NIGERIA NEWS
Malaysia’s ex-Prime Minister Najib found guilty of fraud
Former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak was found guilty on Friday of abusing his power to plunder millions from the 1MDB sovereign wealth fund and launder the proceeds.
His sentencing, expected later on Friday, is likely to heap years onto the six-year term he is already serving for a separate case related to the now-defunct state investment vehicle.
Presiding Judge Collin Lawrence Sequerah convicted the 72-year-old former leader on all four counts of abuse of power, as well as all 21 counts of money laundering, involving around 2.28 billion ringgit ($554 million) from the fund.
Najib, dressed in a navy blue suit and white shirt, was seen looking down, slumped in his seat as the judge read the verdict.
While Najib, the son of one of the country’s founding fathers, was groomed for leadership from a young age, he experienced a spectacular fall from power as public anger mounted over the corruption scandal.
Since his 2018 election loss, investigations under successive governments have ensnared him and his wife Rosmah Mansor in graft allegations.
Prosecutors say Najib abused his positions as prime minister, finance minister and 1MDB advisory board chairman to move vast sums from the fund into his personal accounts more than a decade ago.
According to investigators, proceeds from the fund were used to bankroll high-end real estate, a luxury yacht and precious artworks.
– ‘Unmeritorious’ –
Delivering the verdict on Friday morning, Judge Sequerah dismissed several of the defence lawyers’ arguments, including that Najib had been duped by his close associate, the shadowy businessman Low Taek Jho, better known as Jho Low.
“The evidence clearly points to the fact that this was no coincidence but was evident of a relationship in which Jho Low operated as a proxy or agent of the accused (Najib) with regard to the running of the affairs of 1MDB,” Sequerah said.
The defence’s argument that Najib was “misled and duped by management and by Jho Low is unmeritorious”, the judge said.
1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) was a state investment fund launched by Najib in 2009, shortly after he became prime minister.
Whistleblowers said Jho Low, a well-connected Malaysian financier with no official role, helped set up the fund and made key financial decisions.
It is estimated that over $4.5 billion was diverted from 1MDB between 2009 and 2015 by fund officials and associates, including Low, who is currently on the run.
Judge Sequerah also dismissed claims that Middle East donors were responsible for the money flowing into Najib’s accounts, calling it a “tale that surpassed even those from the Arabian Nights”.
The prosecution presented bank records, testimony from over 50 witnesses and documentary evidence.
Najib “paints himself as a victim of rogue subordinates, when in truth, he was the single most powerful decision-maker”, deputy public prosecutor Ahmad Akram Gharib told the court during closing arguments.
“The accused wielded absolute financial, executive and political control,” he said.
– Dented image –
Najib’s lawyers have previously said the politician was unaware that 1MDB’s management was working hand in glove with Low to siphon large amounts of money from the fund, ostensibly established to foster economic growth in Malaysia.
Najib’s lawyer, Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, last week told journalists his client “never got a fair trial”.
He again blamed Low for the scandal, which sparked probes in several countries from Singapore to the United States, and dented Malaysia’s image abroad.
Najib has apologised for allowing the 1MDB scandal to happen during his tenure, but has consistently denied wrongdoing, maintaining he knew nothing about illegal transfers from the fund.
His legal battle was dealt yet another blow on Monday after he lost a bid to serve the remainder of his current jail term at home rather than the Kajang Prison outside Kuala Lumpur.
Each count of abuse of power is punishable by up to 20 years in jail and a fine of up to five times the amount of the bribe.
AFP
The post Malaysia’s ex-Prime Minister Najib found guilty of fraud appeared first on Vanguard News.
A former Chairman of Ondo East Local Government in Ondo State and candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Charles Adeduro, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adeduro, who dumped the PDP on Thursday, took over 1,000 members of his supporters with him in Bolorunduro, the headquarters of Ondo East Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking after his defection, Adeduro affirmed his commitment to the APC and promised to work for the victory of the party both at the local and state levels in the next round of elections.
