The Federal Government has declared Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2025, as public holidays to mark Christmas and Boxing Day. The government also declared Thursday, January 1, 2026, for the New Year celebration. The declaration was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. According to the statement, the minister urged Nigerians to reflect on the values of love, peace, humility and sacrifice associated with the birth of Jesus Christ. Tunji-Ojo also called on citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity, to use the festive season to pray for peace, improved security and national progress. He further advised Nigerians to remain law-abiding and security-conscious during the celebrations, while wishing them a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old housewife named Misturah Bada, and a 30-year-old man, Adedamola Daniel for allegedly staging the lady’s kidnap to extort N2.5 million from her husband who is based in South Africa. The arrest followed investigations into a kidnapping report received by the Command on November 24, 2025. Police spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the woman’s husband contacted the police through an emergency line, claiming that his wife had been abducted by armed men who initially demanded a ransom of N10 million but later reduced it to N3 million. According to the police, despite paying N2.5 million, the supposed kidnappers refused to release the woman, prompting intensified investigations by the Command. Adebisi explained that the police deployed both technical and human resources, after which Mrs. Bada was later released and reunited with her family. During questioning, she claimed she was abducted by six armed men in a silver Toyota Venza, taken to an unknown location and relieved of her iPhone 12 Pro Max. She further told investigators that the ransom paid by her husband was first transferred into her bank account before being handed over to the kidnappers. However, police said inconsistencies in her account raised suspicion. On December 3, 2025, operatives arrested Adedamola Daniel in Ede, Osun State. A SIM card linked to the WhatsApp account used for ransom negotiations was recovered from him. Investigators said Daniel confessed that Mrs. Bada asked him to provide a SIM card to open the WhatsApp account used to communicate with the husband and that he shared the one-time password sent to his line, allowing her to control the account. “After being confronted with the findings, Mrs. Bada admitted that she faked her own kidnapping in order to extort money from her husband,” the police said. Further investigations led to the recovery of the iPhone 12 Pro Max earlier reported as stolen. The phone was recovered from one Yusuf Sodiq, 34, who told police that he bought it from Mrs. Bada for N380,000 and was warned not to insert any SIM card into it. Commenting on the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, CP Olohundare Jimoh, cautioned members of the public against false reports and criminal deception, noting that such acts divert security resources from genuine emergencies. The police said investigations are ongoing and that the suspects will be charged to court once it is concluded.

Top political figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, were among dignitaries who converged on Oyo town on Sunday for the installation of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, as a Yoruba traditional title holder. Seyi Tinubu was installed as the Òkanlòmo of Yorubaland by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, at a colourful ceremony held at the Alaafin’s Palace. The event attracted ministers, governors, lawmakers, royal fathers and presidential aides, turning the ancient town into a meeting point of political influence, culture and history. Also installed at the ceremony was the Senator representing Zamfara West and former Governor of Zamfara State, Abdul’Aziz Yari, who received the title of Obaloyin of Yorubaland. Yari was accompanied by a delegation of northern senators and political figures. The Òkanlòmo title, which translates to “the beloved child” or “one dear to the hearts of the Yoruba,” is said to symbolise custodianship of Yoruba values, unity and cultural heritage. Similarly, the Obaloyin title is understood to carry responsibilities that include advising the Alaafin, promoting culture, fostering unity and supporting education and social welfare. Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony, former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel urged Seyi Tinubu to use the new office to promote unity, describing him as someone already known for building bridges across divides. Congratulating Tinubu, the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Adebo Ogundoyin, described the honour as a recognition of Tinubu’s rising profile, youth engagement, philanthropic activities and growing influence across Yorubaland. “This is not just a traditional title; it is a call to service and a recognition of leadership potential,” Ogundoyin said, while commending the Alaafin for preserving Yoruba heritage through the conferment of titles on deserving individuals. Other dignitaries at the event included Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu; Statistician-General of the Federation, Adeyemo Adeniran; Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu; Senator Teslim Folarin; Senator Aliyu Wamako; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; Minister of Labour and Employment, Maigari Dingyadi; and the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare. Several senators, members of the Federal Executive Council, and traditional rulers from Nigeria and the Republic of Benin also attended the ceremony, which observers described as a strong display of the intersection between Yoruba tradition and contemporary political leadership.

