Former Senator, Dino Melaye, has reacted to the ongoing trial of the immediate past Attorney‑General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), saying the development brought back memories of his own experiences in court when Malami held office.

Melaye took to his 𝕏 account on Tuesday to recall how he was repeatedly prosecuted during Malami’s tenure as AGF, describing the cases against him as “frivolous.”

He wrote, “Former AGF, Abubakar Malami, along with his son, have appeared in court today. Reminded me of how I was appearing in different courts when Malami as AGF was prosecuting me over frivolous cases including taking over one of the police cases against me. Wish him well.”

Melaye’s reaction came on the same day the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the remand of Malami in prison custody over alleged money‑laundering offences.

Justice Emeka Nwite directed that Malami be held at the Kuje Correctional Centre alongside his son, Abdulaziz, and an alleged accomplice, Hajia Bashir Asabe, pending the hearing of their bail applications.

The judge rejected an oral application for bail by the defence team led by J. B. Daudu, SAN, noting that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which opposed the bail request, must first be given the opportunity to file its counter‑affidavit.

The court fixed January 2, 2026, for the hearing and determination of the bail applications.

Malami and his co‑defendants are facing a 16‑count charge of money laundering involving about N9 billion.

According to the prosecution, the former minister allegedly laundered public funds in violation of Section 15(2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011, as amended, an offence punishable under Section 15(3) of the Act.

The EFCC further alleged that Malami used the proceeds of the illicit funds to acquire high‑value properties in Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and other cities across the country.

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Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has announced plans to stimulate economic development in Abia State through a ₦1 billion support package for 2,000 Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs).

He disclosed this on Monday at a Renewed Hope Partners (RHP) meeting in Bende, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, where he also distributed trailer loads of rice, other food items, and ₦100 million in cash to over 100 churches, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and various support groups.

Kalu explained that the initiative is part of the Renewed Hope Partners programme aimed at empowering residents across the 17 local government areas of the state.

According to him, the programme will partner with the Bank of Industry (BoI), Bank of Agriculture (BoA), Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), and the Nigeria Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) to match the ₦1 billion fund.

The Deputy Speaker emphasised that Abia State is an enterprising state with a large population of traders and business owners, noting that the initiative is designed to stimulate economic growth and job creation.

He directed the Director-General of the Benjamin Kalu Movement (BKM), Pastor Emma Trumps Eke, to ensure that 2,000 viable businesses across the state are identified and properly structured for the empowerment programme.

“A few months ago, about six months ago, we gave about ₦500 million to this programme. We have been distributing from time to time. Today again, to support the party and its structures, we are giving ₦100 million,” Kalu said.

“Between now and February, we want to identify 2,000 small and medium-scale businesses across all local government areas of Abia State. Sometime in February, we will gather again for empowerment.

“Today is not for empowerment. Today is to share food and eat rice together. Empowerment will take place in the first quarter of the coming year. Each selected business will receive about ₦500,000 initially.

“Participants should collect the application forms from the Renewed Hope Office on Ojike Lane, Umuahia, and return them within 30 days. We are partnering with the Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture, SMEDAN, CREDICORP, and others to match our ₦1 billion fund, which could increase the total support available.”

Kalu added that Abia’s strong entrepreneurial culture positions the state to maximise the impact of the programme.

Giving an account of his legislative stewardship, the Deputy Speaker disclosed that he has sponsored 127 bills in the last two years and delivered over 50 people-oriented constituency projects across the 13 electoral wards in Bende Federal Constituency.

“In two years, I have sponsored 127 bills at the National Assembly, spanning governance, inclusion, infrastructure, security, and economic reforms.

“Some, like the South East Development Commission (SEDC) Act, have progressed from proposal to institution, while other reform-driven bills continue to shape national debate and policy direction. These efforts reflect a legislative agenda focused on real needs, not abstract ideas,” he said.

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The Ondo State Security Network, Amotekun, has arrested 39 suspected terrorists who fled Sokoto State following the bombing of their hideouts by the United States and Nigerian military forces.

The arrests were made in the Elegbeka area of Ose Local Government, notorious for crimes including kidnapping, robbery, and murder. Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, said the suspects claimed they relocated south due to extreme heat in the North.

“A couple of days ago, 39 suspects were arrested, claiming that because of the heat in the northern part of the country, they relocated to the forest. We are profiling them, and those found with incriminating equipment will be prosecuted,” Adeleye said.

He added that the government requires permits to stay in forested areas, warning that the sudden influx of such elements raises serious security concerns.

