Nigeria Ends Era of Roadblocks JRB Launches New Tax Rules

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Wale Edun 

ABUJA — In a major move to streamline revenue collection and boost the ease of doing business, the Joint Revenue Board (JRB) has officially banned the use of roadblocks for tax collection across Nigeria. This landmark decision coincides with the unveiling of the Presumptive Tax Regulations by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun.

The ban aims to end the disruption of commercial activities and the harassment of transporters and entrepreneurs by unauthorized or aggressive tax collectors. According to the Executive Secretary of the JRB, Olusegun Adesokan, the new framework ensures a coordinated approach that allows businesses to operate without interference while fulfilling their fiscal obligations.

A key highlight of the new regulations is the protection of Nigeria’s smallest economic players. The framework explicitly exempts nano and small businesses with an annual turnover of ₦12 million and below from these taxes.

For other businesses operating in the informal sector that exceed this threshold, a simplified 1% tax on turnover has been introduced. This "Presumptive Tax" is designed to be fair, easy to calculate, and inclusive, providing a clear pathway for informal traders to transition into the formal economy.

During the launch, Minister Wale Edun emphasized that these reforms are critical to achieving the President’s ambitious goal of a $1 trillion economy by 2030. He noted that Nigeria’s GDP grew by over 4% in the final quarter of 2025, with the government now eyeing a 7% growth rate in the near term.

“These regulations ensure transparency, fairness, and economic inclusion,” Edun stated. “They formalize a pathway for small businesses to grow and eventually enter the formal economy, contributing to sustainable national growth.”

To prevent abuse of the new system, the Minister announced that tax administration will now be strictly monitored across federal, state, and local government levels. A dedicated Ombudsman will oversee the implementation to ensure that collectors adhere to the "no-roadblock" policy and that the rights of taxpayers are protected.

Supreme Court Sounds Alarm Over Judge’s Use of Fake AI Generated Judgments

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Ai App and India Supreme Court 

NEW DELHI — In a landmark case that has sent shockwaves through the global legal community, the Supreme Court of India has taken a stern stance against the use of artificial intelligence in the judiciary. The apex court warned that judicial decisions based on fabricated, AI-generated precedents constitute "misconduct" rather than a simple legal error, signaling a new era of accountability for the digital age.

The controversy erupted after a junior civil judge in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, delivered a ruling in a property dispute in August 2025. To justify the decision, the judge cited four specific legal precedents. However, upon closer inspection, it was revealed that none of those cases actually existed they were entirely "hallucinated" by an AI tool the judge had used for legal research.

The case originally moved to the Andhra Pradesh High Court, where the judge admitted this was her first time using AI. She claimed she believed the citations were genuine and had no intent to deceive the court. While the High Court acknowledged the citations were "non-existent," it remarkably upheld the ruling, arguing the error was made in "good faith" and that the underlying legal principles applied were still sound.

However, the Supreme Court was far less forgiving. A bench comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe stayed the execution of the lower court’s order on February 27, 2026, expressing deep institutional concern over the integrity of the adjudicatory process.

"We must declare that a decision based on such non-existent and fake alleged judgments is not an error in decision-making. It would be a misconduct and legal consequence shall follow," the Bench stated in its order.

The Indian case is not an isolated incident but part of a growing global trend of "AI hallucinations" in courtrooms. In 2025 alone, over 500 cases of AI-generated fabricated content were documented in U.S. courts. These tools often generate realistic-looking citations complete with party names, volume numbers, and page references that appear indistinguishable from real law without verification against official databases.

The Supreme Court has now issued formal notices to the Attorney General of India, the Solicitor General, and the Bar Council of India to examine the broader implications of AI in the workforce. Senior advocate Shyam Divan has been appointed as amicus curiae (friend of the court) to assist in establishing strict guidelines.

This ruling is being hailed as the first of its kind worldwide to establish that a government judicial officer can be held liable for professional misconduct due to unverified AI use. It underscores a vital lesson for professionals in every sector: ignorance of AI limitations is no longer a valid legal defense.

