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Security operatives captured in viral video extorting young people in Obowo have been arrested — Akelicious

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Security operatives captured in viral video extorting young people in Obowo have been arrested — Akelicious


Security authorities have arrested all Joint Task Force (JTF) personnel captured in a viral video linked to alleged extortion and misconduct along the Obowo axis of Imo State. The officers, who were part of a joint security patrol in the area, are currently in detention while investigations continue.

According to an official update from Imo police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, once the investigation is concluded, the affected personnel will be handed over to their respective security agencies for appropriate disciplinary action in line with established procedures.

The arrests followed widespread public outrage after a video surfaced online showing what appeared to be uniformed officers harassing and extorting civilians at 7 and a Half Amanze Junction, Obowo. The footage was shared by a man who accused the operatives of operating like criminals while disguised as law enforcement officers.

In his account, the whistleblower detailed multiple incidents allegedly captured in the videos. He claimed that officers were seen stopping young men, forcing them to hand over their phones and checking private content, including banking applications. In another clip, an officer was allegedly filmed inside a Hilux vehicle while confiscating a traveller’s laptop during a roadside check. A separate recording reportedly captured an officer asking a colleague to confirm money allegedly extorted from a victim.

Describing the situation, the whistleblower said:
“Some of the footage from 7 and half Amanze Junction, Obowo, Imo State, where criminals disguising as officers operate. An officer in the back of a van with several young boys standing. He’s going through their phones one by one, even opening banking apps. That is criminal and illegal. An officer inside a Hilux seized a traveler’s laptop while checking papers. What legal right does any officer have to stop a traveler and confiscate a personal laptop? An officer asking the one inside the van to confirm the money he extorted from a traveler. In his exact words: ‘You don confirm the money?’”



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Peter Obi reacts as US Navy seizes Nigerian-owned supertanker

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Peter Obi reacts as US Navy seizes Nigerian-owned supertanker


The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has reacted to reports that a Nigerian-owned supertanker has been seized by United State authorities.

The supertanker was seized over allegations of crude oil theft and illicit activities.

In a long post on X, Obi said he had warned the Nigerian government in the past about these illegal activities.

Obi called for proper investigation into the matter and said the incident was a “wake-up call.”

He wrote: “My attention has been drawn to reports that the Nigerian-owned supertanker was seized by the United States authorities over allegations of crude oil theft and related illicit activities. While the full facts are still emerging, this development is deeply troubling and speaks to a much bigger crisis that has continued to undermine our national economy, our global reputation, and the future of our young people.

“Severally over the years, I have consistently alerted that Nigeria is losing billions of dollars annually to crude oil theft, a criminal enterprise that has been allowed to thrive because of weak institutions, lack of accountability, and an entrenched culture of impunity. When a nation’s most valuable resources are stolen in broad daylight, whether at home or on the high seas, its people inevitably suffer. Our schools deteriorate, our hospitals remain underfunded, insecurity worsens, and millions slip further into poverty.

“The seriousness of this incident should be appreciated and thorough investigation insituted to get the root of the matter.

“This incident should serve as a wake-up call. I have consistently mentioned that ordinary Nigerians cannot steal crude oil, and no responsible nation can afford to look away while its wealth is siphoned off by a network of powerful individuals.

“We must strengthen our maritime security, reform our regulatory agencies, digitise and transparently track every barrel of oil produced in this country, and dismantle the criminal cartels that have operated with impunity for decades.

“More importantly, we must rebuild Nigeria’s global image by showing the world that we are serious about the rule of law, honest governance, and responsible management of our national assets. A nation cannot attract investment when it is constantly in the news for corruption, theft, and mismanagement.

“Relevant Nigerian authorities should work with international partners to establish the facts of this case and ensure that anyone found complicit faces justice, without fear or favour. Our nation cannot continue on this path.

“Nigeria has everything it needs to become a prosperous and respected nation. What we lack is competent and compassionate leadership that will prioritise the welfare of our citizens. It is time for that to change.”



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Detained NAF Plane: ‘We Should Let Them Know They Can’t Be Messing With Us’

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Detained NAF Plane: ‘We Should Let Them Know They Can’t Be Messing With Us’


A former senator representing Ekiti North and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ayodele Arise, has called on President Bola Tinubu to consider military intervention in Burkina Faso to secure the release of 11 Nigerian soldiers currently being detained in the West African country.

