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Supreme Court Nullifies Appeal Court’s Judgment, Sends Fred Ajudua Back To Prison

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The Supreme Court of Nigeria has nullified the bail granted to Lagos-based businessman and former socialite Fred Ajudua, ordering his immediate return to prison over a decades-old fraud case.

In a unanimous ruling delivered on Friday, the apex court held that the Court of Appeal erred by granting bail to Ajudua, who is standing trial for allegedly defrauding a German company of $1 million through an advance fee fraud scheme dating back more than 30 years.

The Supreme Court also directed Justice Mojisola Dada of the Lagos State High Court to resume trial proceedings immediately.

Once a prominent figure in Lagos social circles during the 1990s and early 2000s, Ajudua has long faced multiple high-profile fraud allegations.

His legal troubles trace back to the early 1990s, when he was first accused of orchestrating a $1 million scam against a German businessman.

Originally arraigned before Justice Josephine Oyefeso of the Lagos High Court, the case was later refiled by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and reassigned to Justice Dada.

At his re-arraignment on July 6, 2018, Ajudua sought bail on health grounds.

However, Justice Dada rejected the application, emphasizing the case’s long history and the need to avoid further delays.

“This case is one of the oldest in Lagos State. Bail is refused and the defendant is to be remanded in prison custody,” Justice Dada ruled, according to Channels TV.

Ajudua’s lead counsel, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), subsequently approached the Court of Appeal in Lagos, challenging the lower court’s decision.

The appellate court, led by Justice Mohammed Garba, overturned Justice Dada’s ruling, affirming Ajudua’s right to bail.

The appellate court ruled that bail was a constitutional entitlement and allowed Ajudua to remain on bail under existing conditions.

Unhappy with the appellate decision, the EFCC escalated the matter to the Supreme Court.

The anti-graft agency argued that the Court of Appeal had overlooked the gravity of the charges and the prolonged delays that had characterized the case.

Agreeing with the EFCC, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of revoking the bail, ordering Ajudua’s remand and a resumption of trial under Justice Dada’s oversight.

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US Military Begins Discharge Of 1,000 Transgender Troops Following Supreme Court Judgment

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The United States military has begun the process of discharging around 1,000 transgender service members following a recent Supreme Court decision that allowed a ban on their service to take immediate effect.

The decision stems from an executive order issued by President Donald Trump in January 2025, which barred transgender individuals from serving in the military.

The Supreme Court upheld the order this week, permitting its implementation while legal challenges continue.

According to a Pentagon memo issued by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, “The Military Departments will immediately begin processing for separation service members who previously self-identified for voluntary separation prior to March 26, 2025.”

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell clarified that approximately 1,000 active personnel diagnosed with gender dysphoria are affected.

A senior defense official noted that as of late last year, 4,240 service members had such diagnoses.

Those who do not leave voluntarily will face mandatory separation by June 6 for active-duty members and June 7 for reserves, the memo stated.

“On conclusion of the self-identification eligibility window, the Military Departments will initiate involuntary separation processes,” it read.

In his executive order, Trump wrote, “Expressing a false ‘gender identity’ divergent from an individual’s sex cannot satisfy the rigorous standards necessary for military service.”

The Pentagon further emphasized its position in a February memo, stating transgender troops would be removed unless granted individual waivers.

The policy also bars new transgender enlistments.

This marks another shift in a long-contested issue in the U.S. armed forces, where transgender individuals have seen fluctuating levels of acceptance depending on the administration in power.

Democratic-led governments have generally supported their right to serve openly, while Trump has consistently opposed it.

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Anambra Is Safe, Tinubu’s Peaceful Visit Shows – Police

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The Anambra State Police Command has declared that President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to the state is a clear testament to the security and safety of the region.

Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu made this known in a statement released on Friday in Awka through the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.

During his visit, President Tinubu commissioned several key projects including the newly built Anambra State Government House, the Solution Fun City, as well as the Governor’s and Presidential lodges.

He also inaugurated the Emeka Anyaoku Institute for International Studies and Diplomacy Centre located at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

Commending the conduct of residents, Orutugu said, “The hosting of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Awka further confirms that Anambra state is safe for residents and visitors.”

The Police Commissioner also emphasized the importance of proactive security measures in the state, stating that “prioritising security coordination and collaboration was a proactive approach to addressing security concerns and promoting a safer environment for all.”

He applauded the efforts of the police and other security agencies for their commitment and effective coordination in ensuring safety throughout the President’s visit.

