The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, ordered that 48 properties linked to the former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, be taken over by the Federal Government.
Delivering the ruling, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had proven that the properties were likely bought with money from illegal activities.
The EFCC had filed the suit seeking to permanently take over 57 properties worth N212.8 billion alleged to be linked to Malami. Justice Abdulmalik said Malami failed to show that he acquired the properties through legal means.
Earlier, the judge dismissed several applications and motions filed to claim ownership of the properties by Malami, his family members, and some companies linked to the properties. She stated that the issue before the court was not “who owns the properties, but whether the money used to buy the properties was legitimately obtained.”
Justice Abdulmalik gave the order based on Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act.
However, the judge also cancelled the earlier court order on nine other properties included in the EFCC’s application. She said the anti-graft agency failed to prove that the nine properties located in Kebbi and Kaduna states were bought with illegal money.
Teachers and pupils abducted during the May 15, 2026 attack on schools in Ahoro-Esiele community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, have regained their freedom after spending over 50 days in captivity.
The victims were kidnapped when heavily armed gunmen attacked three schools in the community, abducting dozens of pupils, teachers, and the school principal. The attack sparked nationwide condemnation and renewed concerns about the safety of schools across Nigeria.
The ordeal took a tragic turn days after the abduction when one of the kidnapped teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed by the abductors. The incident heightened public anxiety and calls for urgent measures to secure educational institutions.
Confirming their release, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the victims were rescued through a coordinated operation by Nigerian security agencies.
According to him, eight suspected kidnappers were arrested and are currently in the custody of the Department of State Services, DSS, while several others were neutralized during the operation.
Onanuga stated that no ransom was paid and no prisoner swap took place. He explained that although the kidnappers demanded the release of one of their kingpins, the Federal Government rejected the demand because the suspect is already facing prosecution for terrorism-related offences.
He added that security agencies would provide a comprehensive briefing on the rescue operation in due course.
The successful rescue has brought relief to the victims’ families, the Ahoro-Esiele community, and Nigerians who followed the case for more than eight weeks.
Security agencies are expected to release further details on the operation, including the condition of the rescued victims and ongoing efforts to apprehend other members of the kidnapping syndicat
Edo State Former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice,Dr Samson Osagie has congratulated the Chairman-Elect of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Omorodion Omogui, Esq., and members of his executive on their emergence as Chairman-Elect and members of the NBA Executive.
In a congratulatory message personally signed by him, the former Chief Law Officer stated: “Your emergence into these distinguished offices is a reflection of the unwavering commitment, confidence, trust, and respect that your colleagues have reposed in your individual and collective abilities.”
He expressed optimism that the team, which has earned their leadership through demonstrated service, sound judgment, and competence of character, has gained trust and has embodied same to their colleagues.
Dr. Osagie admonished the Chairman-Elect and his exco, as they embark on this new and exciting chapter of leadership, to approach their responsibilities with courage, humility, fairness, transparency, and unwavering dedication.
Other members include ,Mrs Osama Idehen ,Vice-Chairman elect,Bright Iluobe Esq,Secretary,Roland Oboh,Esq,Treasurer,Osayuki Agbonghare, Public Relations Officer,Mercy Ime-Okon ,Esq,Welfare Secretary,Miss Ivie Salome Financial Secretary,Famous Onoriode Esq,Assistant Secretary,Osakpolor Orobor,Esq,Provost and Anwoluwapo Akintomide Esq,Soccial Secretary
He concluded by urging them to be productive and provide forward-looking, positive leadership for the legal community, even as they build on the impact of the outgoing leadership. He congratulated the team on a well-deserved victory, and wished them well as they embark on the saddle.
It is with immense gratitude to God almighty and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, that I congratulate Hon Patrick Obahiagbon on his well deserved Appointment as EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Ltd. Given his contributions to the All Progressives Congress and his consistent commitment to the development of our nation, this Appointment comes at a time it is most appropriate and necessary. I congratulate you Sir and pray God to guide and guard you in as you assume duty at the NDPHC. Once again congratulations.
