Category: Nigeria

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Army probes soldier’s alleged killing of teenager in Akwa Ibom

The Nigerian Army has commenced an investigation into the death of a 13-year-old boy allegedly shot by a soldier in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of January 1, 2026, along Akongntekong Road, Ete, sparked outrage and tension within the community.

The Army Public Relations Officer, 2 Brigade, Mbiokporo, Captain Lawal Mohamed, said the matter had been taken over by the Military Police.

“The incident has been handled by the Military Police and is already under investigation. Due process would be followed”. He assured

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the victim, Timothy Daniel, was returning from a crossover service at Mount Zion Full Gospel Church with his 15-year-old sister, Miracle Daniel, when the incident occurred at about 12:05 a.m.

An eyewitness, Anthony Akpan, said that Miracle had briefly crossed the road when the soldier who was on guard duty at the residence of the late former clan head, Clement Idemudo, where expatriates reportedly reside, allegedly followed her and made inappropriate advances.

According to Akpan, when the girl resisted and protested, the soldier allegedly became aggressive and threatened her. Timothy, who was waiting nearby, reportedly confronted the soldier over the alleged harassment of his sister, leading to a heated exchange.

The confrontation allegedly escalated, culminating in the soldier firing his rifle and hitting the teenager. Timothy was said to have died on the spot, after which the soldier reportedly retreated into the compound while other security personnel later removed the body.

“The shooting triggered panic and unrest in the area, disrupting New Year celebrations. Even a vehicle belonging to a former political adviser to the Ikot Abasi Local Government Chairman, Obong Uyai Udoiwod, was damaged during the ensuing commotion,” he said. (Channels)

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Armed gangs kill 30, kidnap many in Niger

Armed gangs killed more than 30 people and kidnapped others in a raid in Nigeria in the same state where hundreds of schoolchildren were abducted late last year, police said Sunday.

The gangs swept into Kasuwan Daji village, in the Kabe district of the western Niger State on Saturday and set a market ablaze, before looting shops for food, they said.

“Over 30 victims lost their lives during the attack, some persons were also kidnapped,” Wasiu Abiodun, Niger state police spokesman said.

President Bola Tinubu’s office said the attackers may have been “terrorists” fleeing from parts of northwestern Nigeria following Christmas Day airstrikes by the United States that targeted militants linked to the Islamic State group.

The attackers “will be caught and brought to justice”, along with any who helped them, Tinubu vowed in a statement relayed by his media adviser Bayo Onanuga.

Images viewed by AFP showed some of those killed in the raid had their hands tied behind their backs.

Gangs, known in Nigeria as “bandits”, frequently carry out mass kidnappings for ransom and loot villages in parts of Nigeria.

Niger state has been one of the hardest hit in recent months.

In November, armed gangs seized more than 250 students and staff from a Catholic school in the state.

Authorities announced their release in two batches weeks later, without saying whether a ransom was paid.

The latest attack took place less than 20 kilometres (12 miles) from Papiri village where the students and teachers were snatched from their school.

The local church for the area put the death toll from Saturday’s raid at more than 40, higher than the figure given by police.

“Reports indicate the bandits operated for hours with no security presence,” the Catholic Church in Kontagora said on its Facebook page. (Guardian)

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Lagos police launch investigation into Pastor Okafor over sexual allegations

The Lagos State Police Command has ordered an investigation into the senior pastor of Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, Chris Okafor, following a series of sexual misconduct allegations that have circulated widely on social media.

The directive was issued by the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, who instructed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti, to invite Okafor for questioning and to summon alleged victims and witnesses for interviews.

“The CP has directed the SCID to invite the pastor for investigation, despite the fact that no one has formally come forward to report,” said Lagos Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi.

She added that witnesses will be brought forward to provide statements that would assist the investigation.

The move comes after escalating public outrage, with actress Doris Ogala among the women accusing the pastor of sexual misconduct spanning nearly a decade. In emotional Instagram videos posted on 14 December 2025, Ogala alleged that her relationship with Okafor began in 2017, continued for nine years, and included broken promises of marriage. She also accused him of sharing explicit photos and contributing to the breakdown of her previous marriage.