His words ‘‘I have come to add value to the party and work tirelessly to ensure President Bola Ahmed Tinubu wins convincingly in my local government, aiming for a 100 per cent margin.”
He paid tribute to Otunba Agboola Kelly for facilitating his recent defection to the APC. He hailed the Minister of Interior, Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his consistent support to the party, calling him a “jolly good fellow” who always responds promptly to requests for assistance and a worthy son of whom the party is proud.
Kelly, a prominent party leader in the party, declared that Adeduro’s arrival signals the end of meaningful opposition in the Ondo East and West Federal Constituency.
According to him, “The former LG boss has served in various political positions and is a highly respected voice in the area.”
The APC chieftain said the event underscores the APC’s increasing dominance in Ondo State ahead of future elections.
Welcoming the new members, the state Chairman of the APC, Ade Adetimehin, expressed delight at Adeduro’s calibre and followership, describing him as a committed and principled leader who will add significant value to the party.
Adetimehin highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s achievements, including major road infrastructure projects, economic stabilisation efforts, and other developmental initiatives.
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There was panic in Offa, Kwara state following explosions in the town on Thursday night.
These explosions destroyed several properties and caused chaos.
It came hours after the US launched airstrikes against ISIS targets in northwest Nigeria.
The incident in Offa happened at two separate locations around midnight.
The first one affected several buildings around the Eid praying ground area, while the second occurred near Solid Worth Hotel, located about a five-minute walk from the initial site.
However, the exact source and nature of the explosions, has not yet been confirmed.
Confirming the incident, the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Offa Local Government, Abiola Azeez Babatunde, said in a statement, “The Offa Local Government has taken note of reports circulating regarding a suspected ordnance-related incident that occurred in the precinct of Offa Yidi Praying Ground on December 25, 2025.
“The affected areas have been cordoned off by security agencies to allow for thorough investigation.”
NIGERIA NEWS
We’ve continued to make progress in leaps and bounds despite challenges – Hon Sunday Umeha
From Maurice Okafor, Enugu
The Deputy Chaiman, House of Representatives Committee on Judiciary, Rt.Hon. Barr. Sunday Cyriacus Umeha, has appraised the democratic governance in Nigeria as very much on course inspite of all the challenges.
He said that inspite challenges facing the nation, Nigerians have continued to make progress in leaps and bounds.
Rt Hon Umeha dropped the hints in his facebook page as his goodwill message to the entire christendom to mark the 2025 Christmas Celebration.
Part of the message reads: ” I felicitate with the global Christian community on the celebration of the anniversary of the birth of Jesus Christ- Prince of Peace, Savior of the World.
” This session reminds us of the power of love, compassion and sacrifice. As we celebrate, I invite us to rededicate ourselves to these virtues which are emblematic of the Christian life.
” Inspite of our challenges as a Nation, we have continued to make progress in leaps and bounds – challenging the odds that strive to regresss our progression.
” It is my hope that this Christmas season will renew our commitment to the promise of a brighter future for our country. “
Rt Hon.Sunday Cyriacus Umeha, who represents Udi/Ezeagu Federal Constiuency,urged Christians in the spirit of Christmas to pray for peace, unity and progress of Nigeria,stating our future remains bright and together we can still attain great heights.
His words, “Thus, as we celebrate, let us take a moment to pray for peace, unity and progress of our country. Nigeria’s future, yet remain bright and together we shall there.”
NIGERIA NEWS
ISIS Terrorists: Nigerian Lawyer Shares 3 Reasons Trump Chose Sokoto as First Location for Bombing
A Nigerian lawyer mentions three reasons Trump first bombed terrorists in Sokoto before any other state.
His post went viral and sparked reactions from netizens.
