Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Thursday, 20th February, 2025

Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to the IDOMA VOICE News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Thursday, 20th February 2025

1. Senate Summons NSA, DSS Over Alleged USAID Funding of Boko Haram
   The Nigerian Senate has summoned National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, along with top intelligence agencies, including the DSS, NIA, and DIA, over allegations that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is funding Boko Haram. Senator Ali Ndume raised the motion, emphasizing that such claims must not be ignored due to the insurgents’ long-standing atrocities. Senate President Godswill Akpabio agreed but insisted discussions be held behind closed doors.

2. NJC Declares Justice Ikpambese Remains Chief Judge of Benue State
   The National Judicial Council (NJC) has dismissed the removal of Benue State Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, by the State House of Assembly, declaring that his position remains unchanged. The NJC emphasized that the dismissal did not follow constitutional provisions and that it only received a petition against him on Wednesday morning.

3. Impeached Lagos Assembly Speaker Obasa Denies Firearms Allegations
   Former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has denied reports that 47 pump-action rifles were found in his office. Obasa, who was impeached in January, dismissed the allegations as a fabricated attempt to justify his removal. He maintained that he had been out of the country before his impeachment and accused his political adversaries of plotting against him.

4. Presidency Slams Peter Obi Over Onitsha Market Closure Comments
   The presidency has criticized Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for demanding the reopening of the Onitsha Bridge Head Market, which was shut down due to illegal drug activities. Presidential aide Dada Olusegun questioned Obi’s interest in the matter, stating that some traders deserved prosecution for their crimes. He urged Obi to allow regulatory agencies like NAFDAC to carry out their work without interference.

5. Governor Adeleke Accuses IGP of Aiding APC in Osun Local Governments
   Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has accused the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, of collaborating with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to illegally occupy local government councils in Osun. Adeleke made the claim while meeting British diplomats, asserting that security forces were being used to subvert democracy. The British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles.

6. El-Rufai Issues Warning Over Ally’s Detention, Vows Payback by 2027
   Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has condemned the prolonged detention of his ally, Bashir Saidu, who was recently released after 50 days in security custody. El-Rufai alleged that Saidu’s arrest was politically motivated and that some judges and police officers intentionally delayed his bail. He warned that those responsible for the injustice would face consequences by the 2027 elections.

7. Nigerian Government Sues Binance for $81.5 Billion in Alleged Tax Evasion
   The Federal Government has filed a lawsuit against cryptocurrency exchange Binance, demanding ₦79.51 billion ($81.5 billion) for alleged tax violations and economic instability caused by its operations. The case, filed by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), also accuses Binance of failing to register for tax compliance in Nigeria. This marks the third lawsuit against the company, with separate cases pending over alleged money laundering and forex violations.

8. Nigeria’s Defence Chief Responds to Canada Visa Denial for Military Athletes
   The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, has addressed the recent visa denial by the Canadian High Commission for members of the Nigerian Armed Forces who were set to participate in the Invictus Games. Musa clarified that the military followed all necessary visa procedures, and the reason for the denial remains unclear. He criticized those who spoke negatively about Nigeria’s participation in the event.

9. Jude Bellingham Receives Two-Match Ban for Confronting Referee
   Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has been suspended for two La Liga matches after receiving a red card for allegedly insulting referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero during a 1-1 draw against Osasuna. The Spanish Football Federation imposed the ban despite Bellingham’s denial of using offensive language. Real Madrid has announced plans to appeal the decision, arguing that the punishment is excessive.

10. Portable Surrenders to Ogun State Police, Investigation Underway
    Controversial Nigerian artist Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has turned himself in to the Ogun State Police Command following allegations of misconduct. The Lagos Police had earlier confirmed his transfer to Ogun State, where further investigations will take place. Police spokesperson Omolola Odutola assured the public that due process would be followed in handling the case.