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The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ola Olukoyede, has expressed concern over the rising cost of elections in Nigeria, disclosing that some governorship aspirants spend between N20bn and N30bn to secure electoral victory

Olukoyede disclosed in Ilorin on Wednesday while speaking at the inaugural High-Level Guest Speakers’ Series organised by the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies (CPSS), University of Ilorin, themed “De-risking and Mobilising Critical Stakeholders for Peaceful and Credible 2027 Elections in Nigeria.”

He warned that the huge financial outlay involved in elections often pressures elected officials to divert public funds after assuming office in an attempt to recover campaign expenses, describing the trend as a major threat to democratic governance.

“The commercialisation of votes weakens the foundation of good governance because it compromises the political recruitment process. Leaders who buy their way into office are more likely to focus on recovering their investments rather than serving the public interest,” he said.

The EFCC boss reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to tackling vote-buying and other electoral offences, noting that several arrests and convictions had already been made across the country involving politicians, electoral officials, and citizens.

He also warned that impunity in the electoral process could undermine democracy and national stability, stressing that there must be no sacred cows in enforcing electoral laws. According to him, the commission plans to deploy drones and other technological tools to enhance election monitoring ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Olukoyede further called on political parties and their supporters to embrace issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory rhetoric capable of inciting violence.

He urged collaboration among stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, civil society organisations, the media, and political actors, to ensure peaceful and credible elections.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), described electoral corruption as a major threat to national security and democratic development, stressing the need for credible elections to strengthen public confidence in governance.

Also speaking, the Director of the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, Professor G.A. Animasawun, said the lecture series was designed to foster proactive engagement on threats to Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections.

The event had in attendance representatives of security agencies, electoral bodies, civil society organisations, members of the academic community, and students.

Some Governorship Aspirants Spend N30bn To Win Elections—EFCC Boss is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Chelsea have announced the departure of Richard Olise from the club after a decade.

He is included in the list of players released following the conclusion of the 2025-2026 season.

The Blues have confirmed that Olise will leave Stamford Bridge when his contract concludes on June 30, 2026.

Richard is the younger sibling of Michael Olise, who received an invitation to join the Super Eagles in 2021 but ultimately chose to represent France internationally.

The Bayern Munich player is anticipated to play a significant role for Les Bleus in the forthcoming World Cup.

The younger Olise concludes a ten-year relationship with Chelsea, having entered the club’s academy at the U9 level.

He advanced through every age category within the Blues’ youth system and gained recognition during the 2024-25 season when he was named in the first team squad for a UEFA Conference League match against Astana.

However, his final season at the club saw limited opportunities, with the right-back making only four starts across all competitions for Chelsea’s development squad.

Olise is viewed as a composed and steady defender, capable of making significant contributions at both ends of the field.

He is comfortable in possession and tactically astute, embodying many qualities typical of the modern fullback.

Born in London 21 years ago, Olise has represented England at the U18 level and is now poised to advance his career following his exit from Chelsea.

Transfer: Chelsea confirm decision on Olise

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has dissolved the board and management of Nigeria National League, NNL, side Bayelsa United.

The governor also sacked all players after the club’s relegation from the 2025-26 Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, despite what officials described as huge financial backing from the state government.

The actions were taken to hold the club accountable for its performance.

The governor’s directive takes immediate effect as the state government begin the restructuring of the club ahead of its campaign in the lower division.

A new management team is expected to be announced in the coming days.

Bayelsa United, El-Kanemi Warriors, Wikki Tourists and Remo Stars were relegated from the NPFL last season.

NNL: Gov Diri sacks Bayelsa United management, players after relegation

The Nigerian Army says troops of 82 Division Garrison, operating under Sector 1, Operation UDO KA, in collaboration with operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS, Enugu State Command, have achieved a significant operational success in the ongoing Operation Eastern Sanity II.

According to a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayani,

Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, the operation was in an effort to consolidate the peace building process in the South East.  

According to the statement, acting on credible intelligence derived from previously arrested suspects affiliated with the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network, ESN, security forces conducted a precision follow-up operation in Gariki, Enugu South Local Government Area.

“Troops uncovered a clandestine arms hideout concealed within a zinc structure disguised as a piggery. A thorough exploitation of the site led to the recovery of a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition.

“These include General Purpose Machine Guns, RPG-7 launcher tube, AK-47 rifles, hand grenades, tear gas gun with cartridges, AK-47 magazines, 270 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and 478 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.  

