NIGERIA NEWS
Nigeria sends fighter jets, ground forces as troops foil coup in Benin Rep
• Govt: our armed forces foil coup
Nigeria, African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States yesterday condemned an attempted military takeover in Benin Republic.
They gave the condemnation as confusion and gunfire were reported in parts of Cotonou following an announcement by some soldiers, claiming to have removed President Patrice Talon from office.
But, amidst the confusion, Beninoise government said its armed forces had foiled the coup attempt after a group of soldiers in the West African nation claimed on national television to have seized power.
The attempted coup was the latest threat to democratic rule in the region, where the military has in recent years seized power in Benin’s neighbours Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau.
The country of about 14 million population’s capital city is Porto-Novo, but Cotonou is the largest city and de facto administrative and economic capital. Between the late 1800s and 1960, Benin was a French colony.
The mutineers, dressed in military uniforms, launched an early morning operation to seize power, beginning with an assault on the presidential residence in Cotonou. The attack was repelled.
Failing to capture the president, they seized the state-run Office de Radiodiffusion et Télévision du Bénin (ORTB), taking control of the national broadcast signal.
The crisis escalated rapidly, but loyalist forces, including the National Guard, responded swiftly, surrounding the television station and isolating the coupists.
By afternoon, security forces had secured key government installations and regained full control of the capital.
President Patrice Talon was reportedly safe at an undisclosed location.
Talon: situation under control
Talon yesterday appeared on state television following the attempted coup, saying that the situation was ‘totally under control’.
He thanked security forces who he said acted to end a putsch by what he described as “a small group of soldiers”.
“The rapid mobilisation of forces loyal to the government “allowed us to thwart these adventurers,” Talon said in his remarks aired on state television.
“This treachery will not go unpunished.”
Talon was also on the streets, congratulating the military.
Nigeria, AU, ECOWAS reaffirm support for Talon’s govt
In a statement, the Federal Government described the act as a direct assault on democracy, constitutional order and the collective will of the Republic of Benin people.
Nigeria reassured the government of its full support and continued cooperation.
A statement, signed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, reads: “The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has received with grave concern and unequivocally condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempted forcible seizure of power in our friendly neighbour and brotherly nation, the Republic of Benin, in the early hours of yesterday.
“This act of destabilisation represents a direct assault on democracy, constitutional order, and the collective will of the Beninoise people, who have consistently demonstrated their commitment to peaceful political transitions. Nigeria stands in firm solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Benin, and applauds the swift action taken by Beninese authorities to protect its legitimate institutions and preserve the peace.
“We commend the courage and professionalism of the Beninese security forces in defending the constitutional order and guaranteeing the safety of the President. Their dedication ensured that the unfortunate attempt to subvert democracy was decisively repelled.
“Nigeria reiterates its strong commitment to the principles of democracy, good governance, and the rule of law as fundamental pillars for peace, development, and regional stability. Unconstitutional changes of government are an unacceptable and retrogressive step that threatens the hard-earned democratic gains and socio-economic progress of our sub-region.
“As a steadfast partner within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union, Nigeria calls on all member states and the international community to unite in condemning this act and in reaffirming our shared commitment to the African Union’s Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, and the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.
“We urge all parties in the Republic of Benin to remain calm, uphold the rule of law, and continue to channel any political discourse through peaceful, constitutional, and democratic means.
“The federal government of Nigeria reassures the Government of the Republic of Benin of its full support and continued cooperation as we work together, as brothers and partners, to deepen democracy and ensure lasting peace and prosperity for our peoples and the entire West African region.”
A statement said AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf “strongly and unequivocally condemns the military coup attempt” in Benin, stressing that any form of military interference in political processes is “a grave violation of the fundamental principles and values” of the AU.
The statement also reaffirmed the bloc’s support for Talon, the legitimate authorities of Benin and its people.
It reads: “The African Union stands ready, in coordination with regional and international partners, to accompany the Government and People of Benin toward the full restoration of constitutional normalcy and the strengthening of democratic institutions.”
In a statement issued in Abuja, the West African regional bloc said: “ECOWAS Commission has received with consternation reports of an attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin.
“ECOWAS strongly condemns this unconstitutional move that represents a subversion of the will of the people of Benin.”
It called on the military to respect Benin’s constitutional order and commended the security forces for their efforts to restore calm.
“ECOWAS calls for the full respect of the Constitution of Benin and salutes the efforts of the government and the Republican Army in bringing the situation under control,” it said, warning that coup plotters would be held accountable.
“ECOWAS holds the leaders of the plot both individually and collectively responsible for any loss to life and property occasioned by their action.”
