NIGERIA NEWS
Nigeria sends fighter jets, ground forces as troops foil coup in Benin Rep
• Govt: our armed forces foil coup
Nigeria, African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States yesterday condemned an attempted military takeover in Benin Republic.
They gave the condemnation as confusion and gunfire were reported in parts of Cotonou following an announcement by some soldiers, claiming to have removed President Patrice Talon from office.
But, amidst the confusion, Beninoise government said its armed forces had foiled the coup attempt after a group of soldiers in the West African nation claimed on national television to have seized power.
The attempted coup was the latest threat to democratic rule in the region, where the military has in recent years seized power in Benin’s neighbours Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau.
The country of about 14 million population’s capital city is Porto-Novo, but Cotonou is the largest city and de facto administrative and economic capital. Between the late 1800s and 1960, Benin was a French colony.
The mutineers, dressed in military uniforms, launched an early morning operation to seize power, beginning with an assault on the presidential residence in Cotonou. The attack was repelled.
Failing to capture the president, they seized the state-run Office de Radiodiffusion et Télévision du Bénin (ORTB), taking control of the national broadcast signal.
The crisis escalated rapidly, but loyalist forces, including the National Guard, responded swiftly, surrounding the television station and isolating the coupists.
By afternoon, security forces had secured key government installations and regained full control of the capital.
President Patrice Talon was reportedly safe at an undisclosed location.
Talon: situation under control
Talon yesterday appeared on state television following the attempted coup, saying that the situation was ‘totally under control’.
He thanked security forces who he said acted to end a putsch by what he described as “a small group of soldiers”.
“The rapid mobilisation of forces loyal to the government “allowed us to thwart these adventurers,” Talon said in his remarks aired on state television.
“This treachery will not go unpunished.”
Talon was also on the streets, congratulating the military.
Nigeria, AU, ECOWAS reaffirm support for Talon’s govt
In a statement, the Federal Government described the act as a direct assault on democracy, constitutional order and the collective will of the Republic of Benin people.
Nigeria reassured the government of its full support and continued cooperation.
A statement, signed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, reads: “The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has received with grave concern and unequivocally condemns in the strongest possible terms the attempted forcible seizure of power in our friendly neighbour and brotherly nation, the Republic of Benin, in the early hours of yesterday.
“This act of destabilisation represents a direct assault on democracy, constitutional order, and the collective will of the Beninoise people, who have consistently demonstrated their commitment to peaceful political transitions. Nigeria stands in firm solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of Benin, and applauds the swift action taken by Beninese authorities to protect its legitimate institutions and preserve the peace.
“We commend the courage and professionalism of the Beninese security forces in defending the constitutional order and guaranteeing the safety of the President. Their dedication ensured that the unfortunate attempt to subvert democracy was decisively repelled.
“Nigeria reiterates its strong commitment to the principles of democracy, good governance, and the rule of law as fundamental pillars for peace, development, and regional stability. Unconstitutional changes of government are an unacceptable and retrogressive step that threatens the hard-earned democratic gains and socio-economic progress of our sub-region.
“As a steadfast partner within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union, Nigeria calls on all member states and the international community to unite in condemning this act and in reaffirming our shared commitment to the African Union’s Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, and the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance.
“We urge all parties in the Republic of Benin to remain calm, uphold the rule of law, and continue to channel any political discourse through peaceful, constitutional, and democratic means.
“The federal government of Nigeria reassures the Government of the Republic of Benin of its full support and continued cooperation as we work together, as brothers and partners, to deepen democracy and ensure lasting peace and prosperity for our peoples and the entire West African region.”
A statement said AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf “strongly and unequivocally condemns the military coup attempt” in Benin, stressing that any form of military interference in political processes is “a grave violation of the fundamental principles and values” of the AU.
The statement also reaffirmed the bloc’s support for Talon, the legitimate authorities of Benin and its people.
It reads: “The African Union stands ready, in coordination with regional and international partners, to accompany the Government and People of Benin toward the full restoration of constitutional normalcy and the strengthening of democratic institutions.”
In a statement issued in Abuja, the West African regional bloc said: “ECOWAS Commission has received with consternation reports of an attempted military takeover in the Republic of Benin.
