Today's Top Headlines from Nigerian Newspapers, August 13, 2025 (Wednesday)
In the political landscape of Nigeria, allegations of corruption continue to persist, with concerns that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is being used as a tool for political intimidation, particularly against opposition parties [2][4].
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the EFCC's actions as a "calculated pattern of harassment" aimed at opposition figures such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which is challenging President Tinubu’s bid for re-election. HURIWA asserts that rather than combatting corruption, the EFCC serves as an "obedient lapdog" for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), deployed to "do the dirty political work" of silencing dissent [2].
The EFCC, however, maintains that it targets corruption impartially across all parties and aims for effective public accountability. It emphasizes the need for modern anti-corruption solutions and coordination with legislative bodies like the Senate for a transparent public service [2]. However, skepticism remains widespread among civil society groups and opposition entities regarding the EFCC’s neutrality and fairness.
This political tension is rooted in Nigeria’s complex governance environment, marked by entrenched elite interests, especially in resource sectors like oil and gas, which complicate anti-corruption efforts and climate-related policy reforms [3].
Meanwhile, in the world of music, Nigerian singer Praiz has addressed rejection in dating dynamics, stating that it can sometimes be a form of protection. He is comfortable with women approaching him first in romantic pursuits, observing that women often express interest in subtle ways, such as liking photos or engaging with posts on social media [5].
In the realm of sports, Jack Grealish has joined Everton on loan for the 2025/2026 season from Manchester City [6]. Meanwhile, the transfer saga surrounding Alexander Isak from Newcastle United continues, with Isak expressing his desire to join Liverpool before the transfer window closes [1].
In the political sphere, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu of using the EFCC to intimidate, harass, and decimate the opposition [4]. Umar Sani, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), believes that former President Goodluck Jonathan is the best candidate the PDP can field for the 2027 elections [7].
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has stated that his friendship with President Tinubu spans over two decades and will not be undermined by political affiliations [8]. Peter Obi's promise to serve only one term as President may ultimately be out of his control due to pressure from his supporters and the desire of other Nigerians for him to perform well in office [9].
In a separate incident, sixteen inmates escaped from the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Keffi, Nasarawa State, after breaching the facility's security [10]. Leaving his record label in 2019, Spyro, another Nigerian singer, started his own venture, funding it with bank and personal loans [11]. Spyro has also shared how his commitment to his faith shaped his career [12].
In conclusion, the political climate in Nigeria is marked by widespread allegations of corruption and growing concerns that the EFCC is being used as a tool for political intimidation. This undermines the EFCC’s originally intended impartial watchdog role, raising fears of partisanship aligned with the ruling APC.
| Aspect | Description | |---------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Allegations of corruption | Persistent corruption across political parties, including fraudulent asset declarations. | | EFCC's role | Criticized for political bias; accused of targeting opposition to intimidate and suppress dissent. | | Opposition perspective | EFCC viewed as a political tool for the ruling APC, undermining its anti-corruption legitimacy. | | Government stance | EFCC claims to target corruption impartially in all parties and aims for effective public accountability. | | Broader context | Political elite and resource sector interests resist reforms, complicating governance and anti-corruption progress. |
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