ISIS Terrorists: Nigerian Lawyer Shares 3 Reasons Trump Chose Sokoto as First Location for Bombing
Source: TikTok
See the Facebook post below:
“On Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, the United States military carried out airstrikes targeting Islamic State (ISIS) militants in Northwest Nigeria, specifically Sokoto State, a region that sits near Nigeria’s border with Niger and has seen growing extremist activity. The operation was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, who described the strikes as “powerful and deadly.” ”According to U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), the strikes killed “multiple ISIS terrorists” and were conducted at the request and with the cooperation of the Nigerian government. Nigerian officials confirmed the operation was part of ongoing security cooperation, involving intelligence sharing and strategic planning. ”Some may ask, why sokoto? This Is the reason;”Sokoto state sits near international corridors used by extremist networks linked to the Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP).
Read also
US soldier’s chilling message at 12am hours before Trump bombed ISIS terrorists in Sokoto goes viral
“Its proximity to Niger and other parts of the Sahel makes it a transit and operational hub for militants spreading outward from the Lake Chad and Sahel regions.” The strike signals that extremist threats in Nigeria are not confined to the northeast they can expand into northwest regions unless checked early. ”This operation didn’t come out of nowhere, it followed weeks of public warnings by President Trump. In late October and November 2025, Trump posted on his social media platform that the United States was watching Nigeria’s security situation closely, especially after reports of escalating violence against civilians.”Trump claimed that Christian communities in Nigeria were being “viciously killed … at levels not seen for many years, and even centuries.” He warned that if killings continued, U.S. action would follow, even threatening to cut aid or intervene militarily. Finally the United States have fulfilled its promises, it’s beautiful.”
Source: Legit.ng
Veteran Nigerian singer 2Baba has made a public declaration about his past and present actions, insisting that he is now a changed man.
The singer stated that he would not stop speaking out wherever he goes, as he believes it is necessary to set the record straight.
Singer insists he is a changed man
In his remarks, 2Baba maintained his innocence, saying people who know him can testify on his behalf.
He stressed that his confessions are not for entertainment but a way of addressing issues that have followed him for a long time.
The singer also declared that he has “stopped giving women belle,” describing himself as reformed and focused.
However, he added that although he has many things to say, he would no longer engage or entertain people on the internet.
Social media reactions
@randylostar commented: “Nigerian nick cannon dey play!!”
@FrancisBrainiac commented: “Lo!… Just be happy and enjoy yourself… Use Your Head.”
@Riiylkeh commented: “Ok you try for that one ooh.”
@ricyofficial commented: “Anything you say or do, you are innocent.”
@Op_lanre commented: “According to his name, he’s Innocent but he’s still stylishly doing what he said he doesn’t want to do lo!”
Watch the video below…
“I have stopped giving woman belle, I’m a changed man and I’m innocent. I have many things to say but I won’t entertain internet people.”
— 2baba says. 😂 pic.twitter.com/h4NUNZUSqY
— BOLARINWA, Kashif MrFly (@mistarfly) December 26, 2025
The management of the National Assembly has commenced the review of the new tax legislation process after controversy on the official gazette.
In a statement issued on Friday, Director of Information in the National Assembly, Bullah Audu Bi-Allah, said the leadership and management of the legislative body are addressing the issues strictly within their constitutional and statutory mandate.
Bi-Allah said the relevant committees, in collaboration with the management of the national assembly, have commenced an internal review in line with the constitution, the Acts Authentication Act, the standing orders of both chambers, and established parliamentary practice.
He said the leadership has directed the Clerk to the National Assembly to work with relevant agencies to facilitate the publication of the acts in the Official Gazette and issue certified true copies of the assented laws to stakeholders and members of the public on request.
The director said the administrative action is intended solely to authenticate and formally reflect the legislative decisions of the national assembly.
He added that the review is confined to institutional processes and does not imply or concede any defect in the exercise of legislative authority by either chamber.
Bi-Allah said the exercise is being undertaken without prejudice to the powers, functions, or actions of any other arm or agency of government.
“The National Assembly remains fully committed to the principles of constitutionalism, separation of powers, and due process.