“All recovered items and arrested suspects have been handed over to the DSS Enugu State Command for further investigation and appropriate legal action,” the statement said.

It said that the intelligence-driven operation underscores the effective interagency collaboration in the region, resulting in proactive measures to counter threats to national unity and public safety.

“It also reflects the Operation UDO KA’s unwavering commitment to sustaining offensive actions against criminal and terrorist networks that undermine peace in the region,” it said.

The statement added that Operation UDO KA reaffirmed its dedication to protecting citizens and preserving national sovereignty.

It encouraged the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces, thereby enhancing collective efforts to achieve lasting peace and security in the South East.  

Nigerian Army uncovers ‘IPOB, ESN’ arms cache in Enugu

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, says the green chamber is set to take a decisive step toward establishing state police.

Speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday, Kalu said lawmakers are preparing to vote on key constitutional amendment bills, including provisions for decentralized policing.

He said the House has decided to prioritise the establishment of state police ahead of other bills.

According to him, the House has directed all members currently outside Abuja on oversight functions to suspend their activities and return to the parliament on Thursday for the voting procedure.

Recall that the state police bill is sponsored by the Deputy Speaker and 14 other members of the House.

Reps to vote on state police bill Thursday – Deputy Speaker Kalu

Budweiser, Trophy Lager, Hero Lager and Flying Fish to Reward Consumers with Big Prizes, Promotions and Unforgettable Fan Experiences Nationwide

International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), part of AB InBev – the world’s largest brewer and proud makers of more than 500 iconic brands – has officially unveiled its FIFA World Cup 2026™ Squad, featuring four of its leading brands: Budweiser, Trophy Lager, Hero Lager and Flying Fish, each set to bring Nigerians closer to the excitement, passion and celebration of the world’s biggest football tournament ever; the World Cup featuring 48 teams across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Led by Budweiser, the Official Beer Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup™ since 1986, the squad will deliver a season of football excitement through consumer promotions, immersive viewing experiences and rewarding engagements designed to unite fans across the country. Budweiser, Trophy Lager, Hero Lager and Flying Fish have each received FIFA authorisation to activate the tournament in Nigeria using the official FIFA trademark – the most comprehensive World Cup brand mandate held by any Nigerian brewer. For IBPLC, the mandate is not just an activation vehicle – it is a platform to shape how Nigeria’s beer industry is seen, valued and governed long after the final whistle.

Nick Kade, Managing Director, International Breweries PLC, said:

“As part of AB InBev – the world’s largest brewer – we are activating the FIFA World Cup 2026™ across four FIFA-authorised brands simultaneously. We are elated and honoured that we that Nigerian brewer that holds a mandate this comprehensive, and we are determined to honour it – not just through fan experiences and promotions, but through lasting impact for the bars, communities and people that make Nigeria’s football culture what it is. “Kade added that “Our FIFA World Cup 2026™ sponsorship reinforces the uniqueness of beer in being Local, Neutral and Inclusive in bringing people together for a future with more cheers”

Throughout the tournament period, consumers will have the opportunity to participate in exciting promotions for a chance to win a range of prizes, while also enjoying electrifying match-viewing experiences at selected bars, outlets and fan locations across Nigeria. Each brand will play a unique role in amplifying the FIFA World Cup 2026™ experience:

• Budweiser will bring fans closer to the global spectacle as the Official Beer Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup™ since 1986.

• Trophy Lager will rally football-loving Honourables through exciting fan engagement initiatives and rewarding promotions.

• Hero Lager will champion community pride and football passion with experiences designed to unite fans in celebration.

• Flying Fish will bring a vibrant and refreshing twist to match day occasions, creating fun and social moments for consumers.

From the opening whistle to the final match, the brands will create memorable moments that bring football fans together to celebrate every goal, every victory and every unforgettable World Cup moment.

Bamise Oyegbami, Marketing Director, International Breweries PLC, said:

“The FIFA World Cup is more than a football tournament; it is a global celebration that brings people together through shared passion and unforgettable moments. Through our FIFA World Cup 2026™ Squad, we are excited to give Nigerians more reasons to celebrate, engage and enjoy the tournament with Budweiser, Trophy Lager, Hero Lager and Flying Fish. We have created experiences that will reward consumers, ignite fan passion and make this World Cup truly unforgettable.”