The Supreme Court has scheduled a comprehensive review of the matter for March 10, 2026, where it is expected to provide a framework for the responsible use of technology in the judiciary to protect public trust in the legal system.

ACP Benjamin Hundeyin Removed as Force PRO Barely Six Months After Appointment

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Benjamin Hundeyin 

ABUJA — In a major move signaling a deep administrative overhaul, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has removed ACP Benjamin Hundeyin as the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO). The development comes on Thursday, March 5, 2026, just six months after Hundeyin assumed the high-profile position.

The removal follows the inauguration of the new substantive Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, who was sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday at the Federal Executive Council meeting.

Hundeyin, a seasoned communicator and Assistant Commissioner of Police, was appointed to the national spokesperson role by the former IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, in September 2025. His tenure, though brief, was marked by his background in legal criminology and his previous high-visibility role as the Lagos State Police Command spokesperson.

While the exact reasons for his sudden exit remain officially unstated, sources within the Force Headquarters suggest the move is part of a broader "clearing of the decks" by the new leadership.

"It is standard practice that when a new IGP takes office, certain key administrative and operational positions are reshuffled to align with the new chief's vision," a source noted. "Unfortunately, Hundeyin was affected by this wave of restructuring."

The shake-up comes barely 24 hours after IGP Tunji Disu officially took the reins as the 23rd indigenous Inspector-General of Police. Disu, who replaces Kayode Egbetokun following the latter’s resignation in February 2026, has already signaled a zero-tolerance policy for corruption and human rights abuses.

Disu's appointment has triggered a series of changes within the police hierarchy. As a junior officer to some of the current top brass, his elevation is expected to lead to the retirement or redeployment of several senior officers to ensure a streamlined command structure.

As of Thursday afternoon, the Nigeria Police Force has yet to name a successor for ACP Hundeyin. The vacuum comes at a time of heightened operational activity, as the Force transitions into new leadership under the Tunji Disu administration.

When contacted for comments, Hundeyin reportedly described himself as "unavailable right now," directing inquiries to state command spokespersons. This silence has fueled further speculation regarding his next deployment.

Hundeyin, an alumnus of Lagos State University and the University of Ibadan, had only recently been promoted to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police in February 2026. His removal marks one of the first significant personnel changes of the Disu era.

Bunmi Onilude Launches Exclusive Youth Leadership Training in Badagry

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY — In a strategic move to cultivate the next wave of visionary leaders, renowned advocate Mrs. Bunmi Onilude has announced the launch of an intensive Youth Leadership Training program. Set to take place every Friday throughout the month of March 2026, the initiative aims to transform teenagers and young adults into confident, value-driven influencers.

The training will be hosted at the Centre for Youth Integrated Development (CYID), located at the Marina in Badagry, Lagos State. Speaking with News Peddlers on Thursday, Mrs. Onilude emphasized that this is not a "casual class" but a deliberate effort at high-level capacity building.

To ensure the highest quality of practical engagement and one-on-one mentorship, the organizers have opened only 25 exclusive slots. This selective approach is designed to foster an environment where participants can deeply absorb the curriculum and interact directly with industry experts.

"This is intentional capacity building," Mrs. Onilude stated. "We are looking for young people who are ready to grow, ready to lead, and ready to become positive influencers in their communities."

The program is meticulously structured to address the specific needs of youth in the digital age. Participants will gain mastery in three core pillars: Media & Digital Influence: Learning to build a personal brand while navigating social media with responsibility and ethics.

Public Speaking: Overcoming the fear of the stage, speaking with clarity, and commanding a physical and digital presence.

Vision for the Future: Strategic planning, goal setting, and discovering a sense of purpose.

The training features a powerhouse of speakers and entrepreneurs who are leaders in their respective fields: Victor Aihawu: Director of CYID and a prominent social entrepreneur. An advocate for migrant reintegration, Aihawu will lead sessions on leadership with integrity and African cultural connectivity.

Bukola Aladesulu:  Founder and Executive Director of Teenovation. She will focus on empowering youth to build resilience and craft a strong Digital Identity.