The bloc also signalled readiness to intervene if necessary, stating: ”ECOWAS will support the government and the people in all forms necessary, including the deployment of the regional standby force to defend the constitution and the territorial integrity of Benin.”
The statement followed the announcement earlier in the day by a group of soldiers identifying themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation.”
Coup plotters on national TV
At least eight soldiers, several wearing helmets, appeared on a state television yesterday morning to announce that a military committee led by Col. Tigri Pascal had taken over and was dissolving national institutions, suspending the constitution and closing air, land, and maritime borders.
“The army solemnly commits to give the Beninese people the hope of a truly new era, where fraternity, justice and work prevail,” a statement read by one of the soldiers.
According to media reports, the assault was carried out by a group of soldiers led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri.
The situation escalated later in the morning when Col. Tigri appeared on the national television, reported to be under military control, declaring himself “chairman of the military re-establishment committee (CMR).”
Cotonou remained tense yesterday, with eyewitness reports of troop deployments around key strategic locations. No official reaction has been issued by President Talon or his administration regarding the attacks.
The development added to a growing pattern of political instability in West Africa.
Ministers issue statements
However, Interior Minister Alassane Seidou said in a statement a few hours later that the West African country’s armed forces had thwarted the attempted coup.
The statement reads: “People of Benin, dear compatriots, in the early morning of yesterday, small group of soldiers launched a mutiny with the aim of destabilising the state and its institutions.
“Faced with this situation, the Beninese armed forces and their hierarchy, faithful to their oath, remained committed to the republic.
“Their response allowed them to maintain control of the situation and thwart the attempt.
“Therefore, the government urges the population to go about their business as usual,” he said.
Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari had earlier told Reuters that “a small group” of soldiers had attempted to overthrow the government but that forces loyal to President Patrice Talon were working to restore order. He said the coup plotters had only managed to take control of state TV.
However, Oluwole Ojewale, an analyst at the Institute of Security Studies, said that through back-channel communications received via the African Union (AU) and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), “we can reasonably conclude that the president is in good spirits now and is probably under some high-level security protection right now”.
Ojewale added: “Since the cloud is still foggy, it’s too early for the president to step out”.
He also underscored that an attempt to stage a coup in Benin is going to be an “uphill task” because Nigeria, its larger neighbour and Africa’s largest economy, will not want to be encircled by “hostile” governments and military administrations.
Gunfire in neighbourhoods
Gunfire could be heard earlier yesterday in several neighbourhoods of Cotonou, the country’s largest city and economic hub, as residents were trying to make their way to church early in the morning.
The French embassy said on Facebook that gunfire had been reported near Talon’s residence in Cotonou and urged citizens to stay at home.
The coup attempt came as Benin was preparing for a presidential election in April next year to mark Talon’s two-term tenure since 2016.
In their TV statement, the soldiers cited the deteriorating security situation in northern Benin “coupled with the disregard and neglect of our fallen brothers-in-arms.”
Talon has been credited with reviving economic growth, but the country has also seen an increasing number of attacks by Jihadist militants that have wreaked havoc in Mali and Burkina Faso.
In April, Benin’s government said that 54 soldiers were killed in an attack in the North by an affiliate of Al Qaeda.
Last month, Benin adopted a new constitution that extended the presidential mandate from five to seven years, in what critics said was a power grab by the ruling coalition, who nominated Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni to be its candidate.
The opposition Democrats party, founded by Talon’s predecessor Thomas Boni Yayi, saw its proposed candidate rejected because of what a court ruled was insufficient backing from lawmakers.
The group of soldiers that claims to have overthrown Talon said all borders in the country have been closed, and political parties have been suspended.
How foreign diplomatic missions responded to the news
The United States (U.S.) Embassy said in a statement that it was monitoring “reports of gunfire in the city of Cotonou” and “unconfirmed reports” of a military coup.
It urged people to avoid Cotonou and areas near the presidential compound, monitor local media, and steer clear of crowds and demonstrations.
Russia’s Embassy recommended its citizens in the country to “remain at home and observe basic precautions” until the situation in Cotonou becomes clearer.
The French Embassy said gunfire was reported at Camp Guezo, near the presidential residence.
It urged French citizens to remain at home until further notice as a security measure, “while the situation is fully clarified”.
Govt arrests a dozen soldiers
Ojewale, a Dakar-based analyst at the West Africa office of the Institute of Security Studies, told Al Jazeera that government forces have arrested some soldiers over the coup attempt.
AFP quoted military and security sources as saying that about a dozen soldiers have been arrested following the attempted coup this morning.
