The family confirmed his death in a statement released by Bolade Adesuyi, revealing that the renowned coach and community leader died shortly before the announcement was made public.

In the emotional message, the family expressed gratitude to God for his impactful life, describing him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. They also highlighted his status as a High Chief in Modakeke and praised his remarkable contributions to Nigerian football.

The statement thanked him for the legacy he left behind, noting that his dedication to the sport and to the nation would never be forgotten. The family prayed for the peaceful rest of his soul and asked God to grant him eternal peace.

Onigbinde celebrated his 88th birthday on March 5, 2026.

World Cup milestone

One of the defining moments of his career came in 2002 when he led Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup, held in South Korea and Japan. His appointment made him the first indigenous Nigerian coach to guide the Nigeria national football team—popularly known as the Super Eagles—at the global tournament.

He previously managed the national team between 1982 and 1984 and guided Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where they finished as runners-up after losing 3–1 to Cameroon national football team.

Another memorable moment in his coaching career came at the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations, where he again led Nigeria to the final, although the team finished second after another defeat to Cameroon.

Champion of indigenous coaches

Beyond his achievements on the pitch, Onigbinde remained active in football development and later served as a special adviser on football matters to the Osun State Government.

He was widely respected for advocating the growth of locally trained coaches in Nigeria and strongly believed in developing homegrown football talent.

In addition, he contributed to coaching education across the continent as an instructor for the Confederation of African Football and FIFA, where he mentored upcoming coaches and supported several football development programs in Africa.

His legacy remains deeply rooted in the progress of Nigerian football and the promotion of indigenous coaching.

Operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on Wednesday conducted a search at the residence of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, in Abuja. The operation, which reportedly took place in the early hours of the day, was linked to an ongoing investigation into alleged financial irregularities.

According to reports, a team of investigators arrived at the property with what sources described as a valid search warrant. Security personnel were seen stationed around the premises while officials carried out documentation and inspection activities.

Details of the operation remain limited. However, sources familiar with the matter said the investigation relates to alleged procurement and contract award processes during El-Rufai’s tenure as governor. The ICPC is said to be examining claims involving public funds and compliance with due process requirements.

A statement from the agency confirmed that its operatives executed a search warrant at a property connected to a “former senior public official” as part of an ongoing probe. The statement did not disclose specific allegations but noted that the action was in line with the Commission’s mandate to investigate and prevent corruption.

“The Commission wishes to inform the public that the operation was conducted professionally and in accordance with the law,” the statement said. “No arrest was made at the time of the search. Investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be provided as necessary.”

Efforts to reach El-Rufai directly were unsuccessful as of press time. However, a close aide to the former governor confirmed that officials visited the residence.

The aide described the search as “unexpected” but stated that El-Rufai remains willing to cooperate with investigators. “Our principal has nothing to hide and will provide any information required by the relevant authorities,” the aide said.

Legal representatives of the former governor also issued a brief response. One member of the legal team said the search was conducted without prior notice but acknowledged that officers presented documentation authorising their action. The lawyer maintained that the former governor had not been formally charged with any offence.

“The action appears to be part of a broader review of government transactions,” the lawyer said. “We urge the public not to draw conclusions until the facts are fully established.”

El-Rufai served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023. During his tenure, his administration implemented reforms in public service operations and infrastructure development, which drew both commendation and criticism.

In recent months, anti-corruption agencies have intensified scrutiny of contracts and financial transactions executed by former public office holders across various states. The ICPC has stated repeatedly that its investigations are guided by evidence and statutory procedures.

There is no indication at this stage that the former governor has been invited for questioning or that formal charges have been filed. Observers note that the search marks a significant step in the investigative process, as it suggests the Commission is gathering documentary or material evidence.

The development is likely to attract public attention given El-Rufai’s prominence in national politics. For now, officials have emphasised that the matter remains under investigation, and no conclusions should be drawn pending further findings.