In a public apology during a church service, Okafor knelt on the pulpit, admitting to past “mistakes” and asking for forgiveness. He had earlier married a new bride, identified as Pearl, on 16 December 2025, in a ceremony attended by prominent clerics.

Adebisi said she personally contacted a YouTuber who had interviewed alleged victims to obtain direct links to witnesses to facilitate the investigation.

Other women have since come forward with allegations of manipulation, infidelity, and sexual misconduct. One accuser, Okafor’s former wife, Bessem Okafor, claimed the cleric engaged in infidelity, deception, and physical assault.

Despite the allegations, several members of the Mountain of Liberation church have defended the pastor, describing the claims as attempts to extort money from Okafor.

As the probe unfolds, police have confirmed that no formal petition had been filed prior to CP Jimoh’s order, underscoring that the investigation is being conducted in response to public concern and media reports.

The Lagos SCID is expected to issue updates as Okafor is invited for questioning and witnesses provide statements, signalling the seriousness with which authorities are approaching the case. (Guardian)

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Police arrest three as probe begins onto burning of traditional worshipper’s Kwara house

The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three suspects in connection with a suspected arson attack on a residential building in Ilorin, the state capital, following allegations of threats linked to religious differences.

In a press release issued on Saturday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the command had commenced a full investigation into the fire incident, which occurred in the Isale Koko area of Ilorin.

According to the statement, the incident was reported on January 2, 2026, at about 10pm by the occupant of the house, Mrs T. A. Olorisha.

She alleged that her residence was set ablaze by unknown persons on January 1, 2026, around 7pm while she was away from home.

The statement read, “Kwara State Police investigate suspected arson attack in Ilorin. Three suspects were arrested.

‎”The Kwara State Police Command is aware of a video circulating online. The video depicts an elderly woman saying her place of residence was completely razed by fire.

‎The command has commenced thorough investigation into the fire incident suspected to be an act of arson at Isale Koko Area, Ilorin.

”On 2nd January, 2026 at about 10pm, a resident, Mrs. T.A Olorisha, reported at C Division, Oja Oba, that her house was set ablaze by unknown persons. The incident was said to have occurred on 1st January, 2026 at about 7pm, while she was away.

‎”The complainant alleged that she had received threats in November 2025 from some individuals, including Alhaji Salihu Saka 63 years, Alhaji Abubakar Salihu 58 years and Alhaji Yekini Olohuntele 67 years, allegedly over religious differences, as she is a traditional worshipper. All three suspects are currently in police custody, aiding investigations.

“‎No life lost, as no one was inside the building at the time of the incident. The value of the property destroyed is yet to be ascertained.

‎”The command assures members of the public that concerted efforts are ongoing to apprehend the other perpetrators, while all allegations are being diligently investigated.

‎”The Kwara State Police Command reiterates its commitment to protecting lives, property, and the fundamental rights of all residents, regardless of religious or cultural beliefs. Members of the public are urged to remain calm and provide useful information that can aid the investigation.”

PUNCH Online reported earlier that a woman and practitioner of traditional religion has accused residents of her Ilorin neighbourhood in Kwara State of carrying out a targeted arson attack on her home following repeated threats linked to her faith. (Punch)

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Local govt services to resume in Osun on Monday after 11-month strike

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has commended the state chapter of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) for their decision to resume duties on Monday, 5 January 2026, describing the move as “patriotic and people-oriented.”

Governor Adeleke said the return of local government workers represents a “positive development for grassroots governance” and highlights the labour movement’s responsiveness to the “yearnings and aspirations of the people.” He expressed optimism that the resumption will mark a fresh start for activated services and social delivery at the grassroots level.

Describing local governance as the most effective means of reaching residents, Adeleke said the labour leaders had shown confidence in responsible leadership.

He also praised police authorities for ensuring security at council secretariats ahead of the resumption.