“Where procedural or administrative refinements are identified, appropriate measures will be taken in accordance with the law and established parliamentary conventions.
“Members of the public are respectfully urged to allow the National Assembly’s institutional processes to proceed without conjecture,” he said.
NIGERIA NEWS
BRG honours Minister of Youth Development with excellence in youth development and leadership award
- Billionaire Realtors Group (BRG) honouredHon. Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development, with the Excellence in Youth Development and Leadership Award during its BRG Excellence Awards 7.0 in Lagos.
- The Minister was recognised for his commitment to policies that empower Nigerian youths through entrepreneurship, skills development, and economic participation, and he delivered the keynote address at the event.
- BRG reaffirmed youth empowerment as a core mission, leveraging training, mentorship, and structured real estate opportunities to promote economic inclusion and reduce Nigeria’s housing deficit.
Billionaire Realtors Group Network Limited (BRG) has honoured the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, with the Award of Excellence in Youth Development and Leadership.
The award was presented during the BRG Excellence Awards 7.0, recently held on Monday, December 15, 2025 at the Landmark Event Centre, Lagos.
Hon. Olawande, who also delivered the keynote address at the event, was recognised for his leadership and commitment to policies and initiatives that empower Nigerian youths across entrepreneurship, skills development, and economic participation.
In his address, the Minister emphasised the importance of private sector collaboration in driving youth employment and economic inclusion, commending BRG for creating a platform that enables young professionals to build sustainable careers within the real estate sector.
BRG noted that youth empowerment remains a core pillar of its mission, particularly through training, mentorship, and access to structured real estate sales opportunities.“This recognition aligns with our mission to empower the sales force and support leadership that creates pathways for young Nigerians to thrive economically,” the organisation stated
Through strategic developer alliances and a strong emphasis on professionalism and due diligence, BRG has built a brokerage model that continues to contribute to reducing Nigeria’s housing deficit while promoting youth participation in the sector.
The honour further reinforces BRG’s commitment to partnering with government and industry leaders to drive sustainable development within Nigeria’s real estate ecosystem.
NIGERIA NEWS
Nigeria provided the intelligence for the US airstrikes – Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has disclosed that Nigerian intelligence played a central role in the recent United States airstrike carried out in the country as part of a joint counterterrorism operation.
It would be recalled that the United States, under President Trump’s command, had launched Airstrikes on terrorists in Northern Nigeria.
Yusuf Tuggar.
Nigeria’s minister of Foreign Affairs speaks
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Friday, Tuggar stated that Nigeria supplied the intelligence that informed the strike and worked closely with US authorities throughout the process.
According to the minister, he held extensive consultations with the United States Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, ahead of the operation. He explained that the discussions included multiple phone calls before the strike was executed.
Tuggar revealed that the talks with US officials culminated in consultations with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who granted approval for the operation after being fully briefed.
He added that both Nigeria and the United States agreed on how the operation would be communicated to the public, stressing that it was a counterterrorism action conducted under an existing joint security framework between the two countries.
He emphasizes strikes targeted at terrorists
The minister emphasized that the airstrike had no religious motivation, noting that its sole objective was to combat terrorism and protect Nigerian lives.
His words in part …
“It’s Nigeria that provided the intelligence. We have been working closely with the Americans. This is what we’ve always been hoping for to work the the Americans and other countries to combat t£rrorism and stop the d£ath of innocent Nigerians. This is a vindication of Tinubu administration for those who thought there was some foot dragging, or that the government wasn’t doing enough.
I was on the phone for 19 minutes with the US secretary of State Marco Rubio. We spoke extensively and we agreed that I was going to speak with president Tinubu to give the go ahead. We also agreed that the statement that would follow would clearly show that this was a strike against terrorism, part of an ongoing joint operation between Nigeria and the United States
This has nothing to do with religion. It is about protecting Nigerians.”
Watch video below …
Nigeria 🇳🇬 provided intelligence for the USA 🇺🇸 strike in Nigeria. We spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio twice: once 19 minutes before the strike and another time 5 minutes before it went on.
~Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar says
— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) December 26, 2025
NIGERIA NEWS
Ecobank Guarantees Seamless Digital Banking Services Throughout Christmas, Year-End Period – THISDAYLIVE
. Urges Vigilance Against Fraudsters
Ecobank Nigeria, a member of Africa’s leading pan-African banking group, has assured customers of uninterrupted access to banking services throughout the year-end holiday period via its secure and robust digital platforms.
The bank also urged customers to remain vigilant against fraud and scams during the festive season.
Speaking on the development, the Head, Products & Analytics, Consumer & Commercial Banking, Ecobank Nigeria, Victor Yalokwu, said the bank’s digital channels — including the Ecobank Mobile App, Ecobank Business App, USSD *326#, Ecobank Online, OmniPlus, Omnilite, EcobankPay, RapidTransfer, Ecobank Cards, ATMs, PoS terminals, and over 35,000 Ecobank Xpress Point (Agent Banking) locations nationwide — will remain fully available to support customers throughout the yuletide and year-end holiday period.
He noted that customers will continue to enjoy a wide range of services during the period, including local and international funds transfers, bill payments and airtime top-ups, merchant payments, balance inquiries and account statements, as well as cardless cash withdrawals via ATMs.
According to Yalokwu, “Ecobank encourages customers to leverage these digital solutions for safe, fast and efficient banking, especially during the festive season when convenience and reliability are essential. While physical branch operations may be subject to adjusted working hours in line with public holidays, customers can be assured that Ecobank’s digital platforms are designed to deliver uninterrupted service and enhanced security at all times.
“Ecobank remains committed to providing innovative financial solutions and exceptional customer service, and we wish all our customers a joyful festive season and a prosperous New Year.”
Yalokwu also cautioned customers to remain vigilant against fraudsters and scammers during the period. “Before you wrap up the year, tighten your security. December brings online sales, travel, and year-end distractions—this is exactly when scammers are most active. From fake festive deals to cloned merchant sites and suspicious messages, staying vigilant helps keep your money safe.”
He advised customers to shop only on trusted websites, never share their PINs, passwords, or one-time passwords (OTPs), avoid banking on public Wi-Fi networks, be cautious of urgent or emotionally charged messages, and regularly review their account activity.
Ecobank Nigeria is a member of the Ecobank Group, the leading pan-African banking institution with operations in 33 African countries and international offices in London, Paris, Beijing, and Dubai.
With over 220 branches, more than 36,000 agency banking locations, and robust digital platforms, Ecobank delivers accessible, affordable, and instant banking services. The bank is strategically positioned to support pan-African trade, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has disclosed that the Christmas Day US airstrikes in Nigeria were carried out with the full knowledge, intelligence support, and approval of the Nigerian government.
Tuggar made this known on Friday during an interview with Channels Television, stating that Nigerian authorities were in direct communication with the United States shortly before the strikes were executed.
The minister revealed that he spoke with the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, for 19 minutes ahead of the operation and again five minutes before the strike was carried out.
“It’s Nigeria that provided the intelligence,” Tuggar said. “I was on the phone for 19 minutes yesterday (Thursday) with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. We spoke extensively, and we agreed that I was going to speak with President (Bola) Tinubu to give the go-ahead, and I did, and he gave his approval.”
The foreign affairs minister stressed that Nigeria has maintained a consistent approach of working with all international partners committed to the fight against terrorism, regardless of religion or the identity of victims.
“Nigeria has remained consistent in its approach, which is to work with all partners committed to the fight against terrorism irrespective of religion—whether the victims are Muslims or Christians—or the kind of terrorism that it is,” he said.
Tuggar explained that Nigeria has been working closely with the United States and other countries to address terrorism, adding that the airstrikes underscore the commitment of the Tinubu-led administration to tackling insecurity.