Akindele, voicing his frustration on social media, argued that El-Rufai is merely trying to dodge the inevitable consequences of his actions, pointing to the former governor’s recent public statements as evidence of a panic-driven strategy. The chieftain highlighted that El-Rufai’s admission of unauthorized phone tapping on national television has left him vulnerable to investigation by multiple agencies, including the DSS and ICPC, further increasing the stakes of his upcoming appearance. By painting the NSA as someone importing dangerous substances, Akindele believes El-Rufai is desperately trying to frame any potential detention as a threat to his life rather than a standard legal procedure.

The APC chieftain characterized the allegations as childish and a waste of public attention, urging the former governor to face the security agencies directly if summoned. Akindele emphatically stated that El-Rufai is not immune to investigation and that if authorities determine he should be held in custody, he must comply without creating a national spectacle. The message from Akindele to the former Kaduna governor was direct: stop panicking, accept the legal process, and behave with the fortitude expected of a political leader.

The unfolding drama highlights deep fractures within the political elite as El-Rufai navigates the intersection of his corruption probe and his outspoken criticism of the current administration. Akindele’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among some party members that El-Rufai’s confrontational approach is detrimental to the party’s cohesion and stability. The focus now shifts to Monday’s scheduled appearance at the EFCC, which is expected to be a pivotal moment in this escalating political saga.

Ultimately, Akindele’s dismissal of the fear-mongering suggests that the party apparatus is moving to contain the fallout from El-Rufai’s accusations and protect the integrity of the institutions he has targeted. Whether this public call to “be a man” will calm the situation or further inflame it remains to be seen in the coming days.

Sources close to the negotiations indicate that while APC stakeholders within Osun State are actively maneuvering to derail the engagement, President Tinubu has officially sanctioned the meeting, signaling a willingness to seek a political rather than purely legal solution to the standoff. The urgency is fueled by the operational paralysis gripping the state’s local councils, which are unable to fund essential services due to the inability to access these crucial disbursements.

The situation escalated dramatically following reports that UBA Chairman Tony Elumelu was summoned to the Presidential Villa to address allegations of unauthorized disbursements and potential regulatory breaches regarding the Osun funds. Insiders suggest the presidency is deeply concerned that the bank may have been pressured into partial disbursements despite existing court orders, which has already led to the criminal prosecution of some banking officials.

This financial saga is underscored by a stringent ruling from a Magistrate Court in Osogbo, which has explicitly barred the institution from conducting any business with individuals claiming to be local government chairmen belonging to the APC. Magistrate Adekanmi Adeyeba’s order is a critical component of the legal gridlock, prohibiting any interaction with groups parading themselves as council heads until the criminal proceedings regarding the management of these funds are concluded.

The court’s decision was rooted in the necessity to prevent further abuse of public funds, directing the bank to cease recognizing any entity operating accounts on behalf of Osun local governments while the legal matters are pending. This judicial intervention has effectively halted the movement of money, placing immense pressure on both the state government and federal authorities to find a way forward.

In the meeting with Elumelu, President Tinubu reportedly reaffirmed a standing directive that neither of the feuding parties in Osun State should have access to the funds until the legal disputes are conclusively resolved, aiming to protect the integrity of the process. Elumelu sought clarification on the appropriate course of action, citing intense external pressure as a factor in the chaotic handling of the accounts.

The involvement of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola’s camp in the management of these funds has also reportedly been scrutinized during high-level discussions, adding a layer of intense political rivalry to the financial dispute. The presidency’s intervention aims to de-escalate this rivalry and restore order to the state’s fiscal operations.

As legal proceedings continue against bank officials for their alleged role in the irregular transactions, the focus remains squarely on the upcoming meeting between Adeleke and Tinubu. This engagement is viewed as the final attempt to resolve the impasse through political mediation before the legal process runs its full, lengthy course.

The financial crisis has significantly hampered developmental projects at the grassroots level, making the resolution of this conflict a top priority for all involved parties. The outcome of the meeting between the Governor and the President could determine the immediate future of local governance and fiscal stability in Osun State.