In addition to the 39 suspected terrorists, Amotekun arrested 61 other suspects for various offences: 50 for breaking law and order, two for violating the anti-open grazing law, six for kidnapping-related cases, and three for gender-based abuse and rape.

Adeleye highlighted notable arrests, including 34-year-old Mustafa and 45-year-old Philip for kidnapping in Ofosu; Idris, Ibrahim Abdullahi, and Lawal Idris (23) in Isua-Akoko; and Daniel Ojo, Usman, and Bejide for assault and rape.

On armed robbery, three suspects, Olatunbosun, Ibrahim, and Shahidu were apprehended in Akure North and Oba-Ile, linked to a gang that recently stole a car in central Akure.

The gang planned to move the stolen vehicle to Abuja, Adeleye said.

The commander further noted the arrest of a gang of fraudsters who used commercial vehicles to rob passengers, who would also face prosecution.

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The lone Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) federal lawmaker representing Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Midala Balami, has commended Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for his developmental strides in the state.

Dr. Balami, who attended Governor Zulum’s budget presentation on Monday, hailed the governor’s leadership for the smooth implementation of the 2025 approved budget, which he said has transformed the lives of the citizenry and complemented his own efforts in delivering dividends of democracy to his constituents.

It would be recalled that Governor Zulum, while presenting the 2026 budget before the Borno State House of Assembly, proposed a total recurrent expenditure of ₦353,767,349,000.00 and a higher capital expenditure of ₦536,564,337,000.00.

Speaking in an interview with journalists after the budget presentation, the PDP opposition lawmaker again commended Governor Zulum’s leadership style, describing the implementation of the 2025 budget as impactful and people-oriented.

“It is imperative to note that the development of our state or country is critical to all political parties and stakeholders, irrespective of political affiliation. Therefore, as an opposition member, I felt it was important to attend this event to ensure accountability and fast-track development,” Balami said.

He further described the 2026 budget, tagged “Budget of Sustained Recovery and Growth,” as apt and timely, aligning with the administration’s 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiative and 25-Year Development Plan.

“For me, I would rather nickname it the ‘Budget of Unity and Holistic Development’ because all critical sectors have been given priority by the Zulum administration,” he added.

According to him, sectors such as health, agriculture, education, and other key drivers of development have received significant boosts, similar to what was recorded in the previous year’s budget implementation.

“Although I am a PDP member, when it comes to development, party affiliation should not be the yardstick. Unity of purpose is what matters. The people of Borno State have never had it so good, and we will continue to support this government for Governor Zulum to succeed,” Balami stated.

He noted that over the past two years at the National Assembly, his constituency has benefited from various interventions, stressing that Governor Zulum’s administration has touched virtually all areas, including Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency.

“These include the construction of mega schools, hospitals, housing units, worship centres, and other visible interventions across my constituency,” he added.

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Thuggery, phone snatching becoming history in Kano – CP Bakori
The Commissioner of Police in Kano State, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, has said that thuggery and mobile phone snatching are gradually becoming a thing of the past in the state, following sustained security operations and community-based policing strategies.

Bakori stated this on Tuesday during the 2025 end-of-year press briefing held at the Kano State Police Command Headquarters in Bompai.

According to him, the achievements recorded in 2025 were the result of deliberate planning, intelligence-led policing, and strong cooperation between the police and the public.

“Today, the issue of thuggery and mobile phone robbery is becoming history with the successful implementation of Operation Kukan Kura,” he said.

The police commissioner explained that when he assumed office on March 17, 2025, as the 47th Commissioner of Police in Kano State, a detailed assessment revealed multiple security threats across the 44 local government areas.

“These included thuggery (Yan Daba), mobile phone robbery and drug abuse in the eight metropolitan LGAs; threats of bandit infiltration in 17 border LGAs; and farmer-herder clashes in 19 other LGAs of the state,” he said.

To address these challenges, Bakori said the Command developed a clear roadmap guided by the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.

The strategies included enhanced community policing, intelligence-led operations, continuous training and retraining of officers, joint border patrols with other security agencies, expansion of the cybercrime unit, and massive public sensitisation through radio, television and other media platforms.

The CP disclosed that between January 1 and December 30, 2025, the Command arrested a total of 3,081 suspects for various crimes across the state.

The arrests included 146 armed robbery suspects, 50 kidnapping suspects, 112 suspected drug dealers, 85 suspected motor vehicle thieves, 45 tricycle thieves, 83 motorcycle thieves, 154 suspected thieves, 56 fraud suspects, and 2,350 suspected thugs.