Fans can look forward to a packed calendar of activities, promotions and viewing experiences across multiple cities and locations nationwide, ensuring that no matter where they are, they can be part of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ excitement.

In her comments, Yvonne Onyejiaka, Route to Market and Trade Marketing Director, International Breweries PLC, said:

“The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is an unparalleled opportunity to bring our brands to life at the point of purchase and across every bar, outlet and fan location in Nigeria. Our trade partners and retailers are central to delivering this experience, and we are equipping them with the tools, training and support to make every venue a destination for World Cup fans. When our trade partners win, Nigerian consumers win and that is exactly what this activation is designed to deliver.”

Consumers are encouraged to follow the official social media pages of Budweiser, Trophy Lager, Hero Lager and Flying Fish for updates on promotions, viewing party schedules, participation mechanics and prize announcements.

All events will feature no and low-alcohol options alongside responsible beverage service training for servers, consistent with IBPLC’s commitment to responsible consumption.

International Breweries Plc is a proud part of Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB InBev), the world’s largest brewer with over 500 brands. As part of a global family, International Breweries has a dream of bringing people together for a Future with More Cheers – building great brands that stand the test of time using the finest natural ingredients

Headline: International Breweries PLC Fields Its Strongest-Ever FIFA World Cup 2026™ Squad

Residents of Jalingo and Yorro Local Government Councils of Taraba State have appealed to their representatives in the National Assembly to urgently facilitate the reconstruction of the collapsed Mallam Audu Bridge, a critical link between the two councils.

The bridge, popularly known as Gadan Mallam Audu, was recently washed away by heavy rainfall that lasted several hours, cutting off the shortest route between Jalingo, the state capital, and Pantisawa, the administrative headquarters of Yorro Local Government Council.

A visit to the area revealed that the collapse of the bridge has severely disrupted movement between the affected communities, leaving residents stranded and forcing commuters to take longer and more difficult alternative routes.

For many years, the bridge served as a vital transport corridor for students, civil servants, traders, and farmers transporting agricultural produce from the fertile Yorro mountains to markets in Jalingo.

Its collapse has not only hindered mobility but has also negatively affected commercial activities and access to essential services.

Residents who spoke on Tuesday expressed concern over the hardship caused by the incident and called on the senator representing Taraba North senatorial district and the member representing Jalingo, Yorro and Zing federal constituency to urgently draw the attention of relevant authorities to the situation.

One of the residents, Ishaka Bala, described the bridge as an economic lifeline whose collapse has had far-reaching consequences on daily life.

“The collapsed bridge has disrupted transportation, economic activities, and access to healthcare, education, and other essential services. We are appealing to our representatives to intervene and ensure that the bridge is reconstructed as quickly as possible,” he said.

According to Bala, swift intervention by the lawmakers would go a long way in alleviating the suffering currently being experienced by residents of the affected communities.

Another resident, Musa Kasuwa, recalled that the bridge was originally constructed through the intervention of a former member representing the area in the National Assembly.

He noted that signs of structural weakness had been evident for months before the bridge was eventually washed away.

“We are calling on our senator and member representing us in the House of Representatives to emulate their predecessor by facilitating the reconstruction of this bridge. Movement from Yorro to Jalingo has become extremely difficult since it collapsed,” Kasuwa said.

Beyond the appeal to federal lawmakers, residents are also calling on the Taraba State Government to provide a temporary access route to ease transportation challenges while awaiting the reconstruction of the bridge.

As the rainy season intensifies, community members fear that continued inaction could further isolate several settlements, worsen economic losses, and limit access to critical public services.

For now, residents can only hope that urgent steps will be taken to restore the vital connection that has long served as a gateway between Jalingo and Yorro communities.

Collapsed bridge disrupts movement, economic activities in Taraba communities

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged residents and business owners in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to fulfil their civic obligations by paying taxes, land charges and ground rents, saying such compliance would enable government to deliver more infrastructure projects across the territory.

Tinubu made the call on Wednesday during the commissioning of the full-scope development of Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way), stretching from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III in Dape District, Abuja.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President said infrastructure development must be driven by a partnership between government and citizens.

“To the residents and business owners enjoying this transformation, I urge you to meet your obligations. Pay your taxes. Clear your land fees and ground rents. Your compliance gives the FCT Administration the strength to build more roads like this one,” he said.

The President described the newly completed road as a critical economic corridor that would ease traffic congestion, improve connectivity and unlock investment opportunities within the nation’s capital.