A senior officer of the Ghana Police Service has said that denying one’s spouse sexual relations could amount to emotional abuse and attract a jail term under the country’s domestic violence laws. The Assistant Commissioner of Police, Dennis Fiakpui, disclosed this in an interview with the Ghana News Agency on Thursday. Fiakpui, who is the Oti Regional Deputy Police Commander, said Ghana’s Domestic Violence Act 732 of 2007 recognises certain conduct within marriage and intimate relationships as emotional abuse. According to him, a spouse who deliberately withholds sex in a manner that causes emotional distress to their partner could face legal consequences if a complaint is filed and the offence is proven in court. “Denying your partner sex can amount to emotional abuse,” Fiakpui said. He added that women who refuse their husbands sexual relations could be charged and, upon conviction, face up to two years’ imprisonment. The police officer, however, noted that the law applies equally to both genders, stressing that husbands who deny their wives sex could also be reported and investigated under the same provisions of the law. Fiakpui further explained that other actions capable of causing emotional pain within a marriage could also form the basis of a complaint to the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit. He cited examples such as a husband consistently refusing to eat his wife’s food, habitually coming home late, or engaging in behaviour that causes emotional distress. He said, “If your husbands refuse to eat your food and make you unhappy and cause you emotional pain, you can also report it to the police and if your husbands come home late and cause you to be unhappy, you can make a case at DOVSSU.” He urged individuals who feel emotionally abused in their marriages to seek help from the appropriate authorities rather than suffer in silence.

A prominent digital and human rights activist, Muhammed Bello Buhari has criticised the Nigerian government’s newly announced ban on the admission and transfer of students into Senior Secondary School Three (SS3), warning that the policy overlooks the realities of insecurity and displacement in Northern Nigeria. The Federal Government recently announced a nationwide ban on the admission and transfer of students into SS3 in both public and private secondary schools across the country. The directive was issued by the Federal Ministry of Education in a press release dated December 14, 2025, and signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade. According to the ministry, the decision followed “growing concerns over the increasing incidence of examination malpractice, including the use of so called special centres during external examinations.” It stated that the policy would take effect from the 2026/2027 academic session, adding that “admission or transfer into SS3 will no longer be permitted under any circumstance.” Reacting to the announcement, Buhari expressed concern in a post shared on his Facebook page on Sunday, arguing that the policy would unfairly affect children whose education has been disrupted by banditry, terrorism and forced migration in the North. He said many families in the region relocate not to seek academic advantage, but to escape violent attacks that have destroyed communities and schools, an issue he said was ignored in the policy design. “In the North, most of the people are not moving because they are chasing special centres,” Buhari wrote. “They are moving because their villages have been attacked. Because bandits came at night. Because terrorists burnt schools.” He explained that displacement has become a normal part of life in several states, including Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Niger, Borno, Yobe, Plateau and Benue, forcing parents to move with their children, often in the middle of an academic session. Buhari questioned how the policy would affect students who have completed SS2 but are forced to enroll in new schools due to insecurity, as well as those already in SS3 whose families are compelled to relocate. “Now imagine an SS2 student in an IDP camp who finally gets a chance to enroll in a new school,” he said. “According to this policy, if that child advances to SS3 in a different school, it becomes illegal.” He argued that the ban would not address examination malpractice, noting that cheating is driven by systemic issues such as weak supervision, poor teaching conditions and pressure to pass examinations, rather than student transfers. “Stopping SS3 transfers will not stop cheating,” Buhari stated. “It will only stop vulnerable students from continuing their education.” The activist also warned that the policy could worsen the already high number of out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria, where access to education is challenged by poverty, insecurity and displacement. He called on the Federal Government to review the directive and introduce exemptions for displaced students and conflict-affected communities, stressing that education policies must reflect the realities of Nigerians. “If this policy goes ahead without exemptions,” Buhari said, “it will only deepen exclusion and inequality and once again, the North willpay the highest price.”