He added that 14 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued during the period under review.

Bakori said the Command also recorded recoveries of arms, dangerous weapons, illicit drugs and stolen property.

“Recovered firearms included nine AK-47 rifles, 13 English pistols, eight revolver pistols, three pump-action rifles, 37 locally made revolver rifles and 26 fabricated guns, alongside 198 rounds of live ammunition and 28 cartridges.

“Other dangerous weapons recovered were cutlasses, knives, axes, clubs, swords and sharp irons,”he added.

The police also recovered 94 motor vehicles, 52 tricycles, 99 motorcycles, 15 cattle, 145 mobile phones, 20 POS machines, 37 ATM cards and 67 SIM cards.

In terms of drugs, the Command seized large quantities of suspected cannabis sativa, tramadol, pregabalin, diazepam, exol tablets, codeine cough syrup, rubber solution, “Akuskura” and other suspected illicit substances.

Looking ahead, the CP said the Command would sustain and improve on the current strategies in 2026.

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A pastor of the Living Faith Church, also known as Winners’ Chapel, who was abducted by gunmen along the Oke-Offin, Kabba/Bunu axis of Kogi State, has regained his freedom.

Naija News reports that the cleric, who was kidnapped on Friday, December 27, 2025, was released unharmed after spending several days in captivity.

It was learnt that the pastor was later found in Aiyetoro Gbedde, Ijumu Local Government Area of the state, where he was reportedly abandoned by his abductors.

A local community platform, Egbe Mekun, claimed that no ransom was paid for his release.

According to SaharaReporters, sources said the pastor is currently in stable condition and is expected to reunite with his family shortly.

The incident occurred while the pastor was on his way to his farm in Oke-Offin.

He was said to be travelling on a commercial motorcycle when armed men intercepted them along the road.

The commercial motorcycle rider, however, managed to escape the attack without sustaining any injury, while the pastor was taken away by the assailants.

Earlier reports indicated that the Living Faith Church pastor was kidnapped while heading to his farm in Okoro Gbedde, Ijumu Local Government Area of the state.

According to eyewitness accounts, the pastor was travelling on a motorcycle along the Oke-Offin, Okoro Gbedde axis, accompanied by a commercial rider, when they were confronted by the gunmen.

Sources revealed that on sighting the kidnappers, the pastor “jumped off the motorcycle”.

“The commercial rider managed to escape unharmed, while the pastor was abducted and taken to an unknown location,” a source said.

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As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) edges into its first decisive phase, Nigeria and Uganda approach Tuesday’s Group C finale from sharply contrasting emotional and tactical positions.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are already assured of progression into the next phase after victories over Tanzania and Tunisia.

Qualification secured, confidence flowing, and rotation firmly on the table, all the classic ingredients for a potentially awkward final group match.

For Uganda Cranes, however, this is survival football.

The Cranes must get a result to keep their knockout hopes alive. There will be no holding back, no calculations; only urgency, aggression and belief. That imbalance in motivation can be dangerous. AFCON history is littered with favourites who relaxed too early and paid dearly.

Uganda may be lower-ranked, but they are organised, hungry, and anchored around a small core of players capable of punishing any lapse. If Nigeria are loose, experimental or complacent, these three men are the most likely to make them pay.

Uche Ikpeazu: The personal battle

Few storylines carry as much emotional weight as Uche Ikpeazu’s.

Born in England to a Nigerian father and a Ugandan mother, Ikpeazu could easily have been wearing green and white. Instead, he chose Uganda, and arrives in Fès with something to prove.

He opened his AFCON scoring account against Tanzania, rising highest to power home Denis Omedi’s delivery, an equaliser that kept Uganda alive. Big, physical and relentless, Ikpeazu thrives on aerial battles, contact and sustained pressure.

This is where Nigeria must be careful. With possible rotation at centre-back, Ikpeazu will relentlessly test concentration, timing and strength. If Calvin Bassey is deployed centrally, his duel management will be crucial; not just winning headers, but preventing Ikpeazu from pinning defenders and bringing others into play.

Motivation will not be lacking. A goal against Nigeria would be personal, symbolic and potentially career-defining.

Allan Okello: The brain between the lines

If Uganda have a creative heartbeat, it is Allan Okello.