“ECOWAS strongly condemns this unconstitutional move that represents a subversion of the will of the people of Benin.”
It called on the military to respect Benin’s constitutional order and commended the security forces for their efforts to restore calm.
“ECOWAS calls for the full respect of the Constitution of Benin and salutes the efforts of the government and the Republican Army in bringing the situation under control,” it said, warning that coup plotters would be held accountable.
“ECOWAS holds the leaders of the plot both individually and collectively responsible for any loss to life and property occasioned by their action.”
The bloc also signalled readiness to intervene if necessary, stating: ”ECOWAS will support the government and the people in all forms necessary, including the deployment of the regional standby force to defend the constitution and the territorial integrity of Benin.”
The statement followed the announcement earlier in the day by a group of soldiers identifying themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation.”
Coup plotters on national TV
At least eight soldiers, several wearing helmets, appeared on a state television yesterday morning to announce that a military committee led by Col. Tigri Pascal had taken over and was dissolving national institutions, suspending the constitution and closing air, land, and maritime borders.
“The army solemnly commits to give the Beninese people the hope of a truly new era, where fraternity, justice and work prevail,” a statement read by one of the soldiers.
According to media reports, the assault was carried out by a group of soldiers led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri.
The situation escalated later in the morning when Col. Tigri appeared on the national television, reported to be under military control, declaring himself “chairman of the military re-establishment committee (CMR).”
Cotonou remained tense yesterday, with eyewitness reports of troop deployments around key strategic locations. No official reaction has been issued by President Talon or his administration regarding the attacks.
The development added to a growing pattern of political instability in West Africa.
Ministers issue statements
However, Interior Minister Alassane Seidou said in a statement a few hours later that the West African country’s armed forces had thwarted the attempted coup.
The statement reads: “People of Benin, dear compatriots, in the early morning of yesterday, small group of soldiers launched a mutiny with the aim of destabilising the state and its institutions.
“Faced with this situation, the Beninese armed forces and their hierarchy, faithful to their oath, remained committed to the republic.
“Their response allowed them to maintain control of the situation and thwart the attempt.
“Therefore, the government urges the population to go about their business as usual,” he said.
Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari had earlier told Reuters that “a small group” of soldiers had attempted to overthrow the government but that forces loyal to President Patrice Talon were working to restore order. He said the coup plotters had only managed to take control of state TV.
However, Oluwole Ojewale, an analyst at the Institute of Security Studies, said that through back-channel communications received via the African Union (AU) and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), “we can reasonably conclude that the president is in good spirits now and is probably under some high-level security protection right now”.
Ojewale added: “Since the cloud is still foggy, it’s too early for the president to step out”.
He also underscored that an attempt to stage a coup in Benin is going to be an “uphill task” because Nigeria, its larger neighbour and Africa’s largest economy, will not want to be encircled by “hostile” governments and military administrations.
Gunfire in neighbourhoods
Gunfire could be heard earlier yesterday in several neighbourhoods of Cotonou, the country’s largest city and economic hub, as residents were trying to make their way to church early in the morning.
The French embassy said on Facebook that gunfire had been reported near Talon’s residence in Cotonou and urged citizens to stay at home.
The coup attempt came as Benin was preparing for a presidential election in April next year to mark Talon’s two-term tenure since 2016.
In their TV statement, the soldiers cited the deteriorating security situation in northern Benin “coupled with the disregard and neglect of our fallen brothers-in-arms.”
Talon has been credited with reviving economic growth, but the country has also seen an increasing number of attacks by Jihadist militants that have wreaked havoc in Mali and Burkina Faso.
In April, Benin’s government said that 54 soldiers were killed in an attack in the North by an affiliate of Al Qaeda.
Last month, Benin adopted a new constitution that extended the presidential mandate from five to seven years, in what critics said was a power grab by the ruling coalition, who nominated Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni to be its candidate.
The opposition Democrats party, founded by Talon’s predecessor Thomas Boni Yayi, saw its proposed candidate rejected because of what a court ruled was insufficient backing from lawmakers.
The group of soldiers that claims to have overthrown Talon said all borders in the country have been closed, and political parties have been suspended.