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JAMB Withholds Nearly 40,000 UTME Results Over Malpractice

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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially released the results of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), but with a significant caveat, 39,834 results have been withheld over suspicions of malpractice.

The announcement was made on Friday by the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, during a press briefing at the Board’s headquarters in Bwari, Abuja.

According to Oloyede, the Board is investigating a number of exam-related infractions, stating that “about 80 individuals are being probed for exam-related offences.”

He added that Anambra State topped the list in terms of the number of suspects linked to examination misconduct.

The Registrar explained that the decision to withhold the results was driven by the Board’s zero-tolerance stance on cheating and its commitment to upholding the integrity of the examination process.

“The seizure of results was due to suspected examination malpractices,” he said.

JAMB assured the public that thorough investigations are ongoing, and decisions on the withheld results will be made in due course based on the outcomes.

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‘Once A Teacher, Always A Teacher’, Gov. Aiyedatiwa Returns To Classroom

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A heartwarming video of Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, returning to the classroom has gone viral, capturing the moment he taught a lesson to pupils at an unidentified school in the state.

The video, originally posted on the Governor’s official Facebook page with the caption, “Once a teacher, always a teacher,” shows Aiyedatiwa actively engaging with the class.

In the clip, he writes the word “Drugs” on the board and interacts with the pupils, asking them to identify three types of drugs.

The students responded eagerly, creating an animated and participatory atmosphere.

The Governor’s visit to the classroom comes on the heels of his recent educational initiatives, particularly the recruitment of 1,100 primary school teachers in March 2025.

The recruitment exercise spanned all 18 local government areas of Ondo State and was part of the 2023/2024 UBEC/SUBEB intervention.

According to the Governor, the initiative is a cornerstone of ongoing efforts to revamp education across the state.

In an accompanying update shared alongside the video, he wrote, “Today, we took a significant stride toward a brighter future for our children as we flagged off the distribution of textbooks, Android tablets, and sports equipment to public schools across Ondo State.”

He emphasized the state’s commitment to educational equity and infrastructure development, stating, “This initiative, funded through the 2023/2024 UBEC/SUBEB intervention, underscores our unwavering commitment to quality education for every child, regardless of background.”

The Governor also highlighted the progress made so far under the intervention scheme: “Classrooms under construction and rehabilitation in over 100 schools, Over 75,000 textbooks and digital learning resources distributed, State-of-the-art furniture and modern learning facilities provided, 2,100+ new teachers recruited, trained, and empowered, Comprehensive support for sports and extracurricular excellence.”

He added, “We are laying a solid foundation for the next generation, ensuring our children have the skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

Reaffirming his administration’s education-driven agenda, Aiyedatiwa concluded “with every book, tablet, and sports kit, we are investing in the leaders of tomorrow. Together, we will continue to advance education, empower dreams, and unlock potential.”

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Police Rescue 25 Ivorians, Arrest Eight Over Cross-Border Kidnapping Gang

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Adejobi,

Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with Interpol, have rescued 25 Ivorian nationals who were abducted by a cross-border kidnapping syndicate operating in Ogun State.

The operation, described as swift and coordinated, followed a formal request from the National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abidjan.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the rescue effort was launched after a report was filed by one Kaussi Marianman, who alleged that her son had been lured to Nigeria under false pretenses.

“The operation was triggered by a report filed on April 23rd, 2025, by Mrs. Kaussi Amenan Marianman at NCB Abidjan alleging that her son, Ladji Yoa Pierre, had been lured to Nigeria under false pretenses by some individuals who were later identified as Simon Oliver and Michael Odunga, promised to facilitate his travel documents to Belgium,” Adejobi said.

He explained that once Pierre arrived in Nigeria, he was held captive, and his abductors demanded a ransom of 2.5 million CFA francs—equivalent to ₦6.6 million.

“Once in Nigeria, Ladji Yoa Pierre was held captive, with the abductors demanding a ransom of two million five hundred CFA (equivalent to six million six hundred and twenty-five thousand Naira),” Adejobi added.

Commissioner of Police, INTERPOL Annex Lagos, Bode Ojajuni, promptly dispatched a team of experienced investigators to locate the suspects and rescue the hostages.

“Upon receiving the request from NCB Abidjan, the Commissioner of Police INTERPOL, Annex, Lagos, CP Bode Ojajuni psc, immediately deployed a team of trained investigators to rescue the victim and apprehend his abductors,” Adejobi stated.