The Vipers SC midfielder, who has also tasted top-flight football in Algeria, is not just a domestic star, but the most productive attacker in Uganda’s current squad. A former youth international, Okello has scored six goals in 32 senior appearances, more than any other available Crane, and finished last season as the Uganda Premier League’s Golden Boot winner.

Okello’s greatest weapon is intelligence. He drifts expertly between the lines, links play at speed and strikes cleanly from range. Nigeria must be alert to his late runs around the edge of the box, his favourite hunting ground.

There is also a psychological edge. Okello missed a decisive penalty in the 1–1 draw with Tanzania, a moment that denied Uganda a vital win. Had it gone in, the Cranes would now need only a draw against Nigeria.

Expect a player desperate for redemption. Give him time and space, and he will dictate rhythm and direction.

Denis Omedi: Momentum over myth

Denis Omedi’s story already feels like AFCON folklore.

The former nurse and prison warden at 31 is living a footballing dream that once seemed impossible. But sentiment alone does not explain his threat.

Omedi has momentum, and belief. His late strike against Tunisia in Uganda’s opening group match, though not enough to secure points, announced him on the continental stage.

Since breaking into top-flight football in 2023, he has scored freely, netting 15 league goals for Kitara FC before earning a move to APR FC, where he helped secure the Rwandan league title.

Technically, Omedi is sharp rather than flashy. He attacks space intelligently, finishes quickly and presses defenders with purpose. His assist for Ikpeazu against Tanzania highlighted not just work rate, but vision.

READ ALSO: Anthony Joshua recuperating after Lagos–Ibadan expressway accident

Nigeria must track his movement carefully, especially if midfield structures change. Omedi thrives on second balls and broken play, exactly the moments that appear when teams experiment.

Final word

Nigeria may already be safely through, but Uganda arrive with urgency, hunger and three men capable of turning comfort into chaos.

At AFCON, motivation is often as powerful as talent. If the Super Eagles switch off, even briefly, these are the players waiting to strike.

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Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, in Kano State, Hashimu Dungurawa, says he remains the legitimate leader of the party in the state.

Dungurawa dismissed recent attempts by some ward executives to sack him.

He spoke about 24 hours after executives of Gargari Ward in Dawakin Tofa Local Government Area signed a resolution to expel him from the party.

“This is not their right to expel me. I am also a member of the National Executive Committee of the party, and they cannot override that authority,” he said.

He said he was surprised over the purported expulsion, stressing that he was yet to understand the reasons behind the move.

Dungurawa cautioned that legal action would be taken against those parading themselves as party leaders.

“We will arrest them for impersonation for parading themselves as leaders of the NNPP,” Dungurawa added.

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• A man who was driving behind Anthony Joshua’s car shared what happened immediately after the accident on Lagos-Ibadan expressway
• He shared how long it took road officials to arrive, and the first thing they did upon getting there and meeting the wreckage
• His viral post sparked reactions as many debated on the issue of first responders at the scene of the viral accident

A Nigerian man, Yemi Dada, shared what he saw at the scene of the accident involving British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua, immediately after it happened.

Two close associates of the renowned Nigerian-born boxer lost their lives in the accident that happened on a major road in Ogun State.

Anthony Joshua: Man Driving Behind Boxer’s Car Shares What Road Officials Did First After Accident
Source: UGC

The car carrying the three men and the driver hit a stationary truck on the road. Joshua sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital in a police van, as no ambulance was immediately available at the scene.

Read also

Anthony Joshua: Man visits accident scene, shows How Truck Hit By Boxer’s Car Was Parked on Road

Hours after the incident, a man identified as @deyemidada on X shared what the road officials did first after arriving at the scene and how long it took them.

He noted that his car was behind the wreck of Anthony Joshua’s vehicle after the accident.

His X post read:

“I was one vehicle behind the wreck of AJs car and I can confirm that the @FRSCNigeria officers were on the scene in about 5 mins. They arrived on foot running because a build up of cars had blocked access to the wreckage.“They extracted AJ from the car and removed the bodies from the road and cleared traffic in about 10 minutes. They did very well.“Interesting comments about an ambulance coming to the scene. The @FRSCNigeria officers were 1st responders and anyone familiar with that location should know there are at least 2 Ambulances in front of the redeemed camp AAPIT which was 5 mins before the location of the accident.”