Speaking on Arise TV on Saturday, Arise said while Nigeria’s military is stretched thin due to internal security operations, a bold move could pressure the Burkinabe junta to release the soldiers.

Referencing Israel’s 1976 Entebbe Raid in Uganda, Arise argued that history has shown the effectiveness of decisive military action in such situations.

He said, “I think we should move and do something. As a matter of fact, once they are aware that we want to do that, I am sure that the man who is President there will have a rethink because they are our neighbours.

“Yes, we should be friendly with our neighbours, but at the same time we should let them know that they can’t be messing with our country.”

Arise also backed Nigeria’s military response to the recent coup attempt in the Republic of Benin, stating that President Tinubu acted within reason even before formally notifying the National Assembly.

He dismissed suggestions that the President had breached constitutional procedures, arguing that national security decisions sometimes require immediate action.

His comments came a day after the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, confirmed that the 11 Nigerian military personnel remain in custody in Burkina Faso.

Speaking at the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja, Tuggar said diplomatic efforts were underway to resolve the situation.

“We are discussing how we can resolve this delicate matter as quickly as possible, and we’re talking. So it’s something that is being handled diplomatically,” the minister said.

He also clarified that the Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft that landed in Bobo Dioulasso, southwestern Burkina Faso, was not involved in any operation related to the coup in the Benin Republic.

However, Burkina Faso’s Minister of Territorial Administration, Emile Zerbo, claimed the aircraft violated national airspace regulations and failed to obtain proper clearance, prompting the soldiers’ arrest.

Beyond regional security, Arise also weighed in on recent Senate screenings of ambassadorial nominees, criticising the practice of allowing candidates to “take a bow and go” without robust questioning.

He said, “There are two ways to look at that. It is either the President and the security agencies have done a good job of due diligence of the candidates, and the Senators have read their profiles, resumes, achievements and contributions to national development.

“It is a learning process because the fact that you are a Senator doesn’t mean that you know everything. So, the opportunity for engagement, information for people to know their professions and educating the Senators at large has been lost.”

“But many of us will prefer that the Senate ask questions. Let the nominees justify the nomination from Mr President because he himself can’t know every one of them. He is going to rely on the security report and the reference from those who work around him.”

© 2025 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]



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Stop Appointing Individuals With Questionable Characters, Kogi APC Warns Yiltwatda

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Stop Appointing Individuals With Questionable Characters, Kogi APC Warns Yiltwatda


A group within the fold of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State, Kogi APC Renaissance Forum, has advised the National Chairman, Prof Nentawe Yiltwatda, to desist forthwith from embarrassing the party in its appointment of individuals with questionable character for critical national assignments.

The group, through its spokesman, Adejo Emmanuel, stated this against the backdrop of the appointment of Alhaji Yahaya Bello, Former Governor of Kogi State, as a member of the 2025 Osun State Governorship Primary Election by the National Chairman of the party.

The group, which made this declaration on Saturday, said the appointment of Bello is a bad signal to the party, calling on the National Chairman of the party to rescind his decision.

The group stated: “It is disgraceful and unacceptable that despite the abundance of credible individuals in the APC who can be appointed as member of the committee to deliver for the party on such critical and noble responsibility of producing the party’s flag bearer for the Osun Governorship Election, it is Former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, a man reduced to a cautionary tale by the EFCC who is currently prosecuting him on an alleged case of diversion and misappropriation of Kogi State funds to the tune of N80.2bn and a N110 billion 16 count fraud charge before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court and Justice Maryanne Anenih of the FCT High Court respectively is the one appointed as member of the committee.

“It is pertinent to state further that the appointment of Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello as a member of the 2025 Osun state Governorship Primary Election compromises the diligent fight against corruption and corrupt persons under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commision has recovered several billions in stolen funds meant to drive economic growth and development of the nation.

“This very appointment by the National Chairman does not only embarrasses and subject the party to ridicule before opposition parties, but is a huge moral burden as it paints the party in very bad light before Nigerians; bringing the party to total disrepute and goes a long way to create the false assumption that the All Progressive Congress under the leadership of Prof. Nentawe Yiltwada fraternizes with alleged criminals facing trail.

“The group further advised the National Chairman not to allow himself to be intimidated or deceived by Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, who has little or no capacity to deliver even his own polling unit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu come 2027.

“Consequently, the group is requesting the delisting of the name of Alhaji Yahaya Bello as a member of the 2025 Osun state Governorship Primary Committee as damage control to sustain and preserve the integrity of the party to conduct a credible primary election that is expected to produce the party flag bearer for the Osun Governorship election.”

