Nigeria News Digest: Aug 26, 2025

Following an August 10 sting operation, EFCC secured convictions of multiple internet fraudsters, with several pleading guilty to cybercrime charges after arrests at the OOPL hotel, while a fourth defendant was remanded.

A mortgage banker was sentenced to 16 years in prison across multiple counts for fraud, false pretences, forgery and retention of proceeds, after a N31 million apartment deal in Lagos triggered an EFCC investigation.

Police and EFCC arrested nine suspects linked to kidnapping and cybercrime in Akwa Ibom, following a joint operation that dismantled a kidnapping ring and seized individuals involved in a recent foiled abduction attempt in Eket.

A Federal High Court judge ordered the forfeiture of more than N5 billion in shares linked to former NAPL managing director Major General Umar Mohammed and businessman Kayode Filani, after the EFCC proved its case.

Civil society groups in Kano accused the state government of intimidation after they demanded the suspension of officials facing corruption allegations, saying members were subjected to threats and harassment.

The Kaduna State government’s security unit reportedly raided a hotel used by the PDP’s campaign office, abducting its candidate Esther Dawaki and seizing campaign funds, prompting the party to accuse the governor of a political clamp‑down.

The Inspector General of Police asked the court to compel banks to provide account details for Sahara Reporters founder Sola Sowore, citing allegations of terrorism financing and money laundering linked to foreign support.