Category: Nigeria

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Troops arrest eight suspects, seize fuel in Adamawa anti-terror operations

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have arrested eight suspected members of a suicide bombing network and intercepted a large cache of suspected terrorist logistics during separate operations in Adamawa State.

The arrests, according to the information provided by the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, on Monday, followed intensified cordon-and-search operations targeting those linked to the recent Gamboru Market Mosque suicide bombing.

According to the military, OPHK troops conducted a coordinated operation in the Yan Lemo area of Mubi South Local Government Area in the early hours of January 5, 2026, after sustained surveillance of identified locations.

Among those apprehended were two principal suspects believed to be key facilitators in the bombing network. A search of the residence led to the recovery of cash, mobile phones, identification documents, ATM cards, jewellery and other personal items. Military sources said the items are undergoing forensic analysis to support ongoing investigations.

During identification procedures, a suspect already in custody reportedly identified the two principal suspects as individuals who supplied materials used in preparing the improvised explosive device. Other occupants of the residence were also linked to the network.

All suspects remain in military custody and are undergoing interrogation to aid further intelligence gathering before being handed over for continued investigation.

In a related operation on January 4, 2026, OPHK troops intercepted a consignment of suspected terrorists’ logistics in Mayo Nguli, Maiha Local Government Area. The troops seized 45 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit, estimated at about 1,125 litres, believed to have been smuggled for terrorist use.

The military said the suppliers fled on sighting the troops, abandoning the fuel. No casualties were recorded during the operation, and the seized items are now in military custody pending further action.

OPHK said the operations demonstrate its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks, disrupting supply chains and preventing future attacks.

The military also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to cooperate with security agencies to sustain peace and security across the North East. (Guardian)

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Gov Eno signs N1.584tr 2026 budget into law

A budget of ₦1,584,271,856,630.00 trillion has been signed into law for the 2026 fiscal year by the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno.

Of this amount, N416,594,925,850 billion is for recurrent expenditure, while N1,167,676,930,780 is for capital expenditure.

This exercise was performed during the enlarged State Executive Council meeting at the Exco Chambers, Government House. It was also attended by the leadership of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, led by the Speaker, Elder Udeme Otong.

Governor Eno commended the synergy between the House of Assembly and the Executive Arm of government. He said the collaboration accounted for the numerous achievements recorded in the state last year.

The governor urged members of the State Executive Council to be ready to make a total commitment and demonstrate passion in service delivery, warning that no excuses would be tolerated for non-performance.

“We all must rededicate ourselves to delivering our tasks promptly and decisively. This year is not a year for excuses. It is a year for action.

“Let us endeavour to break all barriers, go the extra mile to deliver. And when we deliver, we can sit back and celebrate. We can then be recognised.

“Let us not be in the company of people who will keep giving excuses and behave like Saul, who failed in his responsibility to govern the country and told Samuel it was the people. It was the people. The people will always be there, but the courage to do the right thing resides in leadership.

“The audacity to take decisions for the people resides in leadership. That is why God has placed us where we are in the first place. And so this year, let us understand that excuses will not be tolerated,” he said.

Earlier, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Elder Udeme Otong, lauded the governor for transparency and collaborative governance, insisting that the House of Assembly is appreciative of the results achieved by his government.

“You have implemented over 80per cent of the 2025 budget and the House of Assembly is ready to continue collaborating with the Executive, so other people will continue to be happy to have you as their Governor.”

Briefing newsmen after the budget-signing exercise, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Linus Nkan, flanked by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Aniekan Umanah, said, “Today at EXCO, we witnessed the signing of the 2026 budget, which was passed by the State House of Assembly late last year.

“The 2026 budget, which was presented to the House of Assembly on the 25th of November 2025, had a total budget size of N1.39tr.

“After subjecting the budget to scrutiny in the State House of Assembly, where all the MDAs appeared for defence, a whole lot of adjustments were made by the various MDAs, and that adjustment led to an increase in the budget size by the sum of N194 billion, and that increased the total budget size to 1,584,000,000 Naira for 2026 budget.

“The recurrent expenditure total is 416.5 billion, as against N354 billion originally proposed. Whereas the capital expenditure increased to N1,167 trillion from the original N1,035 trillion.

“We have today, a total budget size of 1,584,271,856,630 Naira to run with for the 2026 fiscal year, and hopefully it is going to stimulate and drive development of our economy.”

Earlier, the governor presented an award of Excellence to the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr Anieti Udofia, as Commissioner of the Year, and lauded his passion and dedication, which accounted for the success of the recently concluded Christmas Unplugged 3:0.