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Insecurity: CNG demands probe on alleged confession by ex-aide to former Zamfara gov

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Insecurity: CNG demands probe on alleged confession by ex-aide to former Zamfara gov


The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has raised serious concerns over what it described as troubling revelations contained in alleged confessional statements attributed to Musa Kamarawa, a former Senior Special Assistant to a former Zamfara State governor and current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

The group said the allegations extend beyond partisan debate, warning that they touch on the ethical core of Nigeria’s security framework and raise urgent questions about possible high-level involvement in criminal networks driving insecurity across Northern Nigeria.

In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, on Saturday, the coalition said Kamarawa was reported to have made claims involving alleged direct transfer of funds to a notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, the purchase of dozens of Hilux vehicles for criminal groups, and the supply of wide-ranging logistical support, including housing, cattle and other assets, reportedly enabled by political actors in Zamfara and neighbouring states.

According to the CNG, the alleged testimony points to a sustained pattern of engagement between Matawalle and some of the most feared bandit groups operating in the North-West.

The coalition argued that if the claims are substantiated, they indicate the existence of a deliberate and deeply rooted network of political alliances with terror groups, with the potential to undermine years of military efforts and further endanger already vulnerable communities.

The CNG said the allegations are too weighty, far-reaching and damaging to national security to be brushed aside through hurried rebuttals, selective denials or reactive political damage control, adding that a defensive response by government aides only deepens public suspicion that vital facts are being withheld.

Charanchi said: “We contend that Nigeria cannot realistically claim a commitment to defeating terrorism while credible accusations of state-enabled sabotage remain unresolved. A nation that shields suspected collaborators within its own leadership cannot secure the confidence of its citizens or win the fight against violent criminality.

“Equally troubling is the Minister’s decision to initiate legal action against Sheikh Murtala Asada, a respected cleric known for his unwavering advocacy against banditry. Resorting to litigation in this context appears less like an effort to protect reputation and more like a calculated attempt to muzzle a critical voice at a time when transparency is urgently needed.

“It is important to remind the public that Sheikh Murtala Asada has consistently insisted that minister has direct or indirect links to the very networks undermining national security. Therefore, this is the moment for the cleric to present every piece of evidence in his possession, without fear or hesitation, to further ascertain and validate the involvement of all those who may be complicit in this menace.

“The truth must not remain hidden, and no individual, no matter how highly placed, should be shielded from scrutiny. Silencing truth-tellers imperils justice; intimidating those who raise alarms only strengthens impunity and weakens the fight against insecurity.”

The coalition reaffirmed its support for clerics, journalists, civil society actors and whistle-blowers who risk personal safety to expose wrongdoing and demand accountability.

The CNG also called for an immediate, independent and non-partisan national investigation to be jointly conducted by the National Assembly, relevant intelligence and security agencies, and the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.

Charanchi said: “Such an inquiry must thoroughly interrogate the financial transactions, material procurements, communication exchanges, and administrative decisions that may have facilitated these alleged relationships.

“It must also guarantee full protection for whistleblowers and witnesses, and ensure that any public official found culpable faces swift prosecution, without regard to their political influence or office.

“We believe that Northern Nigeria has endured unimaginable suffering, mass displacement, loss of livelihoods, relentless killings and widespread fear, due to the entrenchment of banditry. The disclosures made by Kamarawa present a rare and critical opportunity to confront the underlying enablers of this crisis.

“Treating this moment lightly would be a profound betrayal of the millions of Nigerians whose lives have been shattered by insecurity. If powerful individuals involved in sustaining violence are protected, then the foundations of national security will continue to erode, and public trust will deteriorate beyond repair.

“The Coalition affirms its position with absolute clarity: any public officeholder implicated in financing, aiding, protecting or collaborating with criminal networks must be held fully accountable. No rank or title should grant immunity from justice. Nigeria cannot continue to battle insecurity with one hand while the other shields those who profit from the chaos.

“The time for evasion has passed. This is a defining moment for Nigeria’s integrity, its security, and its future. The country must choose transparency over secrecy, justice over expediency, and accountability over impunity. Nigerians are watching, and history will record the choices made in this moment.”



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Lady Asks If Sandra Areh Is Waiting For Apostle Selman To Propose: “Why Is She Not Married?”

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Lady Asks If Sandra Areh Is Waiting For Apostle Selman To Propose: “Why Is She Not Married?”