“As much as I’m commending the NULGE leadership, I must also appreciate the Inspector General of Police, the Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 11 and the Osun State Commissioner of Police for their commitment to provide security cover for the lawful resumption of activities at the various council secretariats,” the governor stated in a Saturday communiqué signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

“The police command has acted responsibly to prevent anarchy and violence being plotted by some elements.

The prompt action of the police has nipped in the bud any untoward happening across our secretariats. We hope to see the Command following through its directive against the evil plot to disrupt workers’ resumption of duty,” Adeleke added.

Transitioning to broader governance issues, the governor addressed the question of local government autonomy, stressing the importance of rule of law and due process.

“Our government is not opposed to local government autonomy. The presidential decision on local autonomy has good intentions of devolving good governance to the local level.

We support it. What we, however, advocate is that rule of law and due process must never be sacrificed on the altar of political shenanigans.

The constitution and the laws on the local government system must be complied with in financial, administrative and other matters. The rightfully elected leadership of the local government should also not be denied their legitimate rights to exercise their mandate. This has been our position,” the statement read.

Concluding his remarks, Adeleke welcomed the workers’ return and emphasised the role of peace and unity in delivering the dividends of democracy. “We welcome the workers’ resumption of duties. We commend the police and other security agencies for keeping our state peaceful. Only under harmonious conditions can the dividends of democracy be sufficiently delivered. We need peace, unity and adherence to democratic principles,” he said.

The resumption follows almost 11 months of industrial action by NULGE, which ended last Monday. The union’s president, Dr Nathaniel Ogungbangbe, outlined certain security requests for the resumption, including adequate deployment to all 30 local government councils, area offices and LCDAs to prevent “intimidation, harassment, or disruption of lawful duties” and to prevent “illegal occupation of these secretariats by unauthorised persons”.

The Osun State Police Command had earlier warned that unscrupulous politicians planning to disrupt the resumption would face decisive action.

The state Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Giwa-Alade, stated that “non-employees of LGA must not be seen near the premises of the council secretariats across the state,” while security personnel were directed to “deal firmly and professionally with anyone attempting to incite unrest or cause disturbances.”

CP Ibrahim Gotan reassured residents of the state of the police’s “unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property”, noting that personnel would continue to discharge their constitutional duties with “vigilance and professionalism”. (Guardian)

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Customs, NDLEA Seize 30.1kg Cocaine in Lagos port

The Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Area Command, in a joint operation with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, has intercepted 30.1 kilograms of cocaine at the Apapa Port in Lagos.

The illicit drug, packaged in 30 slabs, was discovered aboard MV Aruna, a Marshall Islands-flagged vessel, at the Greenview Terminal on the first working day of the year.

The seizure was made known in a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Isah Sulaiman, which was posted on the official X account of the Nigerian Customs Service on Saturday.

“Officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Apapa Area Command, in a joint operation with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), have foiled an attempt to smuggle 30.1 kilograms of cocaine through the Apapa Port in Lagos.

“According to a press release issued on Friday, 2 January 2026, by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Isah Sulaiman, the illicit drug, packaged in 30 slabs, was intercepted on the first working day of the new year, concealed onboard the MV Aruna, a Marshall Islands-flagged vessel, at the Greenview Terminal,” the statement read.

The Customs Area Controller, Apapa Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, commended the officers involved for their professionalism and vigilance during the joint operation.

“This achievement reflects the strong inter-agency synergy between Federal Government agencies and our commitment to intelligence-led enforcement.

“While criminal elements seek to outsmart us, our officers remain one step ahead, ensuring no smuggling attempt, whether disguised as import, export, or transit cargo, succeeds under my watch,” Oshoba said.

He said the interception underscored the command’s zero-tolerance stance on illicit trade in 2026, adding that efforts would continue to protect national security while facilitating legitimate trade.

The seized cocaine has been handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution of suspects connected to the shipment.

The statement added that the seizure was the third major drug interception recorded by the joint NCS–NDLEA team in recent weeks.

“In line with established protocols, the seized cocaine has been handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and the prosecution of suspects linked to the shipment. The latest seizure represents the third major drug interception by the joint NCS–NDLEA team in recent weeks.