He announced a cash prize of N20m to the Commissioner and another N100m to members of the planning committee of the event, and approved a one-week leave for the Commissioner. (Guardian)

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Makinde reshuffles cabinet, appoints new SSG, others

The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has announced a cabinet reshuffle.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Sulaimon Olanrewaju, Governor Makinde has relieved the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Kudirat Adeyemo, of her appointment with immediate effect.

Professor Musibau Adetunji Babatunde has been appointed as the new Secretary to the State Government.

The statement further said that Temilolu Seun Ashamu has been moved from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

Also, Governor Makinde has announced his Senior Special Assistant on Public Works, Ademola Aderinto, as a commissioner-designate. He will consequently be presented to the Oyo State House of Assembly for screening.

The statement also announced the appointment of Honourable Abiodun Adedoja as Special Adviser on Energy Security and Kolawole Elijah Akanmu as Senior Special Assistant on Budget and Economic Planning. (Channels)

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Rivers deputy governor, SSG officially join APC

The Rivers State Deputy Governor, Dr. Ngozi Odu, and the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Benibo Anabraba, have officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Dr. Odu completed her registration as an APC member at Ward 8, Unit 11, Akabuka town, in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA) of the state.

Her defection comes shortly after Governor Siminalayi Fubara formally joined the ruling party.
Similarly, Dr. Anabraba registered his membership on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Ward 1, Unit 1, Bob-Manuel’s Compound, Abonnema, in Akuku Toru Local Government Area.

Speaking after his registration, the SSG said the exercise formally affirmed his membership of the APC and would enable him to participate fully in the party’s activities. He noted that the move would also strengthen his support for Governor Fubara’s “Rivers First” agenda and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

He expressed optimism that enhanced synergy between the Rivers State Government and the Federal Government would yield greater dividends for the people of the state.

Earlier, in a letter titled “Resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP),” Dr. Anabraba described his decision to leave the PDP as personal. He appreciated the opportunities and political leverage he gained while in the party and wished it well in its future endeavours.

Meanwhile, Dr. Odu has appealed to her supporters to rally behind President Tinubu and Governor Fubara, stressing the need to strengthen the APC’s grassroots presence ahead of future elections.

A few days ago, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has charged newly appointed Special Advisers to brace up, as their appointments are aimed at strengthening teamwork within government and ensuring that the machinery of governance continues to function smoothly and efficiently.

He urged the appointees to remain committed to his administration’s vision to deliver effective, people-centred governance in the state.

The governor gave the charge on Friday, January 2, 2025, at the Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Port Harcourt, after administering the oath of office to the five advisers.

Those sworn in are Barr. Eloka Tasie-Amadi, Prof. Peter Medee, Emmanuel Frank Fubara, Victor Ekaro and Dr. Darlington Orji.

The governor said, “What we are doing this afternoon is to bring in some persons on board to ensure that the wheels of governance continue to roll smoothly in our state.”

He explained that the advisers were carefully selected because they were familiar with his administration’s philosophy and direction, having previously worked with him in various capacities.

“These are not new faces. They have been with us and have worked with us. They understand the philosophy of this administration, and it will not be difficult for them to align and ensure that our goals are achieved,” he stated.

The governor stressed that effective governance could only be achieved through collective effort, discipline and shared responsibility, warning the appointees against complacency.

“My charge is simple because you already know what we have come to do. This is not for pleasure; it is work,” he said, adding that expectations were high. (Guardian)

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Tinubu appoints first female DG of Nigerian Law School

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Olugbemisola Odusote as the new Director-General (DG) of the Nigerian Law School (NLS).

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

He said the appointment, which takes effect from January 10, 2026, is for a four-year term.

“As Director-General, Odusote will be responsible for the institution’s overall academic leadership, administrative management, and strategic direction across all campuses,” the statement reads.

“She will also serve as the primary liaison between the school, the Council of Legal Education, the Body of Benchers, and the Nigerian Bar Association.”

According to the statement, Odusote, 57, will succeed Isa Chiroma, the current DG, whose tenure expires on January 9, 2026, after eight years of service.

The appointee is currently the deputy director-general and head of the Lagos campus of the Nigerian Law School. She will become the first woman to lead the institution since its establishment in 1962.

Odusote obtained her bachelor’s degree in law from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and was called to the bar in 1988.

She holds a master’s from the same university, specialising in company and commercial law, and a doctorate degree in law from the University of Surrey, United Kingdom (UK), with research focus on public law and administration of justice.

Odusote joined the Nigerian Law School as a lecturer in 2001 and has risen through the ranks, serving as head of academic department, director of academics, and head of campus. (Channels)

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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)