  • A woman shared her thoughts about the possibility of Apostle Joshua Selman and Sandra Areh ending up together.
  • She asked the pastor some serious questions about his relationship with the lady in a post that has now gone viral online.
  • She also mentioned what surprised her when she watched a video of the lady celebrating her birthday at a specific location

A Nigerian lady has asked some serious questions after watching the video of Apostle Joshua Selman and Sandra Areh, a member of his church.

She asked some sensitive questions about the pastor while also directing a few to the said church member, Sandra Areh.

Lady asks why Sandra Areh is still not marriedLady raises questions about Apostle Selman and Sandra Areh. Photo Source: Facebook/Joy Ngene
Source: Facebook

Lady raises questions about Apostle Selman

The woman spoke about the apostle and why he isn’t yet married and tried to guess the reasons he is still single.

Taking to her media page, Joy Ngene spoke her mind.

She said:

Read also

Former schoolmate of Sandra Areh breaks silence, speaks about her character: “She was my junior”

“I have always wondered why Apostle Joshua Selman has not gotten married. Or, is he celibate? Could it be that he is yet to find a sister in the Lord worthy enough to be his wife? He is the founder of his church, so finding a wife should not be a problem with the number of young sisters I see in his church. He is not getting any younger. Except if he wants to tell me that there is no single sincere born-again sister in his church.”

She mentioned two things she saw that took her by surprise.

“Interestingly, I came across the birthday of a lady called Sandra Areh, who celebrated her birthday a few days ago, and Apostle Selman attended. What struck me was that the Apostle called the lady ‘My love,’ and proceeded to pray for her while the lady was kneeling down and holding him.””I then discovered that they have been close friends for a very long time, more than fifteen years. Their friendship started when they were both students at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The lady has always been there since the inception of his ministry. She helps him with almost everything that concerns the ministry. Rumor also has it that the Apostle may likely marry.”Lady questions if Sandra Areh is waiting for Apostle Selman to proposeLady asks why Apostle Joshua Selman is still single. Photo Source: Facebook/Joy Ngene
Source: Facebook

She proceeded to ask Sandra Areh some serious questions.

Lady questions why Sandra Areh

“Now, this is where I have a problem. Why is the lady not married till now? I bet she is hoping that one day Apostle Selman will put a ring on her finger. How sure is she? Did he promise her marriage? What if he ends up not marrying her? Has she ever thought of that? If she is waiting for the Apostle to pop the question, she might wait till eternity because the Apostle that I am seeing, I don’t see him settling down any time soon.”

Read also

“Stop the hypocrisy”: Man accuses Apostle Selman of fuelling dating rumours about Sandra Areh

Read the post below:

In a similar story, Legit.ng reported that a Nigerian man spoke out after watching a video of Apostle Joshua Selman at a recent event. He shared his opinion about the pastor and Sandra Areh.

Lady reveals Selman and Sandra connection

Meanwhile, Legit.ng recently reported that a young Nigerian lady got people talking online after she looked into Apostle Joshua Selman and Sandra Areh.

She shared two things she discovered to clear up rumours and stop false information from spreading. She said Sandra has supported the pastor for a long time, even since their university days, and she often appears with his ministry in public.

Source: Legit.ng



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Borno LG Polls: APC chieftain hails massive voter turnout, peaceful conduct

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Borno LG Polls: APC chieftain hails massive voter turnout, peaceful conduct


The Deputy National Chairman (North) of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Ali Bukar Dalori, has praised the high voter turnout and orderly conduct at Saturday’s local government elections in Borno State.

Dalori, who cast his vote at Dalori/Wanori Primary School, Kajeri polling unit in Konduga Local Government Area, described the participation as a clear demonstration of public trust in the democratic process, rule of law, and grassroots inclusivity.

He commended voters for their peaceful participation and lauded the efforts of the Borno State Independent Electoral Commission, BOSIEC, security agencies, and other stakeholders in ensuring a smooth electoral exercise.

“Let me express my satisfaction with the impressive voter turnout. It reflects citizens’ growing confidence in democratic governance,” Dalori said.

“Although my office in Abuja is busy with official duties, as a grassroots politician, I came to exercise my franchise in electing credible leaders to continue complementing Governor Babagana Zulum’s efforts in delivering dividends of democracy to local communities.”

Dalori also expressed optimism that the APC would secure victories across all elective positions, including chairmanship and councillorship seats in the state’s 27 local government areas, citing the administration’s numerous people-oriented projects.