One source told the news agency that 13 arrests had been made, with another saying that all the detainees were soldiers in active service except one who was ex-military.
Nigeria’s Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed on his verified X page that the coup had failed.
“Mutineers in military uniform who attempted to overthrow President Patrice Talon’s democratic government have failed. They seized the National TV after failing to enter the presidential residence,” he said.
Presidency: Talon safe, army regaining control
AFP cited the president’s office as saying that Talon is safe and the army is regaining control.
The office said in a statement: “This is a small group of people who only control the television,” the presidency told the news agency. The regular army is regaining control. The city and the country are completely secure.”
NAF confirms fighter jets deployment to Benin
The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that fighter jets were deployed to Benin Republic under the ECOWAS ) Standby Forces (ESF).
NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodamen, confirmed the operation to The Nation last night.
He said: “The Nigerian Air Force has operated in the Republic of Benin in line with ECOWAS protocols and the ECOWAS Standby Force mandate. This operation underscores Nigeria’s commitment to regional security and is being conducted in coordination with ECOWAS and host-nation authorities, in full adherence to international norms and regional directives.”
The warplanes deployed to the troubled neighbouring country were withdrawn the fighter aircraft it deployed after authorities assessed that the security situation there had stabilised following Sunday’s attempted military coup.
Security sources said the aircraft, which took off from Lagos for surveillance, were recalled on Sunday afternoon after updated intelligence indicated that loyalist forces in Benin had regained control of the capital and there was “no immediate threat to Nigeria’s territorial security.”
Apart from the fighter jets, it was gathered that maritime assets including warships were also deployed to make the county’s borders with Benin Republic impregnable.
Nigeria military sources who confirmed deployment of the ESF, said surveillance would continue from within the country’s territory.
A component of the African Union (AU) Standby Forces, the ESF is designed to provide rapid military and civilian response to security crises in West Africa.
The ESF which was established in 1999 under the ECOWAS Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security, was deployed to The Gambia in 2017 when that country faced threats to its democracy.
The ESF was designed as a regional tool to intervene in situations of war, internal conflict, humanitarian emergencies, or unconstitutional changes of government. The force draws personnel from member states’ armed forces, police, and civilian structures, with a mandate to deploy swiftly when political or diplomatic efforts fail.
ECOWAS deploys regional standby force to Benin
The Economic Community of West African States has ordered the deployment of the regional Intervention the failed coup attempt in the French speaking West African state.
Some elements within the Benin Republic military had earlier Sunday morning announced that the military had taken over the government.
The rebel soldiers, led by Lt Col. Pascal Tigri, justified their actions by criticising Talon’s management of the country, complaining first about his handling of the “continuing deterioration of the security situation in northern Benin”.
But the military loyal to the democratic government quickly stepped in to quell the uprising.
Reacting to the situation, ECOWAS Heads of States and Government announced the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin.
The deployment according to a statement by the regional body is with immediate effect.
The regional force is to support the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the country.
The statement reads: “Further to its earlier statement on the Republic of Benin, the ECOWAS Commission hereby informs the general public that: Pursuant to the provisions of relevant ECOWAS instruments, in particular Article 25(e) of the 1999 Protocol Relating to the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution Peacekeeping and Security, and “after consultation among members of the Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government.
“The Chair of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of state and Government has ordered the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin with immediate effect.
“The Regional Force shall be made up of troops from the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Cote Divoire, and Republic of Ghana.
“The Force shall support the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the Republic of Benin.”
NIGERIA NEWS
US lawmaker, who made Christian genocide claims against Nigeria, holds ‘productive’ meeting with Ribadu, others
The US Congressman, Riley Moore, who made repeated claims of a Christian genocide in Nigeria, says he and other American lawmakers held “productive and positive” conversations with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
Mr Moore is part of the US congressional delegation visiting Nigeria to discuss security in the West African nation.
The Republican lawmaker had repeatedly criticised the Nigerian government for not doing enough to protect the country’s Christians and claimed there was a Christian genocide in the country.
He insisted on his claims despite the Nigerian government and local and international organisations saying different factors caused the insecurity in Nigeria and could not be tagged a genocide against any group or religion.
READ ALSO: US delegation arrives Nigeria, meets Ribadu on strategic security partnership
On Monday, Mr Moore wrote on X that “There were concrete steps and actions discussed at length” with Mr Ribadu and other Nigerian officials.
He said if the steps are “fully executed, I believe will enhance security across the country for all Nigerians.”
Details later…
The Nigerian Forest Security Service, NFSS, has vowed to reclaim Nigerian forests from bandits, kidnappers, terrorists and other criminals nationwide.