Rt Hon Samson R Osagie, PhD Managing Partner, Samson Ima-Osagie & Associates [Law & Justice Chambers] Legal Practitioners ,Mediators & Notary Public Abuja | Benin | Lagos- Nigeria
Nigeria on Wednesday moved closer to establishing state police after the Senate passed the controversial Constitution Alteration Bill to decentralise policing. The bill now shifts to the 36 state Houses of Assembly, where at least 24 legislatures must approve it before it becomes law.
The Senate’s passage marks a major breakthrough in a debate that has dominated Nigeria’s security discussions for decades. It comes amid worsening insecurity across the country, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes and organised crime.
The legislation seeks to create state-controlled police services alongside the existing Nigeria Police Force. Senators approved it after securing the required two-thirds majority through manual voting, following technical glitches with the chamber’s electronic devices.
With both chambers of the National Assembly now backing the proposal, attention has moved to state assemblies. Their approval will determine if Nigeria finally abandons its long-standing exclusive federal policing structure. The amendment is regarded as one of the most consequential constitutional reforms since democracy returned in 1999.
At the heart of the reform is a provision empowering governors to appoint Commissioners of Police for their states, subject to confirmation by state Houses of Assembly. Under Clause 17 of the proposed amendment: “While the Federal Police Service will continue to be headed by the Inspector-General of Police, each State Police Service shall be headed by a Commissioner of Police appointed by the governor and confirmed by the legislature of the state”
Goal 3 of the SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS says the Goal is aimed at “ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages”.
It is one of the 17 UN SDGs, featuring 13 specific targets and 27 indicators designed to address major global health priorities, from reducing mortality rates to tackling communicable and non-communicable diseases.
Bisam Care Foundation asks the question: what is the role of individuals and organizations in achieving Goal 3 of the SDGs?
Your role is love,check your genotype before marriage,love with knowledge not just with emotions.
Your role is awareness.Speak to your neighbor, share correct information. Stop the stigma. A sickle cell warrior is not cursed, they are champions…
Individuals can build compassion in their homes and communities.
And To every Sickle Cell warrior we encourage to remain strong, resilient and positive as our Foundation sees your strength, and we celebrate your life.
As we mark this year’s World Sickle Cell Day, let us all play our part. Because when individuals act, SDGs become real.
The BISAM CARE FOUNDATION Inc identifies with every Sickle Cell warrior in Nigeria and wishes to assure them that our Foundation will continue to support as many as our resources can take us.
In 2024 and 2025 the Foundation reached out to warriors at the Sickle Cell Centre in Benin and will continue to advocate for support for them.
Lady Uyioghosa Honour Osagie Executive Director BISAM CARE FOUNDATION Inc 19th June, 2023
The Pro-Chancellor, University of Benin, Professor Umaru Shuaibu, Chairman, Board of Trustees, UNIBEN Trust Development Fund (UNIBEN-TDF), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, Esq, and the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Edoba B. Omoregie, SAN, have visited the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, CON, in Abuja to intimate him of the formal launch of the ₦100b, UNIBEN-Trust Development Fund scheduled for Saturday 4th July, 2026, and to formally request the Honorable Minister to be present at the event.
The Chairman UNIBEN-TDF, explained that the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Omoregie, took on the Minister’s challenge to Vice-Chancellors to mobilise alumni and other stakeholders to support their various universities for sustainable development.
Responding, the Minister commended the Vice-Chancellor for the bold step and requested that invitation be extended to other Vice Chancellors and Pro-Chancellors to witness the historic ceremony. The Minister thanked the delegation for the visit and promised to be present at the launch.
The Pro-Chancellor, on behalf of Council, acknowledged Dr Alausa’s unwavering efforts in transforming the educational landscape of the country. He assured him that the project has the support of the University of Benin Governing Council, and that the presence of the Minister will be a great boost to the initiative .
A High Court sitting in Benin has convicted and sentenced five persons to death by hanging for their roles in the kidnap and murder of legal practitioner Omon Iyoha14 Osobase in 2020.
The case was prosecuted by Orobosa Okunbor Esq., P. E. Isibor-Enabulele Esq. and O. Akenuwa-Osamede Esq.
