Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has been detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over an alleged ₦432bn corruption probe, with operatives of the Department of State Services reportedly placed on standby.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s hopes of returning to the 2026 FIFA World Cup remain uncertain as FIFA delays its verdict on the country’s protest against DR Congo.
In other developments, police arrested a suspect after two Nollywood crew members died on a Lagos film set, the National Assembly is considering shifting the 2027 presidential election date, and a court has remanded suspects accused of killing a South Africa-based Nigerian student.
Below are this morning’s top trending stories:
- EFCC detains El-Rufai over ₦432bn probe, DSS on standby
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has detained former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai for questioning over an alleged ₦432bn corruption probe linked to his administration. Operatives of the Department of State Services were reportedly placed on standby as developments unfolded, while demonstrators gathered at the EFCC headquarters demanding accountability in the case. Read here: https://punchng.com/n432bn-probe-efcc-detains-el-rufai-dss-on-standby/
2. Nigeria’s World Cup hopes hang as FIFA delays DR Congo verdict
Nigeria’s chances of securing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup remain uncertain as FIFA has yet to deliver its verdict on the Nigeria Football Federation’s petition against DR Congo over the alleged use of ineligible players. The decision could determine whether Nigeria gets another opportunity to compete for one of the remaining qualification slots, with officials expressing confidence in their case. Read here: https://punchng.com/wcup-nigerias-wait-continues-as-fifa-delays-dr-congo-verdict/
3. Arrest made after two die on Lagos film set
Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the deaths of two Nollywood crew members who were found lifeless inside a vehicle on a film set in Lagos. Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and establish responsibility. Read here: https://punchng.com/arrest-made-after-two-die-on-lagos-film-set/
4. N’Assembly eyes January 16 for 2027 presidential poll, suspends bill harmonisation
The National Assembly is considering January 16, 2027, as the proposed date for the next presidential election, a move aimed at avoiding a clash with the Ramadan fasting period. Lawmakers have also suspended the harmonisation of amendments to the Electoral Act as discussions continue on the proposed electoral timetable. Read here: https://punchng.com/2027-nassembly-eyes-jan-16-for-presidential-poll-suspends-electoral-bill-harmonisation/
5. Court remands suspects over killing of South Africa-based Nigerian student
A court has ordered the remand of suspects accused of killing a Nigerian student based in South Africa, pending further legal proceedings. The case has drawn attention to concerns about violent crimes involving Nigerians and the pursuit of justice for victims. Read here: https://punchng.com/court-remands-suspected-killers-of-safrica-based-nigerian-student/