How foreign diplomatic missions responded to the news
The United States (U.S.) Embassy said in a statement that it was monitoring “reports of gunfire in the city of Cotonou” and “unconfirmed reports” of a military coup.
It urged people to avoid Cotonou and areas near the presidential compound, monitor local media, and steer clear of crowds and demonstrations.
Russia’s Embassy recommended its citizens in the country to “remain at home and observe basic precautions” until the situation in Cotonou becomes clearer.
The French Embassy said gunfire was reported at Camp Guezo, near the presidential residence.
It urged French citizens to remain at home until further notice as a security measure, “while the situation is fully clarified”.
Govt arrests a dozen soldiers
Ojewale, a Dakar-based analyst at the West Africa office of the Institute of Security Studies, told Al Jazeera that government forces have arrested some soldiers over the coup attempt.
AFP quoted military and security sources as saying that about a dozen soldiers have been arrested following the attempted coup this morning.
One source told the news agency that 13 arrests had been made, with another saying that all the detainees were soldiers in active service except one who was ex-military.
Nigeria’s Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed on his verified X page that the coup had failed.
“Mutineers in military uniform who attempted to overthrow President Patrice Talon’s democratic government have failed. They seized the National TV after failing to enter the presidential residence,” he said.
Presidency: Talon safe, army regaining control
AFP cited the president’s office as saying that Talon is safe and the army is regaining control.
The office said in a statement: “This is a small group of people who only control the television,” the presidency told the news agency. The regular army is regaining control. The city and the country are completely secure.”
NAF confirms fighter jets deployment to Benin
The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that fighter jets were deployed to Benin Republic under the ECOWAS ) Standby Forces (ESF).
NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodamen, confirmed the operation to The Nation last night.
He said: “The Nigerian Air Force has operated in the Republic of Benin in line with ECOWAS protocols and the ECOWAS Standby Force mandate. This operation underscores Nigeria’s commitment to regional security and is being conducted in coordination with ECOWAS and host-nation authorities, in full adherence to international norms and regional directives.”
The warplanes deployed to the troubled neighbouring country were withdrawn the fighter aircraft it deployed after authorities assessed that the security situation there had stabilised following Sunday’s attempted military coup.
Security sources said the aircraft, which took off from Lagos for surveillance, were recalled on Sunday afternoon after updated intelligence indicated that loyalist forces in Benin had regained control of the capital and there was “no immediate threat to Nigeria’s territorial security.”
Apart from the fighter jets, it was gathered that maritime assets including warships were also deployed to make the county’s borders with Benin Republic impregnable.
Nigeria military sources who confirmed deployment of the ESF, said surveillance would continue from within the country’s territory.
A component of the African Union (AU) Standby Forces, the ESF is designed to provide rapid military and civilian response to security crises in West Africa.
The ESF which was established in 1999 under the ECOWAS Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security, was deployed to The Gambia in 2017 when that country faced threats to its democracy.
The ESF was designed as a regional tool to intervene in situations of war, internal conflict, humanitarian emergencies, or unconstitutional changes of government. The force draws personnel from member states’ armed forces, police, and civilian structures, with a mandate to deploy swiftly when political or diplomatic efforts fail.
ECOWAS deploys regional standby force to Benin
The Economic Community of West African States has ordered the deployment of the regional Intervention the failed coup attempt in the French speaking West African state.
Some elements within the Benin Republic military had earlier Sunday morning announced that the military had taken over the government.
The rebel soldiers, led by Lt Col. Pascal Tigri, justified their actions by criticising Talon’s management of the country, complaining first about his handling of the “continuing deterioration of the security situation in northern Benin”.
But the military loyal to the democratic government quickly stepped in to quell the uprising.
Reacting to the situation, ECOWAS Heads of States and Government announced the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin.
The deployment according to a statement by the regional body is with immediate effect.
The regional force is to support the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the country.
The statement reads: “Further to its earlier statement on the Republic of Benin, the ECOWAS Commission hereby informs the general public that: Pursuant to the provisions of relevant ECOWAS instruments, in particular Article 25(e) of the 1999 Protocol Relating to the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution Peacekeeping and Security, and “after consultation among members of the Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government.
