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“Outrage In Kogi As ₦2 Billion Spent on Governor’s House While Debt Skyrockets”.
According to Nivo News, Kogi State has come under public scrutiny after its 2026 draft budget revealed plans to spend over ₦2 billion on the remodelling of the Government House and related projects, despite mounting concerns over the state’s rising debt and weak revenue base. The draft budget allocates ₦1.015 billion for extensive renovations of the Government House structure, alongside ₦1 billion for minor capital works to be executed through direct labour.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In addition, the budget earmarks ₦500 million for the construction of residential apartments for members of the State House of Assembly and the head of legislative services. The project is described as being on an “owner-occupier basis,” implying that lawmakers would eventually take ownership of the houses built with public funds.
The planned expenditure has drawn criticism, particularly against the backdrop of Kogi’s growing debt servicing obligations. A review of the state’s Medium-Term Expenditure Framework for 2025–2027 indicates that more than 80 per cent of internally generated revenue (IGR) will be committed to debt servicing. The state is projected to generate ₦35.1 billion in IGR for both 2025 and 2026, with debt servicing expected to consume ₦27.9 billion and ₦28.2 billion respectively. By 2027, debt service is projected to rise to ₦28.5 billion, representing 81.1 per cent of projected revenue.
The MTEF warned that Kogi’s financial position remains fragile, with a “very high risk” that the state’s ability to meet debt obligations may be unexpectedly weakened due to lower-than-expected revenue, higher expenditures, or an unforeseen increase in liabilities. The framework also highlighted the state’s weak revenue robustness, largely driven by socio-economic challenges and heavy reliance on volatile federal allocations, including VAT and statutory transfers. Internally generated revenue accounts for less than 20 per cent of total operating revenue, significantly below the Nigerian states’ average.
A review of the first half of 2025 budget performance showed that ₦28.1 billion was spent on debt servicing between January and June, surpassing allocations to several critical sectors. Combined expenditure by the Ministry of Works and Planning, the Road Maintenance Agency, and the state fire service was ₦17.2 billion, while the Ministry of Water Resources received ₦1.4 billion, Education ₦20.3 billion, and Health ₦12.3 billion. Notably, the 2025 budget had also earmarked ₦7 billion for the purchase of 60 vehicles for ministries, departments, and agencies.
Residents and analysts have expressed concern over the state government’s spending priorities, questioning its commitment to fiscal prudence and responsible management of public resources amid dwindling revenues and mounting debt obligations.
A group of Nigerians has staged a protest at the United Kingdom Parliament, calling for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the parliamentary complex, expressing dissatisfaction with the leadership of the electoral body in Nigeria and demanding immediate action.
They insisted that the INEC chairman should be removed, alleging concerns over credibility and trust in the electoral process as the country prepares for the next election cycle.
The protest drew attention from passersby and security personnel, as the group maintained their position that electoral reforms and leadership changes were necessary to restore public confidence.
Sir Uyi has responded strongly to critics of his involvement in nightclub businesses, insisting that such ventures represent only a small part of his wider activities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a firm reaction to recent criticism linked to Vaniti, he stated that people are focusing too much on his nightlife businesses while ignoring other aspects of his work and achievements.
He stressed that his nightclub operations do not define his entire identity or professional portfolio, adding that he is involved in several other ventures beyond entertainment and hospitality.
According to him, the criticism reflects a narrow perception of what he does, and he believes his broader contributions are being overlooked.
Sir Uyi maintained that he remains focused on his various commitments despite public scrutiny surrounding his nightlife business interests.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The victims, which included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) heading to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been successfully rescued.
Speaking while briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, said the rescue operation was achieved through coordinated efforts of multiple security agencies.
He explained that five of the abducted passengers were first released, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning without injuries.
According to him, the combined pressure from security forces, supported by the state government and the Inspector-General of Police, led to the successful outcome of the operation.
Emenari further disclosed that eight suspects are currently in custody, adding that seven of them are strongly linked to the kidnapping incident, with some victims already identifying them.
He also noted that clearance operations have begun across forest areas in the state to flush out criminal groups, in line with directives from security authorities.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, while receiving the rescued passengers, expressed concern over rising cases of kidnapping in the state but welcomed the safe return of all 18 victims.
He confirmed that among those rescued were eight candidates on their way to write examinations, and called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reschedule the affected exams for them.
The governor assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims and strengthening security across Benue State, while also urging residents to provide credible information to security agencies.
He further directed the state health authorities to conduct medical evaluations for all rescued persons and promised government support for those affected.
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