He was accompanied to the polling unit by Borno State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Hauwa Abubakar; Executive Secretary of the Borno State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency, BICTDA, Kabir Wanori; APC chairmanship candidate for Konduga, Abba Saje; and other party stakeholders.

The main opposition party in the state, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, had withdrawn from the exercise, while six other opposition parties, including the Labour Party, LP, participated in the elections.



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Rivers NASS Caucus celebrates Wike at 58

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Rivers NASS Caucus celebrates Wike at 58


Members of Rivers State Caucus in the National Assembly have felicitated the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief (Barr) Nyesom Wike, on his 58th birthday. 

In a statement  by Senator Barry Mpigi, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, Rt. Hon. Kingsley Chinda (Minority Leader, House of Representatives), Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Dekor, Rep. Solomon Bob, Rep. Felix Nwaeke, Rep. Kelechi Nwogu, Rep. Cyril Hart, Rep. Victor Obuzor, and Rep. Blessing Amadi, the caucus commended Wike’s exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to the development of Federal Capital Territory and Nigeria as a whole.

The statement highlighted Wike’s visionary guidance and firm resolve in driving progress, fostering unity, and empowering communities within the FCT. 

The lawmakers expressed confidence his wisdom will continue to illuminate the path towards prosperity and sustainable development for the people he serves, wishing the minister good health, boundless happiness, and continued success in all his endeavors. 

The caucus also expressed appreciation for his leadership and commitment to public service, stating that his legacy will inspire generations to come. 

The statement read in parts: “On this special day, the Rivers State Caucus in the National Assembly, celebrates not only the anniversary of your birth but also the remarkable leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment you have shown to all especially the Federal Capital Territory and our great nation. Your visionary guidance and steadfast resolve have been instrumental in driving progress, fostering unity, and empowering communities within the FCT.

“May this new year of your life be filled with abundant blessings, profound joy, and continued success in all your endeavors. May your wisdom continue to illuminate the path towards prosperity and sustainable development for the people you so diligently serve.

“Wishing Your Excellency good health, boundless happiness, and the continued strength to lead with integrity and distinction. Happy Birthday, and may your legacy inspire generations to come.

“With deepest respect and warmest congratulations”.



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Oyebamiji Emerges APC Osun Governorship Candidate

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Oyebamiji Emerges APC Osun Governorship Candidate


The immediate past Chairman of the Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, has been confirmed as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for next year’s governorship election in Osun State.

Oyebamiji’s emergence followed affirmation by the 1,660 delegates at the party’s primary, after he was nominated by one aspirant, Mr. Kunle Adegoke, SAN, and seconded by another, Senator Babajide Omoworare.

Following the nominations, the Chairman of the primary election committee, Governor Monday Okpebholo, called for a voice vote, which saw unanimous support from all delegates.

“By the power conferred on me as Chairman of the primary committee, I hereby declare Bola Oyebamiji, AMBO, as the candidate of our party,” he announced.

More details to follow…



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“Is This a Joke?”- Former Ondo First Lady Betty Akeredolu Criticises Senate Ambassadorial Screening Process

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“Is This a Joke?”- Former Ondo First Lady Betty Akeredolu Criticises Senate Ambassadorial Screening Process


  • Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu has criticised the Nigerian Senate for its “take a bow and go” screening of female ambassadorial nominees, describing the process as unfair and unserious.
  • In a post on X, the former Ondo State First Lady said the approach demarkets women, prevents nominees from properly presenting themselves, and falls short of the detailed and serious screenings expected for such important positions.

Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the former First Lady of Ondo State, has criticized the Nigerian Senate’s practice of giving female ambassadorial nominees a “take a bow and go” screening.

Posting on X.com, Dr. Akeredolu expressed her strong disapproval of the process, asking, “Is this a joke?”. She argued that the method is “demarketing the female nominees” and is not fair.

She stated that the male Committee members were “unnecessarily intrusive” and did not allow the nominees to properly present themselves to Nigerians.

The former First Lady concluded that the entire screening process looked “unserious, utterly childish”. She stressed that ambassadorial screening is a “serious business” and noted that she has watched how detailed screenings are conducted in countries like the US.

She ended her post by adding the hashtag #womensupportingwomen.

In other news…… The Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide (LFC), Dr. David Olaniyi Oyedepo, has firmly declared that he will not venture into politics, even for a massive financial incentive.