The operation began on May 5, 2025, when police operatives stormed Osehi Hotel in Ado-Odo Ota, Ogun State, where they rescued two victims and arrested two suspects.

A follow-up raid in the Ejegun Itele area led to the rescue of 23 additional victims, including Pierre, and the arrest of six more suspects.

“On May 5th, 2025, the team successfully stormed the hideout of the abductors rescuing two victims and apprehended two suspects at Osehi Hotel, located at Ado-Odo Ota, Ogun State.”

“Subsequent operation conducted at Ejegun Itele, Ado-odo-Ota resulted in the rescue of 23 additional victims, including the said Ladji Yoa Pierre, and the arrest of six more suspects,” he noted.

Following the successful operation, Pierre was reunited with his mother, who had travelled from Côte d’Ivoire.

The remaining 24 rescued victims were handed over to the Assistant Comptroller General of Immigration at the Zone A Headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos, for further procedures.

“The eight apprehended suspects are in Police custody undergoing investigation for possible prosecution,” Adejobi confirmed.

He also revealed that the Head of NCB Abidjan had, in a letter dated May 6, 2025, commended the Nigeria Police Force and its Interpol Unit for their excellent work and expressed hope for deeper cooperation in tackling trans-border crimes.

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Natasha: ‘I Won’t Step Down Over False Claims’, Says Akpabio

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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has firmly dismissed mounting pressure for him to resign, following recent allegations and growing criticism from civil society groups and opposition leaders.

Akpabio is currently under fire over accusations of sexual harassment made by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as well as his alleged involvement in electoral malpractice during the 2019 general elections.

Several Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have called for his resignation, arguing that stepping aside would pave the way for a credible investigation and preserve the Senate’s institutional credibility.

Speaking during Thursday’s plenary, Akpabio defended himself, rejecting the allegations as baseless and stating his refusal to step down.

“I will not have answered you, but for the fact that you said those who would have asked you to step down. Who told you I was going to step down?” he said.

He drew a parallel with the American justice system, referencing racial injustices.

“You know, if you watch the colour of America, there are Black people who went to prison for false allegations. Some were there for 25 years,” he added.

“So, I’m not one of those people who will step down over false allegations. When it is eventually proven that the allegation is false, they will say, ‘Oh well… I’m not that bad.’”

“So if you had that in mind, please cancel it. I must thank you for the words you spoke today.” he concluded.

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Court Throws Out MultiChoice’s Suit Against FCCPC Over Price Hike Dispute

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The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a lawsuit filed by MultiChoice Nigeria, owners of DStv and GOtv, challenging the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission’s (FCCPC) involvement in its recent subscription price hike.

In his judgment on Thursday, Justice James Omotoso ruled that the case constituted an abuse of court process, pointing out that a similar matter was already pending before another court.

He held that MultiChoice should have continued its arguments in the ongoing case rather than initiating a fresh suit.

Although he acknowledged the FCCPC’s right to investigate corporate practices under its enabling Act, the judge emphasized that the commission lacked the power to set or suspend prices unless explicitly authorized by the president through a gazetted order under Section 88 of the FCCPA.

“The power to fix prices is exclusively that of the president. Any decision taken without such delegation is a nullity,” Justice Omotoso stated.

He underlined that Nigeria operates a free market economy where service providers like MultiChoice are allowed to determine their own pricing, leaving consumers the option to accept or reject them.

He also found that FCCPC’s order to suspend MultiChoice’s price adjustment infringed upon the company’s right to fair hearing and suggested the action was selective.

“The use of services like those provided by the plaintiff is discretionary and not essential. Nigeria can do without it,” the judge declared.

Justice Omotoso further warned that undue price control by regulators could discourage investment and damage the country’s economic reputation.

While the FCCPC may carry out investigations into market behaviors, it cannot enforce pricing rules without proper presidential delegation, he concluded.

MultiChoice had increased its subscription rates by up to 25% on March 1, 2025, citing inflation and increased operational costs.

The FCCPC pushed back, labeling the hike as exploitative and demanding a regulatory review, leading to the court battle.

Following the ruling, FCCPC Director General Tunji Bello expressed satisfaction, noting that the judgment affirms that the president can delegate the commission to regulate prices, investigate market abuse, and report its findings and recommendations.

