Author: Platform Times Newspaper

A fresh wave of controversy has engulfed the National Assembly following allegations that lawmakers are forced to pay between ₦1 million and ₦3 million to sponsor bills, motions, and petitions. The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas to refer the bribery scandal to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for investigation. The allegations were triggered by a viral video of Ibrahim Auyo, a member of the House of Representatives representing Jigawa…

A fierce supremacy battle is unfolding in Yorubaland as the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, demanding the withdrawal of the Okanlomo of Yorubaland title recently conferred on Ibadan businessman, Engineer Dotun Sanusi. In a statement on Monday signed by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the Alaafin described the Ooni’s action as “an affront” and “a violation of Yoruba tradition,” insisting that only the Alaafin reserves the authority to confer titles with Yoruba-wide recognition. “The conferment of a Yoruba-wide chieftaincy title by…

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has approved a major shake-up in the Nigerian Army, with the redeployment and appointment of senior officers into key command, instructional, and staff positions across formations nationwide. The move, according to Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, is aimed at strengthening leadership and repositioning the Army for greater operational effectiveness amid growing security challenges. Those affected include Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) at the Army Headquarters, two General Officers Commanding (GOCs), Corps Commanders, Commandants of training institutions, and Brigade Commanders. At the Army Headquarters, Major General A.A. Adeyinka,…

Tragedy struck in Sokoto State on Sunday after a boat carrying more than 50 passengers capsized on its way to Goronyo Market, leaving over 40 persons feared missing. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed the incident in a statement, disclosing that only about 10 passengers had been rescued as of press time. The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, said the agency immediately deployed its rescue team after receiving reports of the mishap. She added that search and rescue operations were ongoing in collaboration with local divers, emergency responders, and community volunteers. “We are doing everything possible to…

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has revived the push for a new revenue allocation formula, two years after presenting its recommendations to former President Muhammadu Buhari without implementation. The commission, now under new leadership, is set to brief the press on Monday on fresh policy directions regarding the proposed formula, which seeks to reduce the Federal Government’s share of national revenue while increasing allocations to states and local councils. Under the reviewed formula, the Federal Government would receive 45.17 per cent, states 29.79 per cent, and local governments 21.04 per cent. This represents a cut from the…

Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Sunday described the Minna residence of former Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retd.), as a “political Mecca” where Nigerians continually troop for counsel and direction. Jonathan stated this in Minna, Niger State, when he led other well-wishers to celebrate the 84th birthday of the former Nigerian leader. According to him, Babangida’s unique style of leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s unity have made his Hilltop Mansion a rallying point for politicians, statesmen and ordinary citizens alike. “Nigeria has produced leaders since independence, but Gen. Babangida stands out clearly as one of those who want the…

 It was a gathering of political leaders, judicial officers, top government functionaries, and community stakeholders on Sunday as eminent personalities converged in Abeokuta to celebrate Justice Jumoke Adewole, following her elevation to the Ogun State High Court. Justice Adewole, who until recently served as Permanent Secretary in the state civil service, was described as a “consummate public servant” whose career has been defined by diligence, empathy, and uncompromising integrity. At the special reception held in her honour, tributes poured in from the Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya; Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye;…

Hundreds of residents in Kwara South have fled their ancestral homes in droves following a surge in kidnapping incidents that has plunged the region into fear and uncertainty. The worst-hit areas include Sabe, Ologomo, Alabe, and Babanla communities in Ifelodun Local Government Area, where suspected armed bandits have turned once peaceful villages into danger zones. A video obtained by PLATFORM TIMES shows a distraught resident, Ganiyu Babatunde, appealing to the Kwara State Government for urgent intervention. “Since morning, I have seen more than 10 vehicles packed with people leaving their communities. At Oke-Ode garage, there is no vehicle left —…

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has commenced the deportation of no fewer than 192 foreign nationals convicted of internet fraud in the country. The first batch of 42 convicts was airlifted on Sunday, while more deportations are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, PLATFORM TIMES gathered. The development followed a December 2024 operation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which led to the arrest of 792 suspected members of a cybercrime syndicate in Victoria Island, Lagos. The syndicate, made up largely of foreigners, was said to have converted a seven-storey building into a training centre where Nigerians were tutored…

Real estate consultant, Comfort Emmanson, has opened up for the first time since her humiliating ordeal with Ibom Air, narrating how a faulty mobile phone led to her arrest, detention at Kirikiri Correctional Centre, and a lifetime flight ban that has now become a national controversy. Emmanson, who regained freedom last Wednesday after an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court discharged her following the withdrawal of a five-count charge by the police, released an emotional video at the weekend recounting her traumatic experience. Visibly shaken, she expressed gratitude to Nigerians who rallied in her defence while she was behind bars. “For a commoner…