David Assogba: CEO of Palm Crest Reftop. An innovative business leader, Assogba will provide insights into entrepreneurship and developing a business mindset.

David Onilude: A youth advocate specializing in digital awareness and practical skills. He will guide participants on how to inspire positive community impact through responsible behavior.

The choice of the Centre for Youth Integrated Development (CYID) as the venue highlights the program's alignment with broader goals of youth empowerment and migrant support. By bringing together local talent and diaspora perspectives, the training provides a unique platform for Badagry’s youth to think globally while acting locally.

Badagry Babatunde Hunpe calls for Peace and Unity at Ramadan Lecture

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Hon. Babatunde Hunpe 

BADAGRY — As the holy month of Ramadan casts a serene glow over Lagos State, the Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, fMHR, has called on residents to embrace the virtues of peaceful coexistence and moral excellence.

Speaking on Tuesday at the Annual Ramadan Lecture hosted by the Unified Local Government Muslim Staff Association (Badagry Branch), Hunpe described the current season as a rare divine alignment. He noted that the simultaneous commencement of the Christian Lent and the Muslim Ramadan serves as a powerful reminder of humanity's shared spiritual journey and God’s call for harmony.

The theme of the lecture, “From Submission to Excellence: The Journey of a Rising Muslim,” set the tone for a day of deep reflection at the Council Secretariat.

The Guest Lecturer, Dr. Mustapha Adebayo Bello, a Senior Lecturer at Lagos State University (LASU), captivated the audience with a discourse on the true strength of faith. He argued that being a "rising Muslim" in 2026 requires more than ritual; it demands sound character, a thirst for knowledge, and a commitment to community development.

"True piety is found in sincerity, not public display," Dr. Bello noted. "A Muslim must be an ambassador of peace, showing empathy in times of joy and grief alike."

For Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, the lessons of Ramadan must extend beyond the walls of the mosque and the hours of fasting. He challenged the "people of the book" to let the discipline of the month reflect in their daily interactions, particularly in fostering unity within the diverse Badagry community.

The Chairman highlighted several key pillars for progress, Respecting the faith of others as a prerequisite for communal peace. Upholding law and order as a religious and civic duty. Living exemplary lives that inspire the younger generation toward excellence.

NAF Precision Strikes Decimate 50+ Terrorists Following Failed Ngoshe Attack

Manoah Kikekon 

Nigeria Air Force fighter jet

MAIDUGURI — In a display of overwhelming aerial superiority, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai has neutralized over 50 Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in Borno State. The decisive strike followed a botched attempt by the insurgents to overrun military positions in the Ngoshe community of Gwoza Local Government Area.

The encounter, which occurred late on March 3, 2026, underscored the increasing synergy between ground intelligence and aerial response in Nigeria’s ongoing counter-insurgency campaign.

According to military sources the terrorists launched a coordinated assault on artillery positions in Ngoshe at approximately 7:30 p.m. Ngoshe, a strategic location situated about 31 kilometers from Gwoza town, has long been a flashpoint due to its proximity to cross-border forest enclaves.

Ground troops reportedly engaged the insurgents in a fierce firefight. To preserve personnel and equipment under intense evening fire, the troops executed a tactical withdrawal while simultaneously mobilizing reinforcements and relaying real-time intelligence to the Air Component.

The insurgents, attempting to utilize their signature "hit-and-run" tactic, began a retreat into the forested terrain as reinforcements arrived. However, they were intercepted by Nigerian Air Force (NAF) surveillance platforms that had been scrambled to track their "egress routes."

The fleeing terrorists were sighted moving in large clusters along the Ngoshe–Pulka corridor. Two separate strike runs were conducted:

Strike One: Targeted the primary movement trail of the fleeing unit.

Strike Two: Focused on a secondary cluster attempting to find cover in a nearby thicket.

Battle Damage Assessments (BDA) confirmed that at least 50 terrorists were eliminated in the precision bombardment, with several of their logistics vehicles and mobility assets destroyed.