The Commander General of NFSS, Dr Joshua Osatimehin made the vow during a four day National Workshop organizes for Officers and Men of NFSS particularly those in the Operations and Intelligence Departments of NFSS held at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
Dr. Osatimehin said the workshop was to further sensitize the participants on operations and local intelligence gathering towards complimenting the efforts of formal security agencies in securing the country’s forests.
According to him, the participants during the four days national workshop which was attended by over three thousand officers from the Operations and Intelligence Departments of NFSS featured paper presentations and lecture from the Military, DSS, Police, NSCDC, NDLEA, Immigration, Customs, Federal Ministries of Environment, Agriculture and other critical stakeholders in the nation’s security sector
“The main essence of this workshop is to further enable us synergize with the constituted authority and during the four days training, the DSS has tutored us on how to gather local intelligence around the forest corridor and the Nigeria Police has also trained us on joint operations as well as the Nigeria military on how we synergize also to make sure that we can flush out criminals from our forests nationwide ” He said.
In his words” We the Officers and Men of NFSS have to give in our best to support President Bola Tinubu because for him to have established the Nigerian Forest Security Service shows that the citizens depend on us and we must do our best to make sure that we did not betray the confidence reposed in us by Mr President hence the need for this four days national workshop”.
“We are now using this opportunity to tell the bandits, kidnappers, boko haram, terrorists and other criminals using our forests to perpetrate evil that enough is enough because NFSS is battle ready to flush them from our forests and take our forests back from them and I must confess to you that we have the manpower and structure to deliver on that because our offices and men in all the 36 States of the Federation and the FCT as well as on the 774 Local Government Areas of Nigeria are combat ready for them “. the NFSS CG stated.
Dr. Joshua Osatimehin therefore used the opportunity to once again appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure full integration of NFSS into Nigeria’s security apparatus to enable the Service take the battle to the forests and dislodge all the criminal elements that have invaded our forests ‘.
“Nigeria has 1,129 forest reserves, 29 games reserve, and 17 National Parks as well as 417 grazing reserves and we have map out all the interconnectivity of these forest linkages because it’s our job and we’re products of local hunters and forest experts and we can use our knowledge of local terrain to combat this criminality all what we need now is for Mr President to help us to be properly and fully integrated and incorporated into National Security so that we can discharge our constitutional Mandate because Nigeria is expecting much from us and we’re ready to deliver “.
Some of the participants, Sunny Akpa and A A Ibrahim said the four days national workshop would further enhance their performance in combating forest related crimes in their various States.
While commending the Commander General of NFSS, Dr Joshua Osatimehin for his visionary leadership through the provision of regular training and retraining for officers and men of the Service, the Participants stressed the need for the support of State and Local Governments in the programme of activities of NFSS towards strengthening the fight against insecurity nationwide.
Highpoints of the four days National Workshop was the presentation of Award of Excellence to the Commander General of NFSS, Dr Joshua Osatimehin by the Lion Female Squad of the Service and CG Football Cup competition among the State Commands and the FCT where the FCT Command of NFSS won the competition.
- A young man has finally made a statement after popular activist Harrison Gwamnishu was accused of stealing
- The statement by the young man comes after another individual claimed Harrison stole N5.4 million from ransom money
- Many people have reacted to the initial post, sharing their observations about the whole matter involving the activist
A Nigerian man who knows a popular activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, personally has reacted to claims that he stole from the ransom money.
The statement of the individual is coming after a user, @AbdulGaniyuOse1, shared a post online, claiming Harrison Gwamnishu fled after removing a certain amount of money from the cash that was supposed to be handed over to kidnappers who kidnapped his sister and her husband.
Nigerian man reacts to claims Harrison stole from ransom money. Left photo for illustration purposes only. Photo Credit: Getty Images/PeopleImages
Source: Getty Images
Nigerian man reacts to claims Harrison stole
He mentioned that the said money took about 10 days to raise and claimed Harrison took the sum of #5.4 million and fled.
Read also
“I knew him”: Man shares experience with Harrison Gwamnishu amid controversy, post trends
However, news of the arrest of the activist soon made its way online.
In the middle of this, a man who knows Harrison personally took to social media to speak about him.
According to a post he made available on his page, @DuduyemiYalaju, via a popular social media platform, Twitter, the individual mentioned that he knows Harrison Gwamnishu personally.
Aside from knowing him personally, he mentioned that the individual is not a thief and he can vouch for his behavior.
Nigerian man reacts to viral post accusing Harrison of stealing ransom money. Photo Credit: Harrison Gwamnishu
Source: Twitter
His statement:
“Harrison is not a thief. I know him personally and can vouch for him.”
