NIGERIA NEWS
Northern Youths Allege Persecution of Malami, Others – THISDAYLIVE
A coalition of Northern youth groups has accused the federal government and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) of what it described as selective justice and politically motivated persecution of Northern opposition figures, particularly former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami.
Rising from a press conference held at Arewa House, Kaduna, the Coalition of Northern Youth Groups said recent actions by the anti-graft agency against Malami and other opposition leaders were not driven by a genuine fight against corruption but by an alleged attempt to silence dissent and weaken emerging opposition forces ahead of future political contests.
Comrade Ibrahim Mohamed, who is the leader of the coalition, said the North is witnessing “a disturbing pattern of intimidation and harassment” targeted at individuals perceived to be opposed to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“What is unfolding before the eyes of Nigerians is not a fight against corruption.
It is targeted persecution, deliberate witch-hunting, and a calculated attempt to destroy the reputation and political relevance of respected Northern opposition figures,” he said.
The coalition expressed particular concern over what it described as the harassment of Malami’s family members, which it said went beyond acceptable legal boundaries.
According to the group, the alleged pressure on family members was unprecedented and inconsistent with democratic norms.
“Even the families of individuals once accused of plotting coups were not treated with this level of hostility. This is unacceptable in any democratic society,” Mohammed said.
The youths warned that continued intimidation of opposition figures could undermine national cohesion and erode public confidence in state institutions.
Central to the coalition’s grievance is what it described as double standards in the handling of corruption allegations across regions and political affiliations.
The group questioned why some high-profile political figures from the southern part of the country, who have at various times been linked to corruption allegations, were not subjected to similar treatment.
Citing names such as Betta Edu, Nyesom Wike, Ifeanyi Okowa and Godswill Akpabio, the coalition argued that the EFCC’s actions gave the impression of selective enforcement.
“If the anti-corruption war is truly sincere, it must be even-handed,” the group said, insisting that no individual should be shielded on the basis of political loyalty or regional origin.
The coalition also referenced past public statements by the current National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, as further grounds for its call for consistency and transparency in the anti-graft campaign.
Beyond Malami, the youth groups said they were aware of alleged plans to arrest or investigate other prominent Northern political figures, including former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and former Adamawa State governor Jibrilla Bindow.
They claimed such moves were part of a broader strategy to weaken opposition coalitions, particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The coalition contrasted this with what it described as the continued freedom of some politically connected individuals within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a situation it said fuels suspicion of a push toward a one-party state.
The youths also linked their political concerns to broader economic grievances, especially in agriculture.
They accused the federal government of policies that they said were hurting Northern farmers, including the approval of food imports for crops largely produced in the region.
According to them, such decisions have worsened poverty and undercut local agricultural production in Northern communities.
The coalition, has therefore, called for the immediate release of Abubakar Malami, an end to what it described as harassment of his family, and the release of other opposition figures allegedly detained by the EFCC.
It also called for a halt to selective justice and urged the anti-graft agency to conduct investigations “fairly and without political bias.”
“We will not be intimidated. We will not be silenced,” the chairman declared. “We call on Northerners to rise in unity to defend our leaders, our dignity and our collective interests.”
The Achi Clan of Oji River Local Government Area, Enugu State, on Sunday unanimously adopted Governor Peter Mbah as their consensus candidate for the 2027 governorship election, citing what they described as his uncommon leadership style and remarkable performance in office.
The endorsement, which effectively shut out any opposition members as far as they are concerned, was made at a grand civic reception organised in honour of the governor at the St. Mary’s Field Court, Achi.
The event attracted thousands of supporters from the over nine electoral wards that make up the clan, which accounts for well over half of Oji River population.
Leaders of the clan, traditional rulers, political office holders, youth and women groups, took turns to applaud the governor for what they said were visible transformations across Enugu State within a short period. They declared that the decision to back him for a second term was already settled and irreversible.
Speaking, the Chairman of Oji River Local Government Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Chima Achiekwelu, said the reception was organised to appreciate the governor for his “great work and uncommon leadership” which, according to him, had rapidly transformed Enugu State.