Recalling the commissioning of the Gwarinpa I District section of the road in June 2025, Tinubu said his administration had fulfilled its promise to complete the remaining section.

“On that day, we made a pledge to you. We promised not to leave this vital artery half-done. Because the Renewed Hope Agenda is not about abandoned projects; it is about delivery from start to finish.

“And so today, we are back. We are back to close the circle. We are back to commission the Dape District Section of Arterial Road N5, from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III,” he stated.

The President stressed that the project was conceived, funded and completed under his administration, noting that it was awarded to Julius Berger Plc with a strict 15-month completion timeline after it was flagged off in October 2024.

According to him, the era when major infrastructure projects lingered for years without completion is over.

“We conceived it, we funded it, and we delivered it. In the past, projects like this became permanent budget lines ten, fifteen years of excuses. Not under this administration,” Tinubu declared.

He commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, describing him as the administration’s “Engine of Execution” and applauded Julius Berger for delivering quality work within schedule.

“Minister Wike, you and your team have shown what happens when political will meets accountability. We fund projects to see results, not to listen to grammar,” he added.

Tinubu noted that the completion of the N5 corridor would significantly reduce travel time for commuters and provide seamless connectivity among Dape, Karmo, Gwarinpa I, Kado, Idu and Mbora districts.

He further explained that the road would provide direct access to the Idu Industrial District, thereby lowering logistics costs, attracting investments and creating jobs.

“Beyond that, this road opens a direct gateway to the Idu Industrial District. That means lower logistics costs for businesses, new investment, and more jobs for our people,” he said.

The President also called on traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to protect public infrastructure from vandalism and ensure proper maintenance of drainage systems and streetlights.

Earlier, FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike said the commissioning marked the second day of a 31-day project inauguration programme organised to commemorate the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration.

According to him, the scale of infrastructure delivery in the FCT has increased steadily since the administration came into office.

“On June 24, 2024, when we had the first-year anniversary of Mr. President, we took nine days of commissioning of projects. In the second year anniversary, we took 19 days. To the glory of God, in this third year, we are touching 31 days of commissioning of projects,” Wike said.

The minister credited Tinubu for providing the political support needed to transform the FCT, saying the Renewed Hope Agenda had translated into visible infrastructure development across Abuja and the satellite towns.

“For the first time, development has been taken to the satellite towns in the Federal Capital Territory. This is unprecedented. Before this period, satellite towns did not know what they call government. today, they can feel the impact and presence of government,” he stated.

Wike praised Julius Berger for completing both sections of the project within record time, revealing that the Gwarinpa section was delivered within seven months.

He also defended the FCT Administration’s handling of compensation issues during the road construction, insisting that all affected property owners whose structures were demolished were duly compensated.

“We paid. If you are saying that because you are from that place and development has passed and government did not dash you money, we don’t dash money when we are carrying out development,” he said.

The minister dismissed protests by some individuals at the event, insisting that infrastructure projects across the territory had demonstrated the administration’s commitment to governance and development.

Earlier in her remarks, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as another milestone under the Renewed Hope Agenda and a reflection of President Tinubu’s commitment to improving connectivity, stimulating economic growth and enhancing residents’ quality of life.

Mahmoud paid tribute to Wike for what she described as his purposeful leadership and unwavering commitment to transforming Abuja through the delivery of critical infrastructure.

She also thanked traditional rulers, community leaders and residents of Life Camp, Dape District and neighbouring communities for their cooperation throughout the execution of the project.

The minister expressed confidence that the newly commissioned road would improve transportation, boost commercial activities and support sustainable urban development in the Federal Capital Territory.

Pay ground rent, other taxes to enjoy more developmental projects – Tinubu tells FCT residents

Everton have been told they must pay Burnley £35m over the impact of breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules.

The case – heard by a Premier League commission – relates to the 2021-22 season, when Everton were found to have broken profit and sustainability regulations (PSR) over a three-year period.

Burnley argued the breach impacted their chances of staying in the Premier League and sought compensation for the losses associated with being relegated.

The Clarets have been awarded £26m in damages and a further £9m in interest.

Everton have appealed, with sources saying they will “robustly and thoroughly” contest the ruling.

The club said in a statement they were “clear in the belief the ruling is fundamentally flawed in both law and fact”.