In the post of the individual who accused Harrison of removing money from the ransom, many individuals reacted in the comments section.
Reactions as man accuses Harrison of theft
@Odoemena58 stressed:
“Did you call the kidnappers to know how much exactly they collected from him? Me sef, no too trust that guy but I no get evidence.”
Read also
“My money, he must pay it”: Harrison’s friend calls him online out over 5-year debt, post goes viral
@Mryems20 shared:
“If what you said is all true. Why haven’t the auchi police declared him wanted since he ran away.”
@_xtian01 noted:
“How is it that all of a sudden @HarrisonBbi18 is a thief? And it bothers me that there a just few pple here asking the right questions, what went wrong? Hope this is not a campaign against this young man who dared.”
@WarriWeirdo added:
“The person you’re accusing posted on Facebook less than an hour ago without saying anything about your allegations. If you’re wrong on this I hope they pick you up. You have police before you went to a civilian.”
@Dstructuralguy stressed:
“This particular idiot might be the one who connived with the bandit to kidnap his other sister… Ur family still dey kidnappers den na money be ur problem… U r evil.”
@anonymousegoat shared:
“Hmmm this same guy as recover millions from kidnappers but now you all forget what he has done because of things you are not even sure about , so you trusted the kidnappers that they can’t lie with amount you gave to them , another day to learn that you can’t fight for people.”
Read also
UK-based man who knows Harrison Gwamnishu posts their chat, shares why netizens should pray for him
@x_thejuice said:
“He said you can write a petition against him …he can’t give out all the details of what transpired online so as not to jeopardize the operation…what is even wrong with people sef ….are you sure you are not in contact with the kidnappers? …how did you know the money was short?”
Read the post below:
In a similar story, Legit.ng reported that a Nigerian man recently shared his personal encounter with popular activist Harrison Gwamnishu amid allegations that the activist stole ransom money.
Nigerian man calls out Harrison over debt
Meanwhile, Legit.ng recently reported that the same friend had earlier taken to his social media page to openly accuse Harrison Gwamnishu of owing him a huge sum of money.
In that post, he shared an old photo of both of them together and explained that they had been very close before things fell apart.
Source: Legit.ng
The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo has called on the State House of Assembly, the National Universities Commission, NUC, and the Council of Legal Education, CLE, to investigate the alleged controversial Professor of Law title conferred on the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Roland Otaru, SAN.
DAILY POST reports that the party said the call for investigation was necessitated by a petition by the Concerned Law Students, Faculty of Law, Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State signed by one K. Akanbi S.A.L.
A statement by the Publicity Secretary of PDP, Dan Osa-Ogbegie described the petition as embarrassing and disturbing.
Osa-Ogbegie opined that the petitioners alleged that the Edo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice may have been conferred with the title of Professor of Law in circumstances that point to an unmistakably to academic fraud.
The PDP statement titled, “Edo at a moral crossroads: Allegations of academic fraud against the Attorney-General demand immediate, public and credible investigation,” dated December 8, 2025.
According to him, this development is profoundly troubling. While it is true that Mr Otaru, SAN, has enjoyed a long and commendable legal career, such a career, however illustrious, cannot and must not be used to sidestep allegations of academic impropriety.
“A professorship is not an ornament of political prestige. It is a hard-earned academic rank achieved only through transparent scholarly progression, including mandatory service as Reader or Associate Professor, and backed by verifiable research, teaching, examination of postgraduate students, and recognised intellectual contributions.
“The petition alleges that none of these essential academic milestones was attained before the purported appointment of Mr Otaru as Professor of Law. It equally raises questions about the authenticity and academic weight of the PhD said to have been obtained only recently from a nondescript institution.
“These are not trivial inconsistencies. They are serious claims that strike at the heart of academia and at the dignity of the chief law office of our State.
“This is not the first time Edo people have been forced to endure embarrassment from the present administration. What makes this episode even more shocking is that the Governor and alleged his rubber-stamp State House of Assembly failed woefully to conduct proper background checks before clearing and appointing commissioners, despite taking nearly a full year to assemble a cabinet.
“The intellectual lassitude displayed by both the Governor and the Assembly in this matter is staggering. How a government that kept Edo waiting for months could not perform the most basic due diligence on nominees is yet another glaring testament to the administrative incompetence and indolence that have become the hallmark of this government.
“This is how Edo State, once respected for its intellectual heritage, now finds itself reeling from yet another avoidable national embarrassment orchestrated by an administration that confuses governance with improvisation and treats due diligence as an inconvenience.