Speaking during the impartation service at the church’s annual convocation, Shiloh 2025, the Bishop emphasized that partisan politics is simply “off my calling”. He stated, “If you give me $1 billion to join politics, I won’t, because it’s off my course”.

Oyedepo used the opportunity to urge his congregation to focus on their divine assignments. He stressed that believers should concentrate on their area of calling, where they are destined to “rule their world” and be part of God’s end-time army.

Referencing national crises, the Bishop reminded the church of his 2015 prophecy: “In 2015, I warned the church that trouble was coming. Didn’t trouble come?”.

He concluded by stressing that the world is currently “groaning in darkness,” but it is waiting for the manifestation of the children of God. According to him, the army of God is about to emerge to offer solutions to national crises, following the biblical examples of Joseph and Daniel.



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Northern Groups Demand Probe of Minister Matawalle over Alleged Links with Bandits

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Northern Groups Demand Probe of Minister Matawalle over Alleged Links with Bandits


Northern pressure groups has demanded a full-scale investigation into serious allegations linking the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, to bandit networks operating in Zamfara State and parts of the North-West.

The call was made by the Coalition of Northern Groups, which said the claims raise deep concerns about national security and the integrity of Nigeria’s fight against banditry.

The group insisted that the matter has moved beyond politics and now touches the core of public safety and trust in government.

In a statement issued on Friday, the coalition said it was disturbed by what it described as “grave and disturbing revelations” contained in alleged confessional statements linked to Musa Muhammad Kamarawa, a former Senior Special Assistant to Matawalle when he served as governor of Zamfara State.

The group said the alleged confession has triggered fresh questions about the role of political actors in the sustained violence plaguing northern communities.

It argued that the accusations, if left unresolved, could weaken confidence in ongoing security operations across the region.

The statement was signed by the National Coordinator of the group, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi. He said the allegations strike at the foundation of Nigeria’s security architecture and demand urgent legislative attention.

According to the coalition, Kamarawa allegedly made claims involving financial transfers to notorious bandit leader Bello Turji.

The alleged claims also include the procurement of several Hilux vehicles for criminal groups and the provision of logistics such as housing, cattle and other assets.

These actions were said to have been facilitated by political figures in Zamfara and neighbouring states.

The group warned that the alleged pattern of engagement suggests possible collaboration between top political actors and violent groups terrorising the North-West.

It described the situation as “state-enabled sabotage” if the allegations are proven to be true.

“These claims, if proven, point to a deeply entrenched web of political alliances with terror networks, capable of undermining years of military operations and exposing vulnerable communities to mass violence,” the coalition said.

The group criticised what it described as rushed denials and political responses aimed at damage control. It said such reactions only fuel suspicion among citizens who have suffered years of attacks, displacement and killings.

Charanchi said Nigeria cannot claim seriousness in its war against insecurity while allegations of collaboration within government circles remain unresolved.

He warned that shielding suspected collaborators erodes public confidence and weakens national resolve.

The coalition also faulted Matawalle’s reported move to pursue legal action against Sheikh Murtala Asada, a cleric known for his strong stance against banditry. It said the action appeared to be an attempt to silence dissent rather than a genuine effort to address the allegations.

“Resorting to litigation in this context appears less like the defence of reputation and more like a calculated attempt to muzzle a critical voice at a time when transparency is urgently needed,” Charanchi said.

While expressing support for Sheikh Asada, the group urged him to make public any evidence in his possession to assist authorities in uncovering the truth. It said the moment demands courage from individuals with relevant information.

“This is the moment for all truth-tellers to speak without fear. Silencing those who raise alarms only strengthens impunity and weakens the fight against insecurity,” the statement added.

The coalition called for an immediate, independent and non-partisan investigation. It said the probe should be led by the National Assembly and supported by security and intelligence agencies, as well as the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.

It said investigators must examine financial records, procurement processes, communication trails and official decisions that may have enabled contact between public office holders and criminal networks.

The group also demanded full protection for whistle-blowers and witnesses. It insisted that anyone found culpable, regardless of rank or political standing, must be prosecuted according to the law.

According to the coalition, northern Nigeria has endured years of violence marked by killings, kidnappings and economic ruin.

It warned that failure to act decisively on the allegations would amount to a betrayal of affected communities.

“No rank or title should confer immunity from justice,” the group said. “Nigeria cannot fight insecurity with one hand while the other shields those who profit from chaos.”



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