See his tweet below:

Anthony Joshua’s accident: Reactions trail eyewitness account

@accalabister said:

Many Nigerians don’t even know the emergency number to call when something like this happens. Did anyone around there try to call an ambulance? They are all busy making videos

Read also

Anthony Joshua: Journalist Rufai Oseni Raises 2 Questions Over Accident Involving Boxer, Many React

@JohnOche616985 said:

Thank you very much for the information Sir, As citizens of this country we need a reorientation of attitude towards our Dear country Nigeria

@Chewy9991 said:

Did you see the drivers condition? He is not in any of the videos

@smartcitizenng said:

Is @FRSCNigeria trained in medical emergency practice/ procedures? I’m asking because the man was pull out of the car – something that should not have happened especially when 2 people allegedly died in the accident

@DeBigFAB3 said:

They don’t want to hear this because of their agenda to discredit Nigeria at any given opportunity. Check well many of them or their family members contributed to the mess they are crying about. Some of them are worse than the Government they criticize.Anthony Joshua: Man Driving Behind Boxer’s Car Shares What Road Officials Did First After Accident
Source: Getty Images

Anthony Joshua’s accident: Journalist Rufai Oseni reacts

Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that journalist Rufai Oseni has reacted to the accident involving Anthony Joshua, which claimed the lives of two people.

Read also

Popular Ghanaian seer’s dark prediction goes viral after Anthony Joshua crash in Nigeria, video

The journalist raised two thought-provoking questions regarding how the boxer was rescued from the scene of the accident.

What he said generated buzz on social media as many shared their thoughts on the viral accident trending online.

Source: Legit.ng

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A prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress has asked the National Assembly to begin impeachment steps against President Bola Tinubu over allegations surrounding the Tax Reform Bill.

The call came from Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a former National Publicity Secretary of the defunct nPDP and an APC chieftain.

He accused the President of interfering with a bill already passed by lawmakers.

Eze said the controversy strikes at the heart of Nigeria’s constitutional order.
He argued that the matter goes beyond politics and touches on legislative integrity.

The Tax Reform Bill was approved by the Senate and the House of Representatives after weeks of debate.

The legislation was designed to expand the tax base, improve administration, increase government revenue, and reduce reliance on borrowing.

Trouble began after claims emerged that the law made public was not the same version passed by lawmakers.
The allegation was raised by Abdulsammad Dasuki, a member of the House of Representatives from Sokoto State.

Dasuki told the House that his legislative privileges had been violated.
He said the gazetted tax laws contained provisions that were never debated or approved during plenary.

According to him, a comparison of the gazetted law with official parliamentary records exposed major differences.
He said the discrepancies appeared after both chambers had concluded work on the bill.

The lawmaker explained that he reviewed the documents over several days.
He claimed the final version contained insertions that were completely absent from the draft passed by the legislature.

Reacting to the claims, Eze alleged that the changes could not have happened accidentally.
He described the situation as a deliberate distortion of the law after legislative approval.

Referring to the incident, Eze invoked the biblical imagery from Matthew 13:25, saying, “When men slept, the enemy sowed tares.”
He alleged that the bill was altered after lawmakers had completed their work.

Eze further accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of frustrating efforts to clarify the matter.
He claimed lawmakers were denied access to certified true copies of the bill.

According to him, this action has worsened suspicion within the National Assembly.
He said it has also fueled internal tension among lawmakers.

Eze described the alleged alteration as a serious constitutional breach.
He insisted that any interference with a passed bill amounts to legislative usurpation.

He argued that the President lacks powers to amend bills passed by the National Assembly.
According to him, such authority is not granted under the constitution.

Eze said the situation amounts to gross misconduct and abuse of office.
He maintained that impeachment is the appropriate constitutional response.

He warned that allowing the matter to slide would set a dangerous precedent.
He added that it could weaken democratic checks and balances.

The APC chieftain also criticised the silence of the National Assembly leadership.
He said lawmakers are duty-bound to act as a watchdog over the executive.

Eze claimed the controversy reflects an attempt to impose new tax burdens without due process.
He urged lawmakers to defend the institution and protect Nigerians.

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In October 2025, the redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the Trump administration sparked significant debate regarding its tone and intent.

Nigeria and the United States subsequently found common ground to collaborate on the airstrike, which took place on Christmas Day 2025.

This collaboration was a direct result of diplomatic engagement that followed significant Nigerian and international reservations about President Donald Trump’s initial communication, which many saw as threatening and misinformed.

Reservations about the CPC redesignation 

The primary reservations regarding President Trump’s communication redesignating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) on October 31, 2025, focused on its inappropriate tone, selective framing of the security crisis as purely religious persecution, and a perceived threat to Nigerian sovereignty.

