In today’s roundup of the latest news from Nigeria, we bring you the most significant developments and events shaping the nation.
From political appointments and regional tensions to sports updates and economic challenges, here are the top headlines dominating the headlines.
Join us as we look into the key stories making waves across the country on this Monday, July 31, 2023
1. Why President Tinubu Appointed Obazee to Probe CBN
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Mr. Jim Osayande Obazee as the Special Investigator of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Obazee, who previously served as the CEO of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, has presented a comprehensive dossier on the suspended Central Bank Governor, Godwin Emefiele.
The President decided to assign Obazee for the investigation after considering other government agencies’ options, like the DSS. However, some concerns have been raised over Obazee’s institutional backing, as he is no longer in charge of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria.
2. ECOWAS Gives Ultimatum to Niger Coup Plotters
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has given coup plotters in Niger Republic a 7-day ultimatum to reinstate President Mohamed Bazoum, the democratically elected President of the country.
If the military fails to restore him within the stipulated time, ECOWAS will impose sanctions, including land border closures and a no-fly zone. The body also threatened to suspend financial transactions, cut off energy, and freeze assets if President Bazoum is not released from detention and restored to power.
3. Manchester United Suffers Defeat Against Borussia Dortmund
Manchester United ended their tour of the United States with a 3-2 defeat to Borussia Dortmund. Erik ten Hag’s team made several defensive mistakes, leading to Dortmund’s victory.
United led initially through Diogo Dalot, but Donyell Malen scored twice for Dortmund just before halftime. Antony equalized for United in the second half, but a mistake at the back allowed Youssoufa Moukoko to score the winner for Dortmund.
4. Labour Party Criticizes Tinubu’s Ministerial Nominees
The Labour Party (LP) has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s list of ministerial nominees, questioning why he only sent 28 names and left about ten states without representation in the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
The party is seeking proper legal counsel and may demand the full list of nominees as required by the Electoral Act. The LP expressed disappointment with the calibre of people included in the list, considering them to be failed and clueless politicians who have been recycled.
5. Niger Coup Plotters Warn ECOWAS Against Military Intervention
The soldiers who executed the coup in Niger Republic have warned ECOWAS against sending troops to force them to relinquish power. In response to ECOWAS’s ultimatum to reinstate President Bazoum, the military in Niger Republic stated that they are fully ready to defend their country against any military intervention.
6. Chelsea Crowned Premier League Summer Series Champions
Chelsea defeated Fulham 2-0 in the final of the Premier League Summer Series on Wednesday night. The Blues were dominant throughout the match, and goals from Thiago Silva and Christopher Nkunku sealed the victory.
Silva opened the scoring in the 25th minute with a header from a corner, and Nkunku doubled the lead in the 65th minute with a tap-in from close range. Fulham had a few chances to get back into the game, but they were unable to find the back of the net.
The win was Chelsea’s third in a row in the Premier League Summer Series, and it capped off a successful pre-season for the Blues. They will now be looking to carry their momentum into the start of the new season, which kicks off in just two weeks’ time.
7. 24-Hour Curfew Imposed in Adamawa State
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has declared a 24-hour curfew in the state following the breakdown of law and order. The curfew was imposed due to looting of government warehouses and attacks on people and businesses. Only those on essential duties with valid identification will be permitted to move during the curfew.