This declaration places a heavy emphasis on personal loyalty within the FCT’s political landscape, signaling that the upcoming local polls are viewed by the minister as a referendum on the administration’s national vision. Wike’s influence as minister gives substantial weight to his pledge, turning the local council elections into a proxy battle for federal dominance and demonstrating his commitment to ensuring that the FCT remains firmly within the President’s political orbit.

The announcement came against the backdrop of Senator Onor’s 60th birthday, an event that doubled as a high-profile gathering of political allies and power brokers. Wike used the platform to reaffirm his bond with Onor, praising him as a dependable ally who has remained loyal even through challenging political storms. This display of loyalty highlighted Wike’s approach to politics, which often prioritizes personal relationships and shared political interests over strict adherence to party ideology.

The celebration itself featured glowing tributes from various political leaders, painting a picture of Onor as a leader defined by intellect, courage, and commitment to community values. Prof. Anthony Eyang, delivering a citation, traced Onor’s trajectory from an academic career at the University of Calabar to the Nigerian Senate, showcasing a life dedicated to leadership and intellectual pursuit. These tributes bolstered Onor’s reputation as a credible figure, aligning with Wike’s criteria for support based on personal trust and capability.

Former Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, echoed these sentiments, describing Onor as a true icon fit for high-level leadership, while former Attorney General Kanu Agabi highlighted Onor’s intellectual contributions and respect for constitutional order. The event also featured the unveiling of a Festschrift in honor of the senator, presented by Prof. Dave Imbua, which documented Onor’s achievements not just in politics, but also as a notable historian.

Wike and his associates demonstrated their support for Onor not just through rhetoric but also with significant financial backing, contributing 50 million Naira to the event’s initiatives. This financial endorsement highlights the deep network of support that Wike commands and his capacity to mobilize resources for his allies.

In his response, Senator Onor offered a philosophical reflection on his journey, emphasizing that achievements are meaningless without divine guidance and that integrity must be the cornerstone of a successful life. He underscored the importance of character and diligence, advising that true excellence is a product of consistent hard work and unwavering faith, rather than just political maneuvering.

As the February 21 election date approaches, Wike’s declaration has undoubtedly shifted the political dynamics in the FCT, forcing candidates to clearly define their stance on the President’s agenda. The minister’s ultimatum ensures that the local election will be a defining moment for the political alignment within the capital city.

The event concluded with Onor thanking his family and supporters, pledging to continue his dedication to the betterment of society, bolstered by the overwhelming show of support from political heavyweights. The focus now shifts to how Wike’s pledge will translate into campaigning and voter mobilization in the coming days.

Information Commissioner James Iliya confirmed that the visit is a validation of the developmental strides recorded under the current administration, aiming to showcase the state’s progress to the federal government. The agenda for the day is packed, designed to highlight the administration’s achievements across multiple sectors in a short span of time. The focus will be on tangible results, showcasing investments that have materially improved the living standards of residents.

Key projects set for inauguration include a sleek, modern underpass at the former Bekaji Roundabout, a significant addition to the city’s traffic management system, and the expansive Bank Road in Yola, which promises to ease transportation bottlenecks. Perhaps most crucially, the President will commission a model school in Yola North, a facility lauded for its modern amenities and aimed at boosting educational standards in the region.

The commissioner highlighted that this school is just one component of a broader initiative, with 21 such model schools recently constructed across the state’s 21 local government areas, indicating a massive push in the educational sector. This deliberate focus on education is being hailed as a transformative step for the state’s youth.

The visit also extends beyond infrastructure to critical civic institutions. Tinubu will perform the groundbreaking ceremony for a new permanent orientation camp for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Malkohi, a move intended to provide a better environment for graduating students serving in the state. Furthermore, the ultra-modern High Court Complex, a project designed to streamline justice administration, is also on the docket to be commissioned.

The executive arm is not left out, with the inauguration of the newly constructed Governor’s Office complex and the unveiling of a sophisticated automated gate at the Government House, showcasing a blend of security and modernity in governance structures.

