his testimony before the committee, Audu detailed how he acquired a Benin Republic university degree without attending classes and had it cleared by the Ministry of Education for a fee of ₦40,000.
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Reacting to the revelations, the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, advocated for the creation of an automated single-point contact system to centralise educational verification and eliminate such fraud.
“Such an error did not occur under this administration. However, a unified, automated portal is essential to curb this menace,” Tunji-Ojo noted, while also apologising to Nigerians for the lapses.
The Minister of Education, Mr Olatunji Alausa, was represented by a Director in the ministry, Mrs Larai Ahmed.
Alausa confirmed that the department responsible for clearing Audu’s certificate had been overhauled, and stronger measures were being implemented to prevent future breaches.
Also appearing before the committee, NYSC Director-General, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, revealed that the corps had begun using biometric verification to validate certificates submitted by prospective corps members.
“We deeply regret the anomaly and are collaborating with relevant agencies.
“Our verification system is now stronger, and we have initiated reforms to prevent any recurrence,” Nafiu assured.
The House committee reaffirmed its commitment to concluding a thorough investigation and enforcing reforms to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s education and public service systems.
Reps approve 10-year security protection for journalist who exposed certificate racketeering
metro
Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
The Delta State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the murder of retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu in Anambra State, arresting key suspects linked to the case.
Spokesperson SP Bright Edafe disclosed on Sunday that operatives of the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), acting on credible intelligence, apprehended 25-year-old security guard Godwin Mngumi on 6 December 2025. Mngumi allegedly murdered the retired judge, and authorities also recovered the deceased’s mobile phone from him.
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According to Edafe, Mngumi confessed to inviting a friend, Nnaji Obalum, and another accomplice — who remains at large — to the residence where the crime was committed. Obalum has since been arrested, while a manhunt continues for the third suspect.
The arrests mark a major step forward in the effort to bring all perpetrators of the high-profile murder to justice.
Delta State Police Arrest Suspects in Killing of Retired Justice Ifeoma Okogwu
metro
Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
The Delta State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has made significant strides in its ongoing campaign against cultism and violent crimes. Recent operations, including an intelligence-led arms recovery in Abraka and the arraignment of 18 suspects, highlight the command’s intensified enforcement efforts across the state.
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Spokesperson SP Bright Edafe said on Saturday that the CP-Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), under ASP Julius Robinson, executed a successful operation on December 6, 2025, targeting cult-related activities and the proliferation of illegal firearms. Acting on credible intelligence, officers conducted a coordinated search at No. 2 Umeghe Community, Abraka, the residence of Isiakpere Friday, 67.
The move underscores the Delta State Police’s commitment to restoring safety and security in communities affected by criminal and cult-related activities.
Delta State Police Recover Arms, Arraign 18 Suspects in Crackdown on Cultism, Violent Crimes
metro
Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
The Nigerian Army has temporarily frozen both statutory and voluntary retirements for certain officers, including Generals, following the nationwide security emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu. The decision aims to bolster manpower as the country faces a surge in kidnappings and worsening insecurity.
The move comes after more than 600 abduction cases were reported in November 2025, including the kidnapping of over 300 students in Niger State, 38 worshippers in Kwara State, and 25 students in Kebbi State.
An internal circular dated December 3 and signed by Maj. Gen. E. I. Okoro on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff cited provisions in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service Officers (HTACOS) 2024, allowing service extensions “in the interest of the service.” The memo explains that officers usually retire upon reaching age limits, completing 35 years of service, or failing promotion/conversion boards, but these rules can be overridden during national emergencies.
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The suspension affects officers who have:
- Failed promotion examinations three times
- Been passed over repeatedly at promotion boards
- Reached rank age limits
- Failed conversion boards thrice
- Completed 35 years of service
Officers granted extensions will remain in service but will not be eligible for further promotions, courses, secondments, or extra-regimental appointments. Those unwilling to continue can still proceed with standard exit procedures.
Commanders have been instructed to communicate the directive and manage morale across units, with the policy to be reviewed once national security conditions improve.
Nigerian Army Suspends Retirements for Officers Amid Nationwide Security Emergency
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