“The Chair of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of state and Government has ordered the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin with immediate effect.
“The Regional Force shall be made up of troops from the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Republic of Sierra Leone, Republic of Cote Divoire, and Republic of Ghana.
“The Force shall support the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the Republic of Benin.”
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has commended the Federal Government’s involvement in foiling a military coup in the neighbouring Republic of Benin.
The National Publicity Secretary of the opposition party gave the commendation in a statement on Monday.
Bayo Onanuga, Senior Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy, who on Sunday night confirmed the present administration’s direct involvement in saving what he called 35 years of uninterrupted democracy in the West African state.
Onanuga noted that Nigeria’s response was based on a formal request by the Government of the Republic of Benin Republic which “requested immediate Nigerian air support “in view of the urgency and seriousness of the situation and to safeguard the constitutional order, protect national institutions and ensure the security of the population.”
The ADC however, called on the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration to apply similar decisiveness in combating insurgency and banditry in the country.
The party also cautioned leaders in the West African subregion to give priority to improved livelihood for the majority and tolerance for opposition in order to stem the tide of military interest.
The full statement read: “The African Democratic Congress (ADC) welcomes Nigeria’s swift intervention in the Benin Republic following the announcement of a coup attempt. We commend the Federal Government for acting promptly to defend constitutional order in our neighbourhood.
“However, in doing so, the government must now take the necessary steps to align this intervention with the legal provisions of our Constitution. While the unilateral action taken by the President might have been expedient, it still has to be subjected to the ratification of the National Assembly as required by the relevant sections of our Constitution for military or security deployment outside Nigeria’s borders.
“Even in commending the government, ADC cannot ignore the question that many Nigerians are already asking: why were we not as swift in responding to the crisis in Guinea-Bissau, even when a former Nigerian President was trapped there during a period of instability? That hesitation stands in sharp contrast to yesterday’s urgency. What changed? What determines when Nigeria acts firmly and when it delays?
“Consistency in our mode of operations, especially when it comes to our foreign interventions, is essential for any country that seeks to lead the sub-region on issues of democracy and stability. This selective reaction indeed gives credence to the allegation that what played out in Benin was at the behest of another, more powerful country.
“More importantly, the government’s demonstrated ability to move quickly in Benin raises an even deeper concern. If Nigeria could respond decisively to threats across our borders, why has our government demonstrated such outrageous incompetence in dealing with domestic insecurity? Why has the government failed to respond with similar urgency and decisiveness even as banditry, terrorism, and violent crime still hold many of our communities hostage, displace families, abduct children, and parade themselves openly?
“A government that can act swiftly abroad must also act decisively at home. The defence of democracy does not begin in neighbouring countries; it begins in the protection of Nigerian lives, the restoration of security, and the rebuilding of trust between citizens and the state.
“Without prejudice to our fundamental opposition to any form of extra-constitutional takeover of government, we reiterate that the best possible safeguard against military adventurism is for elected governments to make democracy meaningful to the people by improving their lives and allowing opposition to thrive and alternative voices to be heard.”
READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
NIGERIA NEWS
Coalition Asks IGP To Probe Allegations Against Ogah Over Constituents’ Harassment, Intimidation
A coalition of Civil Society Groups in Ebonyi State has called on Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to order an investigation into allegations that a House of Representatives member, Chinedu Ogah, uses armed thugs to harass and intimidate some of his constituents in Ikwo Local Government Area.
The Prof. Joseph Agbo-led coalition said the call had become necessary because a series of petitions to police authorities on the activities of Ogah, who represents Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency in the House, had stalled for months.
In one of the petitions, the coalition accused the lawmaker of unlawful possession of firearms and land-grabbing.
It listed some indigenes of the constituency, including Friday Alefia, a journalist and Chisom Achor, a Tik-toker, as currently being behind bars after they were arrested and arraigned by the Police at the behest of Ogah.
Others are Achor’s brother, Chinonso Imeba and Paul Nweke.
The group, which comprises four Civil Society Organisations-Human Rights Volunteer Corps (HRVC), Human Rights Action Group, Centre for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR and Good Living Initiative, added that a few others had been compelled to flee their communities to avert falling victim to the lawmaker’s thugs.
