News
Law Firm Gives Okpebholo 7 Days To Apologise, Retract Threat To Peter Obi’s Freedom Of Movement
Published
2 months agoon
By
Editor
Alegal firm, Festus Ogun Legal (FOLEGAL), has given the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, a seven-day ultimatum to retract unconstitutional threats and tender a public apology to Mr. Peter Obi and the good people of Nigeria.
The governor had threatened that Obi “must not come to Edo without security clearance,” warning that his safety would not be guaranteed if he failed to heed the warning.
In a public statement issued through his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on July 21, 2025, Governor Okpebholo reiterated that there is a need for Obi “to notify and seek security clearance from the Governor before embarking on any public engagement within the state.”
READ ALSO: ‘If Obi Likes, He Should Take My Advice,’ Okpebholo Insist On Security Clearance
However, the law firm, in a letter to the governor dated July 21, titled “Threat to Mr. Peter Obi is Illegal and Unconstitutional,” and signed by Festus Ogun, Esq., Managing Partner, stated that threatening Obi not to visit Edo State without security clearance from his office is not supported by law.
The law firm cited Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and some decided cases by various courts, which hold that a governor lacks the right or power to restrict the freedom of movement of any person without recourse to law.
The letter stated, “With respect, threatening Mr. Peter Obi not to visit Edo State without security clearance from your office is certainly not supported by law. Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) provides that every citizen of Nigeria is entitled to move freely throughout Nigeria and to reside in any part thereof, and no citizen of Nigeria shall be expelled from Nigeria or refused entry thereby or exit therefrom.
“Similarly, the Court of Appeal in Faith Okafor v Lagos State Government (2016) LPELR-41066 (CA) made it very clear that a Governor lacks the right or power to restrict the freedom of movement of any person without recourse to law.”
The law firm described as preposterous the idea that the governor would subject Obi to any form of security clearance or approval before visiting Edo State for any purpose.
“It is, in fact, a gross violation of Mr. Peter Obi’s constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of movement,” the firm insisted.
“Considering the foregoing, we hereby respectfully request that you retract the unconstitutional threats and tender a public apology to Mr. Peter Obi and the good people of Nigeria,” the letter read.
“We are confident that this modest request will be met within 7 days of receipt of this letter. In the unlikely event that our request is not met within the timeframe, we may be compelled to institute a fundamental rights enforcement lawsuit against you, in the interest of our constitutional democracy and the rule of law.”
“We trust that you are properly advised and would act accordingly,” the letter added.
You may like
Keyamo Warns PDP Against Fielding Jonathan, Obi In 2027
Ex-TVC’s ‘Your View Host,’ Afolabi-Brown, Admits Ignorance In Past Criticism Of Peter Obi
Why I’d Choose Tinubu Over Obi – Adeyanju
Edo PDP Knocks Okpebholo Over ₦2.5b Donation To UBTH
Peter Obi’s Son, Oseloka, Speaks On Gay Allegations
2027 Presidency: Idahosa Reiterates Okpebholo’s Promises Of Delivering Edo To Tinubu
News
W’Cup Qualifiers: Super Eagles Edge Rwanda 1-0 To Revive Qualification Hopes
Published
5 hours agoon
September 6, 2025By
Editor
In a high-stakes 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria secured a vital 1–0 victory over Rwanda, breathing new life into their qualification hopes.
The only goal of the match came in the 51st minute when Tolu Arokodare capitalized on a loose ball in the penalty area, slotting it past Rwanda’s goalkeeper to give Nigeria a crucial lead.
The first half ended goalless, with both teams cautious in their approach. Nigeria’s defense, marshalled by Calvin Bassey, held firm despite Rwanda’s tactical shifts in the second half.
READ ALSO:
Nigeria suffered a blow as star striker Victor Osimhen limped off in the first half, replaced by Cyril Dessers. Despite the setback, the Super Eagles maintained pressure to secure the vital win.
