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  • News
    BREAKING : CBN breaks silence as court orders forfeiture of Keystone Bank shares

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has assured customers of Keystone Bank not to panic following a court order ordering forfeiture of the bank shares to the Federal Government.

    A statement signed by Acting Director, Corporate Communications of CBN, Mrs Hakama Sidi Ali , on Friday, said the apex bank is on top of the situation, adding that there is no cause for alarm.

    It reads  : “Following the court order that the shares of Keystone Bank Limited previously held by the shareholders be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) wishes to reassure the public that Keystone Bank Limited remains safe, sound, and fully operational.

    We acknowledge that this development may have triggered customer concerns; however, we wish to underscore that the stability of the banking system and the safety of depositors’ funds remain our top priorities.

    Keystone Bank’s operations are entirely secure, and there is no reason for concern.

    For clarity, the Court Order merely reaffirmed the Central Bank of Nigeria’s prior decision to take over the management of Keystone Bank Limited in January 2024, following a change in its leadership. Since then, the CBN has closely monitored the bank’s operations to ensure they are in full compliance with regulatory standards, operational transparency, and the interests of depositors.

    As part of our commitment to safeguarding the financial system and building public trust, we shall continue to monitor the bank’s performance. We will take all necessary steps to protect the interests of depositors, staff, and stakeholders.

    Customers are also encouraged to contact Keystone Bank’s customer support or visit any Keystone Bank branch for inquiries or concerns.”

  • News
    Lamido slams NSA Ribadu over Canada visa dispute

    Sule Lamido, the former Governor of Jigawa State and ex-Minister of Foreign Affairs, has sharply criticized National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu for his recent comments regarding Canada’s refusal to grant visas to Nigerian military personnel.

    In a statement posted on his official Facebook account, Lamido expressed disapproval of Ribadu’s public outburst, suggesting that the matter should have been addressed more discreetly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Lamido argued that the NSA’s remarks had unnecessarily tarnished Nigeria’s reputation on the international stage.

    “The NSA and his principal must realize that they represent and project our collective image as a sovereign nation,” Lamido stated.

    The former governor highlighted the issue as indicative of a failure in foreign policy management, pointing to previous diplomatic challenges in ECOWAS and now with Canada. He emphasized that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should have taken the lead in resolving the situation, including calling in the Canadian High Commissioner if necessary.

    “The NSA should not and must not appropriate the duties of the Minister of Foreign Affairs,” Lamido stressed.

    The controversy erupted after Ribadu, speaking at an event in Abuja, criticized Canada for denying visas to top Nigerian military officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa. The CDS, who had been invited to a veterans’ event in Canada, expressed disappointment that half of his delegation was refused entry.

    In his response, Ribadu condemned Canada’s actions, stating, “They can go to hell,” while asserting that Nigeria remains a strong and independent nation. Lamido, however, cautioned against such diplomatic errors, urging Nigerian officials to adopt a more professional approach in handling international relations.

  • News
    ‘Real reason defence chief, other Nigerian military officers were denied Canada visas’

    The denial of visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and several senior military officers by the Canadian Embassy has been attributed to a diplomatic oversight.

    The affected officers had submitted visa applications without the required Note Verbale (diplomatic note) from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Nigerian government is now working to resolve the situation.

    A reliable source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “There was a diplomatic error on the part of desk officers who handled the CDS and others’ visa applications. There was no Note Verbale from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which contradicts the standard protocol for official trips by high-ranking government officials.”

    The source further clarified: “Since those traveling are top military officers, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should have attached a Note Verbale confirming that the trip was legitimate and without security concerns.”

    Regarding the matter, the source added, “The Federal Government is engaging with Canadian Embassy officials to address the situation. There is no diplomatic conflict with Canada; we are merely working to rectify a few issues.”

    However, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, has criticized the Canadian government for denying visas to Gen. Musa and the military delegation.

    Ribadu expressed his displeasure during the inaugural annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja. In response to Gen. Musa’s comments about the visa issue, Ribadu remarked, “Canada can go to hell.”