To ensure the safety of the President and his entourage, the Adamawa State Police Command has launched a comprehensive security operation. Commissioner of Police Morris Dankombo announced the deployment of a formidable team, including the Police Mobile Force, Counter Terrorism Unit, and Surveillance Squads, to maintain law and order during the high-profile event.

Plainclothes detectives are already engaging in covert surveillance operations across Yola to neutralize potential threats and ensure a hitch-free visit. The security strategy involves a collaborative effort among various security agencies to manage crowd control and traffic flow efficiently.

The commissioner called on residents to turn out in large numbers, emphasizing that the visit transcends political lines and is about showcasing Adamawa’s unity and legendary hospitality. This plea for unity is crucial in a politically charged environment, aimed at creating a harmonious atmosphere for the national leader’s visit.

Inhabitants are being urged to remain peaceful and law-abiding, contributing to the success of the event. The government is viewing this visit as a golden opportunity to secure further federal support for its ambitious development projects.

The successful execution of this visit is seen as a pivotal moment for Fintiri’s administration, aiming to cement its reputation as a performance-driven government. The entire state is focused on making a lasting impression on the President.

At the heart of the legal battle is a breakdown of specific financial irregularities that have severely undermined public trust, according to the lawsuit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/250/2026. The Auditor-General’s report highlighted that in 2022 alone, the Central Bank failed to remit over one trillion Naira of the federal government’s share of operating surplus into the Consolidated Revenue Fund. This failure to transfer funds, which are critical for national development projects, has raised immediate red flags among accountability watchdogs.

Furthermore, the suit brings to light the controversial Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, intended to bolster food security by supporting local farmers, which instead became a conduit for financial leakage. The report disclosed that over 629 billion Naira was disbursed to completely “unknown beneficiaries,” a situation the Auditor-General fears contributed directly to the current difficulties in sustaining food production across the country. The bank has not only failed to track these beneficiaries but has also been unable to recover the massive sum disbursed.

The legal action also meticulously details other instances of alleged misappropriation, including over 784 billion Naira in unpaid, overdue loans and interventions disbursed between 2018 and mid-2022. The audit revealed a shocking lack of effort by the bank to recover these funds, which are legally mandated to be returned to the treasury to bolster the nation’s economy.

Beyond these large figures, SERAP’s suit highlights highly questionable expenditures, such as 125 billion Naira spent on “intervention activities” linked to national security and financial capacity building, all conducted without necessary documentation or approval from the National Assembly. This blatant disregard for budgetary procedures suggests a culture of impunity that the lawsuit aims to dismantle.

The allegations extend to unusual spending habits, including over 1.7 billion Naira justified for purchasing 43 operational vehicles for the Nigeria Immigration Service, a move that the Auditor-General found entirely unrelated to the bank’s core mandate as defined by the CBN Act. Moreover, there is absolutely no evidence that these vehicles were ever supplied or delivered, fueling fears that the money was simply diverted into private hands.

The lawsuit also scrutinizes massive construction contracts totaling over 189 billion Naira, where contractors deliberately delayed projects to demand unjustified price variations. The Central Bank allegedly paid out over nine billion Naira in these irregular variations without proper procurement documents, raising fears that these projects have been abandoned and the funds lost forever.

With small-scale interventions also falling victim to mismanagement, such as 90 million Naira in unrecovered loans for small and medium enterprises in Katsina State during the COVID-19 pandemic, the legal action paints a comprehensive picture of systemic dysfunction. SERAP is arguing that these actions constitute grave violations of the Nigerian Constitution and anti-corruption standards, demanding immediate restitution to the public treasury.

As the Federal High Court prepares to handle this complex case, the suit serves as a definitive demand for transparency, asserting the fundamental right of Nigerians to know how their money is utilized by public institutions. The outcome of this case could establish a crucial precedent for accountability in Nigeria’s financial management sector.

This alert follows a series of brutal incidents, most notably the horrific invasion of Woro and Nuku communities in Kwara State last week, where armed bandits allegedly slaughtered nearly 200 people and abducted numerous others. The violence has not been confined to one area; simultaneous attacks were recorded in Kogi, Edo, Niger, Benue, Plateau, Kaduna, and Katsina states, painting a picture of widespread instability threatening the nation’s core.