In Nigeria: 

Rejection of Characterization: The Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, strongly refuted the U.S. characterization that Christianity faced an “existential threat,” stating it did not reflect the country’s reality or values. Officials stressed that violence affected citizens of all faiths, including Muslims, and was tied to broader issues like terrorism, resource conflicts, and governance challenges.

Sovereignty Concerns: Many Nigerians, including ethnic organizations and diplomats, viewed Trump’s subsequent threat of potential U.S. military intervention (“guns-a-blazing”) as an insult to national sovereignty and a dangerous oversimplification that could exacerbate sectarian tensions.

Internal Diplomatic Realignment: Nigeria’s initial, more assertive diplomatic response was soon replaced with a toned-down version to de-escalate tensions, highlighting internal government deliberation on how to manage the diplomatic friction.

Internationally: 

Counterproductive Framing: Analysts and some U.S. lawmakers argued that framing Nigeria’s complex security landscape in narrow religious terms was counterproductive and distracted from the wider problem of tackling jihadist violence and widespread insecurity affecting everyone.

Aggressive Tone: Trump’s rhetoric, including threats to enter the country “guns-a-blazing” and instructions to the “Department of War” to prepare for action, was seen as inflammatory and a violation of diplomatic decorum.

Domestic Political Intent: Some observers viewed the move as an attempt to appeal to Trump’s domestic religious base in the U.S. rather than a nuanced foreign policy effort.

Focus on Dialogue over Force: A visiting bipartisan delegation of U.S. Congress members later clarified that the CPC designation was intended to foster reforms through dialogue and partnership, not military force, dismissing any plans for U.S. troops on the ground.

Call for Broader Engagement: Experts urged the U.S. to use its leverage to pursue a broader, more nuanced approach to religious freedom that acknowledged Nigeria’s complex, multi-layered crises rather than a single-issue focus.

Common ground and the Christmas Day airstrike 

The two countries did find common ground, leading to a collaborative operation. The U.S. airstrikes on December 25, 2025, targeting ISIS in Sokoto State, were conducted in coordination with and with the approval of Nigerian authorities.

Official collaboration: Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar confirmed that President Tinubu gave the “go-ahead” for the operation after discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and the Nigerian government officially described it as a “collaborative effort” and “precision strike operation”. Nigeria provided intelligence and strategic coordination, while U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) carried out the kinetic action at the request of the Nigerian government.

Differing public Narratives: While collaboration was confirmed, a slight divergence remained in the public framing. President Trump’s statements emphasized targeting those “persecuting Christians”, while Nigerian officials stressed the operation was about general counterterrorism and ensuring the safety of all innocent civilians, irrespective of religion.

Have the Reservations Been Addressed? Yes, the initial reservations have been addressed to a reasonable extent through ongoing dialogue and practical security cooperation.

The shift from Trump’s initial threats of unilateral military action to a coordinated operation with Nigerian consent indicates successful diplomatic de-escalation.

• Following a high-level meeting in Washington, D.C., in November 2025, both nations agreed to a non-binding cooperation framework and the creation of a Joint Working Group to unify their approach to counter-terrorism and civilian protection.
• Since late November 2025, the U.S. has conducted daily intelligence-gathering flights over Nigeria using contractor-operated aircraft to monitor militant movements and support Nigerian tactical operations.
• Also, high-level engagement and bipartisan congressional visits have helped clarify the U.S. intent as partnership and capacity-building rather than “punishment” or “invasion”.
• The incident has spurred more concrete actions from the Nigerian government, including a declaration of a nationwide security emergency and planned recruitment of more police officers, demonstrating a commitment to addressing security concerns internally.

In November 2025, Nigeria unveiled its Strategic Plan 2025–2030, which prioritizes bilateral cooperation with the U.S. to enhance intelligence analysis and modernize Nigeria’s security architecture.

However, a few Nigerians still have sovereignty concerns despite the collaboration while the fundamental disagreement over whether the violence constitutes “religious persecution” or “regional insecurity” persists, with the U.S. administration and Nigerian government continuing to use different language to describe the same conflict.

Overall, both nations ultimately chose pragmatism, leveraging the moment of diplomatic tension to reinforce their shared interest in counterterrorism, ensuring the bilateral relationship remains a strong, albeit complicated, partnership.

Hafiz Bakare is a Consultant and Former Bank Chief Executive. 