    Gen. Musa had earlier stated that he and his team were scheduled to attend a war veterans’ event in Canada but were denied entry. “Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was supposed to be in Canada for an event honoring our veterans and those injured in battles. We were invited with our team, but half of us were denied entry. It’s truly disappointing,” Gen. Musa said.

    Ribadu praised the CDS for addressing the issue openly and emphasized the need for a stronger Nigeria that would no longer tolerate such disrespect. “Thank you for your courage in speaking out. Canada can go to hell,” Ribadu said. “Although it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful and strong. I agree that it’s time to strengthen our country, and this incident only reinforces our commitment to making Nigeria work.”

    Ribadu also commended Gen. Musa for his leadership in tackling insecurity and the ongoing cooperation among Nigeria’s security agencies to enhance national security.

    Former Minister of Aviation Femi Fani-Kayode also lauded Ribadu’s stance, urging that such disrespect should not be overlooked. “At last, we have an NSA who is willing to stand up to foreign powers that treat Nigerians with contempt,” Fani-Kayode wrote on his X account (@realFFK). “Ribadu was right when he condemned the Canadian Embassy for denying visas to our senior military officers, including the CDS. The days of foreign governments treating us with disrespect are over.”

    Fani-Kayode added, “If Canada continues its disrespectful actions, it should consider its own future, as it might soon become the 51st state of America. Nigeria has paid its dues and deserves to be treated with respect.”


    (NATION)

  • News
    How blessed handkerchiefs, olive oil from General Overseers failed Akeredolu – Wife

    Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, widow of the late former Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, has shared a candid reflection on her late husband’s struggle with cancer, expressing frustration over the focus on spiritual remedies during his illness.

    In a recent interview, Betty stressed the critical need for medical care, asserting that her husband’s life might have been prolonged if he had placed greater emphasis on conventional treatment rather than relying on spiritual interventions.

    She described the futile efforts of well-meaning individuals who recommended spiritual practices such as “mountain climbing,” “blessed handkerchiefs,” and “olive oil,” none of which produced any meaningful results.

    “What came out of their mountain climbing, blessed handkerchiefs, water, olive oil, etc., from the GOs and all the noisy prayers like people possessed by demons? If Aketi had listened to me, I wouldn’t be a widow,” Betty shared during an interview with Star News publisher, Olumide Akinrinlola.

    Having personally battled breast cancer, Betty said she has gained a profound understanding of the importance of early detection and medical intervention.

    The farmer Ondo First Lady ,who founded the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria in 1997 to promote awareness and provide support for those affected by the disease,  said cancer should be viewed as a medical challenge rather than a spiritual one.

    “You cannot pray away breast cancer or any cancer at all,” she said.

    Regarding the current administration in Ondo State under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Betty criticized its lack of direction and raised concerns about a key reappointment.

    While withholding specifics on governance, she alluded to the return of a former finance commissioner who had been dismissed due to financial misconduct under her husband’s tenure.

    “You can connect the dots as to why Lucky brought her back,” she remarked.

    On the national front, Betty shared her skepticism about the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, stating, “Only those benefiting would say that. You don’t need a soothsayer to tell you that all is not well in the country.”

    Betty also reaffirmed her intentions to run for a senatorial seat, expressing her unwavering commitment to her political aspirations.

    To those facing health challenges, she urged Nigerians to seek medical care rather than relying solely on faith-based solutions.

    “A pastor is not a doctor; he understands nothing about cancer. He can only pray, and prayers don’t cure cancer. Consult a doctor—not just any doctor, but a doctor who specialises in cancer cases,” she emphasized.

  • News Security
    South-West govs unveil joint security plan against ISWAP

    Governors from Nigeria’s South-West region have announced plans to strengthen security by launching a joint surveillance initiative aimed at countering threats posed by the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP).

    The decision followed a high-level meeting held in Lagos, attended by Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), and Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti).

    The move comes amid concerns over reports of ISWAP infiltrating forests in the region. Earlier in January, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde warned that armed groups displaced by military operations in the North-West were seeking refuge in his state.

    During an interfaith service in Ibadan, Makinde stated, “During a security briefing this morning, I learnt that some bad elements from the North-West are relocating here due to military heat in their zones. But we will find and deal with them.”