Afenifere emphasized that the menace is rapidly shifting from remote rural settings to major urban hubs, increasing the vulnerability of city dwellers across the region. This trend was painfully highlighted on Thursday when bandits struck within Ibadan, abducting several residents, including a junior secondary school student in the bustling Challenge area. The fact that such brazen kidnappings are now occurring in the heart of the metropolis rather than just in sparsely populated areas is a significant escalation of the security crisis.

The organization pointed out that the Challenge area is a high-traffic zone connecting Ibadan directly to Lagos, making the abduction a shocking demonstration of the perpetrators’ boldness. According to Afenifere, the threat now encompasses attacks on places of worship, markets, and educational institutions, with Kwara State recently joining the list of heavily impacted areas. This shift necessitates an urgent reassessment of regional security strategies to protect urban populations.

While the six South-West governors recently met in Ibadan on November 24, 2025, to pledge a strengthening of the regional security architecture, Afenifere argues that concrete action is lagging behind the rhetoric. Although initiatives like the planned South West Security Fund and the inauguration of CCTV centers in Ogun State are positive steps, the group believes they are insufficient to counter the immediate threat.

Afenifere insists that the continued surge in banditry is not due to a lack of intelligence, but rather a catastrophic failure to act upon information that is often available beforehand. They argue that terrorism is becoming pervasive because the vital intelligence collected is frequently ignored or poorly processed, failing to protect the citizenry despite warning signs.

A stark example cited by the group is the recent Kwara incident, where the head of Woro village revealed that a warning letter was sent prior to the attack, which he promptly forwarded to higher authorities. Despite this proactive reporting, the tragedy occurred unchecked, highlighting a massive gap between receiving intelligence and taking preventive action.

Furthermore, the organization alleged that perpetrators are often treated with leniency rather than facing the full weight of the law, creating a culture of impunity that encourages further attacks. Afenifere strongly condemned the practice of entering peace pacts with bandits, arguing that such negotiations in certain northern states have completely failed to deter violence and only emboldened criminal elements.

This situation demands a radical departure from current security approaches, with Afenifere calling for immediate, decisive action to secure the borders and interior of the South-West region. The group’s statement reflects a growing frustration among local leaders with the federal government’s inability to halt the spread of terror.

The fear now is that the insecurity plaguing neighboring states will completely overwhelm the defenses of the South-West if drastic measures are not taken. The economic and social fabric of Yoruba land is at risk, and the organization is urging stakeholders to act before the situation spirals entirely out of control.

In a move that highlighted the intersection of politics and faith, the governor attributed the successes of his government to a foundation of unity, tolerance, and a collective endeavor by the people of Bayelsa. Drawing inspiration from Psalm 23, he emphasized that the stability the state currently enjoys is a result of shared effort across different arms of government. Diri underscored the administration’s commitment to transforming the state’s landscape, pointing specifically to ongoing massive infrastructural projects designed to connect the state’s rugged hinterlands to urban centers.

Reflecting on his unconventional political path, Diri offered a candid perspective on his transition, suggesting that his movement between major political parties was part of a larger, divine plan. This narrative of divine orchestration was echoed by prominent figures in attendance, including the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri. Lokpobiri, referring to Diri as the “Miracle Governor,” asserted that no single human actor could take credit for Diri’s rise to power, attributing it strictly to divine intervention that united disparate political actors under one banner.

The sentiment of divine blessing was a central theme throughout the service, with leaders emphasizing that power is ultimately bestowed by God. This perspective helped to foster an atmosphere of humility and gratitude, rather than just political triumphalism. The event served to temporarily bridge political divides, bringing together stakeholders from various affiliations to witness the governor’s acknowledgment of his journey.

In addition to the spiritual focus, the service was a platform to highlight tangible achievements, with the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, praising the governor for cultivating a peaceful environment. Ogbuku argued that this peace has been the prerequisite for all development initiatives currently flourishing across Bayelsa, creating an atmosphere conducive to investment and growth.

