Morning recap: 26 states struggle with IGR, Bauchi senator denies bandit link, other top stories

At least 26 Nigerian state governments could not generate enough internal revenue to cover personnel costs in 2025, highlighting their continued dependence on allocations from the Federation Account despite improved finances.

An analysis by BudgIT data cited by The Punch found that only eight of 34 states covered by the report generated more internally generated revenue than personnel expenditure. The states were Lagos, Enugu, Ogun, Delta, Kaduna, Kwara, Abia and Anambra.

In another major story, Shehu Buba, senator for Bauchi South, denied renewed allegations that he had links to banditry. Buba, a former chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, said viral videos and claims on social media formed part of a sustained campaign of disinformation and character assassination. He has denied similar allegations since 2024.

Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke ordered an investigation into a disputed kingship in Koka, Obokun Local Government, while beginning a vacation. The governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, disclosed the decision in a statement obtained in Osogbo.

The 21-day constitutional period for challenging the August 15 Osun governorship election also ended without a petition. None of the 14 parties defeated in the poll filed a challenge before the election petition tribunal window closed.

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The viral videos and claims circulating on social media are part of a sustained campaign of disinformation and character assassination.