One of the petitions sent to IGP Egbetokun and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, by the group’s lawyers, Ede S. Ede & Co, on behalf of Emeka Kingsley, Nweke Chidi and others was dated 25th November, 2025.
The petition reads in part, “It is our client’s brief that they have seen evil and what appears to be a permanent life in hellfire in the hands of Honourable Chinedu Ogah. Our clients say that the actions and activities of Hon. Chinedu Nweke Ogah are not only atrocious, but it is a situation of the timid mentality of might is right syndrome.
“Our clients contend that Hon. Chinedu Nweke Ogah displays firearms with live ammunition anyhow and shoots without control as he feels untouchable and has boasted severally that not even the Inspector General of Police can question his activities as he is his personal friend.
‘’Our clients say that Honourable Chinedu Nweke Ogah finds it very pleasurable to oppress the poor and any dissenting voice, more especially when the person or persons refuse to pay illegal levy, which Chinedu Ogah often uses his cronies to levy on the downtrodden in the Amagu and other communities in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State or that the person refuses to surrender his land (s) for Hon. Chinedu Ogah to grab.’’
The coalition listed 46 persons, including deceased, as victims of the lawmaker’s alleged reign of terror and appealed to concerned authorities to immediately use their good offices to cause a discreet investigation into the allegations.
The coalition had last week decried the high level of attacks on free speech by Ogah, who has been in the news for causing the detention of those who criticise him on social media in police cells and Correctional centres.
Also, a serving Commissioner in the state, Prof. Awo Nwaobashi, who allegedly ordered the torture of a journalist by the members of the Neighbourhood Watch, was rebuked by the group.
The coalition’s leader, Agbo, at recent appearances on television and radio programmes, had reiterated that although the group do not in any way support defamation of the characters of anyone, cyber-bullying or cyber-stalking of any kind, among others, the allegations levelled against Ogah were too heavy not to be investigated by the concerned authorities.
Agbo, Professor of Philosophy at Ebonyi State University, specifically made reference to Alefia, whose case was referred to a Federal High Court. He said the judge fined the prosecutor N50,000 for attempting to ensure that he does not get bail.”
He said the group’s biggest concern was that ‘’as long as there are laws in our land, even if one commits murder, the laws have provided for how such a person should be handled according to law.’’
‘’As a coalition, we never and we would never support cyber-bullying of anybody. But we don’t want the cybercrime laws to become another Public Officers Protection Against False Accusation Decree Number 2 under the military rule. We are worried that the cybercrimes law appears to be slipping into that Decree’’’ the coalition boss added.
“What we are saying is that Hon. Ogah did not go to arrest any of these persons. The Police did. Hon. Ogah did not drag any of them to these Courts. The Police also did.
‘’The judiciary is the one that is hearing these cases. But the point we are making is: Why do you arrest somebody, handcuff him like a common criminal for cyber-bullying or defamation, and you dump him in the station for weeks, or for days, and in the case of Friday Alefia, for months? Why do you refer a case of cyber-bullying to a magistrates’ court?’’
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Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas and General TY Danjuma, have unveiled TY Logistics Park FZE’s flagship Grade-A logistics facility in the Lekki Free Zone.
The facility is a major milestone for Nigeria’s logistics and industrial sector. The facility is built to international standards and designed as a fully integrated contract logistics platform.
In his goodwill message, Governor Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the state’s commitment to enabling private-sector-led industrial growth.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the Lekki axis is becoming Africa’s new manufacturing and logistics powerhouse.
The chairman of the company, Theo Danjuma Jnr, described the facility as a purpose-built platform that solves long-standing supply chain inefficiencies and positions Nigeria as a competitive hub for regional trade.
Danjuma said the company’s advanced Warehouse Management System ensures full inventory transparency, real-time stock control, and error-free order processing — critical for high-velocity sectors and essential for products with shelf-life sensitivities.
He said this technology allows goods to move faster, with greater accuracy and significantly reduced operational friction.
“Our strategic location in the Alaro Free Zone, just minutes from the Lekki Deep Sea Port, positions us to offer unmatched import and export efficiencies.