“We have been working closely with the Americans and other countries to fight terrorism. This is a clear indication that the Tinubu administration is doing something. For those who thought that we are not doing enough, this is an indication that we are committed and prepared to work with all parties,” he said.
He further noted that both governments agreed that the public statement following the airstrikes would clearly reflect the purpose of the operation.
“We agreed that the statement that would follow would show that the strike was against terrorism and had nothing to do with religion,” Tuggar added.
Police in Ogun State have arrested eight persons for alleged breach of public peace, unlawful assembly, obstruction of traffic, and serious assault on police officers on Christmas Day.
The suspects, under the aegis of the Democratic Republic of Yoruba, were arrested for causing disturbance at Temidire Junction and Under-Bridge in the Sango-Ota area of Ogun State.
The suspects are Adewale Sosanya, ‘M’, aged 48; Opeyemi Oladotun, ‘M’, aged 31; Zara Gabriel, ‘F’, aged 22; Ajoke Gabriel, ‘F’, aged 19; Adewale Adebomojo, ‘F’, aged 48; Yusuf Tanimowo, ‘M’, aged 40; Olurotimi Ademola, ‘M’, aged 52; and Toyin Gabriel, ‘F’, aged 40.
Police Public Relations Officer (PRO) DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed this to newsmen in a statement in Abeokuta on Friday.
Babaseyi said that upon receiving the information, the police immediately mobilised, moved to the scene and dispersed the group of agitators.
He said, “The Ogun State Police Command has arrested eight (8) suspects for breach of public peace, unlawful assembly, obstruction of traffic, and serious assault on police officers following a disturbance caused by the group in parts of Sango-Ota, Ogun State.
“On 25th December 2025, Christmas Day, at Temidire Junction and Under-Bridge, Sango-Ota, a group agitating under the aegis of ‘Democratic Republic of the Yoruba’ unlawfully barricaded roads, set bonfires, disrupted the free flow of traffic, and attacked police officers deployed to maintain law and order,” he added.
Exhibits recovered from the suspects include a Toyota Dyna vehicle used to convey the suspects, two broadcast speakers, a carton containing flags, shirts bearing inscriptions of their agitation, and banners displaying their messages and manifesto.
The Police PRO added that the suspects will be charged in court upon completion of the investigation.
However, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
The CP warned that the command will not tolerate any act capable of breaching public peace, emphasising that any assault on police officers will be met with decisive action.
He urged members of the public to remain law-abiding and report suspicious activities promptly through the Ogun State Police Command emergency lines: Gateway Shield (General Complaints Line – Toll Free): 0800 000 9111; Emergency Numbers: 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, and 0708 497 2994.
A familiar falsehood is making the rounds again, this time dressed up as commentary in an article titled “Governor Dapo Abiodun and His Greek Gift.” Published across multiple online platforms, the piece attempts to discredit Governor Dapo Abiodun by recycling allegations about local government finances that have already been thoroughly debunked.
The author claims that despite the Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy, nothing has changed, and then proceeds—without evidence—to pin the blame on the Ogun State Governor. No documents are cited. No financial records are referenced. What the reader gets instead is anger, insinuation, and recycled talking points.
This script is not new. In August 2023, similar allegations were made by a former local government chairman who claimed that Ogun LGs had received zero allocation from the Federation Account since 2021. When challenged, no proof was produced. Official records showed that Governor Abiodun was not a signatory to LG accounts and had no direct access to their funds.
More damaging to the claim is the position of the Joint Account and Allocation Committee (JAAC), the legally constituted body responsible for disbursing LG funds in Ogun State. JAAC confirmed that allocations approved at its monthly meetings were paid into local government accounts and that these meetings were attended by chairmen, commissioners, labour leaders, and other statutory stakeholders. The same accuser attended several of these meetings without raising any alarm at the time.
What critics conveniently ignore is that during the COVID-19 years, federal allocations were insufficient to pay salaries and pensions. Instead of exploiting the situation, the Ogun State Government stepped in to support the councils, covering funding gaps running into billions of naira.