The military highlighted that these strikes did more than just reduce enemy numbers; they significantly disrupted the logistics and mobility capabilities of the remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP operating in the Gwoza axis.

"The message is clear: any attempt to attack our positions will attract overwhelming and coordinated firepower," a military official stated, emphasizing that Operation Hadin Kai remains resolute in sustaining offensive pressure.

Following the air strikes, clearance and area domination operations are currently ongoing to ensure that no regrouping attempts are made. The Ngoshe–Gwoza axis is historically volatile, with terrorists often exploiting the difficult terrain to launch sporadic attacks on resettled communities.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) and the Nigerian Army have assured residents of Gwoza and surrounding areas of their continued protection. The military remains committed to supporting resettlement efforts and consolidating the gains recorded in the North East theater of operations.

Badagry High Court Orders "Substituted Service" on LG Chairman Hon. Babatunde Hunpe

By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY — A significant legal escalation unfolded at the High Court of Lagos State, Badagry Division, as Honourable Justice Emmanuel O. Ogundare granted an order for substituted service against the Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe.

The ruling, delivered on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, comes amidst allegations that the Council Chairman has repeatedly evaded the service of court summons. The court has now authorized the applicant, Medemaku Abayomi Noah, the Badagry LGA Chairmanship candidate for People Democratic Party (PDP) to serve the Originating Summons by pasting the legal documents directly onto the gate of the Chairman’s private residence.

In Suit No: BD/9439GCM/2025, Justice Ogundare endorsed a Motion Ex-Parte brought under the Lagos State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019. The order specifically mandates that the court processes be served by "pasting same at the gate/fence" of Hon. Hunpe’s house located at Hunpe Street, off Itoga Road, Posukoh, Badagry.

Related News: 

Nothing Like Badagry Central, PDP Candidate Medemaku Sues APC, Hunpe Over Illegal Candidacy

Badagry: Onilude's Aide Letter Appears as Exhibit as Medemaku Drags APC, Hunpe to court over ‘Ghost’ Local Government

To ensure transparency and prevent further claims of non-receipt, the court has imposed strict requirements for the execution of this order. The Sheriff of the Court must provide photographic evidence that clearly shows:

1. A wide view of the property where the processes were pasted.

2. The face of the Court Sheriff performing the act.

The lawsuit initiated by Medemaku Abayomi Noah isn't just a personal grievance but a multi-respondent case involving the highest levels of the state’s political and electoral machinery. The respondents in the suit include:

The Lagos State Government

The Attorney-General of Lagos State

The Lagos State House of Assembly

Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC)

Hon. Babatunde Hunpe (5th Respondent)

All Progressives Congress (APC) (6th Respondent)

The legal action hinges on Sections 3(6), 7(1), and 8 of the 1999 Constitution, which outline Nigeria’s recognized 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs). The plaintiff argues that "Badagry Central" is not constitutionally recognized, rendering Hunpe’s primary election invalid . 

The lawsuit also questions LASIEC’s authority to conduct elections in 37 LCDAs, which lack constitutional backing. Citing the Supreme Court’s ruling in AG Federation v. AG Abia & Ors (2024).

The suit partly reads: A DECLARATION that, there is no Local Government Area Council known or recognized by the name “BADAGRY CENTRAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT” in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (As amended).

An Order that the purported election where the 5th Defendant Hon. BABATUNDE HUNPE was sponsored as a candidate by the 6th Defendant for Badagry Local Government Area Council in the Local Government Election scheduled for July 12, 2025 (or soon thereafter), is invalid and unknown to law as there is no primary conducted by the 6th Defendant for the said Badagry Local Government Area Council, rather the 6th Defendant only conducted primary election into a non-existing Badagry Central Local Government Area.

An Order that the 5th Respondent Hon. BABATUNDE HUNPE was not dully and validly elected as a candidate for Badagry Local Government Area Council in the Local Government Election scheduled for July 12, 2025 (or soon thereafter), as the purported Primary Election held for Badagry Central Local Government Area Council by the 6th Respondent is unknown to law.