“Edo people deserve more. We deserve truth, clarity and accountability, not silence, shortcuts and negligence”, he said.
The party, however, called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to immediately address the matter publicly and transparently, rather than through the usual silence and subterfuge that has become his alleged preferred method of avoiding accountability.
It also called on the Edo State House of Assembly to redeem its alleged battered dignity by constituting an independent, competent and credible investigative committee to probe the professorship claim, the PhD claim, the academic trajectory, publications, teaching records and all related circumstances.
It further called on the National Universities Commission, NUC, and the Council of Legal Education, CLE, to conduct external verification and publish their findings to Nigerians.
“If the allegations are false, let the Attorney-General be vindicated before the entire nation. If they are true, then Edo State must not, for a single day more, tolerate an Attorney-General whose academic credentials are the product of manipulation, misrepresentation or undue advantage”, he added.
The party posited that the All Progressives Congress, APC-led administration has embarrassed Edo people enough, stating that it must not add the desecration of academic credibility to its growing list of failures.
While noting that Edo people are watching, the party threatened that “this time, we will not look away”.
“This matter cannot be swept under the carpet. It cannot be managed in whispers. Integrity demands sunlight, and Edo people will accept nothing less”, Osa-Ogbegie stated.
However, reacting, Prof Roland Otaru described the allegations as a deliberate attempt to smear his rising profile.
Otaru insisted that he was duly appointed as a Professor by the Senate of the Federal University.
“I am a PhD holder, I have two Master’s Degrees, and I have up to five or six fellowships. I have been SAN, working for the past 20 years. So what are they talking about? Maybe somebody there engineered it because of my rising profile.
“It is very funny. The Senate of the University conferred it on me. I have a letter to that effect. And on that day, I was not the only one; we were about four. It was an approval from the Senate of the University, and I delivered the lecture on that day, December 9, 2024.
“They were there that day, they were there when I delivered the lecture. It was an assemblage of all the students in that faculty when I delivered the lecture. There was no financial inducement, nothing like that, The conferment was based on merit.
“It is not a fake award. I don’t know what they want, but there is no cause for alarm. I have the letter of the award”, he stated.
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has alleged that the Tinubu-led government is deeply uneasy about the rising political strength of Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, ahead of the 2027 election.
CUPP claims that President Bola Tinubu and his team view Obi as the single major threat to their hold on power and are allegedly exploring ways to keep him off the ballot.
These allegations were made by the CUPP National Secretary, Peter Ameh, during a recent interview on Monday.
Ameh said that the information did not come from rumours but from deliberate research, private engagements and data gathered across different regions by the coalition.
According to him, the findings show that the presidency is more focused on Obi than any other politician expected to contest in 2027.
He insisted that internal conversations within government circles reveal that the Labour Party candidate is seen as the only figure capable of disrupting the ruling party’s plans.
Ameh explained that the administration’s worry is evident in the continuous online attacks directed at Obi by presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga.
He noted that the level of attention given to Obi by government-aligned voices shows that the ruling party is monitoring him closely.
He said his conclusions came from extensive political consultations and private briefings.
“We are not just running election and just making speculation out of the blues. We also collect data, do a lot of engagement… And we know that the only person that this government does not want to be on the ballot is Peter Obi. They are doing everything,” he said.
Ameh pointed at the frequency of Onanuga’s posts to drive home his point. He stressed that the government barely talks about other notable political figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi, who are expected to join the race.
He maintained that Obi is the only contender generating genuine concern within the ruling establishment.
“Go and count how many times Bayo Onanuga has posted about Peter Obi on his Twitter page… Tinubu is not afraid of Atiku and Rotimi Amaechi. It’s on record, they know it. There’s a high level of fear,” he added.
Ameh also recalled Obi’s performance during the 2023 general election. He said the Labour Party candidate recorded strong numbers in several states and even secured a victory in the Federal Capital Territory, despite the presence of “federal might.”
He argued that this remains one of the reasons Obi is now seen as a serious political force heading into 2027.
“It took the Mr Peter Obi to garner about 1 million votes that was reduced to 500,000 votes. It took a Peter Obi to come to FCT where there was seat of power to defeat the APC,” he said.
The CUPP secretary noted that the administration’s alleged attempts to weaken Obi’s chances highlight the tension gradually building up as the election cycle approaches.
Troops of the Nigerian Army under 6 brigade and sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke have rescued victims of highway robbery, arrested suspects and recovered an AK-47 rifle in Taraba state.
Umar Mohammed, Acting Assistant Director, Army public relations, 6 brigade, said the troops responded to a distress call on December 6 after armed robbers blocked the Manya–Takum road and attacked commuters.