Governor Abiodun’s record of intervention is consistent: student support payments, transport reforms through CNG-powered buses and tricycles, and other cost-of-living measures introduced long before national subsidy removal.
Yet, the presentation of utility vehicles to local government chairmen has now been twisted into another conspiracy theory. Facts are replaced with florid language and innuendo, all aimed at sustaining a political narrative that evidence no longer supports.
This is not accountability journalism. It is political propaganda—loud, repetitive, and empty.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticised the federal government’s communication structure following the military airstrike carried out by the United States against terrorists in Nigeria.
The PDP, in a statement on Friday by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, submitted that the government failed to properly inform Nigerians, and it was the American government that first disclosed details of the security operation.
It added that the subsequent statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was too vague and did not offer insight to Nigerians about what transpired on their own soil.
While the PDP welcomed international cooperation in the fight against terrorism, it maintained that the government should have been the first to report the news in order to properly sensitize the Nigerian populace and avoid reliance on social media reports.
It also warned that such international operations must not compromise Nigeria’s sovereignty and security architecture.
The full statement, titled, “US STRIKE ON TERRORISTS: FG SHOULD COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY,” reads, “Nigerians were notified of the American strike on terrorists’ assets through the verified social media pages of President Trump and other American officials before the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a vague statement many hours later, offering a passive confirmation of the knowledge and cooperation of the Nigerian Government in the operation.
“While international cooperation in the fight against high crimes like terrorism is very much appreciated, the Peoples Democratic Party is deeply concerned about a communication structure where foreign powers break the news of security operations in our country before our government does.
“This inverted communication approach does not help the Federal Government or Nigerians in any way, especially when taken against the background that the US military has been reported to have previously entered and operated in Nigeria successfully without the permission and knowledge of the government.
“The Federal Government should have been the first to report the news in order to properly sensitize the Nigerian populace, instead of waiting to confirm news already in public circulation, unless they were taken unawares like the rest of the citizens.
“We urge the Federal Government to ensure that the defence agreement with the United States of America includes joint operations, which will ultimately result in knowledge sharing and experiential learning to help Nigeria sustainably combat insecurity, rather than full externally-led ‘precision attacks’.”
Veteran journalist and publisher, Dele Momodu, has raised concerns over the whereabouts and response of President Bola Tinubu following reports of a United States–led military operation allegedly carried out on Nigerian soil with the cooperation of the Federal Government.
In a post on Friday, Momodu said Nigerians were informed “from far away USA” about the operation while many were still marking Christmas celebrations, describing the information released as “foggy and brief.”
He questioned why the President, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, had not immediately addressed the nation or returned to Abuja to coordinate the country’s response alongside security chiefs and members of the war cabinet.
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“In normal climes, we would have expected our own President to immediately abort his vacation and return to the Presidential Villa in Abuja, surrounded by his war cabinet, and his media team rolling out updates to a usually under-informed nation,” Momodu stated.
While acknowledging the global fight against terrorism, the media personality cautioned against any action that could be interpreted as an abdication of Nigeria’s sovereignty, urging President Tinubu to take visible leadership at what he described as a “crucial and historic moment.”
He appealed to the President to clearly define Nigeria’s position and reassure citizens, stressing that transparency and decisive leadership were essential in matters relating to national security.
Momodu noted further that the country remained in prayers amid the unfolding developments, as Nigerians await official clarification from the Presidency and security authorities on the reported operation.
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Two suspects have been arrested and arraigned before a court in Nasarawa State by the Nasarawa state police command for allegedly possessing banned knockouts and fireworks.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, speaking to newsmen, disclosed that the suspects, whose identities were withheld, were arrested in Keffi and charged to court.
According to the police, the arrests were part of ongoing enforcement efforts to curb the use and circulation of prohibited explosive materials, particularly during the festive period.
The command reiterated its warning against the sale, possession, and use of knockouts and fireworks, noting that offenders would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.