    Authorities have taken action in response to these threats. In January, the Department of State Services (DSS) apprehended 10 suspected ISWAP members in Ilesa, Osun State, and secured a court order to detain them for 60 days.

    Following extensive deliberations, which lasted from noon until 4 p.m. on Thursday, the South-West Governors’ Forum issued a communiquĂ© read by Sanwo-Olu. The governors unanimously condemned ISWAP’s activities and outlined measures to enhance security across the region.

    Sanwo-Olu, who chairs the Forum, stated, “Acknowledging the threat posed by ISWAP activities in parts of the South West, the Forum strongly condemns any threat to the region’s security. It encourages enhanced collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and local security outfits, urging them to remain vigilant.”

    To combat security challenges, the Forum resolved to deploy advanced surveillance technology, including aerial monitoring, and to form a Joint Surveillance Monitoring Team to coordinate security efforts across the region. Special Advisers on Security from the six states will also collaborate on intelligence gathering and information sharing.

    Meanwhile, the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) has urged South-West governors to take immediate action against terrorist groups reportedly setting up camps in forests across the region.

    Wasiu Afolabi, the OPC’s president, emphasized the urgency, stating, “These foreign Fulani terrorists have always said that after conquering the North, the South will be next. Now it is happening. But the OPC is ready to let these evil dreamers know that Yorubaland can never be conquered or occupied by foreign invaders.”

  • News
    Tinubu holds late-night briefing with ministers in Ethiopia

    President Bola Tinubu has landed in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to attend the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government.

    The high-level gathering is scheduled to take place from February 14 to 18, 2025.

    In a statement released early Friday, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed Tinubu’s arrival, noting that he was welcomed at the airport by Ethiopian Deputy Chief of Protocol, Eshetu Legesse, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and Nasir Aminu, the chargĂ© d’affaires of the Nigerian embassy in Ethiopia.

    Following his arrival, President Tinubu received a late-night briefing from his ministers, led by Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar. The session, which stretched until around 2 a.m. on Friday, covered key developments related to Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements at the summit.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu met with his ministers Thursday night on arrival in Addis Ababa for the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the AU Heads of State. Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar led the briefing,” Onanuga stated.

    Among the highlights of Nigeria’s diplomatic achievements was the successful re-election of Bankole Adeoye as African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security. The country also retained its seat on the AU Peace and Security Council, a move that Tuggar said reaffirmed “Nigeria’s leadership and commitment to peace and security on the continent.”

    Also present at the briefing were several ministers, including Finance Minister Wale Edun, Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru, Trade and Investment Minister Jumoke Oduwole, Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, and Information and National Orientation Minister Muhammed Idris. Others in attendance were Environment Minister Balarabe Lawal, Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka-Anite, Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency Mohammed Mohammed, and Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla.

    This year’s AU summit, themed “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” will focus on reparatory justice and racial healing.

    During the event, President Tinubu is scheduled to address the AU Peace and Security Council at the summit-level meeting, where discussions will center on pressing security concerns, including the escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Additionally, he will participate in sessions on health financing, the establishment of an African Credit Rating Agency, and climate change initiatives.

    According to the statement, Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja on Monday, February 17.

  • News
    JUST IN : New twist as 2face mother begs Edo lawmaker to ‘release’ her son

    Rose Idibia, the mother of legendary Nigerian musician Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2face, has made an emotional plea to the public, urging them to intervene in what she describes as an ongoing issue between her son and Edo State lawmaker, Natasha Osawaru.

    In a video that surfaced online Thursday evening, Mrs. Idibia called on fellow mothers across Nigeria to help her appeal to Osawaru, whom she claims is interfering in her son’s life at a vulnerable time.

    Addressing Nigerians directly, she said, “Good evening, Nigerians. My name is Mrs. Rose Idibia, the mother of 2face. This message is for Miss Natasha Osawaru of Edo State. I’m calling on all mothers in Nigeria to help me beg her to free my son.”

    She further revealed that her son is currently distressed, particularly due to his ongoing divorce proceedings with his estranged wife, Nollywood actress Annie Idibia.

    Abujapress reports that the Benue-born 2face had recently announced his intimate relationship with Natasha Osawaru- a serving member of the Edo State House of Assembly.


    More details to follow…