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, has given President Bola Tinubu a seven-day deadline to ensure the public release of certified true copies of recently enacted federal tax laws, following allegations that the legislations may have been altered after approval by the National Assembly. In a Freedom of Information request dated December 20, 2025, SERAP called on the President to instruct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to immediately publish the certified versions of the tax bills transmitted by the National Assembly, as well as the final laws assented to and gazetted by the Federal Government. The organisation identified four major legislations at the centre of the controversy: the National Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, and the Nigeria Tax Act. SERAP also demanded an official explanation on whether the bills passed by lawmakers are exactly the same as the versions signed into law and later gazetted, warning that any inconsistencies would amount to a serious breach of constitutional governance, the rule of law and the doctrine of separation of powers. In addition to public disclosure, SERAP called for the constitution of an independent investigative panel, to be chaired by a retired Justice of the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal, to probe allegations that key provisions were added, removed or amended without legislative approval. The group insisted that the panel’s findings should be made public and that anyone found responsible should face prosecution. The demand follows concerns raised by the National Assembly, which has reportedly claimed that certain provisions appearing in the gazetted tax laws were never approved during legislative deliberations. A lawmaker from Sokoto State, Abdussamad Dasuki, raised the issue on the floor of the House under a matter of privilege, alleging significant differences between the harmonised bills passed by both chambers and the versions eventually published by the Federal Government. According to SERAP, lawmakers have pointed out the alleged removal of critical oversight and accountability safeguards, as well as the insertion of new enforcement and fiscal powers, including arrest authority, garnishment without court orders and mandatory dollar-based assessments, all without parliamentary consent. SERAP described the alleged alterations as unconstitutional, arguing that withholding authentic copies of the laws violates citizens’ right to information as guaranteed under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The organisation warned that failure by the Federal Government to comply within seven days of receiving its request would leave it with no option but to initiate legal action to compel disclosure in the public interest. SERAP maintained that making the certified true copies publicly available would enable Nigerians to properly examine the laws, evaluate their implications for human rights and governance, and challenge any unlawful provisions through appropriate legal channels.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has urged Nigerians to unite for a country where every citizen is treated equally, irrespective of tribe or religion. He made the call while lauding South East residents for the recognition and respect they have continued to accord him amid diverse ethnic and political affiliations. Makinde spoke in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State capital, during his 58th birthday celebration and book launch organised by a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state, Chief Ali Odefa, on Saturday. According to the governor, true federalism and unity in diversity are the only vehicles through which every Nigerian can enjoy equal treatment. “It will be a great birthday gift for me if we make up our minds and participate to make our voices heard by calling for true federalism in the Federal Republic of Nigeria; so we must not be bystanders,” he said. He reiterated that the recognition given to him underscored the veracity of the handshake across the Niger in Nigeria, stressing that his visit was in line with God’s plan. Makinde commended his host, Odefa, whom he described as a bosom friend and adviser in political matters. The governor further noted that the imprints of Igbo people can be seen in every sector and urged the region to strive toward making Nigeria a nation with practical federalism, irrespective of party affiliation. Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, who was represented by Deputy Governor Mrs Patricia Obila, described the book, titled ‘The Seyi Makinde Story,’ as a compendium of knowledge and urged attendees to avail themselves of its valuable message by purchasing the book. He commended Makinde for what he described as the good work noticed in all parts of Oyo State, especially in areas such as infrastructure, education, health, and other sectors. “If Nigeria can have 80% of people like you, this country will be a better place. Thus, I am congratulating you and also thanking God for your life,” he said. Speaking at the event, Odefa described Makinde as a courageous and detribalised leader. He revealed that he had already immortalised the governor by naming one of his sons after him.

Two-time heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua has hailed YouTuber-turned boxer, Jake Paul, for his performance during their Miami fight on Friday. Recall that Paul started the fight in survival mode, keeping well out of Joshua’s way. The 28-year-old also refused to engage before the Briton finally closed the distance and inflicted some pain on him. The American suffered a fractured jaw while enduring six rounds against Joshua, who acknowledged that he wasn’t at his best during the fight. “It wasn’t the best performance,”Joshua admitted after the fight (via Metro UK). “The end goal was to get Jake Paul, pin him down and hurt him. That has been the request leading up. That was on my mind. “It took a bit longer than expected, but the right hand finally found the destination. Jake Paul – he’s done really well tonight. I want to give him his props. He got up time and time again. It takes a real man to do that.”

