Royal News

Author: Najeebat Oyerinde

  • Viral Video of Excel College Students Sparks Police Investigation

    Viral Video of Excel College Students Sparks Police Investigation

    The Lagos State Police Command has opened an investigation into a viral video allegedly showing students of Excel College, Ejigbo, smoking, drinking, and dancing in the school’s boys’ hostel.

    The footage, said to have been recorded in April 2025 but only recently circulated online, has drawn widespread public criticism.

    Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, to take over the case from the Ejigbo Police Division, which had begun preliminary inquiries.

    The school’s principal, who also doubles as proprietor, was invited for questioning. He reportedly told investigators that the students featured in the video had already graduated. Despite this, the school pledged full cooperation with the probe.

    “The Command will ensure thorough investigation of the matter, and findings will be made public,” Police spokesperson SP Abimbola Adebisi said in a statement on Thursday.

    The Command also urged schools, parents, and guardians to strengthen supervision of students to promote discipline, moral values, and good conduct.

    It reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace, order, and security across the state.

     

  • NDLEA, NAFDAC Tighten Grip on Pregabalin Trafficking

    NDLEA, NAFDAC Tighten Grip on Pregabalin Trafficking

    The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kano State Command, has handed over 450,000 intercepted Pregabalin capsules to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for forensic and regulatory analysis.

    Pregabalin, originally prescribed for epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and anxiety, has in recent years become one of Nigeria’s most abused prescription drugs, often misused for its sedative and euphoric effects. Authorities say its abuse has fueled rising cases of addiction, mental health issues, and social unrest, particularly among youths in northern states.

    The consignment was seized on the Kano–Hadejia road by an NDLEA patrol team. The pills, concealed in a van and packed in 60 cartons, had no ownership documentation.

    NDLEA Kano Command spokesperson, Sadiq Maigatari, said the seizure was in line with the agency’s drive to curb the diversion of controlled medicines. “The seized items were brought to the NDLEA office for investigation; no legitimate ownership or documentation was presented for the consignment,” he noted.

    The transfer of the drugs to NAFDAC followed directives from NDLEA Chairman, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), based on a Memorandum of Understanding signed between both agencies in November 2024. The MoU seeks to strengthen inter-agency cooperation on intelligence sharing, forensic testing, and regulatory enforcement.

    ACGN A.I. Ahmad, who leads NDLEA’s Kano Strategic Command, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to synchronised operations and stronger inter-agency collaboration.

    Receiving the consignment, the NAFDAC coordinator commended NDLEA’s compliance with the MoU and pledged continued cooperation in investigations and regulatory measures.

    The agency has intensified surveillance on major transit routes notorious for drug smuggling, with officials describing the latest seizure in Kano as a demonstration of the NDLEA–NAFDAC partnership in action.

  • Inflation to Drop to Single Digit as Reforms Take Hold

    Inflation to Drop to Single Digit as Reforms Take Hold

    The Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs (Office of the Vice President), Tope Fasua, has expressed optimism that Nigeria’s inflation rate will decline to single digits, citing the strengthening of the naira, falling food prices, and ongoing economic reforms.

    Speaking with the news men today, Fasua said recent economic indicators show that progress is being made under the Tinubu administration.

    “Nigeria’s inflation is certainly going down to single digits and that’s not the only index that we can see,” he said. “Yesterday, the naira closed at ₦1,497 to the dollar for the first time in more than eight months. We clocked that region.”

    Fasua explained that the two key drivers of inflation food and exchange rates are stabilising. “Exchange rate has stabilised and is actually strengthening via market forces without anybody dictating the rate. And food prices are also going down,” he said.

    He however highlighted insights from agriculture expert African Farmer Magaji, who noted that for the first time in 26 years, tomato prices did not spike between May and July, an indicator of greater stability in food supply.

    According to Fasua, while some farmers have complained that government interventions are pushing down prices and affecting them, the majority of Nigerians are benefiting from more affordable food.

    Comparing Nigeria’s recovery to the growth of China’s bamboo tree, Fasua argued that the reforms will soon yield rapid results. “They plant it and water it for five years and you think nothing is happening, but when it begins to grow, it grows five meters a day. I think President Tinubu and his administration are getting it right. Unfortunately for the opposition, they just have to swallow the bitter pill,” he added.

     

  • Court Adjourns Suit Against David Mark’s ADC Leadership to Sept 30

    Court Adjourns Suit Against David Mark’s ADC Leadership to Sept 30

    Hearing in a suit challenging the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) under Senator David Mark was stalled on Monday at the Federal High Court, Abuja, due to improper service of court papers on the defendants.

    Justice Emeka Nwite, who presided over the matter, adjourned proceedings to September 30 after ruling that Senator Mark, former Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola, and ADC chieftain Chief Ralphs Nwosu had not been properly served.

    At the hearing, counsel to the plaintiff, Michael Agber, claimed that all five defendants had been served. However, the judge noted that no proof of service was on record and faulted the lawyer’s claim that service on Mark, Aregbesola, and Nwosu was effected through the ADC.