“This includes importer-of-record solutions, duty deferment, tax optimisation, and enhanced regional distribution into West African markets.
“But beyond the infrastructure and systems, our true focus is partnership. We see ourselves not just as a logistics provider, but as an extension of our clients’ business — taking on the logistical complexities so they can focus on what truly matters: growing their footprint, strengthening their brand, and increasing market share,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Founder and Group CEO of Rendeavour, Mr Stephen Jennings, highlighted the strategic role of industrial and residential ecosystems like Alaro City in attracting investment and strengthening Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness.
The Managing Director of TY Logistics Park FZE, Arno van der Merwe, emphasised the impact the platform will have on the broader West African market.
“Every hour lost to poor logistics is a cost to businesses. This facility was built to eliminate those inefficiencies by providing a reliable, centralised, systems-driven logistics engine for Nigeria and the region,” he said.
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The Police Command in Kano State on Monday announced the recovery of seven stolen vehicles and the arrest of several suspects in a series of operations aimed at curbing vehicle theft and related crimes, including armed robbery.
This is contained in a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Abdullahi Kiyawa, in Kano on Monday.
According to the statement, acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Mr Ibrahim Bakori, the Command’s Special Intervention Squad, SIS, tracked down the stolen vehicles and apprehended the culprits.
“Recovered vehicles include an ash‑coloured Toyota RAV4, a red Peugeot 406, a black Toyota Corolla, a Toyota Yaris (registration Gombe 121 AH), a truck without a body, a white Toyota Matrix and a white Forland truck (registration GAK 701 XA),” the statement said.
The police spokesman explained that in connection with the recoveries, a number of suspects linked to the thefts and to armed robbery were arrested.
According to Kiyawa, they are currently assisting investigators and will be charged in court.
The CP, Bakori, was quoted as commending the officers for their dedication and professionalism. He also thanked the people of Kano State for their prayers, support and cooperation.
He said, “The Command remains committed to fighting crime and ensuring the safety and security of lives and property in the state.
“The Kano State Police Command urges the citizens to continue supporting police efforts to maintain peace and security.”
NIGERIA NEWS
Naomi Silekunola: The Queen Left Me, But God Blessed Me With Seven More – Ooni Of Ife Boasts
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has recounted the type of comments people made about him before he married his wives.
He stated that people used to make fun of him and ask him why he was single, until he finally got married and had a queen.
The monarch added that people also complained that his wife followed him around, noting that she eventually left him and that he now has seven wives.
He stated this while speaking during the opening of his Ojaja University in Osun State.
The institution was launched as part of activities marking the monarch’s 10th coronation anniversary held in Ile-Ife.
He said, “Some of them used to make fun of me that, ‘Kabiyesi, why are you single? What is your problem? Go and look for a queen now.’ Eventually I got another queen by force by fire. Then they said, ‘You are always going around with this queen.’ The queen left me. To the glory of God, God blessed me with seven more. Did I not try?”
Three of his wives who attended the event, Olori Folasade, Olori Ronde and Olori Temitope, reacted with cheers and laughter as the king spoke.
The monarch then asked the crowd to applaud them.
Naija News reports that the Ooni of Ife, married Queen Silekunola Naomi in October 2018.
The marriage drew wide attention because Naomi was a young prophetess, and the union was seen as a blend of traditional royalty and Christian spirituality.
However, the relationship became rocky over the years. By December 23, 2021, Queen Naomi shocked Nigerians when she announced on Instagram that the marriage had ended.
© 2025 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]
Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Kingsley Moghalu, has described ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo as arguably Africa’s preeminent statesman alive.
Moghalu also said Obasanjo has no regrets of his time in office as Nigeria’s president.
Posting on X, the former CBN deputy governor said Obasanjo does not shy away from expressing his views on any topic, be it global, continental or national.
Moghalu stated that the former President wished he was more decisive in the creation of a common currency for the Economic of West African States, ECOWAS.
He wrote: “Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo (“Baba OBJ”) is arguably Africa’s preeminent statesman alive today. He is also a man who is not shy to express his views on various topics – global, continental, national.
“OBJ has “no regrets” about his actions and decisions during his time in office as Nigeria’s leader.