“There is nobody in this country today, who is not aware of your giant strides in Enugu State,” the monarch said.
“It will take the whole day to start listing your projects. This reception is to assure you that you will win your second tenure unopposed here. It has been ordained by God and accepted by us as a consensus.”
Igwe Achiekwelu declared that the entire Achi Clan had resolved to adopt Governor Mbah as its sole candidate for 2027, stressing that no vote meant for the governor would be lost to any opposition member.
He added that traditional rulers, as grassroots mobilisers, had closed ranks to ensure total support for the governor’s re-election.
In an address presented by Dr Okey Ibeabuchi, Chairman of the Central Organizing Committee, on behalf of the Achi Clan, the people expressed deep gratitude to the governor for what they described as an epoch-making visit and for restoring purpose, clarity and direction to governance in the state.
They commended his administration’s investments in Smart Green Schools, primary healthcare, agriculture, security, tourism, the Enugu International Conference Centre and the launch of Enugu Air, noting that those initiatives had restored pride and confidence among the people of Enugu State.
The clan also acknowledged the governor’s recognition of traditional institutions and the inclusion of Achi sons and daughters in government, listing several appointees from the area serving in key capacities.
Achi clan also appealed for the full operationalisation of the four Development Centres created in Oji River Local Government Area, arguing that Achi’s population size and number of wards justified the allocation of two of the centres to the clan.
They further appealed for key infrastructure projects, including the Achi–Ehuhe–Udi Road and the Achi Court–Amankpunato–Amoli–Ihe Road, the establishment of a tertiary institution campus in Achi, and the rehabilitation of Achi Joint Hospital.
Earlier, the Chairman of Oji River Local Government Area, Engr. Greg Anyadike, praised Governor Mbah for what he described as people-oriented governance, thanking him for the Green Smart Schools and Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres sited across the wards in the council area.
He pledged the Council’s full support for the administration’s programmes and policies.
Responding, Governor Mbah said he was deeply honoured by the reception, describing Achi Clan as an integral part of Enugu’s history and identity.
He said the support and affection shown by the people would never be taken for granted.
The governor reaffirmed that his administration’s vision was anchored on inclusivity, equity and sustainable development, explaining that projects were deliberately designed to be ward-based and grassroots-focused, highlighting the presence of over nine smart green schools and multiple Type-2 primary healthcare centres in Achi, as well as extensive road projects tied to the administration’s commitment to deliver at least 10 kilometres of roads per ward.
He also announced that the Achi–Ehuhe–Udi Road and the Achi Court–Amankpunato–Amoli–Ihe Road had been captured in the budget estimates for 2026, assuring that mobilisation to site would commence before the next rainy season.
He further disclosed plans for massive agricultural estates across wards, aimed at moving farmers from subsistence to mechanised farming, alongside the upgrade of the veterinary school in Achi and the elevation of the School of Health Technology to a full nursing college to an OND and HND-awarding institution.
“I want to assure you that the trust and mandate you have given us, we hold sacred. We will further strengthen our public service, live by the social contract with you and continue to serve you with all our strength,” Governor Mbah added.
Related
- A young woman identified as Karen has allegedly died following a stampede at Asake’s concert held at Nyayo Stadium in Kenya.
- The incident, which was shared on social media, has sparked widespread mourning and renewed calls for improved crowd control and safety at large events, as official confirmation is still awaited.
A tragic incident has reportedly occurred at Asake’s concert in Kenya, where a young lady identified as Karen allegedly lost her life following a stampede at the event.
The report was shared on social media by Willie Oeba, who claimed that the incident happened at Nyayo Stadium after overcrowding led to a rush among concertgoers. According to the post, Karen passed away as a result of injuries sustained during the stampede.
The news has sparked sadness and concern online, with many users expressing condolences to the family of the deceased and calling for better crowd control and safety measures at large entertainment events. Others urged event organisers and security agencies to prioritise proper planning to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As of now, there has been no official statement from the concert organisers or relevant authorities confirming the details of the incident. However, the story has continued to gain attention as fans mourn the reported loss and demand accountability.