Judgment was delivered 10/6/2026, by His Lordship, Hon. Justice Efe Ikponmwoba, in the case of State vs Valentine Dibie & 5 Ors, Charge number B/CD/36C/2022.
Osobase was kidnapped and murdered on the 9th day of May, 2020. Eight defendants were initially charged for conspiracy, kidnapping and murder. However, after the EndSARS protest and prison break, six defendants were later charged.
The court convicted the 1st defendant, Valentine Dibie, for conspiracy, kidnapping and murder. The 3rd defendant, Solomon Enobun, and 4th defendant, Ambrose Amadi, were also convicted for conspiracy, kidnapping and murder. The 5th defendant, Enoma Okuonghae, and 6th defendant, Saturday Imagbe, were convicted for kidnapping.
The 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th defendants were sentenced to death by hanging for the offence of kidnapping. The 1st, 3rd and 4th defendants were also sentenced to death by hanging for murder, while the same three were sentenced to 14 years imprisonment for conspiracy.
The court judgment discharged and acquainted the 2nd defendant.
Former Attorney General of Edo State, Dr. Samson Osagie, has congratulated Hon. Washington Osifo on his nomination as Commissioner-Designate in the Government of Edo State.
In his message, Dr. Osagie described Hon. Osifo’s nomination as a clear testament to his dedication, experience, and unwavering commitment to public service.
“Congratulations on your re-nomination as Commissioner-Designate in the Government of Edo State. Given your enviable credentials and record of public service, I have no doubt that your re-appointment as Commissioner will bring significant benefits to the state and our local government in particular,” he said.
Dr. Osagie further expressed confidence that Hon. Osifo will continue to add value to Governor Monday Okpebholo’s vision of inclusive governance, accountability, and service delivery across Edo State.
“Once again, congratulations. I wish you every success as you take on this new responsibility.” He concluded
For many Persons with Disabilities, PWDs, in Edo State, government laws have often felt distant , written in complex language and locked away in documents they could not easily read or use. This narrative has changed as the Edo State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo,has unveiled an accessible version of the Edo State Persons Living With Disability Law, 2022.
The goal is simple: move the law from government files to the hands of the people it was made to protect.
The unveiling ceremony, held in Benin City, was organised by the Edo State Commission for Persons with Disabilities, EDSCPD, in collaboration with the Network for the Advancement of People with Disabilities and the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme, RoLAC. The hall was filled with Persons leaving with Disabilities (PWDs,) caregivers, community leaders and advocates who have long called for clearer information on disability rights.
Speaking at the event, the Secretary to the State Government,Umar Musa Ikhilor, represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary of his office ,Mr. Ernest Ohunyon, said the initiative has addressed a major barrier in understanding.
“The strength of any society lies not only in its physical structures but also in the extent to which it guarantees equal opportunities for all citizens,” Ikhilor stated. “By making the law accessible, we are strengthening public awareness, encouraging compliance, and empowering citizens with the knowledge required to claim and protect their rights within the framework of the law”.
He reaffirmed that the Okpebholo administration remains committed to building an inclusive Edo where persons with disabilities are not viewed through the lens of dependency or limitation, but as equal contributors with the right to thrive.
The moment drew excitement from stakeholders. In his goodwill message, the Executive Director of the Network for the Advancement of People with Visible Disabilities, NAPVID, Barr Melody Omosah, said the accessible version gives families a fighting chance. He called for radio programmes in local dialects to push the message further into communities.
Omosah then walked the audience through key provisions that now feel less like legal jargon. Section 18, he explained, guarantees the right to education for persons with disabilities from primary to tertiary levels. The law also mandates at least one special school in each of Edo State’s 18 local government areas and makes it an offence for parents or guardians to deny children with disabilities access to education.
Earlier, Chairman of the Edo State Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Mr. Theophilus Egbodion, described the accessible version as a tool for dignity. “When people understand their rights, they can demand them. This version puts that power directly in the hands of PWDs,” he said.
With copies of the accessible law now ready for distribution across the 18 LGAs, the government says the next phase is grassroots sensitization.