“Barely two weeks earlier, both agencies intercepted 25.5 kilograms of cocaine concealed in five bags aboard another vessel, following credible intelligence,” the statement read.

It recalled that about two weeks earlier, both agencies intercepted 25.5 kilograms of cocaine concealed in five bags aboard another vessel.

On December 11, 2025, the joint team also seized 1,187 kilograms of “Canadian Loud”, a high-grade strain of cannabis, packed in 2,374 parcels across 55 bags and hidden inside imported vehicles in a 40-foot container. (Punch)

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Fatal crash: Police arrest Joshua’s driver after boxer discharged

The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Kayode Adeniyi, the 47-year-old driver of the ill-fated Lexus SUV that crashed on Monday, killing two of Anthony Joshua’s closest friends, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The spokesperson for the state police command, Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists on Thursday, adding that investigations are ongoing.

Adeniyi, a long-standing member of Joshua’s Nigerian logistics team, was discharged from the hospital in Lagos late on New Year’s Eve and driven two hours north to Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, where the fatal crash occurred.

Police sources revealed that Adeniyi is expected to be charged with reckless driving within 48 hours, though the bank holiday may delay proceedings.

“The driver was released after treatment for minor injuries and was then taken to the state police headquarters for questioning. He is in a stable condition and was able to provide us with his version of events that led up to the crash,” a police source told Daily Mail.

Adeniyi was allegedly driving way over the 65mph speed limit for the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway when he lost control after a tyre burst during an overtaking manoeuvre near Danco.

The Lexus, carrying Joshua and two of his training staff, Sina Ghami and Kevin Latif Ayodele, smashed into an illegally parked truck, which was carrying soya beans.

The force of the impact tore the nearside section of the car away. Ghami, 36, a British citizen, and Ayodele, 36, a Nigerian/British citizen, were killed instantly, while Joshua and Adeniyi suffered only minor injuries.

Joshua was sitting behind the driver and escaped death by inches, with local first responders describing his survival as a “miracle”.

The Lagos and Ogun state governments on Wednesday announced the discharge of Anthony Joshua from Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, after doctors confirmed he was clinically fit to continue his recuperation from home.

According to a joint statement signed by Mr Kayode Akinmade, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, and Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Mr Gbenga Omotosho, Joshua and his mother visited a funeral home in Lagos on Wednesday to pay their final respects to the two late friends.

The bodies were flown out of Lagos on a Turkish Airlines cargo flight that landed in Istanbul early on New Year’s Day and are expected to fly on to London.

Governors Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State expressed deep appreciation to members of the public for the overwhelming concern, prayers and show of love following the sad incident.

They also conveyed their gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for what they described as his fatherly support throughout the period and commended the doctors and medical personnel at Lagoon Hospital for their professionalism. (Punch)

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Tinubu speaks with Anthony Joshua after Ogun accident

President Bola Tinubu has commiserated with Nigerian-British heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, over a tragic road accident in Ogun State in which the boxer was injured and lost two of his associates.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President personally reached out to Joshua via a telephone call to express his condolences and offer prayers following the incident.

“I spoke with AJ on the phone to personally convey my condolences over the death of his two associates. I wished him well and prayed for him. He assured me that he is receiving the best care in the hospital”, the statement quoted the President to have said.

The President also extended his concern to Joshua’s family, noting that he contacted the boxer’s mother to offer prayers and support. Tinubu added, “I also spoke with AJ’s mother and prayed for her. She was very appreciative of my call.”

Providing further assurance on the Federal Government’s concern, the President disclosed that he also spoke with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was present at the hospital where Joshua was receiving treatment.

Tinubu said, “Additionally, I spoke to Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was in the hospital with them. The Governor assured me that he will do everything possible to ensure AJ receives the best possible attention.”

PUNCH Online reports that Tinubu, who is currently abroad, had earlier taken to his official X account to express deep sympathy to the boxer and his family over the accident, which occurred along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.

In the statement, the President wrote, “I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident.

As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride.”