In other news….. Nigerian music executive Paul Okoye, popularly known as Paul O, celebrated his partner, Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo, on her 48th birthday with heartfelt admiration.
According to Naija News, Paul O shared a post on Instagram on Sunday highlighting Iyabo Ojo’s achievements in 2025, which included weddings, the joys of children and grandchildren, graduations, movie premieres, red carpet appearances, and awards.
He also acknowledged the challenges she faced over the year, mentioning the difficult moments, unexpected tests, and instances where people tried to use her name and fame for personal gain.
In his post, Paul O wrote:
“Happy Birthday! @iyaboojofespris My Ezenwanyi! Today we celebrate you, our Queen Mother your life, your strength, your beauty, and everything that makes you who you are.
2025 was quite a journey. It was filled with moments that reminded us how wonderful life can be weddings, children, grandchildren, graduations, movie premieres, red carpets, awards, and, of course, love. But life also brought challenges tough times, battles, and unexpected tests, as well as people trying to use your name to make headlines or bring you down.
Through it all, you smiled. Even when things weren’t easy, you handled everything with grace and met challenges head-on. Your kindness and support touch everyone around you, making us all fortunate to know you.
You are, without question, the strongest and most compassionate woman I know. Today, we celebrate not just your birthday, but the incredible person you are!”
Kwara State Governor, Malam Abdulraham Abdulrazaq on Monday presented a budget of N644b to the state legislature, for the 2026 fiscal year.
The total size of the proposal is N644,004,816,893.00, with 65.98% of the fiscal plan earmarked for capital expenditure, while the rest (34.02%) takes care of recurrent spending.
Presenting the budget to the state House of Assembly, Governor Abdulrazaq, explained that the allocations point to the direction the government is headed in the new year, saying it will focus more on completing ongoing projects and investing in areas of urgent needs such as security hardware, vehicles, and technology to enhance response to kidnapping and activities of bad faith actors.
“The budget of Consolidation and Sustained Growth” is built around the following national economic outlook for the year: oil price of US $64.85; daily oil production estimates of 1.84m barrels per day; exchange rate of N1,400 per US dollar; and GDP growth of 4.68%,”he said.
He expressed the confidence that the projects, once completed, will expand the economic base of the state, make the environment more conducive for business, provide fertile grounds for job creation and sustainable development, and free up more resources to deepen social protection for the poor.
“Our budget has never been a mere proposal. It has consistently delivered on our promise to leave Kwara far better than we met it, including restoring its place as a leading state in the country.
“In the outgoing year, we completed 38 roads totalling 108kms and another 29 interlock access lanes across the state. Yet, 264.202kms of roads are at different stages of completion across the three Senatorial Districts.
“As of today, the Innovation Hub stands completed, growing our tech economy by more than $20m and offering great values to all. We have also achieved significant milestones across key projects, including the Kwara Hotel, International Conference Centre, Patigi Regatta Motel, Dada Pottery, Shea Butter Factories, Shonga ICT Complex, Prototype Primary School Adeta, Revenue House, and Indoor Sports Hall, Senator Oluremi Tinubu Hospital, alongside investments in agriculture across different value chains,” he added.
Governor Abdulrazaq, further noted that very impressive achievements were also made across education, water, and health sectors, while Both campuses of Kwara State University in Osi and Ilesha Baruba have since been delivered, extending education opportunities to the people.
“The 2026 budget is critical for our legacy as an administration, and I urge this Honourable House to expedite legislative action on it.”
In his speech, the Speaker, Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, commended the governor for the achievements recorded and assured a speedy consideration and passage of the appropriation bill.
The Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government has declared December 25 and 26, 2025, as well as January 1, 2026, public holidays to mark Christmas, Boxing Day, and the New Year celebrations.
Naija News reports that this was disclosed in a statement statement by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
He indicated that the declaration was made on behalf of the Federal Government by the Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Tunji-Ojo extended warm Christmas and New Year felicitations to Christians in Nigeria and across the world, as well as to all Nigerians as they celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of a new one.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged Christians to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice as exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that these values are critical to promoting unity, tolerance, and harmony in the nation.
