Nigeria News (Standard)
Abuja Court Rejects El-Rufai’s Bail Variation in Phone Tapping Case
Judge maintains existing bail terms for former Kaduna Governor as legal team seeks adjustment over ongoing trial
Judge maintains existing bail terms for former Kaduna Governor as legal team seeks adjustment over ongoing trial
An Abuja court on Tuesday declined the application filed by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, seeking a variation of his bail conditions in the ongoing phone tapping case. The decision was delivered during proceedings at the Federal High Court, Abuja, where El-Rufai faces charges related to alleged unauthorised interception of communications.
The presiding judge ruled that the current bail terms would remain in place, citing insufficient grounds presented by El-Rufai’s legal representatives to warrant any adjustments. The defence had argued that certain conditions were too restrictive and hindered their client’s ability to prepare for trial, but the court disagreed after reviewing submissions from both sides.
El-Rufai, who led Kaduna State under the All Progressives Congress (APC), is standing trial over allegations of illegally monitoring private phone conversations—a charge that has attracted national attention due to its implications for privacy rights and political accountability in Nigeria. The case has been closely watched by legal observers and political stakeholders, especially given El-Rufai’s prominence within the APC and his influence in North-West politics.
At Tuesday’s hearing, El-Rufai’s counsel reiterated their request for relaxed bail conditions, emphasising his cooperation with investigators and absence of flight risk. However, the prosecution opposed any variation, stating that the original bail was sufficient to ensure attendance at future proceedings. The judge ultimately sided with the prosecution, emphasising the need for judicial consistency.
With this ruling, El-Rufai is expected to continue complying with the initial bail requirements as his trial progresses. The next hearing date is yet to be announced. Legal analysts note that the court’s refusal may set a precedent for how high-profile defendants are treated in similar cases going forward.
Nigeria News (Standard)
IGP Bans Police Officers Nationwide from Creating TikTok, Facebook Content
New directive prohibits officers in all states from posting videos or photos on social media platforms while in uniform or on duty
New directive prohibits officers in all states from posting videos or photos on social media platforms while in uniform or on duty
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has issued a nationwide ban on police officers creating and sharing content on popular social media platforms, including TikTok and Facebook. The directive, which took effect across all states on Tuesday, aims to curb unauthorised online activity by personnel in uniform or during official assignments.
According to the circular sent to police commands and formations, the IGP warned that officers found sharing videos, photos, or engaging in content creation for public consumption while on duty would face disciplinary action. This move comes amid concerns about the increasing number of viral videos showing police officers dancing, participating in challenges, or commenting on sensitive security issues online.
The police leadership said the ban is necessary to maintain discipline and protect the image of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). Authorities argued that such online activities undermine operational confidentiality and could expose officers and their families to security risks. In recent months, several videos featuring uniformed officers have sparked debate about professionalism within the force.
The statement from police headquarters also reminded officers that all engagements with the public must adhere to the NPF’s code of conduct. While some rank-and-file members have criticised the policy as too restrictive, senior officials insist it is vital for upholding discipline and public trust.
Police spokespersons at state commands confirmed they have begun sensitising personnel about the new rules. Observers say enforcement will be closely watched in coming weeks, with possible implications for how law enforcement agencies manage their digital presence going forward.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Lagos-Based Chaka Launches Hisa App to Simplify Stock Investing for Nigerians
New platform introduces flat 1% fee and auto-invest features as young professionals seek easier access to local, US stocks
New platform introduces flat 1% fee and auto-invest features as young professionals seek easier access to local, US stocks
Chaka, a fintech company headquartered in Lagos, officially launched its new investment app, Hisa, on Sunday, aiming to make stock trading simpler for Nigerians. The rollout replaces the previous Chaka platform, offering users a redesigned interface and fresh features targeting both beginners and experienced investors.
The transition to Hisa allows existing Chaka users in Nigeria to keep their portfolios and login details unchanged while accessing new capabilities. Among the main highlights is a streamlined design and an auto-invest function that enables customers to schedule investments automatically each month. Hisa also introduces Atlas, an in-app research tool designed to help users make informed investment choices by providing up-to-date market insights.
Chaka’s management stated that one of the biggest improvements with Hisa is greater transparency around fees. The company now charges a flat 1% commission per trade with no hidden costs—a move aimed at addressing complaints from Nigerian investors about unexpected charges on other platforms. With Hisa, users can buy Nigerian stocks, US stocks, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) within a single app, reducing the need to navigate multiple services.
According to Chaka, customer support has also been enhanced on the new app, with dedicated staff available to resolve issues more quickly. The name ‘Hisa’ comes from the Swahili word for ‘shares’, reflecting the company’s ambition to expand across Africa and make investing more accessible beyond Nigeria’s borders. As many young professionals and first-time investors have cited complex procedures as a barrier to entry, Hisa is positioning itself as an easy gateway into wealth creation through equities.
The Hisa app is now available for download on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Chaka advised existing users in Nigeria to simply update their apps for seamless migration while new customers can register directly on the platform. Further information is available via www.hisa.co or through Hisa’s official social media channels.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Super Falcons’ Ashleigh Plumptre Denies Fake Social Media Claims Amid WAFCON Build-Up
Plumptre urges fans to ignore misleading posts as fake accounts spread false information ahead of tournament opener
Plumptre urges fans to ignore misleading posts as fake accounts spread false information ahead of tournament opener
Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has refuted claims circulating on social media attributed to her by fake accounts, warning fans in Nigeria and abroad to disregard misleading statements about her commitment to the national team. The incident occurred as preparations intensified for Nigeria’s campaign at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
The controversy began when multiple unauthorised accounts on platforms like Twitter and Instagram posted comments purportedly from Plumptre, casting doubts on her involvement with the Super Falcons. These posts quickly gained traction, sparking debate among football followers just days before Nigeria’s opening match in the continental competition.
Ashleigh Plumptre, who has played a key role in Nigeria’s defence since joining the squad, took to her verified social media page on Tuesday to set the record straight. She stated that she had not issued any of the controversial remarks and cautioned supporters to rely only on updates from her official channels. “Please do not believe any statements unless they come directly from me,” Plumptre wrote, emphasising her dedication to representing Nigeria at WAFCON.
The spread of misinformation comes at a critical time for the Super Falcons, who are seen as strong contenders for this year’s title. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has also warned fans about fake accounts impersonating players and officials, urging vigilance online. “We are aware of several fraudulent profiles circulating false information. Supporters should verify sources before sharing,” an NFF official said.
With focus now shifting back to football, the Super Falcons are expected to finalise their preparations in Lagos ahead of their first fixture. Team officials say all players, including Plumptre, remain committed and that morale in camp is high despite recent distractions.
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