“This ruling sets a dangerous and unworkable precedent for English football, given it is constructed on a principle that a club can be in breach of financial rules at any point in a financial year,” the statement said.

“Everton believes the panel’s ruling misrepresents the clear evidence presented by its legal representatives and that an appeal will be successful.”

Both clubs presented evidence from experts to simulate the effect of the overspend on Everton’s points total.

And the commission found that “on the balance of probabilities, Everton’s breach of the PSR caused Burnley to be relegated”.

Any compensation payment would not impact Everton’s PSR accounts for the current period.

Everton were charged by the Premier League and deducted 10 points in November 2023, which was reduced to six points on appeal and applied to the league table in 2023-24.

The case centred on the argument that had the points been deducted in 2021-22, Burnley would have had a greater chance of avoiding relegation.

Everton finished 16th in 2021-22 on 39 points, with Leeds in 17th on 38 points and Burnley 18th on 35 points.

Leeds are reported to have agreed a settlement with Everton in September 2025.

Because of the complexities of the accounting period, which runs to the end of June, the Premier League is unable to apply points deductions in the season the offence happens.

But Premier League rules allow clubs to seek compensation against another members if rules are broken and cause them loss.

Leicester City, Nottingham Forest and Southampton were also reported to have considered legal action.

The ruling could have implications for Chelsea, who were not given a points deduction but were fined £10m after admitting making £47m in secret payments to unregistered agents and third parties over transfers between 2011 and 2018.

Elsewhere, clubs could seek compensation if Manchester City are found guilty of the 115 charges related to alleged financial rule breaches between 2009 and 2018. City deny all of the charges.

Other Premier League clubs could argue their chances of success in the Premier League were impacted by the rule breaches.

Four years on from being deducted points for breaching PSR rules, Everton continue to be punished for those indiscretions.

There is a feeling that the latest ruling makes it a triple jeopardy for one single sanction – the points deduction they received at the time, the financial implications of merit money reducing by dropping down the table and now this claim from Burnley.

Everton’s hierarchy have reacted with astonishment at the panel’s decision to award this compensation claim to the Clarets and feel the judgement is flawed and one that is hugely excessive.

While this took place on the watch of former owner Farhad Moshiri, the Friedkin Group are now having for fork out significant sum of money for the claim against the football club, and it is not known whether any contingencies were put in place to claim the sum back from the Iranian’s business.

Nevertheless, it is understood this ruling has no impact on the current ownership’s transfer plans for the summer or direction of the club. In fact, sources have said it will embolden them to drive Everton forward and back towards the top echelons of the Premier League.

There is a feeling, though, that the amount awarded is grossly unfair in comparison to the £10m fine handed to Chelsea in March after they admitted making £47m in secret payments to unregistered agents and the £5.5m punishment given to West Ham in 2007 over the transfers of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano.

Tuesday’s news came out of the blue as Everton were not given a date by which a ruling should be handed down – the same principle which applies to Manchester City and their 115 charges for allegedly breaching financial rules.

Everton have immediately appealed the decision, but feel it could potentially have huge implications for Premier League football as a whole if they are not successful.

Everton Ordered To Pay Burnley £35m Over PSR Breaches is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Suspected terrorists have attacked Ora, a community in Osun state and abducted Mr. Debo Farounbi, the Vice Chairman of the Ifedayo Local Government Area of the state.

According to PUNCH, the attack was carried out around 10 pm on Tuesday night. Debo and three other persons were abducted during the invasion.

Troops and vigilantes stationed in the town were said to have intervened and rescued three of the victims. However, the assailants went away with Farounbi after a gun duel.

A resident who spoke to the newspaper on condition of anonymity said, “Four people, two Fulani women and two men including the Ifedayo Local Government Vice Chairman, Debo Farounbi were abducted. But the resistance put up by the military made the perpetrators abandon three people.

“The however went away with Farounbi. Our people did not sleep throughout the night. We are in serious fear. The incident happened around 10 pm on Tuesday.” According to PUNCH

The Osun State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident.

“One person was abducted. He is a local government Vice Chairman, Hon Debo Farounbi. Immediately the incident happened, the military, police and others responded. Efforts are in place to rescue the man. It is abduction until we are able to prove that it is a case of kidnapping,” Ojelabi said.

“I want to assure the people of the state to remain calm. The situation is under control, and our men are on the ground for the rescue operation,” he added.

Gunmen Kidnap Osun Vice LG Chairman is first published on The Whistler Newspaper