The Minister further called on Nigerians, irrespective of religious or ethnic affiliation, to use the festive season to pray for the peace, security, and continued progress of the country, while supporting the Federal Government’s efforts towards national development and cohesion.
“The Christmas season and the New Year present an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen the bonds of unity, show compassion to one another, and renew our collective commitment to nation-building,” the Minister stated.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo also enjoined citizens to remain law-abiding, security conscious, and moderate in their celebrations, while cooperating with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and safe festive period.
The Minister wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
The federal government on Monday declared 25 and 26 December and 1 January 2026 as public holidays to mark the Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year celebrations.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, gave the announcement in a statement by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, in Abuja.
Mr Tunji-Ojo extended warm greetings to Christians in Nigeria and around the world, as well as to Nigerians in general.
He urged Christians to reflect on the virtues of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice exemplified by the birth of Jesus Christ, describing these values as essential for national unity, tolerance, and harmony.
The minister also urged all Nigerians to use the festive season to pray for the country’s peace, security, and continued progress, while supporting government efforts at national development and cohesion.
READ ALSO: Christmas: DHQ tightens security across Nigeria, deploys troops, air assets – Official
“The Christmas season and the New Year present an opportunity for Nigerians to strengthen the bonds of unity, show compassion to one another, and renew our collective commitment to nation-building,” he said.
Mr Tunji-Ojo also enjoined citizens to remain law-abiding, security-conscious and moderate in their celebrations, while cooperating with security agencies to ensure a peaceful festive period.
He wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
(NAN)
From Maurice Okafor, Enugu
Anglican Bishops, Priests, the Congregation and Personalities who attended the burial service in honour of late Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe, held at Cathedral Church of St.Mark Isu-Awaa,Awgu local government area,Enugu state,on Friday, December 19th, were thrilled when Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe, announced that on behalf of the Ibe Family, they will build build a Cathedral guest hall for the Church, as a way of sustaining the legacy of their late mother,Lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe.
Late lady Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe was married to late Chief Sir Benson Maduabuchukwu Ibe, from Umunevo n’Umuevea of Enugu Isu-Awaa. She died at the ripe age of 90 years. Until her death, She was an ardent member who contributed in the spread of the gospel and growth of the church in Isu-Awaa.
Emperor Chris Baywood Ibe made the promise on behalf of the family,while giving vote of thanks for the special service in honour of their late mother,held on Friday, December 19th at the Church.
Emperor Baywood Ibe appraised the blessings of God upon the entire Ibe farmily, bestowed through their late mother who had ardent and undiluted faith in God.
According to Emperor Baywood, It is God’s blessing that eight of them born by Late Ezinne Eunice Ibe are all alive, amidst the fact that they travel by air, sea and on the land. By God’s grace, her lineage has been endowed with 32 grand Children and Nine grand Children,all of whom are living.
He assured that they will tow the legacies of late Ezinne Eunice Nwabugwu Ibe of working in God’s vineyard.
He asked for a vital project the leadership of St Marks Cathedral wish to embark on.
He was told that the Cathedral is lacking a guest hall. Emperor Baywood Ibe responded instantly that they should consider it done, promising to lay the Foundation stone of the guest hall very soon.
His words, “I thank you all especially the priests for waiting patiently for us. We were actually hours late but you waited for us.
“We took good care of our father and mother till death. You should join us in thanking God to have given us such wonderful and caring parents.
“We were born eight, four males and four females We have 32 grand Children and Nine great grand children. We are all alive. We travel by air, the sea and on the land. Nothing has happened to any of us. So join us in thanking God.Almighty.
“We shall do everything possibld to continue with our late mother’s legacy of serving God and helping people. It might interest you to know, we commenced her funeral ceremonies with an empowerment programme, as a way of demonstrating her legacy of giving to the poor. Just yesterday (Thursday, December 18th)), the family shared out a total of 1,050 bags of rice, vegetable oil and packets of Maggi, to 50 poor familes,selected from each of the 21 Communities that makes up Awgu local government area.