The victory moves Nigeria to 10 points from 7 matches in Group C, while Rwanda remains on 8 points, making the race for World Cup qualification even tighter.
Fans reacted passionately on social media platforms, with many praising the team’s resilience and expressing concern over Osimhen’s injury.
Looking ahead, Nigeria will aim to build on this momentum in their upcoming fixtures to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
News
NCDC Alerts Nigeria As DR Congo Declares Ebola Outbreak
Published
5 hours agoon
September 6, 2025By
Editor
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public health advisory following the confirmation of a new Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
As of September 4, 2025, the DRC has reported 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including four health workers, in the Kasai Province.
The Director-General of NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, said the agency will continue to monitor the regional and global situations as there are no cases of Ebola virus disease in Nigeria, as of now.
However, the NCDC is taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease, and it is working closely with relevant Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Partners to strengthen preparedness and response measures in Nigeria.
READ ALSO:Ebola In Uganda: NCDC Ups Preparedness, Cautions Nigerians On Travel
Idris urged Nigerians to practice good hand hygiene by washing their hands regularly with soap under running water or using hand sanitisers. He also advised Nigerians to avoid physical contact with anyone showing symptoms of infection or an unknown diagnosis.
Additionally, individuals should handle animals with gloves and protective clothing, and cook animal products thoroughly to reduce the risk of wildlife-to-human transmission.
Furthermore, people should avoid direct contact with the blood, saliva, vomit, urine, and other bodily fluids of suspected or confirmed EVD cases.
The NCDC advises Nigerian citizens and residents to avoid all but essential travel to countries with confirmed Ebola cases. Those with recent travel history to affected areas who experience symptoms should promptly call the NCDC hotline (6232) or their State Ministry of Health hotline for assessment and testing.
READ ALSO:NCDC Confirms 80 Deaths From 413 Lassa Fever Cases In 11 States
They should also shelter-in-place to avoid further spread through shared transport systems and await dedicated responders for assessment and possible transport to a treatment centre.
The NCDC is strengthening surveillance across the country, including borders and airports, and enhancing laboratory capacities for quick testing of suspected cases.
Idris assured that the agency will continue to provide periodic updates on the situation as the Ebola outbreak in the DRC is caused by the Zaire strain, with a mortality rate estimated at 57%.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has deployed experts to support response efforts, and the DRC has activated its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre.

Confusion has erupted online over a supposed 5% fuel surcharge under Nigeria’s new tax laws, with many fearing a sudden increase in fuel prices.
The chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, on Saturday through a post on X, clarified what is fact and what is fiction.
The controversy arises from the recent passage of the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025, which consolidates and harmonises previous tax laws.
Some social media posts suggested that President Bola Tinubu’s administration had introduced a new surcharge on fuel, sparking public concern.
Oyedele clarified: “The charge is not a new tax introduced by the current administration. The provision already exists under the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (Amendment) Act, 2007. Its restatement in the new Tax Act is for harmonisation and transparency rather than immediate implementation.”
According to Oyedele, the surcharge is meant to fund road infrastructure, an area that has historically suffered from underfunding.
Over the years, Nigeria’s road network has faced chronic maintenance challenges, resulting in potholes, travel delays, and higher vehicle operating costs.
Oyedele further noted that the surcharge is intended to create a dedicated, predictable funding source for road construction and maintenance.
READ ALSO:Nigerian Lawmakers Approve Tinubu Tax Reform Bills
Oyedele addressed key questions raised by citizens:
Will the surcharge start automatically in January 2026?
No. It will only take effect when the Minister of Finance issues an order published in the Official Gazette:
“The surcharge does not take effect automatically with the new tax laws. It will only commence when the Minister of Finance issues an order published in the Official Gazette as stated under Chapter 7 of the Nigeria Tax Act, 2025. This safeguard ensures careful consideration of timing and economic conditions before implementation,” Oyedele stated.
Does it apply to all fuels?