The All Progressives Congress has released a comprehensive schedule of activities for its 2025/2026 nationwide ward, local government, state and zonal congresses, culminating in the party’s national convention. The APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, released the schedule via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday. According to the timetable signed by Basiru, the activities are being conducted pursuant to the provisions of Articles 11 and 17 of the APC Constitution and are aimed at electing party officials across all levels. The schedule stated that the process will begin with the commencement of membership e-registration on Monday, December 1, 2025, which will run until January 30, 2026. It added that this will be followed by the issuance of notices of congresses to state and Federal Capital Territory chapters on February 2, 2026. According to the schedule, purchase and submission of forms for ward and local government area congresses are scheduled to take place between February 4 and February 9, 2026. It disclosed that screening committees for ward and LGA positions will be inaugurated on February 10, with screening of aspirants holding from February 11 to February 13. Ward congresses are fixed for Wednesday, February 18, 2026, while appeals arising from the ward congresses will be heard on February 19. LGA congresses, including the election of three delegates, one of whom must be female, to the national convention, will hold on February 20, with appeals scheduled for February 21. At the state level, the purchase of forms for state executive positions will commence earlier, from February 23 to February 27, 2025. Screening and appeals for state executives are slated for late February and early March 2026, while state congresses will hold on Saturday, March 7, 2026. The timetable stated that appeals from state congresses will be entertained between March 9 and March 11, while the party will then move to the zonal level, with the purchase and submission of forms for zonal congresses and the national convention scheduled for March 12 to March 17, 2026. According to the schedule, zonal congresses will be inaugurated on March 18, followed by the screening of aspirants on March 19 and 20. It said they zonal congresses across the six geopolitical zones will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026. The designated zonal offices are Ibadan for the South West, Enugu for the South East, Rivers/Cross River for the South South, Kaduna for the North West, Gombe/Bauchi for the North East, and Nasarawa for the North Central., while appeals arising from the zonal congresses will be heard on March 23. The timetable shows that the APC National Convention is scheduled to hold from Wednesday, March 25, to Saturday, March 28, 2026.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the directive withdrawing police orderlies from members of the National Assembly, citing safety concerns. Akpabio made the plea on Friday during the presentation of the 2026 budget to a joint session of the National Assembly, warning that some lawmakers feared they might be unable to return home safely following the withdrawal. His words: “As we direct the security agencies to withdraw policemen from critical areas, some of the National Assembly said I should let you know they may not be able to go home today. “On that note, we plead with Mr President for a review of the decision.” Recall that President Tinubu had, on November 23, ordered the withdrawal of police officers attached to Very Important Persons, directing that they be redeployed to core policing duties across the country. According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu issued the directive after a security meeting with service chiefs and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) following heightened security issues in the country. Under the order, VIPs requiring security are to seek protection from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as the Federal Government seeks to boost police presence in communities, particularly in remote areas grappling with insecurity. Tinubu later reaffirmed the directive on December 10, moments before presiding over the Federal Executive Council, expressing frustration over delays in implementation. He instructed the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to work with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Civil Defence Corps to immediately replace withdrawn escorts to avoid exposing individuals to danger. “I honestly believe in what I said…It should be effected. If you have any problem because of the nature of your assignment, contact the IGP and get my clearance,” Tinubu said. “The minister of interior should liaise IG and the Civil Defence structure to replace those police officers who are on special security duties. “So that you don’t leave people exposed,” he insisted. Following the decision, THENEWSCREDIT had earlier reported that the directive triggered tension in the Senate as lawmakers raised concerns over what they described as selective enforcement. “It should be done across the board—from the office of the President, to the Vice President, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House, Ministers, and others. I have been in public service since 1999 and have never kept more than one police orderly. Yet, mine was withdrawn without prior notice,” Ningi said. He highlighted instances where ministers, business tycoons, and children of political office holders continue to move around with multiple security personnel. “I have seen singers and other private individuals with orderlies and complimentary protection. I cannot imagine that a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria would have his only orderly withdrawn while others retain theirs,” he added.