” Further to that, the Family wish to know what more can be done in the Cathedral.We want to sustain her legacy to the church too,” Emperor Baywood stated.
NIGERIA NEWS
Rev Uma Ukpai’s Son Reacts As Alleged Burial Arrangement for Late Preacher Surfaces: “It’s Alarming”
- Daniel Uma Ukpai has publicly addressed an alleged funeral announcement of his late father, Rev. Dr Uma Ukpai
- The alleged burial arrangements that surfaced on social media include services across Akwa Ibom and Abia States
- Reactions to Daniel’s post highlight public concern over respect for the family’s privacy, as he shared why the public must await the family’s statement
The son of the late preacher, Rev Uma Ukpai, has reacted to the alleged burial arrangements of his father that surfaced online.
Daniel Uma Ukpai took to his Facebook page to address the alleged funeral announcement of his father, who passed at 80.
Rev Uma Ukpai’s son reacts to father’s alleged burial announcement. Photo: Daniel Uma Ukpai
Source: Facebook
Dr Ukpai, known for his widespread crusades and peculiar way of preaching, was highly loved by his followers.
Though he was confirmed to have died on October 6, his death was only made public on October 13, 2025.
Alleged burial arrangements for Uma Ukpai released
Read also
Primate Ayodele releases 2026 prophecies on Tinubu, Atiku, northern Nigeria, others
In the early hours of December 22, 2025, an alleged funeral announcement was shared by Shekinah Glory TV on Facebook.
The announcement was shared in a Facebook post:
“NOTIFICATION OF THE GLORIOUS TRANSITION OF REV. DR. UMA UKPAI”The family wishes to inform you of the following burial arrangements:“Akwa Ibom State”Sunday, 15th March 2026 (12pm): Medical/Welfare Outreach @ Nkek, Ukanafun LGA, Akwa Ibom State (the first venue where Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai hosted a crusade)”Wednesday, 18th March 2026-(4pm): Celebration Service @ UUEA Fellowship, 4 Lanes, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State”Friday, 20th March 2026-(4pm): Night of Tributes hosted by the Akwa Ibom State Government @ Uyo, Akwa Ibom State”Abia State”Wednesday, 25th March 2026 (10am): Medical/Welfare Outreach @ Asaga, Ohafia LGA, Abia State”Thursday, 26th March 2026 (3pm): Service of Songs @ Ohafia LGA Secretariat, Ohafia, Abia State”Friday, 27th March 2026 (10am): Burial Service and Interment @ Ohafia LGA Secretariat, Ohafia, Abia State”We humbly request that all tributes be sent to the official email address by 31st December 2025: tributes@drumaukpai.org
Read also
Grammy Awards to honour Fela Kuti with Lifetime Achievement Award in 2026
“For further details, please contact the Planning Secretariat:”Mrs. Gaile Uka+234 803 233 3562″Pastor Emeka Daniel Uma Ukpai – +234 908 100 0059″We covet your prayers and presence as my family and I join the body of Christ in celebrating a General of Faith who has finished his course and entered eternal rest in the Lord.”With honour and blessings,”Rev. Dr. (Mrs.) Philomena O. Uma”For the Family and the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association Inc.
Uma Ukpai’s son reacts to alleged burial announcement
Reacting to the burial announcements, Daniel Uma Ukpai wrote in a Facebook post:
“It is alarming to see people sharing private details solely for publicity. Why disclose family matters to the public, right? It is advisable to wait for the family to release an official statement before sharing, to prevent misinformation. “We are still coordinating with stakeholders to finalize the event… which is likely why some of you were not notified about the death earlier – some people are not capable of handling sensitive information.”
Read also
Olu of Warri inspects newly constructed road on scooter, Gilmore, others react: “New age king”
Burial: Reactions trail Uma Ukpai’s son’s statement
Franklin Chuks said:
“They want to feel important… great Umah family members. To the glory of who? Bad character.”
Andrew Kalu said:
“Propriety demands that people should allow the immediate family to take the lead.”
Kingsly Emeka said:
“Too bad. We will overcome them.”