    Justice Nwite explained that the law requires personal service or a court order permitting substituted service. He directed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), one of the defendants, be served in open court, which was immediately complied with.

    Counsel for the ADC, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Shuaib Aruwa, also argued that the party had not been properly served.

    The case was filed by Nafiu-Bala Gombe, a former Deputy National Chairman of ADC, who is challenging the takeover of the party’s leadership by Mark and others. Gombe is seeking a court order restraining them from assuming office, pending determination of his substantive suit.

    Justice Nwite had earlier refused to grant an interim restraining order, instead directing that the defendants be put on notice to show cause why the request should not be granted.

    The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, lists ADC, Senator David Mark, Rauf Aregbesola, INEC, and Ralphs Nwosu as first to fifth defendants.

  • NASFAT Lagos Zone, Holds Special Joint Prayer for Nigeria

    NASFAT Lagos Zone, Holds Special Joint Prayer for Nigeria

    NASFAT,NIGERIA

    The Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society of Nigeria (NASFAT), Lagos Zone 1, convened its second annual Special Joint Asalatu, bringing together members from 24 branches to pray for the nation.

    The highlight of the event was the launch of the NASFAT History Book, a fundraiser aimed at supporting the society’s ongoing projects.

    Chairman of NASFAT Lagos Zone 1, Alabi Mustapha, emphasized the dual importance of prayer and proactive citizenship. “We have no other country except Nigeria. We must do all we can to ensure it becomes better for all of us,” he said, urging citizens to complement government efforts with prayers and constructive actions.

    Alabi Mustapha stressed that peaceful coexistence is essential for meaningful progress. He also highlighted NASFAT’s economic empowerment initiatives, noting that the society trains members in entrepreneurship and provides resources for self-sufficiency. Quarterly conferences and workshops for artisans are also held to enhance business management skills.

    The chairman expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic future, citing recent increases in foreign reserves, and advised citizens to prioritize competence over religious affiliation when choosing leaders.

    Vice Chairman of the Ikorodu Branch, Alhaji Shokunbi Akanbi, spoke on the spiritual power of collective prayer, referencing the Prophet Muhammad’s teaching that prayers offered in groups are more likely to be accepted.

    Guest lecturer Sheikh Jamiu Sanusi reminded attendees that true wealth is measured by faith and steadfastness in Islam. The event concluded with prayers led by Sheikh Sanusi and Imam Jaji for peace, prosperity, and divine guidance for the nation.

  • Experts Warns Rising Drug Abuse Among Nigerian Youths

    Experts Warns Rising Drug Abuse Among Nigerian Youths

    Drug abuse among Nigerian youths is worsening, with one in seven people aged 15 to 64 identified as drug users three times the global average, experts say.

    The alarming trend was highlighted at a health talk organized by RCCG Zion Chapel, Lagos Province 57, in Ikeja, themed “Drugs and Substance Abuse: Any Hope for the Youth?” The forum brought together medical professionals, narcotics officers, and academics to discuss the issue.

    Dr. Charles Davies, Medical Director of Brafus Specialist Hospital and panel moderator, identified cannabis, tramadol, codeine-based cough syrups, rohypnol, cocaine, and methamphetamine as the most commonly abused substances among young people. “These drugs are cheap, easily accessible, and often glamorized by peers, entertainers, and social media,” he said.

    While speaking the press, Dr. Henrietta Igbokwe, Head of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology at UNILAG College of Medicine, attributed the trend to peer pressure, unemployment, and untreated mental health issues.

    Retired NDLEA Assistant Commander Dr. Wale Ige warned that weak regulation and porous borders exacerbate the problem. “Despite bans, codeine and tramadol are widely available. Until enforcement improves, supply will continue to outpace control,” he said, noting that drug abuse fuels crimes such as cultism, robbery, kidnapping, and domestic violence.

    The panel outlined the severe health consequences of prolonged drug use, including brain damage, organ failure, mental illness, and death. Dr. Yinka Anifowoshe, an anaesthetist at Gbagada General Hospital, described drug abuse as “a silent destroyer” that threatens an entire generation.

    Experts called for a multi-pronged approach, urging parents to monitor children, schools to include drug education in curricula, and the government to invest in mental health services, vocational training, and job creation. They also recommended stronger NDLEA enforcement, tighter border controls, sanctions for complicit officials, and prioritizing rehabilitation over punishment.

    Religious and community leaders were urged to intensify awareness campaigns, while youths themselves can use music, art, and social media to promote anti-drug messages.

    The experts concluded that drug abuse is not just a youth problem but a national emergency. “Saving the youths means saving the future of Nigeria,” Dr. Igbokwe emphasized.

  • Niger lawyer Criticizes Governor’s Directive over Sermon Approval

    Niger lawyer Criticizes Governor’s Directive over Sermon Approval

    Activist lawyer Maduabuchi Idam has criticized Niger State Governor Umar Bago for instructing preachers to submit their sermons for government approval before addressing their congregations.

