Nigerian states defy Supreme Court on local government autonomy, Umahi demands autopsy in nurse's death, and other top stories
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Nigerian states are reportedly defying a Supreme Court ruling by continuing to control local government allocations, with NULGE stating that direct payments from the Federal Government have not begun. This comes two years after the Supreme Court ordered direct payment of federal allocations to local government councils. In other news, Minister of Works David Umahi and the Ebonyi State Police Command are demanding an autopsy for 26-year-old nurse Mary Habila, whose body was found at the minister鈥檚 residence. This demand follows her father's request to withdraw the police investigation and his refusal to allow an autopsy, as he does not suspect foul play. Additionally, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila has filed a N15bn defamation lawsuit against Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi over allegations of demanding a 48% kickback from a N27.3bn grant, claims Gbajabiamila denies. The Independent National Electoral Commission is also planning a comprehensive audit of its electoral technology systems and a mock presidential election in preparation for the 2027 general election. Internationally, US President Donald Trump's administration has finalized a rule limiting most foreign students and exchange visitors on F-1 and J-1 visas to a maximum four-year stay, a measure aimed at strengthening immigration enforcement and preventing visa overstays.
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Must ReadUgandan prosecutors have withdrawn a case against two women, both in their 20s, who were arrested in February for kissing in public. The arrests followed a complaint from neighbors in Arua, who suspected "same-sex orgies." The case was dropped by the Director of Public Prosecutions, as confirmed by Irene Nakimbugwe, deputy spokesperson for the prosecutor's office. Human rights lawyer Frank Mugisha welcomed the decision, stating that kissing is not a crime and no one should be persecuted for their identity or love. He expressed hope that this decision would lead to a review of similar cases and the dropping of all unjust prosecutions under the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which he called for to be repealed. Uganda's 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act imposes severe penalties, including life imprisonment for consensual same-sex relations and death for "aggravated homosexuality." Rights groups claim the law is used for blackmail and extortion against the LGBT community in Uganda. The law has drawn international condemnation and led to the World Bank suspending funding to the country, which resumed in mid-2025.
Must ReadA school bus returning from a trip in Uganda veered off the road, resulting in the deaths of 20 children and one adult, according to police. The bus, from King David Junior School in Kampala, was returning from Sipi Falls in Kapchorwa District when the driver reportedly lost control, causing the vehicle to strike a stone and overturn. In addition to the fatalities, three adult males and several juveniles sustained injuries. Police shared an image of the overturned bus and stated that investigations are ongoing, with injured individuals receiving hospital treatment. Uganda has a history of road safety issues, with frequent bus and truck accidents. A 2024 report indicated 4,434 fatal collisions and 5,144 deaths in that year.
Must ReadAbia State Governor Alex Otti expressed satisfaction with a proposed $145 million solar manufacturing plant, viewing it as a significant boost for industrialization, job creation, and economic growth in the state. The project, a collaboration between MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited and Chinese technical partners, is planned for Umuelele in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. Governor Otti met with the investors, led by Dr. Oko Jaja, at the Government House in Umuahia, confirming that the final investment decision for the project has been reached. He emphasized his administration's commitment to fostering a favorable business environment and noted that the necessary land for the project has been secured. Dr. Jaja informed the governor about the project's progress, highlighting the $145 million investment and commending the state government's supportive environment. He also mentioned that the initial funding tranche is expected in September 2026. Mr. Dennis Nwakanma, CEO of MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited, stated that the plant would be established through a Public-Private Partnership with the Abia State Government. He anticipates the factory will commence operations by the end of September, contributing to renewable energy production, industrial development, and youth employment through skills acquisition.