He said the soldiers carried out a rapid clearance operation which forced the attackers to flee and abandon their weapons.
His words: “On sighting the advancing forces, the criminals fled in disarray, abandoning their weapons. The subsequent search led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, and three rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition,” he added.
Mohammed said in a separate operation, troops rescued two abducted men, Yusuf Musa and Muhammed Umar, who escaped from their captors around Kufai Amadu area.
He said the victims had been stopped under the guise of giving directions before being taken towards New City in Kurmi local government area.
The spokesman added that troops also recovered two pump action guns, 13 cartridges, two motorcycles and four mobile phones during a raid in Garin Sambo, Tau village, Ardo Kola local government area.
He said two suspects, Baba Wura Sambo and Mallam Adamu Darda, were arrested and are currently in military custody for further investigation.
Mohammed said Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, Commander of 6 brigade, commended the professionalism and gallantry of the troops.
“The Brigade remains fully determined to secure all major highways and communities to ensure safe and unhindered movement throughout the festive period,” he said.
He urged residents to provide credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations across Taraba state.
- Gunmen attacked St. Andrews Anglican Church in Isiokwe, Lilu community, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, killing the wife of the church priest and one other person.
- The assault occurred in the early hours of Sunday, December 7, 2025, as congregants prepared for worship. Eyewitness accounts reported indiscriminate gunfire, multiple injuries, and extensive property damage, including the burning of vehicles, parts of the church building, and the priest’s residence.
- The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident on Monday, with Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu condemning the attack as a “heinous and abominable act” against innocent worshippers and the community’s values.
A group of armed men launched a brutal attack on St. Andrews Anglican Church, Isiokwe, in the Lilu community of Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, resulting in two fatalities, including the wife of the church priest.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, December 7, 2025, as worshippers were preparing for the start of Sunday service. The attackers opened fire indiscriminately, also burning vehicles and partially setting fire to the church building, including the cleric’s apartment.
An eyewitness detailed the attack to Punch:
“A brutal attack occurred at the St. Andrews Anglican Church, Isiokwe in Lilu community of Ihiala LGA in the early hours of Sunday… Unfortunately, they brutally murd£red the wife of the church priest and one other person. They also injured many others, razed down the priest’s house to ashes, burnt down some church vehicles and other church properties, including a part of the main church building.”
Police Condemn “Heinous Act”
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the attack on Monday, December 8, with the spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, relaying a statement from the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu.
The CP strongly condemned the actions:
“The CP states that this heinous and abominable act, committed against innocent worshippers, is not only an assault on the community, but a grave affront to our shared values of peace, sanctity of life, and freedom of worship.”
The Police Command extended sympathies to the families and assured the public that the Joint Security Team has been deployed and intelligence-driven operations intensified to relentlessly hunt down the perpetrators, promising that “no resource will be spared” in the investigation.
NIGERIA NEWS
“He must pay”- Man who claims to be Harrison Gwamnishu’s friend calls him out over nearly 5‑year debt
The ongoing buzz surrounding human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu intensifies as a man who claims to be his friend calls him out over a nearly 5‑year debt.
Earlier, GistReel reported that Harrison Gwamnishu was arrested amid claims he diverted part of a ransom payment.
The arrest was confirmed by controversial commentator, VeryDarkMan, who claimed he involved security operatives.
Man Calls Out Harrison Gwamnishu Over Debt
According to the man identified with the Facebook handle, Shine Onyebiga, Harrison Gwamnishu owed him 2 million naira, which remains unpaid after nearly five years.
In the now-viral post, he agreed that Harrison can repay the debt with a monthly payment of 100,000 naira.
Furthermore, he called for the fight against injustice regardless of the individual involved.
Read Post Below…..
If Harrison Gwamnishu asks to pay 100k monthly till he completes my 2m, I will accept it. But he must pay, not threatening or boasting to be invisible. We must stand against injustice no matter whose involved.
He used to be my friend and I have nothing against him. Matter of fact I wish him well. But as for my money he must pay it.
As for his gullible followers I have one word for you; IF E REACH YOUR TURN FORGET YOUR MONEY WITH YOUR DEBTORS.
See post below…..
NIGERIA NEWS
Johnvents Group marks strong global expansion as Ondo Government reaffirms support at 2025 End-of-Year Celebration
- JohnventsGroup hosted its 2025 End-of-Year Celebration in Akure, highlighting its growth trajectory, global partnerships, and Ondo State’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for enterprise and inclusive prosperity.