No. Household energy products such as kerosene, LPG, and CNG are exempt. Clean and renewable energy products are also excluded to support Nigeria’s energy transition agenda.
Why maintain the surcharge amid economic hardship?
Oyedele explained that the fund is meant as a dedicated mechanism for road maintenance:
READ ALSO:FG Sues Binance For $81.5bn In Economic Losses, Back Taxes
He said, “The surcharge is designed as a dedicated fund for road infrastructure and maintenance. If implemented effectively, it will provide safer travel conditions, reduce travel time and cost, lower logistics costs and vehicle maintenance expenses, which will benefit the wider economy. This practice is virtually universal with over 150 countries imposing various charges ranging between 20% to 80% of fuel products to guarantee regular investment in road infrastructure.”
Could subsidy savings cover road funding instead?
The Chairman of theCommittee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms said: “While subsidy savings will provide some funding, they are insufficient to meet Nigeria’s huge and recurring road infrastructure needs among other public finance needs. A dedicated fund ensures reliable and predictable financing for roads, complementing the budget and ensuring roads are not left underfunded.”
Does this contradict the tax reform objective of easing citizens’ burden?
READ ALSO:Tax Reform Bills Offer 55% To States In New Sharing Formula
Oyedele reassured: “The reforms have already reduced multiple taxes and removed or suspended several charges that directly affect households and small businesses, such as VAT on fuel, excise tax on telecoms, and the cybersecurity levy. By harmonising earmarked taxes, government is reducing duplication and ensuring a more efficient tax system.”
Why not remove the surcharge entirely?
He clarified: “Yes, the surcharge has been removed from the FERMA Act and incorporated into the new tax laws which are designed to provide a forward-looking legal framework for Nigeria. Keeping this provision in place within a harmonised legal framework ensures Nigeria is prepared to address critical challenges, such as sustainable road financing and even climate change impacts. It is not about immediate implementation, but to ensure the law provides a clear and effective framework for when it becomes necessary in the future.”
In summary, Oyedele stressed that the surcharge is not new, not immediate, and selectively applied. Its inclusion in the law is about transparency, preparedness, and sustainable funding for Nigeria’s roads, and it aims to address long-standing gaps in infrastructure financing.
(PUNCH)
- Rhodes-Vivour Dumps Labour Party, Joins ADC
- Police Foil Robbery Attacks On Anambra Roads, Recover Vehicles
- Gunmen Kill NSCDC Personnel In Edo, Abduct Expatriate
- New Edo Line Passengers Abducted
- W’Cup Qualifiers: Super Eagles Edge Rwanda 1-0 To Revive Qualification Hopes
- NCDC Alerts Nigeria As DR Congo Declares Ebola Outbreak
- NNPP Expels Reps Member, Drags Him To Court
- Why We Are Yet To Recognise ADC Leadership – INEC
- 5% Fuel Surcharge: What Nigerians Should Know
- Six Dead, Others Trapped As Gold Collapse
Trending
- Politics4 days ago
Court Ruling Clears Jonathan For 2027 Presidential Bid Amid Pressure From Parties
- News3 days ago
New Curriculum: Full List Of JSS, SS Subjects
- News5 days ago
OPINION: Crowns Of Crime And Shame
- Metro3 days ago
JUST IN: Ex-soldiers Resume Protest Over Unpaid Benefits
- News3 days ago
20-year-old TikToker Peller Buys N350m Lekki Mansion, Promises To Reveal Secret Benefactors
- Entertainment3 days ago
Veteran Actress, Peju Ogunmola, Loses Only Child
- Metro3 days ago
Lagos Enforces Ban, Seizes Single-use Plastics From Supermarkets
- News3 days ago
JUST IN: Ex-Ondo SDP Governorship Candidate Dies
- Sports4 days ago
13 Super Eagles Players Arrive Camp For World Cup Qualifiers
- Sports3 days ago
[FULL LIST] World Cup: Nigeria, Others Face Elimination