He further called for unity and mutual support during moments of grief, stating, “In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.”

Tinubu also offered prayers for Joshua’s recovery and for the repose of the souls of the deceased associates. He said, “I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed.” (Punch)

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Marital unions are pillars of national development —Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Sunday described marital unions as fundamental pillars of Nigeria’s social strength and long-term national development, saying strong families nurture the values essential for national cohesion, stability and progress.

Shettima, according to a statement titled “Marital Unions Are Pillars of Long-term National Development,” issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, spoke in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the wedding ceremony between Miss Deborah Ershima and Mr Samuel Aondoakura, son of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.

Earlier, the Vice President arrived in Benue State to grace the wedding reception, where he was received by the SGF and the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, alongside other top government officials.

Upon arrival, Shettima observed a Guard of Honour mounted in his honour before proceeding to the venue of the ceremony.

Speaking at the solemnization, the Vice President said marriage was not merely a personal milestone but a vital social institution that strengthens society and supports long-term national development.

“There are moments in life an event quietly writes itself into memory. Today is one of those moments. We have come together not merely to witness a wedding, but to stand at the intersection of two stories choosing to become one,” he said.

Shettima noted that strong family unions contribute directly to national cohesion, adding that the institution of marriage reflects values that are “deeply Nigerian and deeply human.”

He commended the families of the couple for raising children grounded in discipline, faith and character, stressing that strong homes are built intentionally and not by chance.

“A home is not built by vows alone. It is built by everyday choices. By the decision to return kindness for impatience. By the courage to apologise even when you feel justified,” the Vice President said.

According to him, successful marriages thrive on patience, humility and alignment, noting that everyday acts such as listening, forgiveness and mutual support sustain families long after wedding ceremonies.

Drawing a link between family life and nation-building, Shettima said unity and commitment at the household level mirror Nigeria’s resilience and capacity to overcome challenges. He urged parents, relatives and society to support married couples with counsel and goodwill rather than undue pressure.

While praying for the couple, the Vice President said, “May your home be anchored in trust and sustained by faith. May your laughter outlast your disagreements. May your unity be stronger than any season of challenge.”

Earlier, the SGF, Senator Akume, paid tribute to President Tinubu for what he described as transformative leadership since assuming office in May 2023.

“I have to pay a very big tribute to our President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for honouring this invitation. The quality of representation here is massive and fundamental,” Akume said. (Punch)

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LASTMA bans illegal parking for Lagos cross-over night

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has officially banned all forms of indiscriminate parking and road obstruction as the state prepares for the massive influx of commuters during the upcoming 2025 – 2026 Cross-Over Night celebrations.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Director of the Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, the agency revealed a “zero-tolerance” stance against motorists who convert public roads into parking lots or event spaces.

Addressing the expected surge in activities at worship centers, nightclubs, and event venues, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, warned that the agency is ready to enforce traffic laws strictly.

“LASTMA strongly condemns the abuse of public road infrastructure through its conversion into improvised parking spaces or informal event venues, describing such acts as egregious violations of traffic regulations with far-reaching implications for public safety, emergency response and urban mobility”, Bakare-Oki said.

To manage the “exponential increase” in movements, Bakare-Oki disclosed that a specialised enforcement framework has been activated.

This, according to him, includes the recently inaugurated ‘LASTMA 24-Hour Night Gangs’, a dedicated unit of trained officers and surveillance teams tasked with clearing flashpoints across the state.

The agency further appealed to the leadership of religious institutions and social hubs to take responsibility for their guests’ vehicles, rather than allowing them to spill onto major carriageways.

Bakare-Oki stressed that the success of the night depends on mutual cooperation between the public and enforcement officers.

“Collective compliance remains indispensable to the realisation of a peaceful, orderly and seamlessly managed cross-over night across Lagos State”, he said.

LASTMA urged residents to remain patient and cooperative as the agency works to maintain order.

In the event of traffic-related emergencies, members of the public are advised to contact the LASTMA toll-free hotline at 0800 005 27862 for real-time intervention. (Punch)