- The Governor of Ondo State commended Johnvents as a model of homegrown success, citing its impact through over ten factories, 1,500 direct jobs, thousands of benefiting households, and an ecosystem of 5,000 farmers, while reaffirming policies to attract investment and industrial growth.
- Johnvents reiterated its mission to deepen partnerships, invest in capacity, and drive sustainable agribusiness and manufacturing across Africa, positioning itself as a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic transformation and global competitiveness.
Johnvents Group, a global agribusiness and manufacturing conglomerate, hosted industry leaders, international partners, government officials, traditional rulers including the Deji of Akure, and key stakeholders at its 2025 End-of-Year Celebration held at The Dome, Akure.
The evening served as a reflection on a transformative year for the Group and a renewed affirmation of Ondo State’s commitment to enabling enterprise and inclusive prosperity.
Delivering the welcome address, Tarun Chawla, Group Executive Director of Johnvents Group, highlighted the organisation’s growth trajectory, strengthened market relevance and expanding global footprint.
He expressed profound gratitude to the Government of Ondo State for providing a stable, structured business environment that enables companies like Johnvents to thrive.
“This year reshaped us as a business,” he said. “We strengthened our operations, expanded our relevance, and demonstrated what a committed team can achieve when purpose and discipline align. The stability and clarity your administration provides form the foundation on which organisations like ours continue to grow and innovate.”
Chawla also appreciated the Group’s partners, including British International Investment (BII), International Finance Corporation, AFRIEXIM Bank, and other financial institutions, for their confidence in the company’s long-term vision. He reaffirmed Johnvents commitment to nourishing Africa and the world, noting that the company is now a global value-chain participant with investments and collaborations spanning Africa, the UAE, Asia and Europe.
The Executive Governor of Ondo State delivered the keynote address. His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, commended Johnvents Group as a model of how homegrown enterprises can evolve into global powerhouses while remaining deeply rooted in their host communities.
“Johnvents stands today as a monument to what focused investment and structured institutional support can achieve,” he said. “With over ten factories, more than 1,500 direct employees, thousands of benefiting households and an ecosystem of over 5,000 farmers, Johnvents is living proof that prosperity becomes inevitable when ingenuity meets institutional support.”
The Governor outlined his administration’s deliberate policies to position Ondo State as a competitive hub for agribusiness, manufacturing, technology and energy. He cited reforms in ease of doing business, digitisation of government processes, infrastructure expansion, improved security and the work of ONDIPA as foundations for long-term private-sector growth.
He further emphasised that the success of companies like Johnvents reflects the broader vision of an inclusive, opportunity-driven economy:
“The Johnvents story assures every investor here and across the world that Ondo State is ready for investment, ready for expansion and ready for global competitiveness.”
The evening celebrated the achievements, resilience and commitment of the Johnvents workforce, as well as the organisation’s expanding impact across communities through education, youth development and agribusiness empowerment.
Johnvents Group reaffirmed its commitment to deepening partnerships, investing in capacity and building industries that contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic transformation and Africa’s global competitiveness.
About Johnvents Group
Johnvents Group is an indigenous agribusiness and manufacturing group committed to driving sustainable growth across the entire agricultural value chain from production, processing, manufacturing and distribution. The Company is at the intersection of everything agriculture, unlocking immense values and ensuring food supply and premium export value for Africa.
Johnvents operates a group structure, with seven businesses: Johnvents Cocoa Factory, Johnvents Trading, Johnvents Foods, Johnvents Industries DMCC, Johnvents Farms, Premium Cocoa Product (Ile-Oluji) and Haven Hauling), committed to driving sustainable growth across the agricultural value chain, including production, processing, manufacturing and trade of commodity and food products in Nigeria and the rest of the world.
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The Police Command in Anambra has condemned the attack on a Church carried out by armed criminals which resulted in the death of one person and leaving several others injured.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the development in a statement on Monday in Awka.
Ikenga said that the incident happened in the early hours of Sunday in Lilu, Ihiala Local Government Area of the state.
He disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, had condemned the heinous and abominable act.
“This abominable act, committed against innocent worshippers, was not only an assault on the community but a grave affront to our shared values of peace, sanctity of life, and freedom of worship.
“The Command extends its deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and to the entire Lilu community and assures the public that the Police shall relentlessly hunt down the perpetrators of this crime.
“Our community should not be subjected to such brutality as the command will not allow criminals to instill fear or destabilize the peace we are working tirelessly to maintain”, the commissioner said.
Orutugu urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with the joint security team investigating the matter by providing useful information that can assist ongoing investigations for justice to be served.
He said that the command remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property across Ihiala and the entire state.