Further validating the impact of the administration, Dr. Mitema Obordor of the House of Representatives characterized the past six years as visionary, noting the strategic foresight behind the governor’s policies. The remarks focused on the long-term benefits of the infrastructure projects rather than just short-term political gains.

A significant highlight of the reflections was the praise from the Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah, who lauded the governor for prioritizing peace and stability. He specifically cited the construction of the Nembe-Brass road as a monumental achievement, arguing that it has not only enhanced connectivity but also drastically reduced piracy in the area, thereby bolstering local security and unity.

The spiritual dimension of the day was deepened by the sermon delivered by Pastor Daddy-Ken Bitere, who reminded the audience that leaders are merely instruments chosen to fulfill divine promises. His prayers focused on equipping the governor with continued wisdom to navigate the complex challenges of governance in the Niger Delta region.

The high-profile gathering included notable personalities such as former First Lady Patience Jonathan, the governor’s family, and numerous lawmakers, reinforcing the event’s importance in the state’s political calendar. As Diri moves into the next phase of his leadership, the Thanksgiving service established a narrative of divine mandate and collective progress. The event solidifies his standing as a leader focused on bridging gaps and building infrastructure for the future of Bayelsa.

At the center of the controversy is a viral video featuring Amaechi warning Nigerians about a supposed catastrophic tax policy that he claims will be implemented immediately after the next general election if the All Progressives Congress retains power. Amaechi painted a grim picture, alleging that a massive chunk of payments for services or goods would be automatically deducted from citizens’ accounts. He suggested that for every one hundred million Naira paid for materials, twenty-five million Naira would vanish directly from the recipient’s account, effectively imposing a crippling twenty-five percent tax burden on the economy.

Amaechi argued that this alleged measure would trigger a devastating economic ripple effect, causing landlords to drastically increase rents and professionals to hike their prices to offset the loss. He specifically warned that this burden would be transferred down the chain to doctors, carpenters, and ultimately, everyday Nigerians trying to survive. The former minister challenged the public to verify these claims with legal professionals, suggesting that the government is strategically waiting until after the election to implement the policy to avoid voter backlash.

However, the Presidency quickly moved to squash these claims, with Onanuga accusing Amaechi of sinking to a new low by intentionally misinforming the public about the true nature of tax regulations. Onanuga dismissed the narrative as blatant falsehood, expressing disbelief that a former high-ranking government official would propagate such unverified information. He queried whether this tactic is a deliberate preview of the opposition’s campaign strategy for the 2027 election, rather than a genuine concern for public welfare.

This confrontation underscores a significant battle over narrative and public perception between the current administration and opposition figures. By attacking the credibility of the former minister, the presidency aims to reassure citizens that no such punitive tax policy is in the works, emphasizing stability over alarmism. The swift response indicates that the government intends to aggressively combat what it considers misinformation campaigns that could undermine its economic agenda.

The economic implications mentioned by Amaechi, while alarming, are framed by the presidency as unfounded fear-mongering rather than legitimate policy critique. Citizens are now left to navigate these conflicting narratives, with the opposition focusing on potential future hardships and the government emphasizing current stability and responsible governance. This episode further illustrates how quickly economic issues can become highly charged political weapons in the Nigerian context.

As the political landscape continues to evolve toward the next electoral showdown, such public disputes are likely to become more frequent. Both sides are keenly aware of the power of social media to amplify messages, whether they are accurate assessments of policy or political theater. The presidency’s decisive dismissal of Amaechi’s claims serves as a warning that they will not tolerate narratives they deem harmful to their reputation or economic plans.

The debate over the tax law highlights a fundamental disagreement regarding economic strategy, transparency, and the role of the government in managing the cost of living. While Amaechi focuses on potential future burdens, the administration focuses on present actions and the integrity of its information dissemination. This public clash ensures that economic policy and its impact on the populace will remain central to the political discourse moving forward.