Evening recap: ICPC uncovers more fake agencies in PFIPC probe, Tinubu orders EFCC to vacate Osun freeze, other top stories

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has exposed two more fraudulent government agencies connected to Adeniyi Matthew Adeyemi, the self-styled Director-General of the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council. This addition to the ongoing investigation deepens the probe into the alleged fraud scheme.

ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu announced the findings during a briefing for State House correspondents at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The report revealed that the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council, claimed by Adeyemi to be a government agency, was never officially appointed by the Federal Government and lacked any legal backing.

The forged appointment letter and unlawful takeover of defunct council's resources were also uncovered.

President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to return to court and revoke the order freezing the accounts of the Osun State Government. The directive comes as the state gears up for its upcoming gubernatorial election, with Tinubu expressing concern over the timing of the action. He emphasized that while he appreciates the EFCC's authority, the strategic decision was made to safeguard public confidence in the democratic process. The EFCC obtained the freezing order on August 5, 2026, a matter of days before the election.

Kemi Adeosun, former Finance Minister, has lost her husband, Anthony Adeniyi Adeosun, who passed away at the age of 62 in Lagos. Tinubu has expressed condolences to Adeosun over the loss of her spouse. Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma's aide has vehemently responded to Davido's comments regarding the Osun election. The aide suggested that Davido should prepare to sign his uncle, Governor Ademola Adeleke, as a dancer after the poll, implying that such is the level of political conflict surrounding the election. The controversy has been fueled by rumors of interference in the Osun State gubernatorial election.

A retired DSS officer, Nwaogu Ihechimere Ezeakolam, has been remanded in custody by a Federal High Court in Abuja. He faces charges related to alleged support for the proscribed Indigenous People of God (IPOB) and involvement in cybercrime. The prosecution presented four counts of terrorism and cybercrime related offenses, which Ezeakolam pleaded not guilty to. The court has set a trial date and ordered that he be held in custody pending further proceedings.

Arsenal's interest in Nigerian forward Vinicius Jr appears to be on the rise, as the Brazilian is set to sign a six-year contract with Spanish giants Real Madrid. The deal, expected to be officially announced soon, secures the talented player's future with the Spanish club, potentially ending Arsenal's pursuit to sign him.