Emeka Ukpai said:
“Very sad of them!”
Tochukwu Samuel said:
“Very unfortunate.”
Evang Sunday Okafor said:
“Too sad.”
Rev Uma Ukpai’s son addressed the leaked burial arrangement of father. Photo: Daniel Uma Ukpai
Source: Twitter
In a related story, Legit.ng compiled a list of prominent preachers who died in 2025, including Uma Ukpai.
Nigerians share encounter with Uma Ukpai
Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that many Nigerians took to social media to mourn the death of Rev. Uma Ukpai, who died at 80 on October 6.
The deep encounters of four Nigerians who had met the late preacher caught people’s attention online. Legit.ng compiled their experiences, as they shared how he affected their lives during his lifetime.
Source: Legit.ng
A Nigerian mother of four based in Canada has taken to social media, sharing details of her failed marriage.
The woman, identified with the Facebook handle Ada Igbo, announced that January 4, 2026, would mark a year since she parted ways with her husband.
Details Of The Post
According to Ada Igbo, after parting ways with her husband, she reached out demanding financial assistance, but he ignored her, along with his family.
Addressing comments about her leaving the marriage, she wondered what she should do while emphasizing that her husband has been a ‘deadbeat’ regarding their children’s affairs.
Her lengthy Facebook post reads below..
January 4th makes it one full year since I left my marriage with my children.And ever since, people keep saying,
“You shouldn’t be taking care of those kids alone.”“Their father should be providing..“Why didn’t you leave them with him?”“Why don’t you send them back to Nigeria?.
Let’s remove one thing immediately: leaving my children with their father is not an option. So let’s scrap that.
Yes, their father should be providing. I agree.That’s why I wrote him a letter asking for financial support. He read it.He ignored it.
He said nothing. His family said nothing.Till today, silence. So now I want to genuinely ask those who keep talking:
Since I “shouldn’t carry the burden alone,” what exactly should I do?.Drop my children on the main road and go and live my life?
Hand them over to someone who has chosen to be absent?. Return them to a situation I left to protect them?.People talk like single parenting is a choice I woke up and made for fun.
As if I didn’t first try communication.As if responsibility can be forced on a man who has decided to be mute.
This is a sincere question. How do you make a man who has chosen to be a deadbeat suddenly become involved in his children’s lives?
Because from where I’m standing, I didn’t choose to do this alone.I was left with no other safe option.
And until someone gives me a realistic answer, I will continue choosing my children over people’s opinions. It’s 4days to Christmas and I decided to scream out hopefully I get help.
See below…..
NIGERIA NEWS
We’ve been having crisis before Gov Adeleke came – Former Accord Party presidential aspirant
Former presidential aspirant of the Accord Party, Prof Christopher Imumolen, says the party has been having internal crisis before Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State defected to it.
Prof Imumolen made this disclosure on Monday when he appeared as a guest in an interview on ‘The Morning Brief’, a programme on Channels Television monitored by DAILY POST.
He was reacting to the internal political wranglings confronting the party.
“I have been fighting this battle before now. I went to court, that’s a sign of fight. We have had issues in the party Secretariat where we went there and we fought our issues.
“What I’m saying is that we just kept quiet because in the party, sometimes, we don’t want members of the public to know about our internal issues.
“We have been having these fights. If you check many publications, I have attended a lot of interviews to talk about this.
“So, whether Adeleke came or not, we are in charge of the party and we are doing what we are doing today to save the face of the party. And to make sure that whatever happens, the party remains intact,” he said.
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, December 25, and Friday, December 26, 2025, as public holidays to mark Christmas and Boxing Day.
Additionally, Thursday, January 1, 2026, has been declared a public holiday for the New Year celebration.
The announcement was made in a statement on Monday by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
In the statement, the minister urged Nigerians to reflect on the values of love, peace, humility, and sacrifice associated with the birth of Jesus Christ.
He also called on citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity, to use the festive season to pray for peace, improved security, and national progress.
Tunji-Ojo further advised Nigerians to remain law-abiding and security-conscious during the celebrations, while wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.