“He only wishes, in hindsight in light in the fact that ECOWAS CEDEAO “is now in tatters,” that he had moved more decisively on the creation of the common ECOWAS currency the Eco, despite the challenges posed by misalignments in the “convergence criteria” for such a regional currency among member states (single digit inflation, a fiscal budget deficit of no more than 4%, deficit financing by central banks capped at 10% of annual revenues, and foreign reserves to cover 3 months imports).”
The Niger State government has formally received the 100 pupils who were recently rescued by security forces after they were kidnapped by bandits from St. Mary Catholic School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area.
The pupils regained their freedom 17 days after they were kidnapped.
The rescued pupils were personally received by the Niger State Governor, Umar Bago, on Monday in the company of other government officials.
The schoolchildren, who were conveyed in separate buses, arrived at the Niger State Government House at about 5:20 pm.
As earlier reported by Naija News, the federal government secured the release of the 100 schoolchildren kidnapped by bandits on November 21, 2025.
The bandits had invaded the remote Papiri community around 2:00 a.m., arriving on motorbikes and attacking the school dormitories for over three hours. By the time they retreated, 315 people, 303 students and 12 teachers, had been taken away.
In the first 24 hours after the abduction, 50 pupils managed to escape and were reunited with their families. However, 265 individuals, 253 children and all 12 teachers remained in captivity.
Security agents, alongside local hunters, were immediately deployed to comb the surrounding forests in search of the missing victims.
While the release has brought immense relief to the parents of the freed pupils, those whose children remain in captivity continue to endure anxiety and uncertainty.
See the video below.
© 2025 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]
- A Nigerian lady has shared her experience with Harrison Gwamnishu, an activist accused of ‘stealing’ ransom money
- In a post shared via the X app, the lady described the activist as her ‘brother’, stating that she trusts him more than the police
- Speaking further, the lady made it clear that nothing would ever make her think less of him or stop supporting him
A Nigerian lady publicly defended activist Harrison Gwamnishu after allegations surfaced that he diverted part of the ransom collected during a kidnap case involving a couple.
The issue sparked mixed reactions online, with several social media users questioning his role and criticising him over claims that a part of the money expected to reach the kidnappers never did.
Lady says nothing can make her think less of Harrison Gwamnishu.
Photo credit: @efeom/X.
Source: Twitter
Lady calls Harrison her brother, defends him
Netizens placed the well-known activist under intense scrutiny and spoke about his conduct and integrity.
Read also
Man shares what people should learn from Harrison Gwamnishu’s case, asks 3 deep questions
In the midst of the uproar, a lady on X with the handle @efeom recounted her personal encounter with him and firmly aligned herself with his side.
She recalled times when he had come to her aid during difficult periods and stressed that her support for him came from long-standing trust rather than public opinion.
The lady explained that her connection with him went beyond mere online familiarity and described him as her ‘brother’.
According to her, no amount of public criticism would alter her view, as she believed his actions over the years had spoken clearly enough for her to stand by him.
She maintained that the negative comments circulating about him did not match the person she knew, so she found it unreasonable to condemn him based on accusations she did not personally witness.
The lady also expressed frustration with those urging her to distance herself from him.
Read also
“I knew him”: Man shares experience with Harrison Gwamnishu amid controversy, post trends
Lady recounts how Harrison Gwamnishu helped her when she was in trouble.
Photo credit: @efeom/X.
Source: Twitter
In her words:
“Harrison is my brother; he has helped me when I was in trouble. Harrison is my friend. He is from Delta State, and you want me to speak badly about him because of what exactly? If you must know, I trust Harrison more than the Nigerian police. Nothing on earth will make me think any less of him. All of you saying Efe stop supporting him you’re mad. But wait o some of you want me to talk bad about someone who sacrifice his sleep to make us sleep? Nigeria Na wa o.”
Reactions as lady defends Harrison Gwamnishu
Nigerians stormed the comments section to react to the post.
Bishop Ikechukwu said:
“Please is this the same Harrison that told the world on Facebook that he had kidney failure and needed millions to be donated for him? I mean the Harrison that started anioma garri business with investors and didn’t finish it for one reason or the other. Chinmark boy?”