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2027: APGA Mum As Soludo Endorses Tinubu For Second Term

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Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has pledged his full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Soludo, the only governor from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), made this commitment during a historic visit by Tinubu to Anambra on Thursday, describing the event as both “historic and symbolic.”

This endorsement comes as President Tinubu, representing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has not yet officially declared his intention to run for re-election.

Soludo’s statement follows a similar declaration by Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who also expressed support for Tinubu’s second term.

This development has raised concerns about Nigeria potentially moving towards a one-party system as opposition forces weaken.

While addressing attendees at the event, Soludo emphasized the shared ideological foundation between APGA and APC, particularly their commitment to progressivism.

“In 2011, before I joined APGA in 2013, the party took an official position to support and collaborate with the political party and government at the centre.”

“That year, APGA adopted the then-sitting president as its presidential candidate. That policy has not changed,” Soludo explained.

“Coincidentally, Mr. President, the current government at the centre also professes progressivism. As Nigeria’s foremost progressive party, APGA is ideologically and strategically aligned with the centre. Those in the APC are our brothers and sisters,” he added.

Soludo, who is aiming for re-election in November, called for unity among all parties that support a progressive agenda.

“In preparation for this visit, some raised concerns about making it a partisan event. But I insisted the APC in Anambra be allowed to come out in their colours and welcome the president, all in the spirit of progressivism,” he said.

“We are progressives together. Here in Anambra, we know who leads the progressive movement.”

The governor also urged for greater cohesion among centre-left political groups under Tinubu’s leadership.

“Mr. President, it is time for all progressives, federalists, and social democratic-leaning parties to unite in advancing the cause of a united and progressive Nigeria.”

“We request you, as the leader of the largest progressive party, to rally us together in this ideological movement,” Soludo stated.

As part of the president’s visit, all 179 communities in Anambra bestowed upon Tinubu the chieftaincy title “Dike Simba Anambra”, recognizing his leadership and contributions to the state.

Soludo remarked, “This title, along with the overwhelming reception across the state, shows that Anambra people are solidly behind you, Mr. President.”

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Resident Doctors Oppose NUC’s ‘Doctor’ Title For Pharmacists, Others, Warn Of Confusion, Quackery

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The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has strongly opposed the National Universities Commission’s (NUC) recent decision to confer the title of “Doctor” on graduates of Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, and Optometry in Nigerian universities.

In a statement released by its Executive Council, NARD acknowledged its support for the advancement and welfare of all healthcare professionals but warned that altering degree titles without adequate safeguards could lead to widespread confusion, interprofessional disputes, and even promote quackery in the country’s overstretched healthcare system.

The NUC justified its move by referencing “global best practices” and said the change aligns Nigeria with international standards, allowing Pharmacy graduates to bear the PharmD title, Physiotherapists the DPT title, and Optometrists the OD title.

But NARD rejected this reasoning, stressing that the development lacks proper structural foundation and misrepresents how professional titles are handled in advanced health systems.

“Globally, there is no precedent where pharmacists, physiotherapists, or optometrists in public institutions earn more than medical doctors,” the association stated.

It noted that in countries like the UK and Germany, such titles are reserved for those with PhDs or clinical doctorates attained through postgraduate training.

“Over the past two decades, agitations by other health worker groups have increasingly focused on competing with medical doctors rather than driving systemic improvements,” NARD remarked.

“Between 2005 and 2025, most strikes by these groups have centred on demands to adjust the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) to match the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).”

The statement further read: “Conferring the title ‘Doctor’ on multiple professional groups without public education or structural clarity may confuse patients, worsen interprofessional tensions, and enable quackery in an already fragile health system. Teamwork in care delivery depends on clear roles and trust.”

NARD also pointed out that key aspects of clinical leadership and diagnosis are still firmly under the domain of licensed medical doctors around the world.

“Patients typically seek doctors for diagnosis and treatment decisions, a fact reflected in salary structures and clinical governance worldwide,” the association said.

It added: “While the NUC cites ‘global best practices,’ countries like the UK and Germany do not grant the ‘Doctor’ title to pharmacists or physiotherapists after undergraduate training, except through a PhD. These systems emphasise clear clinical boundaries and robust governance.”

Highlighting its stance on professional identity, NARD concluded: “We believe all healthcare professionals should take pride in their unique roles. If one wishes to become a medical doctor, there is a rigorous, defined pathway for that.”

“We respectfully urge the NUC to reconsider this change and instead pursue policies that strengthen collaboration, clarity, and excellence in healthcare,” the statement added.

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