    Idam described the governor’s directive as an attempt to curb free speech and control religious expression in the state.

    In a statement, he expressed concern that the move comes amid growing insecurity in Niger State. “The Governor of Niger State asking clerics to submit their sermons for approval before preaching is the highest attempt in recent times to gag free speech and police religion,” Idam said.

    He added, “To think that a governor in a state ravaged by insecurity is focusing on monitoring sermons rather than intelligence gathering and reclaiming areas under siege by bandits raises serious questions about leadership priorities.”

    Idam also highlighted the plight of residents in Chiroro Local Government, describing them as virtually helpless. “A client of mine from Chiroro told me that residents feel they almost pay rent to bandits just to protect their lives, as the state government has been largely incapacitated,” he said.

    The lawyer accused Governor Bago of prioritizing the monitoring of religious messages over addressing pressing security challenges. “The governor should focus on intelligence gathering and restoring safety in the state rather than scrutinizing sermons preached in religious homes,” Idam stressed.

  • Akure South LG Chairman Distributes 10,000 Books, 500 Bags to Pupils.

    Akure South LG Chairman Distributes 10,000 Books, 500 Bags to Pupils.

    As schools across Ondo State resumed on Monday, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Mr. Gbenga Fasua, donated over 10,000 books and 500 school bags to indigent pupils in the council area.

    Mr Gbenga Fasua, who also serves as the state chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), became the executive chairman of the council following last year’s local government elections.

    Ondo State has long faced challenges in its education sector, particularly regarding infrastructure and access to learning materials for public school students. The Universal Basic Education Commission notes that many schools nationwide experience shortages of teaching and learning resources, with parents often struggling to cover basic educational costs.

    In response, government initiatives have aimed to improve access to quality education. In 2023, the Ondo State Government launched programs under its EASE Agenda to reduce dropout rates and support indigent pupils. Local councils have been encouraged to complement these efforts with grassroots educational support.

    At a distribution event held at the council secretariat in Akure, Fasua emphasized that the donation was intended to ease the financial burden on parents and promote education among children. Beneficiaries included pupils from both public and private schools in the local government area.

    Fasua said, “I am honoured to launch the Dr. Fasua Educational Ease Agenda, our Back-to-School initiative in Akure South LG. Today, we are distributing school bags and notebooks to pupils, in collaboration with the EASE Agenda of Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa. Education thrives when parents, teachers, and communities work together.”

    While speaking with the newsmen, He said “One of the biggest obstacles for many families is the cost of school materials. Our goal is to ease this burden and ensure every child feels valued and prepared for learning. This initiative is part of our commitment to improve access to education and reduce dropout rates.”

    Fasua also pledged to enhance school infrastructure, provide teacher training, and offer scholarships to vulnerable students. He commended Governor Ayedatiwa for his support and urged parents and teachers to make proper use of the donated materials.

  • IPC, EU-SDGN Hold Media Engagement With Online, Print Journalists In Kwara

    IPC, EU-SDGN Hold Media Engagement With Online, Print Journalists In Kwara

    The Executive Director, International Press Centre, Mr. Lanre Arogundade during engagement with Media Executives in Kwara State on Friday 12th September 2025.

    By Najeeba Oyerinde & Alimat Abdulsalam

    The International Press Centre (IPC), with backing from the European Union’s EU-Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) programme, on Friday held a engagement session with top media executives from print and online outlets in Kwara State.

    ROYAL NEWS reports that the Executive Director, International Press Centre, Mr. Lanre Arogundade and the Project Manager, EU-SDGN, Mr. Sanmi Falobi, were facilitators at the event which was held at E-Phoenix Hotel, Ilorin.

    Arogundade who highlighted the media’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic advancement emphasized that “The EU-SDGN project comprises six components, with the media at the core of Component 4.”

    He added that, “This support goes beyond training; it’s about fostering a sustainable media culture that champions accountability, credible elections, advocacy for women in politics and People With Disabilities (PWDs) as well as citizen engagement.”

    The media expert however emphasized on the media’s responsibility of upholding professionalism and resistance of pressures that could compromise public trust.

    According to him, “As we strive for a more democratic society, the media must remain committed to ethical standards and accurate reporting.

    “This engagement session underscores the importance of a free and independent media in promoting democratic governance and accountability in Nigeria.”

  • JUST IN……..Mele Kyari Visits EFCC as $7.2bn Refineries Probe Intensifies

    JUST IN……..Mele Kyari Visits EFCC as $7.2bn Refineries Probe Intensifies

    Mele Kyari, former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), visited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

    Kyari arrived at the EFCC offices around 2:15 p.m. to respond to questions regarding financial and technical matters during his tenure at NNPCL.

    The visit follows his inclusion on the EFCC watchlist amid an ongoing investigation into the $7.2 billion refineries’ turnaround maintenance. In a related development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the temporary freezing of four bank accounts linked to Kyari over allegations of fraud.

    The EFCC has not yet disclosed further details about the outcome of Kyari’s visit or any subsequent actions.