Read also
“I removed millions”: Man reveals truth about Harrison Gwamnishu amid social media allegations
Ovie said:
“This is set up, if only they know how much Harrison has recover and given back to victims.”
Andre reacted:
“He comot 5m or not!!! They said he got the kidnappers number himself so who gave him. He will rot in jail he is an accomplise.”
Chris Ikea added:
“Twisted and disgraceful logic. No wonder the likes of Evans, Yahoo plus guys and kidnappers have people that defend them.Afterall these people spend a lot in clubs, boutiques, car malls and real estate industry, growing the economy of the areas they operate or live.”
See the post below:
Man addresses Harrison Gwamnishu’s alleged theft case
Meanwhile, Legit.ng previously reported that a young man made a statement after popular activist Harrison Gwamnishu was accused of stealing.
The statement by the young man comes after another individual claimed Harrison stole N5.4 million from ransom money.
Source: Legit.ng
The Minister of State for Defence and former Zamfara governor, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu amid calls for his removal.
Matawalle described recent attacks on his integrity and credibility as “coordinated, malicious, and politically sponsored.”
He said critics targeted him for opposing attempts to sabotage the President’s security agenda.
“Public service, especially in a nation facing complex security challenges, demands courage, consistency, and commitment to truth,” he said.
Through his former Commissioner of Information, Ibrahim Dosara, Matawalle highlighted his achievements as Zamfara governor in tackling terrorism and banditry.
He warned that politically motivated smear campaigns would neither intimidate him nor distract him from defending the country.
“The allegations are baseless. The agenda is political. The truth is clear,” Matawalle said.
He stressed that banditry predated his administration and noted that his government worked with the federal government, traditional rulers, and security agencies to implement structured responses.
Matawalle accused detractors of fabricating stories after losing political relevance and failing personal expectations.
He detailed his security record, including establishing high-level security committees, intelligence architecture, and local vigilance units.
The former governor said he shut down telecommunications temporarily to allow military operations against bandits without hindrance.
He cited other achievements, including dismissing compromised traditional rulers, retrieving arms, requesting additional federal troops, rescuing kidnapped victims, and deporting Chinese nationals involved in illegal mining.
Matawalle also highlighted humanitarian support, including relief materials, medical care, and assistance for displaced persons and victims of banditry.
He said these interventions led to over a year in Zamfara without attacks or kidnappings, a milestone recognised nationally and internationally.
Matawalle added that he played a key role in the rescue of recently abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State despite intimidation.
He accused some political figures of exploiting the rescue for personal gain and attempting to embarrass the federal government.
“My loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains total,” Matawalle said.
He affirmed that no propaganda or political blackmail would deter him from his duty to Nigeria’s security.
Matawalle praised security officers for their professionalism during operations and said critics fear ongoing reforms in national security.
“Some of the loudest voices today work to undermine national security for election purposes,” he said.
He concluded that media campaigns would not influence the President’s judgment and reaffirmed his commitment to the Constitution, the President, and Nigeria’s security.
“No intimidation, smear campaign, or political sabotage will deter me. Justice will prevail,” Matawalle said.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Monday, received six governors elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in a private session at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The meeting, which was held away from the public eye, immediately drew attention within political circles as no details of the agenda were released.
The governors—Jigawa’s Umar Namadi, Edo’s Monday Okpebholo, Ekiti’s Biodun Oyebanji, Kogi’s Usman Ododo, Sokoto’s Aliyu Sokoto, and Kebbi’s Dr. Nasir Idris—arrived at the State House earlier in the day and were ushered straight into the President’s office for the discussion.
According to information gathered by POLITICS NIGERIA, the session lasted less than an hour.
Despite the short duration, the quiet nature of the visit has fueled speculation about the issues that may have been discussed, especially as the country continues to grapple with rising security concerns in several regions.
Insiders within the Villa did not provide any insight into the purpose of the gathering, and officials of the Presidency also kept sealed lips.
The timing, however, aligns with ongoing political consultations ahead of crucial national and party activities expected to shape the coming months.
Attempts by journalists to speak with the governors after the meeting proved unsuccessful, as they all declined to comment and moved swiftly out of the State House premises.
However, more updates will be provided as fresh details emerge.