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Political activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has renewed his criticism of Nigeria’s political leadership, linking it to the recent fatal road accident involving world boxing champion Anthony Joshua (AJ) and his friends in Ogun State.

Sowore said the incident, which reportedly claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s friends, highlighted deep-rooted governance failures and systemic neglect, particularly in road safety and emergency response.

In a statement shared on his official social media platforms, Sowore disclosed that he had previously cautioned Joshua against associating with what he described as “Nigeria’s rotten leadership,” adding that his position remains unchanged.

He stressed that the tragedy should not be trivialised simply because Joshua survived, noting that the loss of life deserved deeper national reflection.

“Yesterday or indeed today is not a time to gloat over the horrific accident that nearly claimed the life of international boxing icon Anthony Joshua,” Sowore wrote.

“Tragically, it did take the lives of his associates and possibly the driver involved. Their deaths must not be reduced to mere footnotes in the survival of a celebrity.”

According to him, while the accident attracted widespread attention due to Joshua’s global status, similar incidents occur daily across the country with little notice.

Sowore blamed weak institutions and poor governance for recurring fatalities on Nigerian roads.

“These kinds of fatal accidents are the daily, naked reality of a nation that has failed failed in small things and in big ones alike,” he stated.

“A country where road safety agencies and the police cannot provide even the most basic first aid.”

He further criticised the lack of emergency infrastructure, including functional ambulances and trained responders.

“Where there are no stretchers, no functional ambulances, and certainly no air ambulances,” Sowore added.

“Where people die not only from accidents, but from institutional neglect.”

The activist argued that the situation underscored the need for fundamental national change, driven by accountability and respect for human life.

“This is why we must work sincerely and relentlessly toward a revolution one rooted in dignity, competence, and the sanctity of human life,” he said.

Reflecting on his past interaction with the boxing star, Sowore said he had warned Joshua years ago about aligning with political leaders he believes have failed the country.

“I spoke frankly to Anthony Joshua years ago about the danger of aligning with Nigeria’s rotten leadership,” he wrote.

“It was an unpopular warning at the time, and many dismissed it. Time, however, has a way of validating uncomfortable truths.”

Sowore concluded by urging Joshua to distance himself from Nigerian political elites, arguing that influential figures should not legitimise what he described as dysfunction.

“I must still insist that Anthony Joshua stop genuflecting at the altars of those who have failed Nigeria so catastrophically,” he said.

“It is time for him to turn his back on them. Icons must not lend legitimacy to dysfunction.”

He also extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident.

“My sincere condolences go to the families of the deceased,” Sowore stated.

“Their lives mattered, and they deserved far better than this broken system.”

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*To hear bail application January 2

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Justice Emeka Nwite of a Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday ordered the remand of former Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN at the Kuje Correctional Center, Abuja, pending the hearing of his bail application.

The judge made the order shortly after Malami, his son Abdulaziz Malami, and an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, Hajia Asabe Bashir, were arraigned on a 16 count criminal charge by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Although, they pleaded not guilty to the entire count and their lawyers moved an oral application for their bail, the court however declined to take the oral application on the grounds that it would amount to denying the prosecution the right of fair hearing.

According to the judge, there is evidence of a written application for bail which was served on the prosecution on Tuesday in court and that the prosecution by law needs time to respond to the written application just served on it.

Justice Nwite explained that the court cannot on its own withdraw the written application because the defendants through their lawyers moved an oral application for their bail.

He stated that hearing and granting the oral application would amount to ambushing the prosecution who has the right to respond to the written application already served on it.

He subsequently adjourned till January 2, for hearing in the bail application.

Malami, his son Abdulaziz Malami, and an employee of Rahamaniyya Properties Limited, Hajia Asabe Bashir, are being accused of conspiracy and concealment of proceeds of unlawful activities running into billions of naira.

According to the charge, the defendants were said to have committed the various alleged offences between November 2015 and June 2025.

Malami, who was Minister of Justice under former President Muhammadu Buhari, has been in custody of the anti-graft agency since December 8, following his failure to meet his bail conditions granted him by the EFCC.

The defendants would however be arraigned at the Federal High Court, Abuja, shortly after the suit is assigned to a judge.

The commission in the suit filed by Mr Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, claimed that the funds allegedly acquired unlawfully were used for the purchase of luxury properties in Abuja, Kebbi, Kano, and other locations.

In count one, Malami and his son were said to have between between July 2022 and June 2025, “procure METROPOLITAN AUTO TECH LIMITED to conceal the unlawful origin of the total sum of N1, 014, 848, 500.00 in the Sterling Bank Plc Account No. 0079182387″, when they reasonably ought to have known that the said sum formed proceeds of unlawful activities and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 21(c) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act”.

Malami and his son were in count two alleged to have procured the same METROPOLITAN AUTO TECH LIMITED to conceal the unlawful origin of another sum of over N600 million.

In another count, they were alleged to have in November 2022, used Rahamaniyya Properties Limited to conceal N500 million paid for a luxury duplex at Amazon Street, Maitama, Abuja.

While in count five the trio were alleged to have sometimes in September 2024, conspired to disguise the unlawful origin of the aggregate sum of N1, 049, 173, 926. 13 paid through the Union Bank Plc account of Meethaq Hotels Ltd Jabi savings Account No. 0179011105 between November 2022 and September 2024, they were in count six accused of indirectly taking control of the aggregate sum of N1, 362, 887, 872.96, paid through the savings account of Meethaq Hotels Ltd in Union Bank Plc when they “reasonably ought to have known that the said funds formed proceeds of unlawful activity and you thereby committed an offence contrary to section 18(2) (d) and punishable under section 18(3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

In another count, Malami, his son and Hajia Bashir were also charged with concealing the sum of N700 million paid for a property at No. 3 Onitsha Crescent, Garki, Abuja, and N850 million for another property at Plot 683, Jabi District, Abuja.

Similarly, the three defendants were said to have in February 2018, acquired No. 3 Rhine Street, Maitama, Abuja, for N430 million and in the same month concealed N210 million for No. 3130, Cadastral Zone A04, Asokoro, Abuja.

They were also charged with concealing N325 million for No. 1241B, Asokoro District, between March and June 2021, and N120 million for No. 27 Efab Estate, Gwarimpa, Abuja, between November 2015 and January 2016.

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• …says Tinubu has performed well

The paramount ruler of Emohua Kingdom in Rivers, Eze Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse, has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as a dependable ally and a leader to be followed.

Awuse, who is also the chairman of the South South Monarchs Forum, stated this during Wike’s Special Christmas visit to Rumuche Emohua in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers.

“I want to put it on record. You’re a man to be followed; you’re a dependable ally; a friend to the Omuoha people, and our leader.

“Your Excellency, Emohua owes you everything, and we are not going to wait for you to tell us what to do when the time comes.

“We have decided that wherever you put your leg, Emohua local government will follow you,” he said.

Awuse also said President Bola Tinubu has done well and deserves the support of Rivers people.

According to him, Tinubu has improved the nation’s economy, stabilised the Naira, and increased foreign reserves.

He said, “Before I became a traditional ruler, I was an accountant first, and then I became a politician.

“From my accounting and finance understanding, Tinubu has done very well.

“The indices are so clear. The value of the Naira has gone up. He has done well.

“The external reserve of the nation has also increased to more than 47 billion dollars.”

The traditional leader added that through Tinubu, Wike has transformed Abuja.

He advised Wike not to be distracted by the gimmicks of the enemy, saying, “In life, if you expect not to have enemies, then you’re a master of nobody.

“Only a man who is doing well is spoken about.”

He commended the minister for the annual visit at the end of every year to acknowledge the support of the people.

He also thanked Wike for always coming to the rescue of people in the local government.

“If I don’t thank you publicly, where will I say it?” he asked.

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Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Wizkid thrilled fans with a surprise appearance at Gunna’s headline show during the Detty December Fest at Ilubirin, Lagos.

The international collaboration came to life on stage as the duo performed their track “Forever Be Mine” from Gunna’s 2025 album The Last Wun.

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Blending Gunna’s trap flows with Wizkid’s signature smooth Afrobeats vibes, the performance marked the second live rendition of the track, following its debut in Washington, D.C., in September.

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Fans erupted in excitement as the pair showcased seamless chemistry, creating one of the festival’s standout moments.

The event was also highlighted by performances from Jamaican dancehall star Shenseea and Nigerian singers Fave and Tiwa Savage, adding more energy and variety to the festival lineup.

The appearance capped a monumental week for Wizkid, who also delivered a sold-out concert on December 28. Fellow Nigerian music star Olamide praised the superstar’s efforts online, further amplifying the excitement surrounding his performances.

The festival underscored Afrobeats’ growing global influence, as artists continue to bridge musical styles and captivate audiences both in Nigeria and abroad.

Vanguard News

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